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Multicomponent reactions involving three or more reactants are commonly used to prepare dihydropyrimidinone with various bioactivities. This study reports the different routes for the synthesis of benzaldehyde-based dihydropyrimidinone via the Biginelli reaction and investigates the yield of the obtained products. The synthesis was performed via routes A, B, C, D, and E based on the formation of iminium, enamine, and Knoevenagel intermediates between urea, benzaldehyde, and ethyl acetoacetate. Route A, through a one-pot reaction via iminium, produced dihydropyrimidinone with a yield of 58%. The product from route B via iminium was obtained in 62% yield. Route C and D occurred via enamine at room temperature, and reflux gave the product 31% and 40% yield, respectively. Route E involving Knoevenagel intermediate provided the product in a 38% yield. 1H NMR, FTIR, and MS spectroscopic techniques were used for structure elucidation.

Introdução: A esporotricose disseminada, rara em hospedeiros imunocompetentes, possui apresentações clínicas mais graves, maior carga fúngica e necessidade de terapia antifúngica sistêmica mais longa. Este trabalho objetiva apresentar um caso raro de esporotricose óssea disseminada em paciente imunocompetente. Descrição do caso: Paciente masculino, 33 anos, usuário de crack, maconha, alta carga tabágica e alcoólica, morador de zona metropolitana. Iniciou febre persistente (40°C) um dia após acampar em floresta, sem sintomas associados. Após 20 dias, sofreu trauma laboral em hálux esquerdo que evoluiu com infecção secundária profunda. Concomitantemente, surgiram lesões papulares, hiperemiadas, diminutas, esparsas em pele que evoluíram em aproximadamente 4 dias para lesões maiores (4 a 7 cm), dolorosas, não pruriginosas, com halo eritematoso, aspecto descamativo, seco, centro necrótico e ulcerado, com drenagem purulenta. Não apresentou lesões genitais, corrimento uretral e linfonodomegalia. Fez uso tópico de neomicina e diversas antibioticoterapias, sem sucesso. Foi adimitido em nosso serviço dois meses após o início dos sintomas. RNM do pé esquerdo confirmou osteomielite no sítio da lesão de hálux, com múltiplos pequenos focos nodulares ≥1 cm esparsos pela medular óssea dos segmentos examinados, com hipersinal periférico, sinal intermediário em T1 e aspecto em alvo em T2, sem evidência de fraturas. RNM de corpo inteiro demonstrou lesões similares em vértebras e epífises bilaterais de ossos longos. O raspado de lesão cutânea evidenciou fungo dimórfico, com crescimento de Sporothrix em cultura. Hemoculturas (3) negativas. Sorologias para paracoccidioidomicose e histoplasmose negativas, VDRL reagente 1/64, demais sorologias negativas. Foi realizado tratamento com anfotericina B lipossomal 200 mg/dia por 30 dias (dose acumulada de 6g), evoluiu com IRA KDIGO 2, optando-se por transacionar tratamento para uso de itraconazol 200 mg 12/12h VO+anfotericina B lipossomal 3 frascos 3 × /semana em hospital-dia. Paciente evoluiu com melhora clínica progressiva. Comentários: A esporotricose óssea, apesar de rara, pode acometer hospedeiros imunocompetentes. Para instauração desse quadro é teorizada a necessidade de depressão imunológica, ainda que momentânea e por vezes não identificada. É uma condição crônica, desafiadora, com tratamento prolongado, prognóstico ruim e possíveis sequelas, devendo ser prontamente identificada para diagnóstico precoce e tratamento adequado.

Introdução: As características clínicas da leishmaniose dependem das propriedades do parasita (infecciosidade, patogenicidade, virulência) e fatores do hospedeiro (idade, estado nutricional, imunidade inata e celular). A reativação espontânea da leishmaniose, rara em pacientes imunocompetentes, geralmente ocorre devido à resistência a medicamentos ou inadequação terapêutica. Este relato de caso objetiva demonstrar uma apresentação rara de leishmaniose. O quadro é atípico pelo envolvimento da epiglote e evolução inesperada para um paciente imunocompetente. Descrição do caso: Paciente masculino, 51 anos, lavrador aposentado, tabagista 56 maços-ano, residiu em Marabá-PA por 30 anos, com histórico de leishmaniose cutânea aos 14 anos (lesões ulceradas crônicas em face e membros). Em 2010, apresentou febres vespertinas, emagrecimento, tosse e odinofagia, com ressurgimento de lesões em região nasal e cavidade oral em 2014. Foi tratado em 2018 com anfotericina B lipossomal 2700mg e em 2019, por recidiva, com nova dose 2500mg. Em 2022, interna por quadro de disfagia, odinofagia, disfonia, escarros hemoptóicos, perda ponderal e febre vespertina, com lesão erosiva em septo e desabamento de pirâmide nasal. Escarro e baciloscopia para tuberculose negativos. Tomografia mostra palato mole deslocado e aderido à parede posterior da rinofaringe, com obliteração da coluna aérea; epiglote não caracterizada, formação tecidual de aspecto expansivo em sua topografia e obliteração subtotal da valécula. À laringoscopia: importante deformação anatômica com ausência de epiglote, extensas áreas infiltradas com granulações e placas de fibrina em cordas vocais. Biópsia incisional da lesão laríngea evidenciou inflamação crônica inespecífica com presença de escassas amastigotas. Evoluiu com necessidade de traqueostomia e gastrostomia e realizado novo tratamento com anfotericina B lipossomal 3000 mg. Apresentou boa evolução clínica, recebendo alta para seguimento ambulatorial. Comentários: A leishmaniose mucocutânea pode simular condições infecciosas e neoplásicas, tornando o diagnóstico desafiador. A falha no diagnóstico precoce e a inadequação terapêutica podem resultar em pior prognóstico e maior chance de recidiva. Ambos os fatores foram determinantes na evolução do caso relatado e na disfunção orotraqueal perpetuada no paciente. Por fim, o tratamento, quando corretamente instituído, gera excelente resposta clínica e laboratorial, sendo imprescindível à contenção do quadro.

4-Methoxyphenethyl (E)-3-(o-tolyl)acrylate (1) was obtained in a good yield by the reaction of 2-methylcinnamic acid, 4-methoxyphenethyl alcohol, 2-methyl-6-nitrobenzoic anhydride, 4-dimethylaminopyridine, and triethylamine at room temperature for 40 min. The structure of 4-methoxyphenethyl (E)-3-(o-tolyl)acrylate (1) was established by FTIR, NMR, and the high resolution of mass spectroscopies. 4-Methoxyphenethyl (E)-3-(o-tolyl)acrylate (1) showed higher α-glucosidase inhibition activity than standard drug acarbose. The molecular docking study exhibited that the title compound 1 had a good affinity for α-glucosidase (PDB ID: 3W37) and formed some interactions with the α-glucosidase active site residue.

Introduction: basal cell carcinoma is the most common malignant tumor, which accounts for approximately 75 or 80 % of all non-melanoma skin cancer in whites. Studies concerning this issue at the northern care area of Ciego de Avila are lacked. Objective: to characterize clinically and epidemiologically all patients with basal cell carcinoma attended in the maxillofacial surgery service at the Hospital Provincial Docente “Roberto Rodríguez Fernández”, Morón, Ciego de Ávila, Cuba, from January 2019 to January 2020. Method: a cross-sectional descriptive observational study was conducted in 118 patients with this diagnosis, where the variables studied were as follow: age, sex, the anatomical location of tumor, predisposing factors, clinical forms of tumor and its clinical stage. Results: male sex (60.2%) and age group 60-74 years (51.7%) were predominant. Nodular clinical form was present in 44.1% of the total, with a higher incidence in the nasal region (39.8%). The predisposing factor in 97% of the cases was white or pink skin. The population studied was mostly in clinical stage II (43.2%). Conclusions: family pathological history, sun exposure and white or pink skin have a marked influence on the appearance of basal cell carcinoma, which allows an adequate diagnosis of the disease, as well as the development of health promotion and prevention activities for these predisposing factors.

Цель. Разработка программы развития журнала, состоящей из комплекса взаимосвязанных мероприятий, направленных на повышение качества содержания издания, улучшение работы редакции, усиление коммуникации и представленности издания в академическом сообществе. Методология. Разработка программы строится на системном подходе, с учетом внешней и внутренней среды функционирования научной периодики. При этом базовыми в исследовании ее состояния и построении перспектив развития стали идеи Дж. Марча об обмене знаниями между стейкхолдерами деятельности журнала, необходимости постоянного привлечения новых участников, балансе между поиском нового и использованием старых проверенных методов, внимании к дисперсии результативности при выстраивании стратегий конкуренции между авторами, превращении информационных технологий в инфраструктуру деятельности редакции, при высокой развитости позволяющую журналу удержать позиции на издательском рынке. Результаты. Журнал, посредством профилизации тематики и проведения ряда организационных мероприятий, уже смог войти в признанные узкопрофильные базы – Chemical Abstracts и Agris. Участие в предлагаемой программе, на наш взгляд, будет способствовать оптимизации и повышению эффективности деятельности издателя и редколлегии по дальнейшему научному «росту» и комплексному развитию издания, что в перспективе позволит ему войти в международные наукометрические базы более «широкого» профиля. Область применения результатов. Являясь стратегическим руководством к изменению политики журнала, трансформации его внутренней среды и выстраивания новых форм взаимоотношений со внешней средой, программа может найти применение и при разработке аналогичных программ развития научных журналов.

Introducción: el cáncer bucal constituye una enfermedad que se ha incrementado notablemente en las últimas décadas con grandes repercusiones en el ser humano, ocupando el quinto lugar entre las afecciones más comunes de la cavidad oral y se sitúa entre las primeras diez localizaciones de los procesos oncológicos que aquejan a la humanidad. Objetivo: caracterizar el cáncer bucal en pacientes del territorio norte de la provincia de Ciego de Ávila. Método: se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo retrospectivo, en el período comprendido entre septiembre de 2015 y diciembre de 2016. Se trabajó con la totalidad de la población estando constituida por 36 pacientes con diagnóstico de cáncer bucal que acudieron a la consulta de Cirugía Maxilofacial del Hospital General Docente “Roberto Rodríguez” del municipio de Morón perteneciente al territorio norte de la provincia de Ciego de Ávila. Resultados: el mayor número de casos diagnosticados correspondió a individuos de raza blanca y la localización anatómica de mayor incidencia fueron los labios, las edades predominantes fueron de 60 y más, fundamentalmente del sexo masculino, los principales factores de riesgo que incidieron fueron el tabaquismo y el uso de prótesis desajustadas, la mayoría de los pacientes tenían diagnóstico histológico de carcinoma epidermoide con mayor incidencia en las etapas II y III. Conclusiones: el carcinoma epidermoide presentó una elevada incidencia, principalmente en los hombres y mayores de 60 años, teniendo una repercusión elevada en pacientes fumadores.

Introducción: la hipertensión arterial constituye un serio problema de salud que provoca graves daños al organismo. A pesar de la gran utilidad para el tratamiento de la misma, los bloqueadores de los canales del calcio, como efecto secundario, pueden provocar agrandamiento gingival. En algunos casos, puede ocasionar problemas funcionales, ya que, si el aumento es severo, dificulta la masticación y la fonación. Objetivo: describir el comportamiento de la hiperplasia gingival en pacientes que consumen bloqueadores de los canales del calcio y que acuden a la consulta de Estomatología perteneciente a la Clínica Norte del municipio Morón. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo longitudinal retrospectivo, en el período comprendido de enero 2016 a enero 2017. La muestra estuvo constituida por 96 pacientes con HTA, los cuales estaban bajo tratamiento farmacológico con bloqueadores de los canales de calcio. Resultados: el 38,54 % de los pacientes que consumían bloqueadores de los canales del calcio presentaron hiperplasia gingival y 74 % estaba medicado con Nifedipino. Conclusiones: en la mayor cantidad de pacientes la hiperplasia se manifestó luego de los cuatro meses del comienzo de administración del fármaco. Los factores de riesgo más frecuentes encontrados fueron la enfermedad periodontal y la mala higiene bucal.

Abstract Background Previous studies have shown positive association between HIV-related stigma and depression, suicidal ideation, and suicidal attempt among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWH). But few studies have examined the mechanisms among HIV-related stigma, depression, and suicidal status (suicidal ideation and/or suicidal attempt) in PLWH. The current study examined the relationships among perceived and internalized stigma (PIS), depression, and suicidal status among PLWH in Guangzhou, China using structural equation modeling. Methods Cross-sectional study by convenience sampling was conducted and 411 PLWH were recruited from the Number Eight People’s Hospital from March to June, 2013 in Guangzhou, China. Participants were interviewed on their PIS, depressive symptoms, suicidal status, and socio-demographic characteristics. PLWH who had had suicidal ideation and suicidal attempts since HIV diagnosis were considered to be suicidal. Structural equation model was performed to examine the direct and indirect associations of PIS and suicidal status. Indicators to evaluate goodness of fit of the structural equation model included Chi-square Statistic, Comparative Fit Index (CFI), Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA), Standardized Root Mean Square Residual (SRMR), and Weighted Root Mean Square Residual (WRMR). Results More than one-third (38.4%) of the PLWH had depressive symptoms and 32.4% reported suicidal ideation and/or attempt since HIV diagnosis. The global model showed good model fit (Chi-square value = 34.42, CFI = 0.98, RMSEA = 0.03, WRMR = 0.73). Structural equation model revealed that direct pathway of PIS on suicidal status was significant (standardized pathway coefficient = 0.21), and indirect pathway of PIS on suicidal status via depression was also significant (standardized pathway coefficient = 0.24). There was a partial mediating effect of depression in the association between PIS and suicidal status. Conclusions Our findings suggest that PIS is associated with increased depression and the likelihood of suicidal status. Depression is in turn positively associated with suicidal status and plays a mediating role between PIS and suicidal status. Therefore, to reduce suicidal ideation and attempt in PLWH, targeted interventions to reduce PIS and improve mental health status of PLWH are warranted.

Goal. The article looks at developing environmental competence in young people. Ecological behavioural models are the subject of research. The authors target at disclosing ways to develop environmentally-conscious behaviour in young people through ecological practices. Methods and Methodology. Presuppositions of ecological disciplines and the humanities, the paradigm of cultural development of personality, competence-based approach in education and institutional approach to education were applied as methodological base. In the course of study generalization, analysis and synthesis, polling and modelling have been used. Results. As the result of study the authors have created the scheme of implementing socio-ecological practices in ecological behavioural patterns through studying the motifs of ecological practices of young people. The authors suppose that environmental competence is affected by various external and internal factors, which have to be coordinated in the course of environmental education. Environmental and geographical centre has launched a project where participants adopt ecological behavioural model through educational and research activity. Scope of Application. The results can be applied in socio-ecological planning. Thus, the created model of implementation of pro-ecological practices in the social behaviour of students can be used in the academic process and public work with young people.

Introducción: la cirugía del tercer molar constituye uno de los tratamientos que con frecuencia se realiza en la práctica estomatológica. Actualmente es la técnica quirúrgica convencional más empleada. Objetivo: evaluar la evolución postoperatoria en los pacientes con terceros molares inferiores semiretenidos, con cierre de la herida quirúrgica por segunda intención, según la presencia de dolor, edema, sangramiento, sepsis y trismo mandibular. Material y método: se realizó un estudio analítico, longitudinal, prospectivo de casos y controles en el Hospital General Docente "Abel Santamaría Cuadrado" de Pinar del Río en el período comprendido desde septiembre de 2010 hasta julio de 2013. La muestra estuvo compuesta por 120 pacientes que asistieron a la consulta de cirugía maxilofacial por presentar los terceros molares mandibulares semiretenidos. Para el análisis estadístico se emplearon las técnicas de estadística comparativas de Kolmogorov-Smirnov y la de probabilidad exacta de Fisher. Resultados: en los 60 pacientes operados mediante la técnica quirúrgica convencional con sutura del colgajo vestibular, a las 72 horas presentaban dolor, en 48 era moderado para un 80%, y en 12, era intenso para un 20%. De los 60 que fueron operados mediante la técnica quirúrgica con cierre de la herida por segunda intención, a las 72 horas solo 15 pacientes para un 25% tenían dolor ligero. Conclusiones: hubo una mejor evolución postoperatoria en los pacientes con cierre de la herida quirúrgica por segunda intención, con un 45% de los casos sin dolor y un 90% con edema ligero a las 72 horas de operados; no presentaron síntomas como sangramiento, sepsis, ni trismo mandibular.

The rich chemistry of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) is enhanced by substitutional doping, a process in which a single atom of the nanotube sidewall is replaced by a heteroatom. These so-called heteroatom-substituted SWCNTs (HSWCNTs) exhibit unique chemical and physical properties not observed in their corresponding undoped congeners. Herein, we present theoretical studies of both main group element and transition metal-doped HSWCNTs. Within density functional theory (DFT), we discuss mechanistic details of their proposed synthesis from vacancy-defected SWCNTs and describe their geometric and electronic properties. Additionally, we propose applications for these nanomaterials in nanosensing, nanoelectronics, and nanocatalysis.

Abstract Background Poikiloderma with Neutropenia (PN) is a rare autosomal recessive genodermatosis caused by C16orf57 mutations. To date 17 mutations have been identified in 31 PN patients. Results We characterize six PN patients expanding the clinical phenotype of the syndrome and the mutational repertoire of the gene. We detect the two novel C16orf57 mutations, c.232C>T and c.265+2T>G, as well as the already reported c.179delC, c.531delA and c.693+1G>T mutations. cDNA analysis evidences the presence of aberrant transcripts, and bioinformatic prediction of C16orf57 protein structure gauges the mutations effects on the folded protein chain. Computational analysis of the C16orf57 protein shows two conserved H-X-S/T-X tetrapeptide motifs marking the active site of a two-fold pseudosymmetric structure recalling the 2H phosphoesterase superfamily. Based on this model C16orf57 is likely a 2H-active site enzyme functioning in RNA processing, as a presumptive RNA ligase. According to bioinformatic prediction, all known C16orf57 mutations, including the novel mutations herein described, impair the protein structure by either removing one or both tetrapeptide motifs or by destroying the symmetry of the native folding. Finally, we analyse the geographical distribution of the recurrent mutations that depicts clusters featuring a founder effect. Conclusions In cohorts of patients clinically affected by genodermatoses with overlapping symptoms, the molecular screening of C16orf57 gene seems the proper way to address the correct diagnosis of PN, enabling the syndrome-specific oncosurveillance. The bioinformatic prediction of the C16orf57 protein structure denotes a very basic enzymatic function consistent with a housekeeping function. Detection of aberrant transcripts, also in cells from PN patients carrying early truncated mutations, suggests they might be translatable. Tissue-specific sensitivity to the lack of functionally correct protein accounts for the main cutaneous and haematological clinical signs of PN patients.

Gene augmentation and genome editing are promising strategies for the treatment of monogenic inherited retinal diseases. Although gene augmentation treatments are commercially available for inherited retinal diseases, there are many shortcomings that need to be addressed, like progressive retinal degeneration and diminishing efficacy over time. Innovative CRISPR-Cas9-based genome editing technologies have broadened the proportion of treatable genetic disorders and can greatly improve or complement treatment outcomes from gene augmentation. Progress in this relatively new field involves the development of therapeutics including gene disruption, ablate-and-replace strategies, and precision gene correction techniques, such as base editing and prime editing. By making direct edits to endogenous DNA, genome editing theoretically guarantees permanent gene correction and long-lasting treatment effects. Improvements to delivery modalities aimed at limiting persistent gene editor activity have displayed an improved safety profile and minimal off-target editing. Continued progress to advance precise gene correction and associated delivery strategies will establish genome editing as the preferred treatment for genetic retinal disorders. This commentary describes the applications, strengths, and drawbacks of conventional gene augmentation approaches, recent advances in precise genome editing in the retina, and promising preclinical strategies to facilitate the use of robust genome editing therapies in human patients., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare the following financial interests/personal relationships which may be considered as potential competing interests: K.P. is the Chief Scientific Officer of Polgenix Inc., and consultant for Editas Medicine. All other authors have declared that no conflict of interest exists., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Developing a smart responsive surface for on-demand delivery of organic, inorganic, and biological cargo in vitro cellular uptake is always in constant demand. Herein, we present carbon quantum dot (CQD)-loaded (poly( N -isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm)/poly(methyl methacrylate (PMMA)) blend nanofiber sheets having a thermoresponsive nature. As a model cargo, fluorescent CQDs are used for the demonstration of the on-demand delivery mechanism. In addition, a thermoresponsive nature is produced by the PNIPAAm polymer in the nanofiber matrix while the PMMA polymer provides extra stability and firmness to the nanofibers against the sudden dissolution of the nanofibers in aqueous media. The synthesis of CQDs and their loading into a blend nanofiber matrix are confirmed using fluorescence spectrophotometry, transmission electron microscopy, and fluorescence microscopy. The morphologies and diameters of the nanofibers are analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. Burst effect analysis proves that 30% (w/w) PNIPAAm-containing nanofibers possess the highest stability with the least dissolution in aqueous media. Thermoresponsiveness of the nanofibers is further confirmed through water contact angle measurements. Quantitative fluorescence results show that more than 80% of loaded CQDs can be released upon thermal stimulation. The fluorescence micrographs reveal that the blend nanofiber sheets can effectively improve the cellular uptake of CQDs by simply increasing the local concentrations via applying thermal stimulation as the released mechanism.

The mechanisms underlying memory loss associated with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) remain unclear, and no effective treatments exist. Fundamental studies have shown that a set of transcriptional regulatory proteins of the nuclear receptor 4a (Nr4a) family serve as molecular switches for long-term memory. Here, we show that Nr4a proteins regulate the transcription of genes encoding chaperones that localize to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). These chaperones fold and traffic plasticity-related proteins to the cell surface during long-lasting forms of synaptic plasticity and memory. Dysregulation of Nr4a transcription factors and ER chaperones is linked to ADRD, and overexpressing Nr4a1 or the chaperone Hspa5 ameliorates long-term memory deficits in a tau-based mouse model of ADRD, pointing toward innovative therapeutic approaches for treating memory loss. Our findings establish a unique molecular concept underlying long-term memory and provide insights into the mechanistic basis of cognitive deficits in dementia.

1D polymer nanomaterials have attracted significant interest in recent years because of their unique properties and promising applications in various fields. It is, however, still a challenge to fabricate polymer nanoarrays with desired sizes and controlled morphologies. Here, an unprecedented approach, the laser-assisted nanowetting (LAN) method, to selectively fabricate polymer nanoarrays is presented. Polystyrene (PS) is blended with gold nanorods (AuNRs), which are used to absorb the energy from the laser. After the blend films are brought in contact with AAO templates, the AuNRs at regions shone by the laser beams absorb the energy and heat the surrounding polymer chains, resulting in the formation of PS/AuNRs arrays in selected areas. This work paves a new research direction for developing template-based polymer nanomaterials., (© 2020 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.)

Age-associated cognitive impairments affect an individual's quality of life and are a growing problem in society. Therefore, therapeutic strategies to treat age-related cognitive decline are needed to enhance the quality of life among the elderly. Activation of the Nr4a family of transcription factors has been closely linked to memory formation and dysregulation of these transcription factors is thought to be associated with age-related cognitive decline. Previously, we have shown that Nr4a transcription can be activated by synthetic bisindole-derived compounds (C-DIM). C-DIM compounds enhance synaptic plasticity and long-term contextual fear memory in young healthy mice. In this study, we show that activation of Nr4a2 by 1,1-bis(3'-Indolyl)-1-(p-chlorophenyl) methane (C-DIM12), enhances long-term spatial memory in young mice and rescues memory deficits in aged mice. These findings suggest that C-DIM activators of Nr4a transcription may be suitable to prevent memory deficits associated with aging., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Hierarchical composite films grown on current collectors are popularly reported to be directly used as electrodes for supercapacitors. Highly dense and conductive NiCo 2 O 4 nanowires are ideal backbones to support guest materials. In this work, low crystalline MnO 2 nanoflakes are electrodeposited onto the surface of NiCo 2 O 4 nanowire films pre-coated on nickel foam. Each building block in the composite films is a NiCo 2 O 4 -MnO 2 core-shell nanowire on conductive nickel foam. Due to the co-presence of MnO 2 and NiCo 2 O 4 , the MnO 2 @NiCo 2 O 4 @Ni electrode exhibits higher specific capacitance and larger working voltage than the NiCo 2 O 4 @Ni electrode. It can have a high specific capacitance of 1186 F·g -1 at 1 A·g -1 . When the core-shell NiCo 2 O 4 -MnO 2 composite and activated carbon are assembled as a hybrid capacitor, it has the highest energy density of 29.6 Wh·kg -1 at a power density of 425 W·kg -1 with an operating voltage of 1.7 V. This work shows readers an easy method to synthesize composite films for energy storage.

Objective:   To explore whether ischemic postconditioning will lighten hepatic apoptosis caused by hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury by inhibiting the mitochondria pathway., Materials and Methods: Pathomorphology of hepatic tissues in rats was observed under an optical microscope after hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. Hepatic apoptosis was detected using agarose gel electrophoresis (AGE) with DNA fragments and flow cytometry. Changes in morphology structure of mitochondria in hepatocytes of rats were observed under an electron microscope. Changes in mitochondria transmembrane potential of hepatocytes of rats were detected using a laser scanning confocal microscope (LSCM). Western blotting was adopted to detect changes in the expression of caspase-3 and cytochrome C protein in hepatocytes of rats., Results: Compared with that in I/R group, swelling degree of mitochondria in most hepatocytes of rats in ischemic postconditioning (IPOST) group and IPC group was lighter. Changes in expression of caspase-3 and cytochrome C protein in hepatic cells of rats: caspase-3 was lowly expressed and cytochrome C was highly expressed in S group. The expression of caspase-3 was evidently higher in I/R group than that in S group and expression of cytochrome C protein was evidently lower than that in S group (p<0.05). The expression of caspase-3 protein was evidently decreased in IPOST group and IPC group and the expression of cytochrome C protein was evidently increased (p<0.05)., Conclusions: IPOST can reduce hepatic apoptosis caused by hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats, which may be achieved by inhibiting the mitochondria pathway.

The research on supercapacitors has been attractive due to their large power density, fast charge/discharge speed and long lifespan. The electrode materials for supercapacitors are thus intensively investigated to improve the electrochemical performances. Various transition metal layered double hydroxides (LDHs) with a hydrotalcite-like structure have been developed to be promising electrode materials. Earth-abundant metal hydroxides are very suitable electrode materials due to the low cost and high specific capacity. This is a review paper on NiMn LDHs for supercapacitor application. We focus particularly on the recent published papers using NiMn LDHs as electrode materials for supercapacitors. The preparation methods for NiMn LDHs are introduced first. Then, the structural design and chemical modification of NiMn LDH materials, as well as the composites and films derived from NiMn LDHs are discussed. These approaches are proven to be effective to enhance the performance of supercapacitor. Finally, the reports related to NiMn LDH-based asymmetric supercapacitors are summarized. A brief discussion of the future development of NiMn LDHs is also provided.

Biofortification of crops with exogenous iodine is a novel strategy to control iodine deficiency disorders (IDD). The bioaccessibility of iodine (BI) in the biofortified vegetables in the course of soaking, cooking and digestion, were examined. Under hydroponics, the concentration of iodine in leafstalks of the celery and pakchoi increased with increasing exogenous iodine concentration, 54.8-63.9% of the iodine absorbed by pakchoi was stored in the soluble cellular substance. Being soaked in water within 8 h, the iodine loss rate of the biofortified celery was 3.5-10.4% only. More than 80% of the iodine in the biofortified celery was retained after cooking under high temperature. The highest BI of the biofortified vegetables after digestion in simulated gastric and intestinal juice amounted to 74.08 and 68.28%, respectively. Factors influencing BI included pH, digestion duration, and liquid-to-solid ratio. The high BI of the biofortified vegetables provided a sound reference for the promotion of iodine biofortification as a tool to eliminate the IDD.

Background: Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) are commonly found in many plants including those used in medical therapeutics. The hepatotoxicities of PAs have been demonstrated both in vivo and in vitro; however, the neurotoxicities of PAs are rarely mentioned., Purpose: In this study, we aimed to investigate in vitro neurotoxicities of clivorine, one of the PAs found in various Ligularia species, in cultured PC12 cells., Study Design: PC12 cell line was employed to first elucidate the neurotoxicity and the underlying mechanism of clivorine, including cell viability and morphology change, neuronal differentiation marker and signaling pathway., Methods: PC12 cells were challenged with series concentrations of clivorine and/or nerve growth factor (NGF). The cell lysates were collected for MTT assay, trypan blue staining, immunocytofluorescent staining, qRT-PCR and western blotting., Results: Clivorine inhibited cell proliferation and neuronal differentiation evidenced by MTT assay and dose-dependently reducing neurite outgrowth, respectively. In addition, clivorine decreased the level of mRNAs encoding for neuronal differentiation markers, e.g. neurofilaments and TrkA (NGF receptor). Furthermore, clivorine reduced the NGF-induced the phosphorylations of TrkA, protein kinase B and cAMP response element-binding protein in cultured PC12 cells., Conclusion: Taken together, our results suggest that clivorine might possess neurotoxicities in PC12 cells via down-regulating the NGF/TrkA/Akt signaling pathway. PAs not only damage the liver, but also possess neurotoxicities, which could possibly result in brain disorders, such as depression., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.)

Background: HerboChip is an array of different fractions deriving from herbal extracts. This study aimed to identify effective components from Chinese medicine (CM) that interact with nerve growth factor (NGF) as a target using HerboChip., Methods: Fifty types of CM that are traditionally used as remedies for emotion imbalance were selected and extracted with 50 % ethanol. Biotinylated-NGF was hybridized with over 300 chips coated with different HPLC-separated fractions from CM extracts and straptavidin-Cy5 was used to identify the NGF-bound fractions., Results: Over 300 chips were screened within a week, and 17 positive hits were identified. The interaction of the identified herbal extracts with NGF was confirmed in cultured PC12 cells. Co-application of NGF and herbal extract interfered with NGF-induced expression of neurofilaments, including NF68 and NF200 in cell cultures. Western blot analysis comparing the intensity of phosphorylated cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) over total CREB showed NGF-induced CREB phosphorylation was modulated by the identified herbal extracts. Five CM herbs showed activating activities on the NGF response and nine CM herbs showed inhibiting activities., Conclusion: The current result supported the applicability of HerboChip for screening NGF binding components from herbal extracts.

The fruit of Ziziphus jujuba Mill., known as jujube or Chinese date, is commonly consumed as a health supplement worldwide. To study the role of jujube in brain benefits, the expression of neurotrophic factors and anti-oxidant enzymes in the jujube-treated cultured astrocytes was determined. Application of a chemical standardized water extract of jujube in cultured astrocytes for 24 h stimulated the expressions of nerve growth factor, brain-derived neurotrophic factor and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor in a concentration-dependent manner. The pre-treatment with H89, a protein kinase A inhibitor, attenuated the jujube-induced expression of neurotrophic factors. In parallel, the treatment of jujube water extract induced the transcriptional expressions of the enzymes responsible for anti-oxidation, i.e., Nad(p)h: quinine oxidoreductase 1, glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic subunit, glutamate-cysteine ligase modifier subunit and glutathione S-transferase, in a concentration-dependent manner. These results proposed the benefits of jujube in regulating expressions of neurotrophic factors and anti-oxidant enzymes in cultured astrocytes., (Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.)

The fruit of Ziziphus jujuba Mill., known as jujube or Chinese date, is commonly consumed as a health supplement or herbal medicine worldwide. To study the beneficial role of jujube in regulating immune response, we investigated its roles on the expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokines in cultured macrophages. Application of chemically standardized jujube water extract for 24 h stimulated the transcriptional expression of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in cultured RAW 264.7 macrophages. In contrast, the pretreatment with jujube water extract suppressed the expression of IL-1β and IL-6, but not for TNF-α in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages. The IL-1β and IL-6 cytokines in LPS-induced macrophages were suppressed by jujube water extract in both mRNA and protein levels. In parallel, the inhibition of jujube water extract on the transcriptional activity of nuclear factor-kappa B was revealed in LPS-induced macrophages. These results verified the bidirectional immune-modulatory roles of jujube by regulating the expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokines in macrophages., (Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.)

Flavonoids, a family of phenolic compounds, are widely present in our daily diet and exist in traditional Chinese medicines, in which they act as the major active functional ingredients. Different lines of evidence indicate that flavonoids have positive impacts on human health. Here, different subclasses of flavonoids were analyzed for their inductive roles in promoting the expression of synaptic proteins, synaptotagmin, and post-synaptic density protein-95 in cultured rat cortical neurons. Among the screened 65 flavonoids, (-)-catechin, luteolin, and isorhamnetin, in micromolar concentration, were found to induce the expression of synaptic proteins in a dose-dependent manner: the induction values were from 2- to 8-fold that of the control. Similar results were revealed in the flavonoid-treated hippocampal neurons. The identification of these synapse-promoting flavonoids could be very useful in finding potential drugs, or food supplements, for treating various neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease and depression., (Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.)

Background/aim: Early and accurate diagnosis of functional visual loss (FVL) allows optimum management. Visual evoked potentials (VEPs) offer a means of objectively estimating acuity and therefore could assist with early and accurate diagnosis. The aim of this study was to assess the sensitivity and specificity of the step VEP in diagnosing FVL., Methods: A retrospective audit was conducted in 36 school-aged children presenting with reduced visual acuity and clinical suspicion of FVL. All had undergone step VEP testing as part of their investigation. Medical notes were reviewed, and where necessary, referring centres, general practitioners or electronic clinical portals were consulted to obtain longer-term outcome data., Results: Twenty-seven of the 36 patients (75%) were classified as having had FVL: all had a normal step VEP spatial threshold. Nine patients (25 %) had an organic cause for their acuity loss, of whom seven had abnormal step VEP spatial thresholds: the other two patients had some functional overlay to their organic disease. The step VEP sensitivity was 78% (95% confidence interval 40-96%), and specificity was 100% (95% confidence interval 84-100%)., Conclusion: The high specificity of the step VEP for FVL warrants increased suspicion of an organic cause should the step VEP spatial threshold be abnormal.

Kai-xin-san (KXS), a Chinese herbal decoction prescribed by Sun Simiao in Beiji Qianjin Yaofang about 1400 years ago, contains Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma, Polygalae Radix, Acori Tatarinowii Rhizoma, and Poria. In China, KXS has been used to treat stress-related psychiatric diseases with the symptoms of depression and forgetfulness. Although animal study has supported the antidepression function of KXS, the mechanism in cellular level is still unknown. Here, a chemically standardized water extract of KXS was applied onto cultured astrocytes in exploring the action mechanisms of KXS treatment, which significantly stimulated the expression and secretion of neurotrophic factors, including NGF, BDNF, and GDNF, in a dose-dependent manner: the stimulation was both in mRNA and protein levels. In addition, the water extracts of four individual herbs did not significantly stimulate the expression of neurotrophic factors, which could explain the optimized effect of KXS in a herbal decoction. The KXS-induced expression of neurotrophic factors did not depend on signaling mediated by estrogen receptor or protein kinase. The results suggested that the antidepressant-like action of KXS might be mediated by an increase of expression of neurotrophic factors in astrocytes, which fully supported the clinical usage of this decoction.

The present study aimed to investigate the change of cytochrome c in postconditioning-attenuated ischemia-reperfusion (I/R)-induced mucosal apoptosis in rat intestine compared with ischemic preconditioning (IPC). Using rat model of intestine I/R injury, male Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 220-250 g were divided into 4 groups which were Sham operation group, I/R group, IPC group and ischemic postconditioning (IPOST) group. In these groups, I/R procedure was performed by the occlusion of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) for 45 min followed by reperfusion for 1 h. In Sham group, there was no intervention. In IPC group, SMA was occluded for 5 min and reperfused for 5 min, for two cycles, before the prolonged occlusion. In IPOST group, three cycles of 30-s reperfusion and 30-s reocclusion were preceded at the start of reperfusion. After the reperfusion, the small intestines were sampled for experimental detection. Intestinal mucosal mitochondrial membrane potential was detected by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Expressions of cytochrome c and caspase-3 proteins were detected using Western-blot method. The apoptosis of intestinal mucosal cells was determined with agarose gel electrophoresis and deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated dUTP-biotin nick-end labeling (TUNEL) technique. Compared with I/R group, the mitochondrial membrane potentials and the expressions of cytochrome c protein were significantly increased, while the expressions of caspase-3 and the apoptotic rates were decreased in IPOST and IPC groups (P<0.05). There were no significant differences between IPOST and IPC groups (P>0.05). These data provide substantial evidence that IPOST attenuates I/R-induced mucosal apoptosis by reducing the release of cytochrome c from mitochondria in the rat small intestine.

Radioactive iodide (125I) is used as a tracer to investigate the fate and transport of iodine in soil under various leaching conditions as well as the dynamic transfer in a soil-plant (Chinese cabbage) system. Results show that both soils (the paddy soil and the sandy soil) exhibit strong retention capability, with the paddy soil being slightly stronger. Most iodine is retained by soils, especially in the top 10 cm, and the highest concentration occurs at the top most section of the soil columns. Leaching with 1-2 pore volume water does not change this pattern of vertical distributions. Early breakthrough and long tailing are two features observed in the leaching experiments. Because of the relatively low peak concentration, the early breakthrough is really not an environmental concern of contamination to groundwater. The long tailing implies that the retained iodine is undergoing slow but steady release and the soils can provide a low but stable level of mobile iodine after a short period. The enrichment factors of 125I in different plant tissues are ranked as: root > stem > petiole > leaf, and the 125I distribution in the young leaves is obviously higher than that in the old ones. The concentrations of 125I in soil and Chinese cabbage can be simulated with a dual-chamber model very well. The biogeochemical behaviors of iodine in the soil-cabbage system show that cultivating iodized cabbage is an environmentally friendly and effective technique to eliminate iodine deficiency disorders (IDD). Planting vegetables such as cabbage on the 129I-contaminated soil could be a good remediation technique worthy of consideration.

Tissue engineering scaffolds with complex geometries can provide an architecture that directs tissue formation. Drug delivery from these scaffolds to promote regeneration is often challenging due to the complex fabrication processes. Surface-mediated DNA delivery from multiple channel bridges was applied to deliver lipoplexes in vivo to the injured spinal cord. The surface properties of the polymer, DNA deposition with or without drying, and the presence of ECM components were investigated. In vitro studies revealed that fibronectin produced greater expression levels and immobilization efficiencies compared with collagen, laminin, and no coating. In addition, lipoplex incubation on ECM-coated PLG increased expression relative to either of the drying methods. Additionally, the incubation method had more homogeneously distributed lipoplexes and a higher number of transfected cells relative to the dried conditions. Translation to three-dimensional bridges led to high levels of transgene expression in vitro. In vivo, lipoplexes immobilized to the bridge produced transgene expression levels in a rat spinal cord hemisection model that were 2-fold greater than naked plasmid. Additionally, expression with lipoplexes persisted for at least three weeks. Surface-mediated delivery can be applied to scaffolds with complex geometries to promote transgene expression in vivo.

A pot experiment was conducted to explore a more effective approach to enhancing vegetable uptake of soil iodine, with the ultimate goal of using agricultural fortification as a measure to prevent iodine deficiency disorders in local communities. Two types of iodine fertilizers were added separately to pot soil samples at various dosages. The fortified soil in each of the flower pots was seeded with one of four test crops (pakchoi, celery, pepper, and radish) in an effort to examine the effect of vegetable cultivation. The fate and residual levels of the exogenous iodine in the fortified soil samples were then monitored and quantified. The data showed that the soil iodine contents decreased with time (and hence with plant growth as well). At the second cutting, iodine from the inorganic form (KI) as the exogenous source was reduced to approximately 50% (41.6-61.0%) of the applied dose, whereas that in soil fortified with the seaweed fertilizer was down to approximately 60% (53.9-71.5%). The abilities of the edible portion of the four vegetables in accumulating the soil iodine were as follows: pakchoi > celery > radish > pepper. On the whole, iodine residues were found less in soil cultivated with vegetables. Vegetable cultivation appeared to have enhanced the soil content of the water-soluble form of iodine somewhat, especially in soil fortified with the inorganic forms. There also appeared to be a significant negative correlation between the residual iodine and its dissolution rate in soil. Overall, the results of the present study pointed toward the direction that the seaweed fertilizer tends to be a (more) preferred source of agricultural fortification in promoting human iodine nutrition.

Iodine-enhanced vegetable has been proven to be an effective way to reduce iodine deficiency disorders in many regions. However, the knowledge about what mechanisms control plant uptake of iodine and where iodine is stored in plants is still very limited. A series of controlled experiments, including solution culture, pot planting, and field experiments were carried out to investigate the uptake mechanism of iodine in different forms. A new methodology for observing the iodine distribution within the plant tissues, based on AgI precipitation reaction and transmission electron microscope techniques, has been developed and successfully applied to Chinese cabbage. Results show that iodine uptake by Chinese cabbage was more effective when iodine was in the form of IO(3) (-) than in the form of I(-) if the concentration was low (<0.5 mg L(-1)), but the trend was opposite if iodine concentration was 0.5 mg L(-1) or higher. The uptake was more sensitive to metabolism inhibitor in lower concentration of iodine, which implies that the uptake mechanism transits from active to passive as the iodine concentration increases, especially when the iodine is in the form of IO(3) (-). The inorganic iodine fertilizer provided a quicker supply for plant uptake, but the higher level of iodine was toxic to plant growth. The organic iodine fertilizer (seaweed composite) provided a more sustainable iodine supply for plants. Most of the iodine uptake by the cabbage is intercepted and stored in the fibrins in the root while the iodine that is transported to the above-ground portion (shoots and leaves) is selectively stored in the chloroplasts.

A hydroponic experiment has been carried out to study the influence of iodine species [iodide (I(-)), iodate (IO(-)(3)), and iodoacetic acid (CH(2)ICOO(-))] and concentrations on iodine uptake by water spinach. Results show that low levels of iodine in the nutrient solution can effectively stimulate the growth of biomass of water spinach. When iodine levels in the nutrient solution are from 0 to 1.0 mg/l, increases in iodine levels can linearly augment iodine uptake rate by the leafy vegetables from all three species of iodine, and the uptake effects are in the following order: CH(2)ICOO(-) >I(-)>IO(-)(3). In addition, linear correlation was observed between iodine content in the roots and shoots of water spinach, and their proportion is 1:1. By uptake of I(-), vitamin C (Vit C) content in water spinach increased, whereas uptake of IO(-)(3) and CH(2)ICOO(-) decreased water spinach Vit C content. Furthermore, through uptake of I(-) and IO(-)(3). The nitrate content in water spinach was increased by different degrees.

As a new attempt to control iodine deficiency disorder (IDD), we explored a method of iodine supplementation by raising the iodine content in vegetables. When grown in the soil supplemented with iodized fertilizer, the three experimental plant species (cucumber, aubergine, and radish) show increasing iodine levels in both leaf and fruit/rhizome tissues as the iodine content added in soil increases. Excessive iodine added to soil can be toxic to plants, whereas the tolerance limit to excessive iodine varies in the three plant species tested. The migration and volatilization of iodine in soil is correlated with the properties of the soil used. The residual iodine in soil increases as the iodine added to soil increases. The diatomite in the iodized fertilizer helps to increase the durability of the iodized fertilizer. This study potentially provides a safe and organic iodine supplementation method to control IDD.

With seaweed iodine and KI as exogenous iodine sources, a pot experiment was conducted to study the characteristics of iodine uptake and accumulation by pakchoi cabbage, celery, capsicum, and radish. The results showed that the iodine content in the edible parts of test vegetables increased with increasing amount of exogenous iodine, but the iodine accumulation rate differed with the kinds of vegetables, in the order of pakchoi > celery > radish > capsicum. The majority of iodine was accumulated in roots, with lesser amount transferred to shoots. The distribution of iodine in vegetables was commonly in the order of root > leaf > stem > fruit, but the iodine in radish is lower in its rhizome than in its shoot. Low concentrations (0-25 mg x kg(-1)) of exogenous iodine had little effects on the growth of vegetables, while high concentrations (> or = 50 mg x kg(-1)) of it had inhibitory effects, resulting in a decreased vegetable biomass. The sensitivity of test vegetables to the adverse effect of exogenous iodine was in the order of capsicum > pachoi > celery > radish. Compared with seaweed iodine, KI decreased the biomass of first cutting significantly (P < 0.05), but for the second cutting, little difference was observed between these two iodine sources. The uptake and accumulation of these two iodine sources by vegetables also differed with cuttings, i.e., the first cutting vegetables absorbed more KI, while the second cutting vegetables absorbed more seaweed iodine (P < 0.05), suggesting that seaweed iodine had a longer efficacy than KI.

Pseudolaric acid B (PA), a diterpenoid compound isolated from the root of Pseudolarix kaempferi Gorden, was injected into hamster ovarian bursa with various concentration before ovulation. The successful rate of fertilization of ova was significantly decreased, but no effect was observed on spermatozoa activity and fertilizing ability. Hamster ova with or without cumulus were treated with PA at a concentration higher than 50 micrograms/ml in the medium, the fertilizing rate of ova was reduced markedly. At the concentration of 5 micrograms/ml, only the capacity of fertilization of the cumulus-free ova was inhibited. When PA was injected ig 20 mg/kg daily to hamsters (female) for 4 d before mating, partial antifertility effect was observed.