Abstract Recurrent miscarriage (RM) seriously affects the physical and mental health of women of childbearing age, and 50% of the causes are unknown. Thus, it is valuable to investigate the causes of unexplained recurrent miscarriage (uRM). Similarities between tumor development and embryo implantation make us realize that tumor studies are informative for uRM. The non-catalytic region of tyrosine kinase adaptor protein 1 (NCK1) is highly expressed in some tumors, and can promote tumor growth, invasion and migration. In this present paper, we firstly explore the role of NCK1 in uRM. We find that the NCK1 and PD-L1 are greatly reduced in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and decidua from patients with uRM. Next, we construct NCK1-knockdown HTR-8/SVneo cells, and find that NCK1-knockdown HTR-8/SVneo cells exhibit reduced proliferation and migration ability. Then we demonstrate that the expression of PD-L1 protein is decreased when the NCK1 is knocked down. In co-culture experiments with THP-1 and differently treated HTR-8/SVneo cells, we observe significantly increased proliferation of THP-1 in NCK1-knockdown group. In conclusion, NCK1 may be involved in RM by regulating trophoblast proliferation, migration, and regulating PD-L1-mediated macrophage proliferation at the maternal-fetal interface. Moreover, NCK1 has the potential to be a new predictor and therapeutic target.

Abstract In recent years, the market has great demand for the instant quinoa. However, the high content of protein and fat in quinoa grain inhibited the gelatinization and extension of starch molecules. The instant quinoa prepared by conventional gelatinization method has poor rehydration. In order to solve this problem, the sectioned heating method was used according to the properties of quinoa starch and protein. The purpose of the first heating stage was to gelatinize the starch with sufficient water, and the technological conditions were: the mass ratio of water to quinoa 4:1, the temperature of water bath 70 °C, the time of water bath 60 min. The purpose of the second heating stage was to denature the protein with less water, and the technological condition was that the quinoa was heated by atmospheric steam for 5 min. The instant quinoa prepared by above method had excellent rehydration. Compared to the raw quinoa, the content of protein, fat and reducing sugar in instant quinoa increased slightly, while the content of starch and polyphenols decreased slightly. The mass loss percentage of instant quinoa was 11.5% and the score of sensory evaluation for the sample prepared under the optimum conditions was 87.

Abstract Current evidence showed that parthenolide (PN) has strong anti-inflammatory activity, but its effect on diabetic nephropathy (DN) is still unclear. In this research, high glucose (HG)-induced MPC5 cells were incubated with 5, 10 or 20 μM PN, and we found that PN incubation improved HG-induced MPC5 cells viability and apoptosis, ROS level, LDH activity and the secretion of inflammatory factors (IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1β), and inhibited the expression of DNMT1 protein, and promoted the expression of VDR, p-AKT, nephrin and podocin proteins. Lentivirus-mediated VDR overexpression vector (LV-VDR) transfection had the same effect, and LV-DNMT1 or si-VDR transfection or 100 nM AKT inhibitor MK2206 incubation reversed the effect of PN on cell functions. Research on the mechanism found that PN reduced the level of VDR methylation by reducing the enrichment of DNTM1 in the VDR promoter region under high glucose condition. In vivo, C57BL/6 mice were injected with streptozotocin (STZ) intraperitoneally to construct a DN mouse model, and 5mg/kg PN was administered intraperitoneally every other day. The results showed that PN treatment improved glomerular hypertrophy and renal fibrosis in STZ-induced mice. In general, PN regulated DNTM1-mediated VDR methylation, activated AKT, and alleviated DN.

Abstract Objective To explore the molecular mechanism of neuropathologic damage induced by radiofrequency ablation at different temperatures. Methods This is basic research, and 36 SD rats were used to construct the neuropathological injury model. The rats were subjected to radiofrequency stimulation at different temperatures and were divided into 6 groups according to the temperature injury: 42°, 47°, 52°, 57°, 62°, and 67°C groups. Conduction time, conduction distance, and nerve conduction velocity were recorded after temperature injury. HE-staining was used to observe the histopathological morphology of the sciatic nerve. The expression of SCN9A, SCN3B, and NFASC protein in sciatic nerve tissue were detected by western blot. Results With the increase in temperature, nerve conduction velocity gradually decreased, and neurons were damaged when the temperature was 67°C. HE-staining showed that the degrees of degeneration of neurons in rats at 47°, 52°, 57°, 62°, and 67°C were gradually increased. The expression of SCN9A, SCN3B protein in 57°, 62°, 67°C groups were much higher than that of NC, 42°, 47°, 52°C groups. However, the expression of NFASC protein in 57°, 62°, 67°C groups was much lower than that of the NC, 42°, 47°, 52°C groups. Conclusion There was a positive correlation between temperature caused by the radiofrequency stimulation to neuropathological damage. The mechanism is closely related to the expression of SCN9A, SCN3B, and NFASC protein in nerve tissue caused by heat transfer injury.

ABSTRACT Soil moisture (SM) plays an important role in regulating the global water cycle, especially in arid areas, and is one of the main indicators of ecological environmental health. Although traditional methods can accurately measure SM at a single sample site, they are limited in large-scale and dynamic SM monitoring. Therefore, we used the Landsat images as the data source and the soil adjusted vegetation index (SAVI) to build the adjusted SAVI (aSAVI) index by modifying the soil adjustment parameter L and introducing the short-wave infrared band. According to the theory of temperature vegetation dryness index (TVDI) and feature space, we introduced a model, combined the measured SM data (Minqin Basin, China) through a comparative analysis of four vegetation indices (NDVI, SAVI, MSAVI, aSAVI) determine the optimal model. Taking the Minqin Basin as the study area, the spatiotemporal variation characteristics of SM in three sub-regions (the entire study area, irrigated region, and periphery of the irrigated regions) were quantitatively analyzed and compared in four different periods: pre-Comprehensive Treatment Program of the Shiyang River Basin (pre-CTSRB) (2000–2005), CTSRB I (2006–2010), CTSRB II (2011–2016), and CTSRB-end (2017–2021) to evaluate the ecological restoration effects of treatment programs from the SM perspective. The results showed that: 1) SM values derived from TVDI inversion and the aSAVI were more accurate, and the model sensitivity decreased with soil depth; 2) the mean value of SM fluctuated across the four periods but decreased slightly over the entire time series. The spatial variations of the SM were characterized by a “descending then ascending” trend. Soil moisture increased in 21.35 % of areas at 0.00-0.10 m in the past 22 years, and 59.66 % at 0.10-0.20 m. There was a negative correlation between the mean variation trend of SM and the percentage of area where SM fell in different periods; 3) the treatment program positively affected the ecological restoration of the Minqin Basin from the SM perspective. The area where SM increased was larger than that of decreasing SM, especially in 0.10-0.20 m soil layer. The increase can promote growth and confer resistance to desertification.

Abstract Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the intestine, demonstrating an increasing incidence every year. TongXieYaoFang (TXYF) has been used widely in China as a complementary therapy to relieve the symptoms of IBD for hundreds of years. In the present research, a network pharmacology-based approach was used to systematically explore the intrinsic mechanisms of TXYF in IBD at the molecular level. Network pharmacology-based methods, which mainly included database mining, screening of bioactive compounds, target prediction, collection of IBD-related targets, gene enrichment analysis, network construction, and molecular docking, were employed in the present study. Network analysis revealed a total of 108 potential targets derived from 22 component compounds of TXYF, among which 34 targets were common with the IBD-related targets. In the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, 10 key targets were identified. The gene enrichment analysis suggested that anti-inflammatory processes, such as NF-kappa B signaling pathway and Toll-like receptor signaling pathway, could be the core processes involved in the action of TXYF in IBD. Molecular docking results revealed that three compounds present in TXYF exhibited strong binding affinity for PTGS2. The present study provides novel insights into the molecular mechanisms and network approaches of TXYF action in IBD from a systemic perspective. The potential targets and pathways identified in the present study would assist in further research on the clinical application of TXYF in IBD therapy.

ABSTRACT Tannins are polyphenols that are present in various plants, and potentially contain antioxidant properties that promote reproduction in animals. This study investigated how tannic acid (TA) affects the reproductive parameters of male Brandt’s voles, Lasiopodomys brandtii (Radde, 1861). Specifically, the anti-oxidative level of serum, autophagy in the testis, and reproductive physiology were assessed in males treated with TA from the pubertal stage. Compared to the control, low dose TA enhanced relative testis and epididymis weight and sperm concentration in the epididymis, and significantly increased the level of serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px). mRNA levels of autophagy related genes LC3 and Beclin1 decreased significantly with low dose TA compared to the control. However, compared to the control, high dose TA sharply reduced the levels of serum SOD, GSH-Px, CAT, serum testosterone (T), and mRNA level in steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) in the testis. Both sperm abnormality and mortality increased with high dose TA compared to the control and low dose TA. Collectively, this study demonstrated that TA treatment during puberty had a dose-dependent effect on the reproductive responses of male Brandt’s voles. TA might mediate autophagy in the testis, through both indirect and direct processes. TA mainly affected the reproductive function of male Brandt’s voles by regulating anti-oxidative levels. This study advances our understanding of the mechanisms by which tannins influence reproduction in herbivores.

OBJECTIVES: Retinoblastoma (RB) is a highly malignant eye tumor with a low survival rate and a high metastatic rate. The current work was designed to investigate the potential roles of microRNA-144 (miR-144) in the diagnosis and prognosis of RB. METHODS: miR-144 expression levels in RB tissues and adjacent normal tissues, as well as serum samples from RB patients and healthy controls were measured. The association between miR-144 expression levels and clinical features were analyzed. Moreover, diagnostic and prognostic values of miR-144 in RB were verified by receiver operating characteristic analysis and Kaplan-Meier survival assays. RESULTS: The expression level of miR-144 was markedly decreased in tumor tissues of RB patients, and the expression level of miR-144 was positively associated with tumor size and metastasis in RB patients. Moreover, miR-144 can distinguish tumor tissues from normal tissues with high specificity and sensitivity, and RB patients with lower miR-144 expression have shorter overall and disease-free survival rates than those with higher miR-144 expression. Alternatively, miR-144 also decreased in the serum of RB patients in comparison with healthy subjects, and miR-144 expression levels in the tissue samples and serum were positively correlated. Furthermore, miR-144 levels in the serum of RB patients sensitively distinguished RB patients from healthy controls. CONCLUSIONS: miR-144 expression was downregulated in serum and tissue samples of RB patients and may function as a diagnostic and prognostic marker for RB.

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are highly reactive chemical species that may cause irreversible tissue damage, and play a critical role in cardiovascular diseases. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a gasotransmitter that acts as a ROS scavenger with cardio-protective effects. In this study, we investigated the cytoprotective effect of H2S against H2O2-induced apoptosis in cardiomyocytes. H9c2 rat cardiomyoblasts were treated with H2S (100 μM) 24 h before challenging with H2O2 (100 μM). Apoptosis was then assessed by annexin V and PI, and mitochondrial membrane potential was measured using a fluorescent probe, JC-1. Our results revealed that H2S improved cell viability, reduced the apoptotic rate, and preserved mitochondrial membrane potential. An increased Bcl-2 to Bax ratio was also seen in myocytes treated with H2S after H2O2-induced stress. Our findings indicated a therapeutic potential for H2S in preventing myocyte death following ischemia/reperfusion.

A novel series of 2-ethyl-1-(4-substituted)phenyl-1H-imidazole derivatives was designed, synthesized, and tested for its antibacterial activity against various bacterial strains. Most of the synthesized compounds showed potent inhibition of several Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values in the range of 4-256 nmol mL-1 in vitro. The compound [2-ethyl-1-(4-pentoxy)phenyl-1H-imidazole] exhibited the most potent inhibitory activity. The MIC of this compound against S. aureus was found to be 8 nmol mL-1, smaller than that of the reference agents, ciprofloxacin and amoxicillin. Furthermore, the compound exhibited modest activity against several bacterial strains in a dose range of 8-256 nmol mL-1.

The heterogeneity of berry heterogeneity is a commonly occurring phenomenon that has a big influence on fruit composition and wine quality. To clarify this relationship, 'Cabernet Sauvignon' grapes were collected at harvest from a single vineyard and divided into three categories in two consecutive years: small (≤ 0.75 g), medium (0.76-1.25 g), and large (> 1.25 g). The medium berries were present in the highest frequency, accounting for more than 50% of the berry populations. The standard physicochemical parameters of the fruit were significantly affected by berry size. The relative skin mass and soluble solids contents, as well as total phenolic and anthocyanin concentrations, decreased with the berry size, while the relative seed mass, pH and malic acid content were positively correlated with berry weight. Accordingly, the wine composition also varied with berry size, as the wines made from small berries showed the highest alcohol and residual sugar content. CIELab parameters of the resulting wines showed the small berries were more desirable for making wine with a deeper and more saturated colour. With regard to volatile compounds, berry size showed a limited effect. Only 1-hexanol and /aevo-2,3-butanediol showed consistent and significant trends across vintages for wine volatiles, which showed the highest levels in wines made from the small category of berries.

ABSTRACT Aims: To evaluate the HBeAg seroconversion rate in real clinical setting and explore its predictors in long-term nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs) treatment for chronic hepatitis B (CHB). Methods: 251 patients were recruited from January 2001 to September 2009 in four hospitals in Hebei province, China, for this retrospective study. Clinical and laboratory data before and after treatment with lamivudine (LAM, 100 mg daily), adefovir (ADV, 10 mg daily), telbivudine (LDT, 600 mg daily), entecavir (ETV, 0.5 mg daily), and LAM/ADV combination were compared among three groups according to treatment outcomes: synchronous HBeAg loss and HBeAg seroconversion, anti-HBe development after treatment, and no anti-HBe. Adherence was also evaluated. Results: In real clinical setting, cumulative HBeAg seroconversion rates were 14.3%, 32.7%, 43.0%, 46.9%, and 50.5% after 1, 2, 3, 5, and 8 years, respectively. 45 patients (17.9%) were non-adherent. Adherence (p < 0.001, Hazard Ratio (HR) = 2.203), elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels (p < 0.001, HR = 2.049), and non-vertical transmission (p = 0.006, HR = 1.656) were predictors of HBeAg seroconversion. Conclusion: Adherence, elevated ALT, and non-vertical transmission are predictors of HBeAg seroconversion in CHB patients treated with NAs.

The aim of this study was to contribute to the knowledge of the richness and distribution of the lichens in the Bío-Bío Region. A total of 120 samples were collected in the surroundings of Termas de Chillán and Las Trancas, Bio-Bio region. The sampling was realized at random considering the high diversity of available substrates. Taxonomical identification was performed on the basis of the analysis of morphological, reproductive and chromatographic (TLC) characters. A total of 41 species were identified, which include 18 families and 31 genera. Out of the total of identified species, 49 % are corticolous, 34 % saxicolous and 17 % terricolous. Of the total of species found, four are new records for Chile: Menegazzia confusa P. James, M. pertransita (Stirt.) R. Sant., Rinodina sophodes (Ach.) A. Massal. and Usnea sinensis Motyka. For each species, information on lichen name, family, substratum, altitude, global distribution, and sampling site is provided. Also, keys to identify the genera found in the study area are included. Pictures for the new records of lichens for the country are also presented. The work contributes to extend the knowledge on the taxa’s distribution in the region. The results suggest that the lichenological expeditions should be continued in unexplored localities of Chile in order to increase the knowledge of the richness, ecology and distribution of lichen biodiversity.

El deseo de este estudio fue contribuir al conocimiento de la riqueza y distribución de los líquenes de la Región del Bío-Bío. Como producto de una excursión realizada por la mayoría de los autores de este trabajo, un total de 120 muestras fueron recolectadas en los alrededores de las Termas de Chillán y Las Trancas, Región del Bío-Bío, Chile. El muestreo fue realizado al azar considerando la mayoría de los sustratos disponibles. La identificación taxonómica fue establecida en base al análisis de caracteres morfológicos, reproductivos y cromatográficos (CCF). Un total de 41 especies fueron identificadas, las cuales se incluyen en 18 familias y 31 géneros. Del total de las especies identificadas, 49 % son corticícolas, 34 % saxícolas y 17 % terrícolas. Del total de especies encontradas, 4 corresponden a nuevos registros para el país: Menegazzia confusa P. James, M. pertransita (Stirt.) R. Sant., Rinodina sophodes (Ach.) A. Massal. y Usnea sinensis Motyka. Para cada especie se proporciona información acerca del nombre de la especie, familia, sustrato, altitud, distribución global y localidades muestreadas. Se presentan fotografías de los nuevos registros de líquenes para el país. También, se incluyen claves para identificar los géneros encontrados en el área de estudio. El trabajo contribuyó a ampliar el conocimiento acerca de la distribución de los taxones en la región. Los resultados sugieren que expediciones liquenológicas deberían continuar en localidades no exploradas de Chile para incrementar el conocimiento de la riqueza, ecología y distribución de la biodiversidad de líquenes.

The barium hydrogen phosphate (BHP) precipitate was induced using enzymes in the Bacillus subtilis reproduction and structure, morphology and thermal properties of the barium hydrogen phosphate precipitate were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray techniques (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), thermogravimetric-differential scanning calorimetry (TG-DSC) analysis. There is no obvious difference in the composition and structure but the diffraction intensity. Morphology of BHP via microbiological precipitation differs from chemical and biomimetic process, and its brick-like shape is observed. Compared with chemical synthesis, there are bigger total weight-loss (7.47%) and lower decomposition or melting points (355.5°C) of BHP by microbiological precipitation, possibly caused by organic matrices.

In this study we focused on the development of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes and investigated changes in the activity of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and hydroperoxide lyase (HPL) in different tissues. We sampled grape skin at four, six, seven, eight, nine, 10, 12, 14 and 16 weeks after anthesis; developing flowers when blooming at 0%, 5%, 50%, and 90%; and leaves at two and four weeks before anthesis and at two, four, six, eight, nine, and 10 weeks after anthesis. We also examined the type and fluctuation of volatile contents. ADH activity increased with the development of flowers and grape skins, which led to the increasing of types and concentration of alcohols. Low levels of 9-HPL led to low concentrations of C9 compounds. According to this paper, C6 compounds became abundant with the development of grape berries, while the activity of 13-HPL kept at a low level in the flowers and grape skins. There might have been a high level of 13-HPL activity from the end of flowering until fruit setting that we did not detect. Furthermore, similar C6 and C5 compounds were detected across all tissues, including hexanal, (E)-2-hexenal, (Z)-3-hexenal, (Z)-2-penten-1-ol, (Z)-3-hexen-1-ol, 1-hexanol and 3-hexen-1-ol. Generally speaking, the concentrations of C6 and C5 compounds could be used as the criterion of maturation of the three grape tissues.