Tumor necrosis factor inhibitors(anti-TNFs)are widely used therapies for the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases(IBD);however,their administration is not risk-free.Heart failure(HF),although rare,is a potential a...Tumor necrosis factor inhibitors(anti-TNFs)are widely used therapies for the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases(IBD);however,their administration is not risk-free.Heart failure(HF),although rare,is a potential adverse event related to administration of these medications.However,the exact mechanism of development of HF remains obscure.TNFαis found in both healthy and damaged hearts.Its effects are concentration-and receptor-dependent,promoting either cardio-protection or cardiomyocyte apoptosis.Experimental rat models with TNFαreceptor knockout showed increased survival rates,less reactive oxygen species formation,and improved diastolic left ventricle pressure.However,clinical trials employing anti-TNF therapy to treat HF had disappointing results,suggesting abolishment of the cardioprotective properties of TNFα,making cardiomyocytes susceptible to apoptosis and oxidation.Thus,patients with IBD who have risk factors should be screened for HF before initiating anti-TNF therapy.This review aims to discuss adverse events associated with the administration of anti-TNF therapy,with a focus on HF,and propose some approaches to avoid cardiac adverse events in patients with IBD.展开更多
Herein, a stable and efficient CoS_(2)-ReS_(2) electrocatalyst is successfully constructed by using the different molar ratios of CoS_(2) on ReS_(2). The size and morphology of the catalysts are significantly changed ...Herein, a stable and efficient CoS_(2)-ReS_(2) electrocatalyst is successfully constructed by using the different molar ratios of CoS_(2) on ReS_(2). The size and morphology of the catalysts are significantly changed after the CoS_(2) is grown on ReS_(2), providing regulation of the catalytic activity of ReS_(2). Particularly, the optimized CoS_(2)-ReS_(2) shows superior electrocatalytic properties with a low voltage of 1.48 V at 20 mA cm^(-2) for overall water splitting in 1.0 M KOH, which is smaller than the noble metal-based catalysts(1.77 V at 20 mA cm^(-2)). The XPS, XAS, and theoretical data confirm that the interfacial regulation of ReS_(2) by CoS_(2) can provide rich edge catalytic sites, which greatly optimizes the catalytic kinetics and drop the energy barrier for oxygen/hydrogen evolution reactions. Our results demonstrated that interfacial engineering is an efficient route for fabricating high-performance water splitting electrocatalysts.展开更多
The use of medicinal plants as therapeutic and economic resources has been on the rise in recent years. In Brazil, however, increasing doubt is being cast on the quality of these products, owing to the prevalence of a...The use of medicinal plants as therapeutic and economic resources has been on the rise in recent years. In Brazil, however, increasing doubt is being cast on the quality of these products, owing to the prevalence of adulteration and fraud. Solar radiation can cause serious damage to human skin, as a result, mostly, of ultraviolet light, which is a cause of skin cancer. Photoprotective substances are capable of absorbing, reflecting, or refracting ultraviolet radiation and thus protecting skin from exposure to sunlight. The present study aimed to characterize samples and examine the phytochemical profile and photoprotective potential of bark and leaves of Erythrina velutina Willd. The samples underwent five extraction methods using 80% ethanol. The phenolic content was measured using spectrophotometry. Antioxidant activity was examined using the DPPH and the photoprotective properties of the plant extracts were assessed using the method developed by Mansur. There was a quantitative difference in some groups of metabolites, with higher levels of tannin in the bark and of flavonoids in the leaves. The latter showed greater DPPH free radical scavenging capacity than the bark, although higher levels of SPF were obtained from the bark, with no statistically significant differences between methods. The results indicate that Erythrina velutina Willd. has potential as a photoprotector.展开更多
MicroRNAs(miRNAs),small non-coding RNAs composed of 18–24 nucleotides,are potent regulators of gene expression,contributing to the regulation of more than 30%of protein-coding genes.Considering that miRNAs are regula...MicroRNAs(miRNAs),small non-coding RNAs composed of 18–24 nucleotides,are potent regulators of gene expression,contributing to the regulation of more than 30%of protein-coding genes.Considering that miRNAs are regulators of inflammatory pathways and the differentiation of intestinal epithelial cells,there is an interest in exploring their importance in inflammatory bowel disease(IBD).IBD is a chronic and multifactorial disease of the gastrointestinal tract;the main forms are Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.Several studies have investigated the dysregulated expression of miRNAs in IBD,demonstrating their important roles as regulators and potential biomarkers of this disease.This editorial presents what is known and what is expected regarding miRNAs in IBD.Although the important regulatory roles of miRNAs in IBD are clearly established,biomarkers for IBD that can be applied in clinical practice are lacking,emphasizing the importance of further studies.Discoveries regarding the influence of miRNAs on the inflammatory process and the exploration of their role in gene regulation are expected to provide a basis for the use of miRNAs not only as potent biomarkers in IBD but also as therapeutic targets for the control of inflammatory processes in personalized medicine.展开更多
Aim: To evaluate the effect of oxidative stress on the spermatogenesis and lactate dehydrogenase-X (LDH-X) activity in mouse testis. Methods: For creating different levels of oxidative stress in mice, three selenium (...Aim: To evaluate the effect of oxidative stress on the spermatogenesis and lactate dehydrogenase-X (LDH-X) activity in mouse testis. Methods: For creating different levels of oxidative stress in mice, three selenium (Se) level diets were fed in separate groups for 8 weeks. Group 1 animals were fed yeast-based Se-deficient (0.02 ppm) diet. Group 2 and Group 3 animals were fed with the same diet supplemented with 0.2 ppm and 1 ppm Se as sodium selenite, respectively. After 8 weeks, biochemical and histopathological observations of the testis were carried out. LDH-X levels in the testis were analyzed by western immunoblot and ELISA. Results: A significant decrease in testis Se level was observed in Group 1 animals, whereas it was enhanced in Group 3 as compared to Group 2. The glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity was significantly reduced in both the liver and testis in Group 1, but not in Group 2 and 3. A significant increase in the testis glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activity was observed in Group 1, whereas no significant change was seen in Groups 2 and 3. Histological analysis of testis revealed a normal structure in Group 2. A significant decrease in the germ cell population in Group 1 was observed as compared to Group 2 with the spermatids and mature sperm affected the most. Decrease in the lumen size was also observed. In the Se-excess group (Group 3), displacement of germ cell population was observed. Further, a decrease in the LDH-X level in testis was observed in Group 1. Conclusion: Excessive oxidative stress in the Se deficient group, as indicated by changes in the GSH-Px/GST activity, affects the spermatogenic process with a reduction in mature sperm and in turn the LDH-X level.展开更多
Aim: To examine whether a relationship exists between glutathione S-transferase Mu-1 (GSTM1) gene polymorphism and the susceptibility of sperm and seminal plasma from patients with idiopathic infertility to oxidati...Aim: To examine whether a relationship exists between glutathione S-transferase Mu-1 (GSTM1) gene polymorphism and the susceptibility of sperm and seminal plasma from patients with idiopathic infertility to oxidative stress. Methods: Fifty-two men with idiopathic infertility and 60 healthy fertile men were recruited to this study. GSTM1 gene polymorphism was determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and both the infertile and control individuals were divided into GSTM1 null and GSTM1 positive groups according to their GSTM1 gene structure. We compared reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyls and glutathione (GSH) concentrations, and glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity in seminal plasma and spermatozoa from infertile patients and controls with respect to GSTM1 genotype. Results: Significantly higher levels of oxidative stress and damage markers were found in idiopathic infertile men with the GSTM1 null genotype compared with those with the GSTM1 positive genotype. There was no significant difference in genotype distribution for theGSTM1 variant between the idiopathic infertile subjects and fertile subjects. Patients with the GSTM1 null genotype also had lower sperm concentrations than those with GSTM1 positive genotype. Conclusion: Our results suggest that the susceptibility of sperm and seminal plasma to oxidative stress is significantly greater in idiopathic infertile men with the GSTM1 null genotype compared with those possessing the gene. Therefore, in patients with idiopathic infertility, GSTM1 polymorphism might be an important source of variation in susceptibility of spermatozoa to oxidative damage.展开更多
Aim: To assess the protective efficacy of vitamin E to counteract the reactive oxygen species (ROS) mediated damage onsperm motility, viability and lipid peroxidation. Methods: Human semen samples were obtained from t...Aim: To assess the protective efficacy of vitamin E to counteract the reactive oxygen species (ROS) mediated damage onsperm motility, viability and lipid peroxidation. Methods: Human semen samples were obtained from the local hospi-tal. The split seminal fractions freed of seminal plasma were reconstituted in Ringer-Tyrode and subjected to varied vita-min E concentrations (0.1 - 2 mmol/L). Results: Dose-dependent improvement in both motility and viability accom-panied by concomitant decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA--an end product of lipid peroxidation) following vitamin Esupplementation was noticed. Conclusion: Vitamin E protects against the ROS mediated damage on spermatozoa.Vitamin E supplementation could be of clinical importance for prolonged spermatozoal storage whenever needed. (AsianJ Androl 1999 Sep; 1: 151 - 154 )展开更多
Aim:To investigate the status of seminal plasma reduced glutathione(GSH)and vitamin E in three different condi-tions of spermatogenesis:azoospermia,oligozoospermia and nonnospennia.Methods:Reduced glutathione wasmeasu...Aim:To investigate the status of seminal plasma reduced glutathione(GSH)and vitamin E in three different condi-tions of spermatogenesis:azoospermia,oligozoospermia and nonnospennia.Methods:Reduced glutathione wasmeasured in the seminal plasma by the method of Moron et al(1979),and vitamin E estimation was performed by themethod of Taylor et al(1976).Results:Vitamin E levels in seminal plasma of oligospermic and azoospennic sam-ples were significantly decreased to 65.54%and 66.04%respectively as compared to the normospermic group.Levelsof reduced glutathione were also significantly decreased in oligospermic and azoospennic group,and the reduction inazoospermic group(76.73%)was more pronounced than oligozoospermic group(62.07%).Conclusion.The de-crease in reduced glutathione,an endogenous antioxidant,levels in azoospermic and oligozoospermic conditions maycause dismption in the membrane integrity of spermatozoa as a consequence of increased oxidative stress.展开更多
Colorectal cancer(CRC)is the most common gastrointestinal tract cancer worldwide and is associated with high morbidity and mortality.The development of nanosized drug delivery systems has provided a new direction in C...Colorectal cancer(CRC)is the most common gastrointestinal tract cancer worldwide and is associated with high morbidity and mortality.The development of nanosized drug delivery systems has provided a new direction in CRC treatment.Among these systems,magnetic nanoparticle(MNP)-based multifunctional platforms provide a novel strategy for magnetic resonance imaging(MRI)-related cancer theranostics.At the beginning o f this original review,the carcinogenesis and treatment status o f CRC are summarized.Then,diversified preparation and functionalization methods of MNPs are systematically analyzed,followed by MRIinvolved theranostic strategies.The latest progress in MRI-mediated multimode diagnosis and image-guided targeted therapy in CRC management is the main focus.Finally,the major challenges in promoting MRI-induced precise theranostics of CRC in clinical practice are discussed.展开更多
AIM To determine the impact of selected well defined Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) antigens on gastric barrier cell turnover.METHODS In this study,using two cellular models of gastric epithelial cells and fibroblasts...AIM To determine the impact of selected well defined Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) antigens on gastric barrier cell turnover.METHODS In this study,using two cellular models of gastric epithelial cells and fibroblasts,we have focused on exploring the effects of well defined H. pylori soluble components such as glycine acid extract antigenic complex(GE),subunit A of urease(Ure A),cytotoxin associated gene A protein(Cag A) and lipopolysaccharide(LPS) on cell turnover by comparing the wound healing capacity of the cells in terms of their proliferative and metabolic activity as well as cell cycle distribution. Toxic effects of H. pylori components have been assessed in an association with damage to cell nuclei and inhibition of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(STAT3) phosphorylation. RESULTS We showed that H. pylori GE,Cag A and Ure A promoted regeneration of epithelial cells and fibroblasts,which is necessary for effective tissue healing. However,in vivo increased proliferative activity of these cells may constitute an increased risk of gastric neoplasia. In contrast,H. pylori LPS showed a dose-dependent influence on the process of wound healing. At a low concentration(1 ng/m L) H. pylori LPS accelerated of healing epithelial cells,which was linked to significantly enhanced cell proliferation and MTT reduction as well as lack of alterations in cell cycle and downregulation of epidermal growth factor(EGF) production as well as cell nuclei destruction. By comparison,H. pylori LPS at a high concentration(25 ng/m L) inhibited the process of wound repair,which was related to diminished proliferative activity of the cells,cell cycle arrest,destruction of cell nuclei and downregulation of the EGF/STAT3 signalling pathway.CONCLUSION In vivo H. pylori LPS driven effects might lead to the maintenance of chronic inflammatory response and pathological disorders on the level of the gastric mucosal barrier.展开更多
Amelogenin(AMG) is a cell adhesion molecule that has an important role in the mineralization of enamel and regulates events during dental development and root formation. The purpose of the present study was to inves...Amelogenin(AMG) is a cell adhesion molecule that has an important role in the mineralization of enamel and regulates events during dental development and root formation. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of recombinant human AMG(rhAMG) on mineralized tissue-associated genes in cementoblasts. Immortalized mouse cementoblasts(OCCM-30)were treated with different concentrations(0.1, 1, 10, 100, 1 000, 10 000, 100 000 ng · mL^-1) of recombinant human AMG(rhAMG)and analyzed for proliferation, mineralization and mRNA expression of bone sialoprotein(BSP), osteocalcin(OCN), collagen type I(COL I), osteopontin(OPN), runt-related transcription factor 2(Runx2), cementum attachment protein(CAP), and alkaline phosphatase(ALP) genes using quantitative RT-PCR. The dose response of rhAMG was evaluated using a real-time cell analyzer.Total RNA was isolated on day 3, and cell mineralization was assessed using von Kossa staining on day 8. COL I, OPN and lysosomalassociated membrane protein-1(LAMP-1), which is a cell surface binding site for amelogenin, were evaluated using immunocytochemistry. F-actin bundles were imaged using confocal microscopy. rhAMG at a concentration of 100 000 ng · mL^-1 increased cell proliferation after 72 h compared to the other concentrations and the untreated control group. rhAMG(100 000 ng · mL^-1) upregulated BSP and OCN mRNA expression levels eightfold and fivefold, respectively. rhAMG at a concentration of 100 000 ng · mL^-1 remarkably enhanced LAMP-1 staining in cementoblasts. Increased numbers of mineralized nodules were observed at concentrations of 10 000 and 100 000 ng · mL^-1 rhAMG. The present data suggest that rhAMG is a potent regulator of gene expression in cementoblasts and support the potential application of rhAMG in therapies aimed at fast regeneration of damaged periodontal tissue.展开更多
Aim: To study the pharmacokinetic (PK) properties in rabbits treated with N-Ile^1-Thr^2-63-desulfato-r-hirudin (rH) newly developed in China by means of bioassay in order to provide preclinical experiment basis f...Aim: To study the pharmacokinetic (PK) properties in rabbits treated with N-Ile^1-Thr^2-63-desulfato-r-hirudin (rH) newly developed in China by means of bioassay in order to provide preclinical experiment basis for its development as a novel anticoagulant agent. Methods: rH plasma concentration was determined using bioassay based on ex vivo antithrombin activity of rH. Normal rabbits received iv rH 4.0, 2.0 and 1.0 mg/kg or sc rH 2.0 mg/kg, respectively. The rabbits with acute severe renal failure were given iv rH 2.0 mg/kg. Results: The bioassay described in this paper met requirements for study of PK in rabbits. The major PK parameters after iv dosing were as follows: t1/2p 58.4-59 min. Vd 0.09-0.12 L/kg, CL 0.0035-0.0040 L/(kg·min); AUC were proportional to the doses, ti/2 and CL did not change significantly with the doses. The sc bioavailability reached 94%. The rabbits suffering from acute severe renal failure presented 11-fold longer t1/2p and 13-fold greater.4 UC than normal healthy rabbits. Conclusion: rH exhibited rapid elimination, distribution was only limited to extracellular space and good absorption from sc site. The excretion ofrH by kidneys played a very important role in the elimination of rH. The PK ofrH could be described by the two- and one-compartment model after iv and sc dosing, respectively, and folio,wed linear kinetics.展开更多
BACKGROUND Inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)comprises two distinct diseases,Crohn’s disease(CD)and ulcerative colitis(UC),both of which are chronic,relapsing inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract with a ...BACKGROUND Inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)comprises two distinct diseases,Crohn’s disease(CD)and ulcerative colitis(UC),both of which are chronic,relapsing inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract with a mostly unknown etiology.The incidence and prevalence of IBD are continually increasing,indicating the need for further studies to investigate the genetic determinants of these diseases.Since microRNAs(miRNAs)regulate protein translation via complementary binding to mRNA,discovering differentially expressed miRNAs(DE)in UC or CD patients could be important for diagnostic biomarker identification,assisting in the appropriate disease differentiation progressing the understanding of IBD pathogenesis.AIM To determine the miRNA expression profile in UC and CD patients and the potential pathophysiological contributions of differentially expressed miRNA.METHODS A total of 20 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded colonic samples were collected from the Pathology Department of Botucatu Medical School at São Paulo State University(Unesp).The diagnosis of UC or CD was based on clinical,endoscopic,radiologic,and histological criteria and confirmed by histopathological analysis at the time of selection.The TaqMan™Array Human MicroRNA A+B Cards Set v3.0(Applied Biosystems™)platform was used to analyze 754 miRNAs.Targets of DE-miRNAs were predicted using miRNA Data Integration Portal(mirDIP)and the miRNA Target Interaction database(MiRTarBase).All statistical analyses were conducted using GraphPad Prism software.Parametric and nonparametric data were analyzed using t-tests and Mann-Whitney U tests,respectively.RESULTS The results showed that of the 754 miRNAs that were initially evaluated,643 miRNAs were found to be expressed in at least five of the patients who were diagnosed with either CD or UC;the remaining 111 miRNAs were not considered to be expressed in these patients.The expression levels of 28 miRNAs were significantly different between the CD and UC patients(P≤0.05);13 miRNAs demonstrated a fold-change in expression level greater than 1.Five miRNAs with a downregulated expression were selected for enrichment analysis.The miRNAs whose expression levels were significantly lower in UC patients than in CD patients were enriched in certain signaling pathways that were mostly correlated with cancer-related processes and respective biomarkers.CONCLUSION MiRNAs could be used to differentiate UC from CD,and differently expressed miRNAs could help explain the distinct pathophysiology of each disease.展开更多
We investigated the foraging area of three individuals (1 female and 2 males) of Rousettus leschenaulti (Chiroptera,Pteropodidae) in suburban Haikou City, Hainan Province, South China from November 2005 to January 200...We investigated the foraging area of three individuals (1 female and 2 males) of Rousettus leschenaulti (Chiroptera,Pteropodidae) in suburban Haikou City, Hainan Province, South China from November 2005 to January 2006 using radio telemetry.These animals left the daytime roosting sites about 90 min after sunset with no significant difference in departure time betweenthe male and female bats. The average active times were 391.8 min for males and 533.7 min for the female, respectively.By reconstructing 93 radio-telemetry recording positions, we found that the long axis of foraging area of the bats ranged from7.45 to 11.70 km. The foraging area of the female (3867 ha) was larger than that of the males (1138 ha), and there was overlapbetween the foraging areas of different individuals. These bats usually kept the same flight routes across a few successive daysfrom the daytime roosting site to the foraging areas. Our findings suggested that female R. leschenaulti may explore a larger foragingarea than males. No obvious territorial behaviors were observed in our studied area.展开更多
AIM: To evaluate the effect of sodium tungstate on visual evoked potentials(VEPs) in diabetic rats.· METHODS: Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups as normal control, diabetic control and diabet...AIM: To evaluate the effect of sodium tungstate on visual evoked potentials(VEPs) in diabetic rats.· METHODS: Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups as normal control, diabetic control and diabetic rats treated with sodium tungstate. Diabetes was induced by single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin(50 mg/kg). Sodium tungstate [40 mg/(kg·d)]was administered for 12 wk and then VEPs were recorded.Additionally, thiobarbituric acid reactive substance(TBARS) levels were measured in brain tissues.·RESULTS: The latencies of P1, N1, P2, N2 and P3 waves were significantly prolonged in diabetic rats compared with control group. Diabetes mellitus caused an increase in the lipid peroxidation process that was accompanied by changes in VEPs. However, prolonged latencies of VEPs for all components returned to control levels in sodium tungstate-treated group. The treatment of sodium tungstate significantly decreased brain TBARS levels and depleted the prolonged latencies of VEP components compared with diabetic control group.· CONCLUSION: Sodium tungstate shows protective effects on visual pathway in diabetic rats, and it can be worthy of further study for potential use.展开更多
Psidium guajava (guava) leaf is a phytotherapic used in folk medicine to treat gastrointestinal and respiratory dis-turbances and is used as anti-inflammatory medicine. In nuclear medicine, blood constituents (BC) are...Psidium guajava (guava) leaf is a phytotherapic used in folk medicine to treat gastrointestinal and respiratory dis-turbances and is used as anti-inflammatory medicine. In nuclear medicine, blood constituents (BC) are labelled with techne-tium-99m (99mTc) and used to image procedures. However, data have demonstrated that synthetic or natural drugs could modify the labelling of BC with 99mTc. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effects of aqueous extract of guava leaves on the labelling of BC with 99mTc. Blood samples of Wistar rats were incubated with different concentrations of guava extract and labelled with 99mTc after the percentage of incorporated radioactivity (%ATI) in BC was determined. The results suggest that aqueous guava extract could present antioxidant action and/or alters the membrane structures involved in ion transport into cells, thus decreasing the radiolabelling of BC with 99mTc. The data showed significant (P<0.05) alteration of ATI in BC from blood incubated with guava extract.展开更多
Titanium dioxide(TiO2)has garnered attention for its promising photocatalytic activity,energy storage capability,low cost,high chemical stability,and nontoxicity.However,conventional TiO2 has low energy harvesting eff...Titanium dioxide(TiO2)has garnered attention for its promising photocatalytic activity,energy storage capability,low cost,high chemical stability,and nontoxicity.However,conventional TiO2 has low energy harvesting efficiency and charge separation ability,though the recently developed black TiO2 formed under high temperature or pressure has achieved elevated performance.The phase-selectively ordered/disordered blue TiO2(BTO),which has visible-light absorption and efficient exciton disassociation,can be formed under normal pressure and temperature(NPT)conditions.This perspective article first discusses TiO2 materials development milestones and insights of the BTO structure and construction mechanism.Then,current applications of BTO and potential extensions are summarized and suggested,respectively,including hydrogen(H2)production,carbon dioxide(CO2)and nitrogen(N2)reduction,pollutant degradation,microbial disinfection,and energy storage.Last,future research prospects are proposed for BTO to advance energy and environmental sustainability by exploiting different strategies and aspects.The unique NPT-synthesized BTO can offer more societally beneficial applications if its potential is fully explored by the research community.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the association between prognosis of rectal cancer treated with chemoradiotherapy(CRT) and expression of sensitive-to-apoptosis(SAG),B-cell lymphoma-extra large(Bcl-X L) and Bcl-2 homologous antagon...AIM:To investigate the association between prognosis of rectal cancer treated with chemoradiotherapy(CRT) and expression of sensitive-to-apoptosis(SAG),B-cell lymphoma-extra large(Bcl-X L) and Bcl-2 homologous antagonist/killer(Bak).METHODS:Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to determine the expression of proteins of interest,namely SAG,Bcl-X L,Bak and β-actin,in rectal carcinoma patients who had a follow-up period of 3 years after CRT.Biopsy specimens were excised from the rectal tumor preceding CRT.RESULTS:SAG,Bcl-X L and Bak proteins showed significant correlations with each other.In multivariate analysis,patients with high vs low SAG expression showed a statistically significant difference in 2-year survival rates:56% vs 73%,respectively(P = 0.056).On the other hand,there were no significant correlations between the expression levels of all three genes and metastatic rates or tumor responses to CRT.Mean overall survival in the patients with elevated SAG expression was 27.1 mo ± 3.9 mo [95% confidence interval(CI):19.3-34.9],and in patients with reduced expression,it was 32.1 mo ± 2.5 mo(95% CI:27.3-36.9).The corresponding values for Bcl-X L were 28.0 mo ± 4.1 mo(95% CI:19.9-36.1) and 31.7 mo ± 2.9 mo(95% CI:26.0-37.5),and those for Bak were 29.8 mo ± 3.7 mo(95% CI:22.5-37.2) and 30.6 mo ± 2.4 mo(95% CI:25.5-35.0),respectively.CONCLUSION:Two-year survival rates significantly correlated with low SAG expression,and SAG may be a candidate gene for good prognosis,independent of therapeutic response of different individuals.展开更多
Inflammation plays an essential role in the development of atherosclerosis. The initiation and growth of atherosclerotic plaques is accompanied by recruitment of inflammatory and precursor cells from the bloodstream a...Inflammation plays an essential role in the development of atherosclerosis. The initiation and growth of atherosclerotic plaques is accompanied by recruitment of inflammatory and precursor cells from the bloodstream and their differentiation towards pro-inflammatory phenotypes. This process is orchestrated by the production of a number of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Human arterial intima consists of structurally distinct leaflets, with a proteoglycan-rich layer lying immediately below the endothelial lining. Recent studies reveal the important role of stellate pericyte-like cells(intimal pericytes) populating the proteoglycan-rich layer in the development of atherosclerosis. During the pathologic process, intimal pericytes may participate in the recruitment of inflammatory cells by producing signalling molecules and play a role in the antigen presentation. Intimal pericytes are also involved in lipid accumulation and the formation of foam cells. This review focuses on the role of pericytelike cells in the development of atherosclerotic lesions.展开更多
The aim of the work was confined to the investigation of the epileptic activity dynamics under conditions of extremely high frequency electromagnetic waves(EHF) radiation(7.1 mm,0.1 mW/cm2) upon focal epileptic activi...The aim of the work was confined to the investigation of the epileptic activity dynamics under conditions of extremely high frequency electromagnetic waves(EHF) radiation(7.1 mm,0.1 mW/cm2) upon focal epileptic activity,which was penicillin-induced(10 000 IU/ml) in frontal zone of the brain cortex in myorelaxed and artificially ventilated rats under acute experimental condition.It was established that preliminarily performed hypogeomagnetic period(3.0 h) with the inductivity of geomagnetic field reduction not less than by 100 times caused the intensification of antiepileptic effects of EHF(15.0 min of exposition).It was pronounced in the form of decrease of foci intensity and significant reduction of life-span of foci-up to 115.3±13.4 minutes,which was both significant when compared with separate effects of hypogeomagnetic influence(187.3±12.5 min) and EHF(15.0 minutes of exposition) effect(164.2±12.5 minutes)(P <0.05).展开更多
文摘Tumor necrosis factor inhibitors(anti-TNFs)are widely used therapies for the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases(IBD);however,their administration is not risk-free.Heart failure(HF),although rare,is a potential adverse event related to administration of these medications.However,the exact mechanism of development of HF remains obscure.TNFαis found in both healthy and damaged hearts.Its effects are concentration-and receptor-dependent,promoting either cardio-protection or cardiomyocyte apoptosis.Experimental rat models with TNFαreceptor knockout showed increased survival rates,less reactive oxygen species formation,and improved diastolic left ventricle pressure.However,clinical trials employing anti-TNF therapy to treat HF had disappointing results,suggesting abolishment of the cardioprotective properties of TNFα,making cardiomyocytes susceptible to apoptosis and oxidation.Thus,patients with IBD who have risk factors should be screened for HF before initiating anti-TNF therapy.This review aims to discuss adverse events associated with the administration of anti-TNF therapy,with a focus on HF,and propose some approaches to avoid cardiac adverse events in patients with IBD.
基金supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) grant funded by the Korea government (MSIT)(NRF-2022R1A2C2093415) and (NRF-2018R1A2B6006721)Institute for Basic Science of Korea (IBS-R011-D1)the Korea Medical Device Development Fund grant funded by the Korean government (the Ministry of Science and ICT, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, the Ministry of Health & Welfare, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety) (Project Number: KMDF_PR_20200901_0004)。
文摘Herein, a stable and efficient CoS_(2)-ReS_(2) electrocatalyst is successfully constructed by using the different molar ratios of CoS_(2) on ReS_(2). The size and morphology of the catalysts are significantly changed after the CoS_(2) is grown on ReS_(2), providing regulation of the catalytic activity of ReS_(2). Particularly, the optimized CoS_(2)-ReS_(2) shows superior electrocatalytic properties with a low voltage of 1.48 V at 20 mA cm^(-2) for overall water splitting in 1.0 M KOH, which is smaller than the noble metal-based catalysts(1.77 V at 20 mA cm^(-2)). The XPS, XAS, and theoretical data confirm that the interfacial regulation of ReS_(2) by CoS_(2) can provide rich edge catalytic sites, which greatly optimizes the catalytic kinetics and drop the energy barrier for oxygen/hydrogen evolution reactions. Our results demonstrated that interfacial engineering is an efficient route for fabricating high-performance water splitting electrocatalysts.
文摘The use of medicinal plants as therapeutic and economic resources has been on the rise in recent years. In Brazil, however, increasing doubt is being cast on the quality of these products, owing to the prevalence of adulteration and fraud. Solar radiation can cause serious damage to human skin, as a result, mostly, of ultraviolet light, which is a cause of skin cancer. Photoprotective substances are capable of absorbing, reflecting, or refracting ultraviolet radiation and thus protecting skin from exposure to sunlight. The present study aimed to characterize samples and examine the phytochemical profile and photoprotective potential of bark and leaves of Erythrina velutina Willd. The samples underwent five extraction methods using 80% ethanol. The phenolic content was measured using spectrophotometry. Antioxidant activity was examined using the DPPH and the photoprotective properties of the plant extracts were assessed using the method developed by Mansur. There was a quantitative difference in some groups of metabolites, with higher levels of tannin in the bark and of flavonoids in the leaves. The latter showed greater DPPH free radical scavenging capacity than the bark, although higher levels of SPF were obtained from the bark, with no statistically significant differences between methods. The results indicate that Erythrina velutina Willd. has potential as a photoprotector.
基金Supported by Postdoctoral Scholarship Grant,No.4313/2022 PROPG/PROPE N°05/2022 from UNESP(to de Oliveira ECS).
文摘MicroRNAs(miRNAs),small non-coding RNAs composed of 18–24 nucleotides,are potent regulators of gene expression,contributing to the regulation of more than 30%of protein-coding genes.Considering that miRNAs are regulators of inflammatory pathways and the differentiation of intestinal epithelial cells,there is an interest in exploring their importance in inflammatory bowel disease(IBD).IBD is a chronic and multifactorial disease of the gastrointestinal tract;the main forms are Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.Several studies have investigated the dysregulated expression of miRNAs in IBD,demonstrating their important roles as regulators and potential biomarkers of this disease.This editorial presents what is known and what is expected regarding miRNAs in IBD.Although the important regulatory roles of miRNAs in IBD are clearly established,biomarkers for IBD that can be applied in clinical practice are lacking,emphasizing the importance of further studies.Discoveries regarding the influence of miRNAs on the inflammatory process and the exploration of their role in gene regulation are expected to provide a basis for the use of miRNAs not only as potent biomarkers in IBD but also as therapeutic targets for the control of inflammatory processes in personalized medicine.
文摘Aim: To evaluate the effect of oxidative stress on the spermatogenesis and lactate dehydrogenase-X (LDH-X) activity in mouse testis. Methods: For creating different levels of oxidative stress in mice, three selenium (Se) level diets were fed in separate groups for 8 weeks. Group 1 animals were fed yeast-based Se-deficient (0.02 ppm) diet. Group 2 and Group 3 animals were fed with the same diet supplemented with 0.2 ppm and 1 ppm Se as sodium selenite, respectively. After 8 weeks, biochemical and histopathological observations of the testis were carried out. LDH-X levels in the testis were analyzed by western immunoblot and ELISA. Results: A significant decrease in testis Se level was observed in Group 1 animals, whereas it was enhanced in Group 3 as compared to Group 2. The glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity was significantly reduced in both the liver and testis in Group 1, but not in Group 2 and 3. A significant increase in the testis glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activity was observed in Group 1, whereas no significant change was seen in Groups 2 and 3. Histological analysis of testis revealed a normal structure in Group 2. A significant decrease in the germ cell population in Group 1 was observed as compared to Group 2 with the spermatids and mature sperm affected the most. Decrease in the lumen size was also observed. In the Se-excess group (Group 3), displacement of germ cell population was observed. Further, a decrease in the LDH-X level in testis was observed in Group 1. Conclusion: Excessive oxidative stress in the Se deficient group, as indicated by changes in the GSH-Px/GST activity, affects the spermatogenic process with a reduction in mature sperm and in turn the LDH-X level.
文摘Aim: To examine whether a relationship exists between glutathione S-transferase Mu-1 (GSTM1) gene polymorphism and the susceptibility of sperm and seminal plasma from patients with idiopathic infertility to oxidative stress. Methods: Fifty-two men with idiopathic infertility and 60 healthy fertile men were recruited to this study. GSTM1 gene polymorphism was determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and both the infertile and control individuals were divided into GSTM1 null and GSTM1 positive groups according to their GSTM1 gene structure. We compared reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyls and glutathione (GSH) concentrations, and glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity in seminal plasma and spermatozoa from infertile patients and controls with respect to GSTM1 genotype. Results: Significantly higher levels of oxidative stress and damage markers were found in idiopathic infertile men with the GSTM1 null genotype compared with those with the GSTM1 positive genotype. There was no significant difference in genotype distribution for theGSTM1 variant between the idiopathic infertile subjects and fertile subjects. Patients with the GSTM1 null genotype also had lower sperm concentrations than those with GSTM1 positive genotype. Conclusion: Our results suggest that the susceptibility of sperm and seminal plasma to oxidative stress is significantly greater in idiopathic infertile men with the GSTM1 null genotype compared with those possessing the gene. Therefore, in patients with idiopathic infertility, GSTM1 polymorphism might be an important source of variation in susceptibility of spermatozoa to oxidative damage.
文摘Aim: To assess the protective efficacy of vitamin E to counteract the reactive oxygen species (ROS) mediated damage onsperm motility, viability and lipid peroxidation. Methods: Human semen samples were obtained from the local hospi-tal. The split seminal fractions freed of seminal plasma were reconstituted in Ringer-Tyrode and subjected to varied vita-min E concentrations (0.1 - 2 mmol/L). Results: Dose-dependent improvement in both motility and viability accom-panied by concomitant decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA--an end product of lipid peroxidation) following vitamin Esupplementation was noticed. Conclusion: Vitamin E protects against the ROS mediated damage on spermatozoa.Vitamin E supplementation could be of clinical importance for prolonged spermatozoal storage whenever needed. (AsianJ Androl 1999 Sep; 1: 151 - 154 )
文摘Aim:To investigate the status of seminal plasma reduced glutathione(GSH)and vitamin E in three different condi-tions of spermatogenesis:azoospermia,oligozoospermia and nonnospennia.Methods:Reduced glutathione wasmeasured in the seminal plasma by the method of Moron et al(1979),and vitamin E estimation was performed by themethod of Taylor et al(1976).Results:Vitamin E levels in seminal plasma of oligospermic and azoospennic sam-ples were significantly decreased to 65.54%and 66.04%respectively as compared to the normospermic group.Levelsof reduced glutathione were also significantly decreased in oligospermic and azoospennic group,and the reduction inazoospermic group(76.73%)was more pronounced than oligozoospermic group(62.07%).Conclusion.The de-crease in reduced glutathione,an endogenous antioxidant,levels in azoospermic and oligozoospermic conditions maycause dismption in the membrane integrity of spermatozoa as a consequence of increased oxidative stress.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.81903662,81860630,and 81560577)China Postdoctoral Science Foundation Grant(Grant No.2019M661057)+3 种基金the Applied Basic Research Programs of Shanxi Province(Grant No.201901D 211347)the Scientific and Technological Innovation Programs of Higher Education Institutions in Shanxi(Grant No.2019L0428)the Startup Foundation for Doctors of Shanxi Province(Grant No.SD1827)the Startup Foundation for Doctors of Shanxi Medical University(Grant No.XD1824).
文摘Colorectal cancer(CRC)is the most common gastrointestinal tract cancer worldwide and is associated with high morbidity and mortality.The development of nanosized drug delivery systems has provided a new direction in CRC treatment.Among these systems,magnetic nanoparticle(MNP)-based multifunctional platforms provide a novel strategy for magnetic resonance imaging(MRI)-related cancer theranostics.At the beginning o f this original review,the carcinogenesis and treatment status o f CRC are summarized.Then,diversified preparation and functionalization methods of MNPs are systematically analyzed,followed by MRIinvolved theranostic strategies.The latest progress in MRI-mediated multimode diagnosis and image-guided targeted therapy in CRC management is the main focus.Finally,the major challenges in promoting MRI-induced precise theranostics of CRC in clinical practice are discussed.
基金Supported by National Science Centre of Poland,No.DEC-2013/09/N/NZ6/00805 and No.DEC-2015/17/N/NZ6/03490
文摘AIM To determine the impact of selected well defined Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) antigens on gastric barrier cell turnover.METHODS In this study,using two cellular models of gastric epithelial cells and fibroblasts,we have focused on exploring the effects of well defined H. pylori soluble components such as glycine acid extract antigenic complex(GE),subunit A of urease(Ure A),cytotoxin associated gene A protein(Cag A) and lipopolysaccharide(LPS) on cell turnover by comparing the wound healing capacity of the cells in terms of their proliferative and metabolic activity as well as cell cycle distribution. Toxic effects of H. pylori components have been assessed in an association with damage to cell nuclei and inhibition of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(STAT3) phosphorylation. RESULTS We showed that H. pylori GE,Cag A and Ure A promoted regeneration of epithelial cells and fibroblasts,which is necessary for effective tissue healing. However,in vivo increased proliferative activity of these cells may constitute an increased risk of gastric neoplasia. In contrast,H. pylori LPS showed a dose-dependent influence on the process of wound healing. At a low concentration(1 ng/m L) H. pylori LPS accelerated of healing epithelial cells,which was linked to significantly enhanced cell proliferation and MTT reduction as well as lack of alterations in cell cycle and downregulation of epidermal growth factor(EGF) production as well as cell nuclei destruction. By comparison,H. pylori LPS at a high concentration(25 ng/m L) inhibited the process of wound repair,which was related to diminished proliferative activity of the cells,cell cycle arrest,destruction of cell nuclei and downregulation of the EGF/STAT3 signalling pathway.CONCLUSION In vivo H. pylori LPS driven effects might lead to the maintenance of chronic inflammatory response and pathological disorders on the level of the gastric mucosal barrier.
基金supported by TüBITAK SBAG108S265(Turkey)BMBF TUR08/09(Germany)
文摘Amelogenin(AMG) is a cell adhesion molecule that has an important role in the mineralization of enamel and regulates events during dental development and root formation. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of recombinant human AMG(rhAMG) on mineralized tissue-associated genes in cementoblasts. Immortalized mouse cementoblasts(OCCM-30)were treated with different concentrations(0.1, 1, 10, 100, 1 000, 10 000, 100 000 ng · mL^-1) of recombinant human AMG(rhAMG)and analyzed for proliferation, mineralization and mRNA expression of bone sialoprotein(BSP), osteocalcin(OCN), collagen type I(COL I), osteopontin(OPN), runt-related transcription factor 2(Runx2), cementum attachment protein(CAP), and alkaline phosphatase(ALP) genes using quantitative RT-PCR. The dose response of rhAMG was evaluated using a real-time cell analyzer.Total RNA was isolated on day 3, and cell mineralization was assessed using von Kossa staining on day 8. COL I, OPN and lysosomalassociated membrane protein-1(LAMP-1), which is a cell surface binding site for amelogenin, were evaluated using immunocytochemistry. F-actin bundles were imaged using confocal microscopy. rhAMG at a concentration of 100 000 ng · mL^-1 increased cell proliferation after 72 h compared to the other concentrations and the untreated control group. rhAMG(100 000 ng · mL^-1) upregulated BSP and OCN mRNA expression levels eightfold and fivefold, respectively. rhAMG at a concentration of 100 000 ng · mL^-1 remarkably enhanced LAMP-1 staining in cementoblasts. Increased numbers of mineralized nodules were observed at concentrations of 10 000 and 100 000 ng · mL^-1 rhAMG. The present data suggest that rhAMG is a potent regulator of gene expression in cementoblasts and support the potential application of rhAMG in therapies aimed at fast regeneration of damaged periodontal tissue.
基金Project (No. 96-C02-01-05A) supported by the National NaturalScience Foundation of China
文摘Aim: To study the pharmacokinetic (PK) properties in rabbits treated with N-Ile^1-Thr^2-63-desulfato-r-hirudin (rH) newly developed in China by means of bioassay in order to provide preclinical experiment basis for its development as a novel anticoagulant agent. Methods: rH plasma concentration was determined using bioassay based on ex vivo antithrombin activity of rH. Normal rabbits received iv rH 4.0, 2.0 and 1.0 mg/kg or sc rH 2.0 mg/kg, respectively. The rabbits with acute severe renal failure were given iv rH 2.0 mg/kg. Results: The bioassay described in this paper met requirements for study of PK in rabbits. The major PK parameters after iv dosing were as follows: t1/2p 58.4-59 min. Vd 0.09-0.12 L/kg, CL 0.0035-0.0040 L/(kg·min); AUC were proportional to the doses, ti/2 and CL did not change significantly with the doses. The sc bioavailability reached 94%. The rabbits suffering from acute severe renal failure presented 11-fold longer t1/2p and 13-fold greater.4 UC than normal healthy rabbits. Conclusion: rH exhibited rapid elimination, distribution was only limited to extracellular space and good absorption from sc site. The excretion ofrH by kidneys played a very important role in the elimination of rH. The PK ofrH could be described by the two- and one-compartment model after iv and sc dosing, respectively, and folio,wed linear kinetics.
基金São Paulo Research Foundation(FAPESP)grants,No.2017/03959-8 and No.2015/15267-8.
文摘BACKGROUND Inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)comprises two distinct diseases,Crohn’s disease(CD)and ulcerative colitis(UC),both of which are chronic,relapsing inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract with a mostly unknown etiology.The incidence and prevalence of IBD are continually increasing,indicating the need for further studies to investigate the genetic determinants of these diseases.Since microRNAs(miRNAs)regulate protein translation via complementary binding to mRNA,discovering differentially expressed miRNAs(DE)in UC or CD patients could be important for diagnostic biomarker identification,assisting in the appropriate disease differentiation progressing the understanding of IBD pathogenesis.AIM To determine the miRNA expression profile in UC and CD patients and the potential pathophysiological contributions of differentially expressed miRNA.METHODS A total of 20 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded colonic samples were collected from the Pathology Department of Botucatu Medical School at São Paulo State University(Unesp).The diagnosis of UC or CD was based on clinical,endoscopic,radiologic,and histological criteria and confirmed by histopathological analysis at the time of selection.The TaqMan™Array Human MicroRNA A+B Cards Set v3.0(Applied Biosystems™)platform was used to analyze 754 miRNAs.Targets of DE-miRNAs were predicted using miRNA Data Integration Portal(mirDIP)and the miRNA Target Interaction database(MiRTarBase).All statistical analyses were conducted using GraphPad Prism software.Parametric and nonparametric data were analyzed using t-tests and Mann-Whitney U tests,respectively.RESULTS The results showed that of the 754 miRNAs that were initially evaluated,643 miRNAs were found to be expressed in at least five of the patients who were diagnosed with either CD or UC;the remaining 111 miRNAs were not considered to be expressed in these patients.The expression levels of 28 miRNAs were significantly different between the CD and UC patients(P≤0.05);13 miRNAs demonstrated a fold-change in expression level greater than 1.Five miRNAs with a downregulated expression were selected for enrichment analysis.The miRNAs whose expression levels were significantly lower in UC patients than in CD patients were enriched in certain signaling pathways that were mostly correlated with cancer-related processes and respective biomarkers.CONCLUSION MiRNAs could be used to differentiate UC from CD,and differently expressed miRNAs could help explain the distinct pathophysiology of each disease.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (30800119)Doctoral Fund of Ministry of Education of China (200802001011)Youth Scholar grant of Northeast Normal University for Z.H. Tang (120401044)
文摘We investigated the foraging area of three individuals (1 female and 2 males) of Rousettus leschenaulti (Chiroptera,Pteropodidae) in suburban Haikou City, Hainan Province, South China from November 2005 to January 2006 using radio telemetry.These animals left the daytime roosting sites about 90 min after sunset with no significant difference in departure time betweenthe male and female bats. The average active times were 391.8 min for males and 533.7 min for the female, respectively.By reconstructing 93 radio-telemetry recording positions, we found that the long axis of foraging area of the bats ranged from7.45 to 11.70 km. The foraging area of the female (3867 ha) was larger than that of the males (1138 ha), and there was overlapbetween the foraging areas of different individuals. These bats usually kept the same flight routes across a few successive daysfrom the daytime roosting site to the foraging areas. Our findings suggested that female R. leschenaulti may explore a larger foragingarea than males. No obvious territorial behaviors were observed in our studied area.
基金Supported by the Research Foundation of Akdeniz University, Turkey
文摘AIM: To evaluate the effect of sodium tungstate on visual evoked potentials(VEPs) in diabetic rats.· METHODS: Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups as normal control, diabetic control and diabetic rats treated with sodium tungstate. Diabetes was induced by single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin(50 mg/kg). Sodium tungstate [40 mg/(kg·d)]was administered for 12 wk and then VEPs were recorded.Additionally, thiobarbituric acid reactive substance(TBARS) levels were measured in brain tissues.·RESULTS: The latencies of P1, N1, P2, N2 and P3 waves were significantly prolonged in diabetic rats compared with control group. Diabetes mellitus caused an increase in the lipid peroxidation process that was accompanied by changes in VEPs. However, prolonged latencies of VEPs for all components returned to control levels in sodium tungstate-treated group. The treatment of sodium tungstate significantly decreased brain TBARS levels and depleted the prolonged latencies of VEP components compared with diabetic control group.· CONCLUSION: Sodium tungstate shows protective effects on visual pathway in diabetic rats, and it can be worthy of further study for potential use.
基金Project supported by CAPES, CNPq and FAPERJ, Brazil
文摘Psidium guajava (guava) leaf is a phytotherapic used in folk medicine to treat gastrointestinal and respiratory dis-turbances and is used as anti-inflammatory medicine. In nuclear medicine, blood constituents (BC) are labelled with techne-tium-99m (99mTc) and used to image procedures. However, data have demonstrated that synthetic or natural drugs could modify the labelling of BC with 99mTc. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effects of aqueous extract of guava leaves on the labelling of BC with 99mTc. Blood samples of Wistar rats were incubated with different concentrations of guava extract and labelled with 99mTc after the percentage of incorporated radioactivity (%ATI) in BC was determined. The results suggest that aqueous guava extract could present antioxidant action and/or alters the membrane structures involved in ion transport into cells, thus decreasing the radiolabelling of BC with 99mTc. The data showed significant (P<0.05) alteration of ATI in BC from blood incubated with guava extract.
基金This work was supported by the Institute for Basic Science(IBS-R011-D1)partially supported by the Korea Evaluation Institute of Industrial Technology(20004627)the INNOPOLIS Foundation(2019-DD-SB-0602).
文摘Titanium dioxide(TiO2)has garnered attention for its promising photocatalytic activity,energy storage capability,low cost,high chemical stability,and nontoxicity.However,conventional TiO2 has low energy harvesting efficiency and charge separation ability,though the recently developed black TiO2 formed under high temperature or pressure has achieved elevated performance.The phase-selectively ordered/disordered blue TiO2(BTO),which has visible-light absorption and efficient exciton disassociation,can be formed under normal pressure and temperature(NPT)conditions.This perspective article first discusses TiO2 materials development milestones and insights of the BTO structure and construction mechanism.Then,current applications of BTO and potential extensions are summarized and suggested,respectively,including hydrogen(H2)production,carbon dioxide(CO2)and nitrogen(N2)reduction,pollutant degradation,microbial disinfection,and energy storage.Last,future research prospects are proposed for BTO to advance energy and environmental sustainability by exploiting different strategies and aspects.The unique NPT-synthesized BTO can offer more societally beneficial applications if its potential is fully explored by the research community.
基金Supported by Marmara University Research Fund, No. SAG-DKR-140305-0089
文摘AIM:To investigate the association between prognosis of rectal cancer treated with chemoradiotherapy(CRT) and expression of sensitive-to-apoptosis(SAG),B-cell lymphoma-extra large(Bcl-X L) and Bcl-2 homologous antagonist/killer(Bak).METHODS:Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to determine the expression of proteins of interest,namely SAG,Bcl-X L,Bak and β-actin,in rectal carcinoma patients who had a follow-up period of 3 years after CRT.Biopsy specimens were excised from the rectal tumor preceding CRT.RESULTS:SAG,Bcl-X L and Bak proteins showed significant correlations with each other.In multivariate analysis,patients with high vs low SAG expression showed a statistically significant difference in 2-year survival rates:56% vs 73%,respectively(P = 0.056).On the other hand,there were no significant correlations between the expression levels of all three genes and metastatic rates or tumor responses to CRT.Mean overall survival in the patients with elevated SAG expression was 27.1 mo ± 3.9 mo [95% confidence interval(CI):19.3-34.9],and in patients with reduced expression,it was 32.1 mo ± 2.5 mo(95% CI:27.3-36.9).The corresponding values for Bcl-X L were 28.0 mo ± 4.1 mo(95% CI:19.9-36.1) and 31.7 mo ± 2.9 mo(95% CI:26.0-37.5),and those for Bak were 29.8 mo ± 3.7 mo(95% CI:22.5-37.2) and 30.6 mo ± 2.4 mo(95% CI:25.5-35.0),respectively.CONCLUSION:Two-year survival rates significantly correlated with low SAG expression,and SAG may be a candidate gene for good prognosis,independent of therapeutic response of different individuals.
基金Supported by The Russian Scientific Foundation,Moscow,Russian Federation,No.14-15-00112
文摘Inflammation plays an essential role in the development of atherosclerosis. The initiation and growth of atherosclerotic plaques is accompanied by recruitment of inflammatory and precursor cells from the bloodstream and their differentiation towards pro-inflammatory phenotypes. This process is orchestrated by the production of a number of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Human arterial intima consists of structurally distinct leaflets, with a proteoglycan-rich layer lying immediately below the endothelial lining. Recent studies reveal the important role of stellate pericyte-like cells(intimal pericytes) populating the proteoglycan-rich layer in the development of atherosclerosis. During the pathologic process, intimal pericytes may participate in the recruitment of inflammatory cells by producing signalling molecules and play a role in the antigen presentation. Intimal pericytes are also involved in lipid accumulation and the formation of foam cells. This review focuses on the role of pericytelike cells in the development of atherosclerotic lesions.
文摘The aim of the work was confined to the investigation of the epileptic activity dynamics under conditions of extremely high frequency electromagnetic waves(EHF) radiation(7.1 mm,0.1 mW/cm2) upon focal epileptic activity,which was penicillin-induced(10 000 IU/ml) in frontal zone of the brain cortex in myorelaxed and artificially ventilated rats under acute experimental condition.It was established that preliminarily performed hypogeomagnetic period(3.0 h) with the inductivity of geomagnetic field reduction not less than by 100 times caused the intensification of antiepileptic effects of EHF(15.0 min of exposition).It was pronounced in the form of decrease of foci intensity and significant reduction of life-span of foci-up to 115.3±13.4 minutes,which was both significant when compared with separate effects of hypogeomagnetic influence(187.3±12.5 min) and EHF(15.0 minutes of exposition) effect(164.2±12.5 minutes)(P <0.05).