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The migration phenomenon of deep shale gas is a subject that has yet to be fully comprehended, specifically regarding the migration ability of deep shale gas. This study focuses on the Longmaxi Formation in the southern Sichuan Basin, utilizing it as an example. Various experimental techniques, such as temperature-driven nitrogen and carbon dioxide adsorption, high-pressure mercury intrusion, XRD, and TOC analysis, are employed. The goal is to analyze the pore structure and fractal characteristics of the Longmaxi Formation shale. Additionally, the study aims to calculate its Knudsen number based on parameters like temperature gradient and pressure coefficient. The migration ability of the Longmaxi Formation shale in southern Sichuan Basin is also discussed. The results show the following: (1) The pore volume distribution of the Longmaxi Formation shale in the study area ranges from 0.0131 to 0.0364 cm3/g. Mesopores contribute approximately 56% of the pore volume, followed by micropores with a contribution rate of about 26%, and macropores contributing approximately 18%. Additionally, the Longmaxi Formation shale exhibits strong heterogeneity, with the fractal dimension (D1) of mesopores ranging from 2.452 to 2.8548, with an average of 2.6833, and the fractal dimension (D2) of macropores ranging from 2.9626 to 2.9786, averaging 2.9707. (2) The fractal dimensions of shale were significantly influenced by organic matter, inorganic minerals, and pore structure parameters. D1 and D2 were positively correlated with TOC, clay mineral content, and specific surface area, while exhibiting negative correlation with quartz. However, the correlations with calcite content, pore volume, and average pore size were not significant. (3) The proportion of pores satisfying Darcy flow in the Longmaxi Formation shale was approximately 3.7%–11.8%, with an average of 6.6%. Consequently, the migration capability of shale gas can be calculated using Darcy's law. Furthermore, the migration capability of shale gas is controlled by D2, specifically the surface area, and the connectivity of macropores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanical strength of dispersed particle gels (DPGs), which can be directly characterized by Young's modulus, is an important parameter affecting reservoir regulation performance. However, the effect of reservoir conditions on the mechanical strength of DPGs, as well as the desired range of mechanical strength for optimum reservoir regulation performance, have not been systematically studied. In this paper, DPG particles with different Young's moduli were prepared and their corresponding migration performances, profile control capacities and enhanced oil recovery abilities were studied by simulated core experiments. The results showed that with increase in Young's modulus, the DPG particles exhibited improved performance in profile control as well as enhanced oil recovery. However, only the DPG particles with a modulus range of 0.19–0.762 kPa could achieve both adequate blockage in large pore throats and migration to deep reservoirs through deformation. Considering the material costs, applying DPG particles with moduli within the range of 0.19–0.297 kPa (polymer concentration: 0.25–0.4%; cross-linker concentration: 0.7–0.9%) would ensure optimum reservoir control performance. Direct evidence for the temperature and salt resistance of DPG particles was also obtained. When aged in reservoir conditions below 100 °C and at a salinity of 10 × 104 mg·L−1, the Young's modulus values of the DPG particle systems increased moderately with temperature or salinity, indicating a favorable impact of reservoir conditions on the reservoir regulation abilities of DPG particles. The studies in this paper indicated that the practical reservoir regulation performances of DPGs can be improved by adjusting the mechanical strength, providing basic theoretical guidance for the application of DPGs in efficient oilfield development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the main causes of death from diseases, especially in developing countries. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are important modulators of the messenger RNAs expression. Among these miRNAs, MiR-143 is a tumor suppressor miRNA and its irregular expression has been revealed in a diversity of malignancies such as GC. Methods: In this study, we have attempted to restore the miR-143 expression in MKN-45 cells by introducing pCMV-miR-143 plasmid vectors. The consequences of exogenous expression of miR-143 on cell proliferation and migration were assessed by MTT and scratch tests, respectively. In addition, the DAPI staining assay was applied for apoptosisquantification. Following miR-143 transfection, the changes in K-Ras, C-Myc, MMP9, Bax, Caspase-3, and Caspase-9 mRNA levels were assessed. Results: The results indicated that the enhanced expression of miR-143 had negative effects on MKN-45 cells proliferation and invasion. Moreover, decreased expressions of K-Ras, MMP9, and C-Myc and up-regulation of Bax, Caspase-3, and Caspase-9 as downstream targets of miR-143 were recognized. Conclusion: These experimental results indicate that reversing the miR-143 expression, by novel techniques, including miRNA replacement could be considered as an efficient approach to reduce cell survival and metastasis.

The present study aimed to assess the influence of ciprofloxacin (CIP) against the doxorubicin (DOX)-resistant androgen-independent prostate cancer DU145 cells. The DOX-resistant DU145 (DU145/DOX20) cells were established by exposing DU145 cells to the increasing concentrations of DOX. The antiproliferative effect of CIP was examined through employing MTT, colony formation, and 3D culture assays. DU145/DOX20 cells exhibited a twofold higher IC50 value for DOX, an increased ABCB1 transporter activity, and some morphological changes accompanied by a decrease in spheroid size, adhesive and migration potential compared to DU145 cells. CIP (5 and 25 µg mL-1) resulted in a higher reduction in the viability of DU145/DOX20 cells than in DU145 cells. DU145/DOX20 cells were more resistant to CIP in 3D culture compared to the 2D one. No spheroid formation was observed for DU145/DOX20 cells treated with DOX and CIP combination. CIP and DOX, alone or in combination, significantly reduced the growth of DU145 spheroids. CIP in combination with 20 nM DOX prevented the colony formation of DU145 cells. The clonogenicity of DU145/DOX20 cells could not be estimated due to their low adhesive potential. CIP alone caused a significant reduction in the migration of DU145 cells and resulted in a more severe decrease in the wound closure ability of DOX-exposed ones. We identified that CIP enhanced DOX sensitivity in DU145 and DU145/DOX20 cells. This study suggested the co-delivery of low concentrations of CIP and DOX may be a promising strategy in treating the DOX-resistant and -sensitive hormone-refractory prostate cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the effect of notoginseng saponin R1 (NGR1)on the expression of miR-132 in human hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma cell line FaDu, and to explore its possible anti-tumor mechanism. Methods FaDu cells were treated with 0, 75, 150 and 300 µmol/L NGR1, and were labeled as the Control group, 75 µmol/L NGR1 group, 150 µmol/L NGR1 group and 300 µmol/L NGR1 group, respectively. The proliferation ability of cells in each group was detected by MTT assay, and the relative expression of miR-132 in each group was detected by real-time PCR. FaDu cells were further divided into the Control group (no treatment), NGR1 group (given 150 µmol/L NGR1), miR-132 inhibitor-NC group (transfected with miR-132 inhibitor-NC), miR-132 inhibitor group (transfected with miR-132 inhibitor), miR-132 inhibitor-NC+NGR1 group (150 µmol/L NGR1 treatment after transfection with inhibitor-NC), and miR-132 inhibitor+NGR1 group (150 µmol/L NGR1 treatment after transfection with inhibitor), respectively. MTT, Scratch and Transwell invasion assays were used to detect the effects of inhibition or up-regulation of miR-132 on the proliferation, migration and invasion abilities of FaDu cells. Results The proliferation abilities of FaDu cells in the Control group, 75 µmol/L NGR1 group, 150 µmol/L NGR1 group and 300 µmol/L NGR1 group decreased successively, and the relative expression of miR-132 in FaDu cells increased successively, and the differences were statistically significant (all P<0. 05). Compared with Control group, the viability, migration and invasion abilities of FaDu cells in the miR132 inhibitor group were enhanced, and the viability, migration and invasion abilities of FaDu cells in the NGR1 group were weakened (all P<0. 05). Compared with the NGR1 group, the viability, migration and invasion of FaDu cells in miR-132 inhibitor+NGR1 group significantly increased (all P<0. 05). Conclusion NGR1 may inhibit the proliferation, migration and invasion of FaDu cells by up-regulating the expression of miR-132. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Problem: NK cell and macrophage function are decreased in endometriosis, and the disease may involve reduced immune surveillance in the peritoneal cavity. NK cell cytotoxicity and migration ability (chemotaxis) are considered important; the former has been investigated, but the latter has not. Method of study: We compared chemotaxis of immunocompetent cells (NK cells, macrophages, T cells) in peritoneal fluid obtained during laparoscopy in 27 women with and 13 without endometriosis. Peripheral blood NK cells were also obtained by the peripheral blood antibody beads method. Micro‐cultured cells were examined by time‐lapse photography, and the mean migration speed per cell was calculated as the chemotaxis. We investigated the relationship between chemotaxis and endometriosis. Results: NK cell chemotaxis was significantly lower in the endometriosis group. Macrophages and lymphocytes were not significantly different between the groups. During menstruation, NK cell chemotaxis decreased in both groups. Postmenstrual chemotaxis was increased significantly in women without endometriosis but remained low in women with endometriosis. The Revised‐American Society for Reproductive Medicine score was not correlated with chemotaxis; in women with endometriosis, chemotaxis was decreased even at early stages. Peripheral blood NK cells showed no significant differences. Conclusions: In women with endometriosis, not only cytotoxicity but also chemotaxis by NK cells in peritoneal cavity is significantly decreased, and particularly chemotaxis is decreased throughout the menstrual cycle. Therefore, antigens in retrograde menstrual blood that enters the peritoneal cavity might be left unprocessed. Repetition of this immune process in the peritoneal cavity may lead to the onset and subsequent progression of endometriosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanical strength of dispersed particle gels (DPGs), which can be directly characterized by Young’s modulus, is an important parameter affecting reservoir regulation performance. However, the effect of reservoir conditions on the mechanical strength of DPGs, as well as the desired range of mechanical strength for optimum reservoir regulation performance, have not been systematically studied. In this paper, DPG particles with different Young’s moduli were prepared and their corresponding migration performances, profile control capacities and enhanced oil recovery abilities were studied by simulated core experiments. The results showed that with increase in Young’s modulus, the DPG particles exhibited improved performance in profile control as well as enhanced oil recovery. However, only the DPG particles with a modulus range of 0.19–0.762 kPa could achieve both adequate blockage in large pore throats and migration to deep reservoirs through deformation. Considering the material costs, applying DPG particles with moduli within the range of 0.19–0.297 kPa (polymer concentration: 0.25–0.4%; cross-linker concentration: 0.7–0.9%) would ensure optimum reservoir control performance. Direct evidence for the temperature and salt resistance of DPG particles was also obtained. When aged in reservoir conditions below 100 °C and at a salinity of 10 × 104 mg·L−1, the Young’s modulus values of the DPG particle systems increased moderately with temperature or salinity, indicating a favorable impact of reservoir conditions on the reservoir regulation abilities of DPG particles. The studies in this paper indicated that the practical reservoir regulation performances of DPGs can be improved by adjusting the mechanical strength, providing basic theoretical guidance for the application of DPGs in efficient oilfield development.

Purpose: Analysis of the influence of geranyl-geraniol (GG) addition on four bisphosphonate derivatives regarding their influence on cell viability and migration ability of bone metabolism and endothelial cells in vitro. Methods: Clodronate, pamidronate, ibandronate, and zoledronate were observed with and without GG addition, for their effect on human osteoblasts (HOB), normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF), human endothelial progenitor cells (EPC), and endothelial cells of the human umbilical cord (HUVEC) using migration-, MTT-, and colony-forming cell assays. Results: Data pointed to a depressing effect of all bisphosphonates on the migration ability of NHDF, EPC, and HOB. MTT assay demonstrated a decreased cell viability of HUVEC of all bisphosphonates in a 50 μM concentration and of NHDF when treated with 50 μM of clodronate, ibandronate, or zoledronate. Tested drugs showed a depressing effect on colony-forming potential of EPC even in a 5 μM concentration. GG addition demonstrated an attenuate impact on bisphosphonate effect on all primary cell cultures, respectively. Conclusion: In vitro comparison showed that the addition of GG weakens the effect of all bisphosphonates examined. It supports investigations that suggest GG to be able to prevent bisphosphonate-associated osteonecrosis of the jaw (BP-ONJ) in vivo. Future clinical trials may discover the local therapeutic use of GG for the prevention of BP-ONJ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the main causes of death from diseases, especially in developing countries. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are important modulators of the messenger RNAs expression. Among these miRNAs, MiR-143 is a tumor suppressor miRNA and its irregular expression has been revealed in a diversity of malignancies such as GC. Methods: In this study, we have attempted to restore the miR-143 expression in MKN-45 cells by introducing pCMV-miR-143 plasmid vectors. The consequences of exogenous expression of miR-143 on cell proliferation and migration were assessed by MTT and scratch tests, respectively. In addition, the DAPI staining assay was applied for apoptosis quantification. Following miR- 143 transfection, the changes in K-Ras, C-Myc, MMP9, Bax, caspase-3, and caspase-9 mRNA levels were assessed. Results: The results indicated that the enhanced expression of miR-143 had negative effects on MKN-45 cells proliferation and invasion. Moreover, decreased expressions of K-Ras, MMP9, and C-Myc and up-regulation of Bax, caspase-3, and caspase-9 as downstream targets of miR- 143 were recognized. Conclusion: These experimental results indicate that reversing the miR-143 expression, by novel techniques, including miRNA replacement could be considered as an efficient approach to reduce cell survival and metastasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Chinese Journal of Applied Entomology is the property of Chinese Journal of Applied Entomology, Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Prostate cancer is the second most common cause of cancer related death in males worldwide. Most patients show no response to androgen deprivation therapy in case of recurrence and proceed to advanced stage with metastasis. TRPM7 is reported to be upregulated in diverse types of tumors. Methods: We analyzed the expression of TRPM7 and related proteins by Western blotting analysis. We performed cell migration and invasion assay to analyze the relationship between tumor aggressiveness and TRPM7. In addition, we proceeded an animal study by using stable TRPM7 knockdown cell line in xenograft. Results: In our results, TRPM7 regulates prostate cancer cell biology including proliferation, migration and invasion through ERK1/2, PI3K/Akt and JNK signaling pathways. We produced stable TRPM7 knockdown prostate cancer cell line. To analyze the relationship between TRPM7 and tumorigenesis, we proceeded migration and invasion assay as well as xenograft model. TRPM7 down-regulated DU145 cells showed suppressed migratory and invasion ability, 0.65- and 0.05-fold, respectively. In addition, we confirmed that the anti-cancer effect of TRPM7 is mediated through inactivation of ERK1/2, Src and Akt signaling pathways by western blotting analysis. P-ERK1/2, p-Src, and p-Akt expressions were reduced to 0.66-, 0.68-, and 0.66-fold, respectively. Moreover, we treated ERK, Akt and Src inhibitors to clarify the involvement of related each protein in migration and invasion ability, and we could observe that inhibitor treated cells showed suppressed migration and invasion ability. In vivo, TRPM7 knockdown cells projected decreased cell proliferation rate. Conclusions: Taken these results together, out study suggested TRPM7 might be an essential gene for prostate cancer metastasis by regulating prostate cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion ability.

Fumonisin B1 (FB1) is an important mycotoxin in nature and is a serious threat to human and animal health, but its specific target and molecular mechanism of the toxicity and potential carcinogenicity remain unclear. In this study, we first detected the effects of FB1 on the cell viability, biophysical properties, migration ability, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Subsequently, changes in the cytoskeletal structure and its binding proteins were analyzed by immunofluorescence and real-time PCR, respectively. The results showed that FB1 could inhibit the viability of HUVECs in a dose-dependent manner. After treatment of HUVECs with FB1, the hypotonic resistance, cell surface charges, cell membrane fluidity, and migration ability were weakened, whereas the ROS levels were significantly increased. Moreover, the cytoskeletal structure of the HUVECs was significantly changed, and the mRNA expression of some important actin-binding proteins was altered. Therefore, this study revealed that FB1 can affect the migration and cytoskeletal structure of HUVECs, which provides a new perspective for further understanding the molecular mechanisms of FB1 toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: As a prominent geographical distribution centre for the dark coniferous forests, mountains of Southwest China (MSWC) is experiencing an unprecedented warming trend, posing severe challenges to the survival of dominant fir (Abies) species. Although plant's migration ability is a prerequisite for its survival in changing environments, it has often been ignored in species distribution models (SDMs). This study aimed to quantify the magnitude and direction of range changes by the year 2080 for six dominant fir species, that is Abies recurvata, Abies faxoniana, Abies squamata, Abies ernestii, Abies forrestii and Abies georgei, with an emphasis on exploring the relationship between migration ability and projected distributions. Location: The mountains of Southwest China. Methods: We applied the Maximum Entropy (Maxent) algorithm to calibrate ecological niche models and to project the climatically suitable areas (CSAs) of each species under two emission scenarios (RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5). Additionally, we delimited future species ranges by three migration scenarios (full‐, no‐ and partial‐migration scenarios). Results: The simulations showed the distinctive responses of the six fir species to anthropogenic climate change (ACC). By 2080, the distribution areas of Abies recurvata were projected to decline only in the no‐migration scenario but increase under the full‐ and partial‐migration scenarios, while the other five species were projected to decline in the majority of emission × migration scenarios. Fir species in the southern region were predicted to be more vulnerable to ACC due to the larger losses in CSAs and a stronger effect of the partial‐migration scenario on the newly colonized areas of this group. The studied species showed a simulated migration trend (northward and westward) to the interior Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau under ACC. Main conclusions: Benefits or losses for species under ACC depended on the geographical location, their ecological niches and migration abilities, which provide essential insights for a spatial conservation assessment of biodiversity hotspots in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highly expressible bacteriorhodopsin (HEBR) is a light-triggered protein (optogenetic protein) that has seven transmembrane regions with retinal bound as their chromophore to sense light. HEBR has controllable photochemical properties and regulates activity on proton pumping. In this study, we generated HEBR protein and incubated with lung cancer cell lines (A549 and H1299) to evaluate if there was a growth-inhibitory effect with or without light illumination. The data revealed that the HEBR protein suppressed cell proliferation and induced the G0/G1 cell cycle arrest without light illumination. Moreover, the migration abilities of A549 and H1299 cells were reduced by ~17% and ~31% after incubation with HEBR (40 μg/mL) for 4 h. The Snail-1 gene expression level of the A549 cells was significantly downregulated by ~50% after the treatment of HEBR. In addition, HEBR significantly inhibited the gene expression of Sox-2 and Oct-4 in H1299 cells. These results suggested that the HEBR protein may inhibit cell proliferation and cell cycle progression of lung cancer cells, reduce their migration activity, and suppress some stemness-related genes. These findings also suggested the potential of HEBR protein to regulate the growth and migration of tumor cells, which may offer the possibility for an anticancer drug.

Copyright of Food Research & Development is the property of Food Research & Development Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Relevance: It is noted that the condition of the skin, the external auditory canal bone, the eardrum residues, that is, the tissues, from which the graft must first receive nutrition, largely determine the myringoplasty result. Purpose: to assess the regenerative ability of the external auditory canal and tympanic membrane tissues in patients with chronic otitis media. Materials and Methods: The migration ability of the external auditory canal and tympanic membrane tissues study was carried out in 98 patients with acute tympanic membrane perforation using a tissue staining test. In patients with chronic otitis media the staining test was performed before the operation. The external auditory canal skin in the bone part and the tympanic membrane residues were taken in patients of all groups in myringoplasty for immunohistochemistry. The quantitative assessment of the biomolecular markers expression was performed by the digital image analyzing. It was obtained by a Leica DMLS microscope with software (Germany) and a JVC digital camera (the magnification of 200 times and a minimum number of view fields 5 in each microslide) using «positive pixel count» and morphometry software Aperio Image Scope. Results: It was noted that in cases where the perforation was not closed, the migration ability of the tissues was impaired. A correlation was established between the regenerative ability of the epithelium by determining tissue biomarkers and migration ability. A high EGF level indicates a good regenerative ability and a positive test with staining. A low EGF level is noted in a negative test with staining. The state of the migratory ability of the external auditory canal epithelium and the tympanic membrane epithelium may indirectly indicate the regenerative ability of tissues and affect the tympanoplasty result. The staining test can serve as a prognostic criterion for the myringoplasty result, because it evaluates the regenerative ability state of the external auditory canal epithelium and eardrum epithelium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a combination of column experiments, interface chemistry theory and transport model with two-site kinetics was used to systematically investigate the effect of pH on the transport of polystyrene nanoparticles (PSNPs) in porous media. The porous media containing quartz sand (QS) and three kinds of clay minerals (CMs)-kaolinite (KL), illite (IL) and montmorillonite (MT), was used in column experiments to simulate the porous media in the soil-groundwater systems. Experimental results showed that the inhibitory effect of CMs on the transport of PSNPs is weakened as pH increases. The two-dimensional (2D) surface of the DLVO interaction energy (2D-pH-DLVO) was built to calculate the interactions between PSNPs and CMs under different conditions of pH. Results suggested the inflection point of PSNP-QS, PSNP-KL, PSNP-IL and PSNP-MT are 2.42, 3.30, 2.84 and 3.69, respectively. Most importantly, there was a significant correlation between the two-site kinetic parameters related to PSNPs transport and the DLVO energy barrier (DB). The contributions of the interactions of PSNPs-PSNPs and PSNPs-minerals were determined for PSNPs transport in porous media. The critical values of pH related to the migration ability of PSNPs in porous media could be determined by a combination of column experiments, 2D-pH-DLVO and PSNPs transport model. The critical values of pH were 2.95–3.01, 3.22–3.51, 2.98–3.02, 3.31–3.33 for the migration ability of PSNPs in QS, QS + KL, QS + IL and QS + MT porous media, respectively. The stronger migration ability of PSNPs under high pH conditions is attributed to the enhanced deprotonation of the media surface and increased negative surface charge, which increases the electrostatic repulsion between PSNPs and porous media (QS, CMs). Moreover, the agglomeration of PSNPs usually is weaker and the average particle size of agglomerates is smaller under the condition of high pH, thus leading to the stronger migration ability of PSNPs under high pH conditions. [Display omitted] • The inhibitory effect of CMs on the transport of PSNPs was weakened as pH increases. • k 1 , k 1d , k 2 and S max2 all decreased with pH, while R RE and P C/C0 increased with pH. • The contribution of the interactions of PSNPs-PSNPs and PSNPs-solid phase was determined. • The change of two-site kinetic parameters with pH was accurately quantified and predicted. • Critical pH values related to PSNPs were accurately obtained by 2D-pH-DLVO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of the concentration of trace metals in soils by atomic absorption analysis was carried out. The results indicate the transformation of their migration properties. The diversity and versatility of behavior of chemical elements in environmental components after the fire was noted. In different ecological conditions, it is possible to observe a wide range of quantitative values of geochemical migration or accumulation of any particular chemical element. Analytical results show that the contents of migrant elements, pH values, areas of incidents, which are approximately in the same conditions, but passed by the grass or upper fire differ quite tangibly. Trace metals that hit the environment can form difficult soluble hydroxides. In addition, in the soil solution, there is a probability of the formation of hydroxocomplexes with different amounts of hydroxide ions by metals. The range of precipitation of hydroxides and the region of predominance of soluble hydroxocomplexes have been studied by constructing concentration-logarithmic diagrams. On the basis of the calculations it can be argued that the influence of the technogenic loading of pyrogenic origin on the geochemical migration of trace metals takes place. The obtained calculations can be used to predict the geochemical migration of trace metals in soils after the man-made consequences of emergencies of pyrogenic origin.

Background/purpose: 5-Aminolevulinic acid mediated photodynamic therapy (ALA-PDT) has been used for the treatment of precancerous lesions and oral cancers. Compared with traditional treatment such as surgery, ALA-PDT can selectively kill cancer cells and reduce side effects. However, some cells might survive from PDT and may be directly attributable to the limited penetration of light. Therefore, it is necessary to elucidate alterations in cellular behavior and molecular mechanisms in cancer cells that have survived from PDT. Materials and methods: Human tongue squamous carcinoma cells, SCC-4 cells, and mice bearing C26 tumors were used as cancer models in vitro and in vivo. After irradiation with the LD50 (50% lethal dose) light dose, the ability of cellular migration and metastasis related gene expression were assayed. Results: Cells were rounded up and migration ability was shown to have significantly decreased under the influence of irradiation with the LD50 light dose. Gene expression related to metastasis including matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and chloride intracellular channel 4 (CLIC4) was also reduced. In addition, in the animal tumor model, mRNA expression of MMP9 and CLIC4 was also noticeably decreased. Conclusion: Our results indicate that PDT could reduce the expression of invasion related genes of surviving cancer cells in vitro as well as in vivo. These could be used as references for clinical PDT of oral cancer in the future.

In this study, the hexachlorobenzene molecule was modified by three-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship (3D-QSAR) models and a full factor experimental design to obtain new hexachlorobenzene molecules with low migration ability. The 3D-QSAR models (comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA) and comparative molecular similarity indices analysis (CoMSIA)) were constructed by SYBLY-X 2.0 software, using experimental data of octanol-air partition coefficients (KOA) for 12 chlorobenzenes (CBs) congeners as the dependent variable, and the structural parameters of CBs as independent variables, respectively. A target molecule (hexachlorobenzene; HCB: its long-distance migration capability leads to pollution of the marine environment in Antarctic and Arctic) was modified using the 3D-QSAR contour maps associated with resolution V of the 210-3 full-factorial experimental design method, and 11 modified HCB molecules were produced with a single chlorine atom (-Cl2) and three chlorine atoms (-Cl1, -Cl3, and -Cl5) replaced with electropositive groups (-COOH, -CN, -CF3, -COF, -NO2, -F, -CHF2, -ONO2, and -SiF3) to increase the logKOA. The new molecules had essentially similar biological enrichment functions and toxicities as HCB but were found to be more easily degraded. A 2D-QSAR model and molecular docking technology indicated that both dipole moments and highest occupied orbital energies of the substituents markedly affected migration and degradation of the new molecules. The abilities of the compounds to undergo long distance migration were assessed. The modified HCB molecules (i.e. 2-CN-HCB, 2-CF3-HCB, 1-F-3-COOH-5-NO2-HCB, 1-NO2-3-CN-5-CHF2-HCB and 1-CN-3-F-5-NO2-HCB) moved from a long-range transport potential of the modified molecules to a relatively low mobility class, and the transport potentials of the remaining modified HCB molecules (i.e. 2-COOH-HCB, 2-COF-HCB, 1-COF-3-ONO2-5-NO2-HCB, 1-F-3-CN-5-SiF3-HCB, 1-F-3-COOH-5-SiF3-HCB and 1-CN-3-SiF3-5-ONO2-HCB) also significantly decreased. These results provide a basic theoretical basis for designing environmentally benign molecules based on HCB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Migration ability of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) towards chemotactic mediators is a determinant factor in cell therapy. MSCs derived from different sources show different properties. Here we compared the migration ability of the term and the pre-term human umbilical cord vein MSCs (hUCV-MSCs). Materials/Methods MSCs were isolated from term and pre-term umbilical cord vein, and cultured to passage 3–4. Migration rate of both groups was assessed in the presence of 10% FBS using chemotaxis assay. Surface expression of CXCR4 was measured by flow cytometery. The relative gene expression of CXCR4, IGF1-R, PDGFRα, MMP-2, MMP-9, MT1-MMP and TIMP-2 were evaluated using real time PCR. Results The isolation rate of the pre-term hUCV-MSCs was higher than the term hUCV-MSCs. Phenotype characteristics and differentiation ability of the term and pre-term hUCV-MSCs were not different. The migration rate of the pre-term hUCV-MSCs was more than the term hUCV-MSCs. Gene and surface expressions of the CXCR4 were both significantly higher in the pre-term hUCV-MSCs (P ≤ 0.05). The mRNA levels of PDGFRα, MMP-2, MMP-9, MT1-MMP and TIMP-2 showed no significant difference between the two groups. Conclusion Our results showed that the gestational age can affect the migration ability of the hUCV-MSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the experimental subcooled liquid vapor pressures ( P ) of 17 polychlorinated naphthalene (PCN) congeners, one type of three-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship (3D-QSAR) models, comparative molecular similarity indices analysis (CoMSIA), was constructed with Sybyl software. Full factor experimental design was used to obtain the final regulation scheme for PCN, and then carry out modification of PCN-2 to significantly lower its P . The contour maps of CoMSIA model showed that the migration ability of PCN decreases when the Cl atoms at the 2-, 3-, 4-, 5-, 6-, 7- and 8-positions of PCNs are replaced by electropositive groups. After modification of PCN-2, 12 types of new modified PCN-2 compounds were obtained with ln P values two orders of magnitude lower than that of PCN-2. In addition, there are significant differences between the calculated total energies and energy gaps of the new modified compounds and those of PCN-2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experimentally determined octanol-air partition coefficients ( K ) for 43 polychlorinated naphthalene (PCN) congeners and experimentally determined subcooled liquid vapor pressures ( P ) for 17 PCN congeners were used with comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA) and comparative molecular similarity indices analysis (CoMSIA) to generate three-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship (3D-QSAR) models. The data were used to predict K values for the other 32 congeners and P values for the other 58 congeners. The CoMFA and CoMSIA model contour maps showed that the electrostatic fields of the PCN molecules are the most important factors affecting the K and P values. The long-range transport potentials of several PCN homologs were assessed using the following grading system: high mobility (MoCNs), relatively high mobility (DiCNs to TeCNs), relatively low mobility (PeCNs to HeCNs) and low mobility (HeCNs and OCN). The PCN-2 molecule was modified using the contour maps of the two models, and the results showed that introducing an electronegative R substituent increased the K value but introducing an electropositive R substituent decreased the P value. PCN-2 was in the high mobility class, but introducing these substituents moved the long-range transport potentials of the modified molecules to the relatively high mobility class. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The contents of dissolved rhodium species in the near-neutral environments have been studied for the first time and data on the interaction of Rh with organic matters of natural waters and its sorption behavior during contact with the components of geochemical barriers were obtained. The solubility method was used to analyze the behavior of rhodium hydroxide in the Rh(OH)-HO and Rh(OH)-HO-FA (fulvic acids) systems. The possible contents of inorganic species of rhodium and its compounds with humic organic ligands were determined within the pH range typical of surface waters. The solubility of rhodium shows a twoorder- of magnitude increase in the presence of humic matters (FA). The sorption interaction of the soluble rhodium species with the main components of geochemical barriers such as iron oxyhydroxides (III), (including fulvic-acid modified ones), alumosilicates, and precipitates of humic acids in contact with natural waters was studied. It was revealed that rhodium has the high affinity to all studied materials; its species are sorbed by ferrihydrite within several hours. It is suggested that rhodium is mainly transferred as colloid with suspended particulate matters of waters and then is accumulated in bottom sediments. The differences revealed in the sorption behavior of Pt(IV), Pd(II) and Rh(III) may be used to predict the distribution of the considered platinum group elements between the components of ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cheyletus malaccensis is a predatory mite widely distributed in grain storages. It has been regarded as an important biological control agent for pest mites. In this study, we investigated the population genetic structure of C. malaccensis distributed in China based on the partial regions of mitochondrial COI and 12S rRNA genes. We collected 256 individuals of C. malaccensis from stored grain in 34 sites of China. We detected 50 COI gene haplotypes and nine 12S rRNA gene haplotypes. There were three clades in the haplotype network and Bayesian and maximum parsimony phylogenetic trees based on COI sequences, and two based on 12S rRNA sequences. The clustering of haplotypes was not correlated with their geographical distributions. The analysis of molecular variance, AMOVA, indicated that the genetic differentiation between populations was relatively weak. The major genetic differentiation was found within populations. We suggest that the genetic structure of C. malaccensis observed in this study may be the result of long-term climate fluctuations and recent human disturbances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integration of functional traits into vulnerability assessments is a promising approach to quantitatively capture differences in species sensitivity and adaptive capacity to climate change, allowing the refinement of tree species distribution models. In response to a clear need to identify traits that are responsive to climate change and applicable in a management context, we review the state of knowledge of the main mechanisms, and their associated traits, that underpin the ability of boreal and temperate tree species to persist and (or) shift their distribution in a changing climate. We aimed to determine whether current knowledge is sufficiently mature and available to be used effectively in vulnerability assessments. Marshalling recent conceptual advances and assessing data availability, our ultimate objective is to guide modellers and practitioners in finding and selecting sets of traits that can be used to capture differences in species' ability to persist and migrate. While the physiological mechanisms that determine sensitivity to climate change are relatively well understood (e.g., drought-induced cavitation), many associated traits have not been systematically documented for North American trees and differences in methodology preclude their widespread integration into vulnerability assessments (e.g., xylem recovery capacity). In contrast, traits traditionally associated with the ability to migrate and withstand fire are generally well documented, but new key traits are emerging in the context of climate change that have not been as well characterized (e.g., age of optimum seed production). More generally, lack of knowledge surrounding the extent and patterns in intraspecific trait variation, as well as co-variation and interaction among traits, limit our ability to use this approach to assess tree adaptive capacity. We conclude by outlining research needs and potential strategies for the development of trait-based knowledge applicable in large-scale modelling efforts, sketching out important aspects of trait data organization that should be part of a coordinated effort by the forest science community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The objective of this study is to explore the relationship between migration ability and invadosome organization in human oral squamous cancer cells. Wound healing assay, immunofluorescence, Western blotting, and matrix metalloproteinase zymogen gel assay were utilized to investigate the phenotype changes of three oral squamous cancer cells (OC3, OC3-I5, and OC3-IV2). Among these three cell lines, selective subpopulations of OC3, OC3-I5, and OC3-IV2 have high migratory ability compared to OC3 in a wound healing assay. Moreover, immunofluorescence showed that formation of actin dots and paxillin rings in OC3 was less than in OC3-I5 and OC3-IV2. Minor differences of other adhesion molecules and matrix metalloproteinase activity have also been observed. Enhanced cell migration ability and increased invadosomes have been detected in both in vitro selection cell line OC3-I5 and in vivo selection cell line OC3-IV2, suggesting that there may be a correlation between migration activity and invadosome formation in invasive oral cancer cells. Therefore, it would be interesting for us to continue discovering more invadosome components and evaluate whether they play any role in the regulation of the invasion ability of oral cancer cells. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common primary intraocular malignancy and the leading potentially fatal primary intraocular disease in adults. Melanoma antigen recognized by T-cells (MART-1) has been studied extensively as a clinically important diagnostic marker for melanoma, however, its biological function remains unclear. In the present study, the UM cell line SP6.5, which showed a high level of MART-1 expression, was subjected to small interfering RNA-mediated silencing of MART-1. Silencing of MART-1 expression increased the migration ability of SP6.5 cells and down-regulated the expression of the metastasis suppressor NM23. Our results suggest that MART-1 is a candidate target for the development of therapeutic strategies for UM and in particular for the suppression of metastasis associated with this malignancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The physicochemical forms of radionuclides in soils determine the processes of their entry into the soil solutions, redistribution in the soil profile, soil-plant and soil-ground or surface waters transfer as well as spreading outside the contaminated area. The vertical distribution of plutonium and americium and their physicochemical forms in soils of Polessie State Radiation-Ecological Reserve (PSRER) were studied with the aim of establishing the potential for radionuclide migration. Samples of alluvial soddy-podzolic and peaty soils with a low (1-3%) and relatively high (~80% of dry sample mass) content of organic matter have been selected for investigation. A method employing sequential selective extraction has been used for analysis of radionuclide physicochemical forms in the soils. Activity concentrations of Pu, Pu and Am in the samples were determined via radiochemical analysis with alpha-spectrometric identification of radionuclides. The results indicate that the main proportion of plutonium and americium remains in the 0-20 cm soil layer. The inventories of mobile and biologically available forms of plutonium and americium, expressed as a percentage of the total radionuclide content in soil, lie in the ranges of 1.1-9.4 and 2.7-29% respectively. Greater proportions of mobile and biologically available forms of radionuclides appear to be associated with mineral soil as compared to organic soil. In both mineral and organic soils, the portion of mobile americium is higher than plutonium. The inventories of mobile forms of plutonium and americium increase with the depth of soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The differentiation, maturation and functioning of Dendritic cells (DCs) are dynamic processes. This study investigated the changes of DCs' migration ability and biorheological properties during their differentiation. Transmigration assay showed that, DCs' migration rate was improved significantly as they differentiate (p < 0.05); NSC (Rac1 blocker) treatment could significantly decrease their migration rates (p < 0.05). Confocal images showed that, F-actin uniformly distributed in monocytes; with DC's differentiation, F-actin began to remodel and gather at the site of dendrites; the images presented surface ruffles and uneven sawtooth-like cytoskeletal structures. Fluorescence polarization analysis showed that, membrane fluidity was increased significantly with DC's differentiation (p < 0.05). CD62L was upregulated significantly (p < 0.05) on the third and ninth days. CD2 was upregulated significantly (p < 0.05) until the seventh day. DC's electrophoretic mobility was increased continuously, especially increased significantly from the third day to the fifth day and the final stage (p < 0.05). These results indicate that there are significant changes in the biorheological properties of DCs during their differentiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experimental research in displacement of gold particles in washed-out thickness of sand-gravel layer is conducted. The parameters of ability of gold particles to migrate in pulp flow are determined, and their immersion into loose soil is investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highly expressible bacteriorhodopsin (HEBR) is a light-triggered protein (optogenetic protein) that has seven transmembrane regions with retinal bound as their chromophore to sense light. HEBR has controllable photochemical properties and regulates activity on proton pumping. In this study, we generated HEBR protein and incubated with lung cancer cell lines (A549 and H1299) to evaluate if there was a growth-inhibitory effect with or without light illumination. The data revealed that the HEBR protein suppressed cell proliferation and induced the G0/G1 cell cycle arrest without light illumination. Moreover, the migration abilities of A549 and H1299 cells were reduced by ~17% and ~31% after incubation with HEBR (40 μg/mL) for 4 h. The Snail-1 gene expression level of the A549 cells was significantly downregulated by ~50% after the treatment of HEBR. In addition, HEBR significantly inhibited the gene expression of Sox-2 and Oct-4 in H1299 cells. These results suggested that the HEBR protein may inhibit cell proliferation and cell cycle progression of lung cancer cells, reduce their migration activity, and suppress some stemness-related genes. These findings also suggested the potential of HEBR protein to regulate the growth and migration of tumor cells, which may offer the possibility for an anticancer drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite recent advances in understanding tree species sensitivities to climate change, ecological knowledge on different species remains scattered across disparate sources, precluding their inclusion in vulnerability assessments. Information on potential sensitivities is needed to identify tree species that require consideration, inform changes to current silvicultural practices and prioritize management actions. A trait-based approach was used to overcome some of the challenges involved in assessing sensitivity, providing a common framework to facilitate data integration and species comparisons. Focusing on 26 abundant tree species from eastern Canada, we developed a series of trait-based indices that capture a species' ability to cope with three key climate change stressors—increased drought events, shifts in climatically suitable habitat, increased fire intensity and frequency. Ten indices were developed by breaking down species' response to a stressor into its strategies, mechanisms and traits. Species-specific sensitivities varied across climate stressors but also among the various ways a species can cope with a given stressor. Of the 26 species assessed, Tsuga canadensis (L.) Carrière and Abies balsamea (L.) Mill are classified as the most sensitive species across all indices while Acer rubrum L. and Populus spp. are the least sensitive. Information was found for 95% of the trait-species combinations but the quality of available data varies between indices and species. Notably, some traits related to individual-level sensitivity to drought were poorly documented as well as deciduous species found within the temperate biome. We also discuss how our indices compare with other published indices, using drought sensitivity as an example. Finally, we discuss how the information captured by these indices can be used to inform vulnerability assessments and the development of adaptation measures for species with different management requirements under climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aim: This study aimed to investigate the effect of a new 7-(4-(N-substituted carbamoylmethyl) piperazin-1-yl) ciprofloxacin-derivative on the proliferation and migration abilities of HeLa cells., Materials and Methods: Cell viability and morphological alterations were examined. Changes in migration were detected using wound healing and colony formation assays. Flow cytometry and western blotting were used to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying this ciprofloxacin-derivative's action in HeLa cells., Results: The examined ciprofloxacin-derivative reduced viability of HeLa cells in a concentration-dependent manner and altered cellular morphology, indicating cell death. Furthermore, it significantly inhibited wound closure, even in a non-cytotoxic concentration, and reduced HeLa cell colony formation. In addition, apoptosis was increased probably through significant up-regulation of Bax protein expression and the generation of active cleaved caspase-3 protein., Conclusion: Our new derivative inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis of HeLa cells. Furthermore, it suppressed the migration and colony formation abilities of HeLa cells. Therefore, it represents an attractive agent for drug development against cervical cancer based on its anti-metastatic effect., (Copyright© 2020, International Institute of Anticancer Research (Dr. George J. Delinasios), All rights reserved.)

In this study, the hexachlorobenzene molecule was modified by three-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship (3D-QSAR) models and a full factor experimental design to obtain new hexachlorobenzene molecules with low migration ability. The 3D-QSAR models (comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA) and comparative molecular similarity indices analysis (CoMSIA)) were constructed by SYBLY-X 2.0 software, using experimental data of octanol-air partition coefficients (K OA ) for 12 chlorobenzenes (CBs) congeners as the dependent variable, and the structural parameters of CBs as independent variables, respectively. A target molecule (hexachlorobenzene; HCB: its long-distance migration capability leads to pollution of the marine environment in Antarctic and Arctic) was modified using the 3D-QSAR contour maps associated with resolution V of the 2 10-3 full-factorial experimental design method, and 11 modified HCB molecules were produced with a single chlorine atom (-Cl 2 ) and three chlorine atoms (-Cl 1 , -Cl 3 , and -Cl 5 ) replaced with electropositive groups (-COOH, -CN, -CF 3 , -COF, -NO 2 , -F, -CHF 2 , -ONO 2 , and -SiF 3 ) to increase the logK OA . The new molecules had essentially similar biological enrichment functions and toxicities as HCB but were found to be more easily degraded. A 2D-QSAR model and molecular docking technology indicated that both dipole moments and highest occupied orbital energies of the substituents markedly affected migration and degradation of the new molecules. The abilities of the compounds to undergo long distance migration were assessed. The modified HCB molecules (i.e. 2-CN-HCB, 2-CF 3 -HCB, 1-F-3-COOH-5-NO 2 -HCB, 1-NO 2 -3-CN-5-CHF 2 -HCB and 1-CN-3-F-5-NO 2 -HCB) moved from a long-range transport potential of the modified molecules to a relatively low mobility class, and the transport potentials of the remaining modified HCB molecules (i.e. 2-COOH-HCB, 2-COF-HCB, 1-COF-3-ONO 2 -5-NO2-HCB, 1-F-3-CN-5-SiF 3 -HCB, 1-F-3-COOH-5-SiF 3 -HCB and 1-CN-3-SiF 3 -5-ONO 2 -HCB) also significantly decreased. These results provide a basic theoretical basis for designing environmentally benign molecules based on HCB., (© 2018 Elsevier Ltd All rights reserved.)