Revealing the truncated conical geometry of nanochannels in anodic aluminium oxide membranes.

Anodic aluminium oxide (AAO) membranes with self-ordered nanochannels have become promising candidates for applications in the aspects such as structural coloration, photonic crystals, upconversion luminescence and nanofluidic transport. Also, self-ordered AAO membranes have been extensively used for the fabrication of functional nanostructures such as nanowires, nanotubes, nanoparticles, nanorods and nanopillars. Geometries of nanochannels are crucial for the applications of AAO membranes as well as controlling growth (e.g., nucleation, direction and morphology) and in applications (e.g., optics, magnetics, thermoelectrics, biology, medicine, sensing, and energy conversion and storage) of the functional nanostructures fabricated via AAO template-based methods. However, observation of whole nanochannels with nanometer-resolution in thick AAO membranes remains a fundamental challenge, and the nanochannel geometry has not yet been sufficiently elucidated. Here, for the first time, we use depth-profiling transmission electron microscopy to reveal the truncated conical geometry of whole nanochannels of 70 µm in length. Such shape nonuniformity of the nanochannels leads to different reflectance properties of the different depths of the nanochannels along their long axis for one AAO membrane, which suggests that the nonuniformity result in some effects on applications of the nanostructures. Furthermore, we introduce a shape factor to evaluate the shape nonuniformity and demonstrate that the nonuniformity can be remarkably removed by an effective etching method based on a temperature gradient regime.

Deferoxamine Counteracts Cisplatin Resistance in A549 Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells by Increasing Vulnerability to Glutamine Deprivation-Induced Cell Death.

Glutamine, like glucose, is a major nutrient consumed by cancer cells, yet these cells undergo glutamine starvation in the cores of tumors, forcing them to evolve adaptive metabolic responses. Pharmacologically targeting glutamine metabolism or withdrawal has been exploited for therapeutic purposes, but does not always induce cancer cell death. The mechanism by which cancer cells adapt to resist glutamine starvation in cisplatin-resistant non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) also remains uncertain. Here, we report the potential metabolic vulnerabilities of A549/DDP (drug-resistant human lung adenocarcinoma cell lines) cells, which were more easily killed by the iron chelator deferoxamine (DFO) during glutamine deprivation than their parental cisplatin-sensitive A549 cells. We demonstrate that phenotype resistance to cisplatin is accompanied by adaptive responses during glutamine deprivation partly via higher levels of autophagic activity and apoptosis resistance characteristics. Moreover, this adaptation could be explained by sustained glucose instead of glutamine-dominant complex II-dependent oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Further investigation revealed that cisplatin-resistant cells sustain OXPHOS partly via iron metabolism reprogramming during glutamine deprivation. This reprogramming might be responsible for mitochondrial iron-sulfur [Fe-S] cluster biogenesis, which has become an "Achilles' heel," rendering cancer cells vulnerable to DFO-induced autophagic cell death and apoptosis through c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling. Finally, in vivo studies using xenograft mouse models also confirmed the growth-slowing effect of DFO. In summary, we have elucidated the adaptive responses of cisplatin-resistant NSCLC cells, which balanced stability and plasticity to overcome metabolic reprogramming and permitted them to survive under stress induced by chemotherapy or glutamine starvation. In addition, for the first time, we show that suppressing the growth of cisplatin-resistant NSCLC cells via iron chelator-induced autophagic cell death and apoptosis was possible with DFO treatment. These findings provide a solid basis for targeting mitochondria iron metabolism in cisplatin-resistant NSCLC for therapeutic purposes, and it is plausible to consider that DFO facilitates in the improvement of treatment responses in cisplatin-resistant NSCLC patients.

LncRNA NORAD targets miR-410-3p to regulate drug resistance sensitivity of osteosarcoma.

The current experiment was performed to investigate the effect of LncRNA NORAD on the sensitivity of miR-410-3p to drug resistance of osteosarcoma cells. The cisplatin-resistant cell line HOS/DDP was induced; si-NC, si-NORAD, miR-NC, miR-410-3p, pcDNA-NC, and pcDNA-NORAD were transfected into HOS/DDP cells, respectively; record as a si-NC group, si-NORAD group, miR-NC group, miR-410-3p group, pcDNA-NC group, pcDNA-NORAD group; si-NORAD was co-transfected into HOS/DDP cells with anti-miR-NC, anti-miR-410-3p, recorded as an anti-miR-NC+si-NORAD group and anti-miR-410-3p+si-NORAD group. Real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was used to detect LncRNA NORAD, miR-410-3p and multidrug resistance protein 1 (MRP1) mRNA expression levels; Western blot was used to detect cyclin D1 (CyclinD1), MRP1, phosphorylated (p-p65), phosphorylated IкBα (p-IкBα) protein expression; cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8) was used to detect cell viability; dual luciferase report assay to detect targeting relationship between LncRNA NORAD and miR-410-3p. Compared with osteosarcoma cells HOS, the expression levels of LncRNA NORAD, MRP1 mRNA and protein in osteosarcoma resistant cells HOS/DDP were significantly increased, and miR-410-3p expression levels were significantly reduced (P<0.05). Low expression of NORAD or high expression of miR-410-3p, CyclinD1, MRP1 expression levels were significantly reduced, the cell survival rate was significantly reduced, and the half inhibitory concentration of cisplatin was significantly reduced (P<0.05). LncRNA NORAD targets and regulates miR-410-3p, and low expression of miR-410-3p can reverse the effects of low NORAD expression on HOS/DDP cell proliferation and cisplatin resistance. Low expressions of NORAD, p-p65, p-IкBα protein expression levels were significantly reduced; low expression of miR-410-3p could reverse the inhibitory effect of low NORAD expression on p-p65, p-IкBα protein expression. Inhibition of LncRNA NORAD expression can inhibit the proliferation of osteosarcoma HOS/DDP cells through targeted regulation of miR-410-3p, increasing its sensitivity to cisplatin, and it may be related to the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Early changes in pulmonary function and intrarenal haemodynamics and the correlation between these sets of parameters in patients with T2DM.

PURPOSE: The main objectives of this study were to assess the early changes in pulmonary function and intrarenal haemodynamics and to determine the correlation between pulmonary function and intrarenal haemodynamics in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). METHODS: 96 patients with T2DM (diabetes group) without diabetes kidney disease (DKD) and 33 healthy subjects (control group) were enrolled in studies intended to assess the early changes in pulmonary function and intrarenal haemodynamics associated with diabetes, as well as to determine the correlation between pulmonary function and intrarenal haemodynamics. RESULTS: Pulmonary functional parameters were negatively correlated with HbA1c levels and diabetes duration (P< 0.05). Moreover, renal functional parameters were positively correlated with HbA1c levels and diabetes duration (P<0.05). Additionally, pulmonary functional parameters were negatively correlated with renal functional parameters (P<0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis of the relationship between pulmonary functional parameters and the bilateral kidney arterial resistivity index (RI) showed that all the pulmonary functional parameters were significantly correlated with the arterial RI (P< 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Patients displayed changes in pulmonary function and intrarenal haemodynamics during the preclinical stages of DKD. Regulating glycaemia may improve intrarenal haemodynamics in the bilateral interlobular renal arteries. Moreover, during the preclinical stages of DKD, the right kidney RI is a effective predictor of early changes in pulmonary function in adult T2DM patients. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02798198); registered 8 June 2016.

Longitudinal follow-up study of the retrobulbar and intrarenal hemodynamics in patients with T2DM.

OBJECTIVE: The primary aim of this study is to examine the hemodynamics of retrobulbar and intrarenal in the changes of early stage of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients from 2000 to 2015 and to assess incidence associated with diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR). METHOD: Our study contained 60 subjects newly diagnosed of T2DM were divided into 2 groups base on the mean resistive index (RI) (≤0.7 and >0.7) of hemodynamic and to compare between-group differences of the early changes in hemodynamics of retrobulbar and intrarenal and also to conclude the incidences of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR)subsequently with a long follow-up duration(2000-2015). First, to compare the mean RI of central retinal artery (CRA) between 2 groups. Second, to compare the mean RI of intrarenal hemodynamics in the bilateral interlobular renal arteries, renal function parameters (blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (Cr), blood glucose parameters (glycosylated hemoglobinA1c (HbA1c), fasting plasma glucose (FBG), and 2-hour postprandial blood glucose (2hPBG)), glomerular filtration rate (GFR), albumin excretion rate (AER), and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) between 2 groups. RESULTS: First part of our follow-up studies was to compare hemodynamic RI index of retrobulbar in years of 2000 and 2015, both renal function and blood glucose parameters were fund significantly enhanced in subject group RIs ≤0.7. Incidence of DKD and DR was notably lower in group RIs ≤0.7 than group RIs > 0.7, difference was statistically significant (P < .05). Incidence of HbA1c ≤7% was higher in group RIs ≤0.7 than group RIs >0.7, but difference was not statistically significant (P > .05). Incidence of proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) was notably lower in group RIs ≤0.7 than group RIs >0.7, but the difference was not statistically significant (P > .05). Second part of our follow-up studies was to compare hemodynamic RI index of interlobular renal in years of 2000 and 2015, both renal function and blood glucose parameters were fund significantly enhanced in subject group RIs ≤0.7. Compared data of various incidences from first part of study were coherent with second part. (Incidence of DKD and DR was notably lower in group RIs ≤0.7 than group RIs >0.7, difference was statistically significant (P < .05). Incidence of HbA1c ≤7% was higher in group RIs ≤0.7 than group RIs >0.7, but difference was not statistically significant (P > .05). Incidence of PDR was notably lower in group RIs ≤0.7 than group RIs >0.7, but the difference was not statistically significant (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: RIs of retrobulbar and interlobular renal which would serve as a good predictors for the hemodynamics changes in retrobulbar and intrarenal would assess incidence of DKD and DR during the preclinical stage in long-term range excluding renal function and HbA1c in T2DM patients.

[Electroacupuncture of "Zusanli" (ST 36) Raises Muscular Force by Adjusting AMPK/PGC-1 α Signaling in Rats with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome].

OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) of "Zusanli" (ST 36) on mitochondrial oxidative stress of skeletal muscle in rats with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) based on adenosine 5'-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/ peroxlsome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1 α (PGC-1 α) signaling, in order to reveal its mechanism underlying improvement of CFS. METHODS: Forty SD rats were randomly divided into normal control, CFS model, EA-Zusanli (ST 36) and EA-non-acupoint groups (n=10 rats in each group). The CFS model was established by forced exhausted load-bearing swimming (twice daily), chronic constraint (1 h) and sleep deprivation (20 h/day) for 14 days. Following modeling, EA (2 Hz/100 Hz, 2 V) was applied to bilateral Zusanli (ST 36) or non-acupoint (about 10-15 mm superior to the bilateral Iliac creast and about 20 mm lateral to the posterior median line) for 20 min, once a day for 10 days. The expression levels of ATP synthase, AMPK, phosphorylated (p)-AMPK, silent mating type information regulation 2 homolog-1 (SIRT 1) and PGC-1 α proteins, and ATP synthase, SIRT 1 and PGC-1 α mRNAs of the quadriceps femoris muscle were detected by Western blot and fluorescence quantitative PCR, respectively. The rats' grabbing force was detected by using a grabbing-force detector. RESULTS: Compared with the normal group, the grabbing force, and the expression levels of ATP synthase and PGC-1 α proteins and mRNAs were significantly decreased (P<0.05, P<0.01), while the expression of SIRT 1 protein was significantly up-regulated (P<0.05) in the CFS model group. Following EA intervention, the grabbing force and the expression levels of ATP synthase mRNA, SIRT 1 and PGC-1 α proteins and mRNAs, and p-AMPK/AMPK were significantly up-regulated in the EA-Zusanli (ST 36) group (P<0.05, P<0.01). CONCLUSION: EA of ST 36 can raise the grabbing force of CFS rats, which may be related to its effects in up-regulating the expression of ATP synthase mRNA, SIRT 1 and PGC-1 α proteins and mRNAs, and p-AMPK/AMPK to reduce mitochondrial oxidative stress reaction and in increasing ATP synthesis.

MicroRNA array analysis of the regulation of microRNAs in rats exhibiting hyperplasia of mammary glands.

Hyperplasia of mammary glands (HMG) is also termed mammary dysplasia. In China, the number of patients suffering from breast hyperplasia is increasing annually. MicroRNAs (miRNAs; length, 19-24 nucleotides), a group of small endogenous non-coding RNAs, post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression via RNA interference and gene silencing pathways. The cause of disease of HMG because remains unclear. Thus, the aim of the present study was to establish comprehensive profile of drug treatments following at different time intervals on rat models of differentially expressed miRNAs, using miRNA microarray data. After scanning the chip, 13 up-regulated and 20 down-regulated miRNAs were identified. MiR-31 and miR-30 exhibited different expression levels between rats exhibiting mammary gland hyperplasia treated with or without Jiedu Capsule water solution once a day for 4 weeks, and the two demonstrated a strong association with HMG and breast cancer. Therefore, the functions of these miRNAs may provide the basis for further investigation of HMG.

[Effects of electroacupuncture at "Zusanli" (ST 36) on expression of mitophagy-related proteins in skeletal muscle in rats with spleen deficiency syndrome].

OBJECTIVE: To observe the expression change of mitophagy-related proteins in skeletal muscle in rats with spleen deficiency syndrome and to explain the partial action mechanism of acupuncture at Zusanli (ST 36) for spleen deficiency syndrome. METHODS: Forty male SD rats, after normal feeding, were randomly divided into a normal group, a spleen deficiency group, a Zusanli group and a non-acupoint group, ten rats in each group. Except the normal group, the three factors modeling method was used for 14 days to establish the model of spleen deficiency syndrome on the other 3 groups. The rats in the Zusanli group were treated with EA at bilateral "Zusanli" (ST 36), while the rats in the non-acupoint group were treated with EA at bilateral non acupoint (dense-sparse wave, frequency of 2 Hz/100 Hz, 20 min per treatment, once a day for 10 days). The rats in the normal group and spleen deficiency group were treated with immobilization for 20 min per day, and no EA was given. The HPLC method was applied to measure the content of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and adenosine monophosphate (AMP) in skeletal muscle. The Western blotting method was applied to measure the expression of adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase (AMPK), p-AMPK, ULK1, p-ULK1，LC3-Ⅰand LC3-Ⅱ in skeletal muscle. RESULTS: The ATP content in the spleen deficiency group was significantly lower than that in the normal group (P<0.01); the ATP content in the Zusanli group was significantly higher than that in the spleen deficiency group (P<0.05) but lower than that in the normal group (P<0.05), there was no significant difference between the non-acupoint group and the spleen deficiency group (P>0.05). Compared with the normal group, the AMP/ATP in the spleen deficiency group and the Zusanli group were significantly up-regulated (P<0.01, P<0.05). The differences of p-AMPK/AMPK between the spleen deficiency group and the normal group was not significant (P>0.05). Compared with the normal group and spleen deficiency group, the p-AMPK/AMPK in the Zusanli group was significantly up-regulated (both P<0.05). The p-ULK1/ULK1 and LC3-Ⅱ/LC3-Ⅰin the Zusanli group was higher than those in the normal group and spleen deficiency group (all P<0.01). CONCLUSION: EA at "Zusanli" (ST 36) might activate AMPK and produce stable ULK1/AMPK compound and increase the mitochondrial autophagy, which could regulate spleen-stomach and treat spleen deficiency.

Feishu Acupuncture Inhibits Acetylcholine Synthesis and Restores Muscarinic Acetylcholine Receptor M2 Expression in the Lung When Treating Allergic Asthma.

Acupuncture was proven beneficial in treating allergic inflammation. We aimed to explore the regulation underlying the effects of acupuncture on Feishu, an acupoint most commonly used in the acupuncture therapy for respiratory diseases, with respect to the system of sympathetic nerve neurotransmitter acetylcholine (Ach). Male Wistar rats were randomly grouping. No treatment was taken in the normal group. Allergic asthma was induced using ovalbumin on the model, Feishu acupuncture, and sham acupuncture groups; then control or acupuncture treatment lasting for 3 weeks was performed. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) from the four groups was examined. And pulmonary tissues were subjected to histological analysis with H&E staining; besides, immunofluorescent staining, quantitative PCR, and western blot were used to detect synthetase (ChAT) and Ach hydrolase (AchE), and its muscarinic receptors (mAchRs) M1-M3. There was inflammatory infiltration in the lung upon allergic asthma, which was alleviated by the Feishu acupuncture. The eosinophilic granulocytes, neutrophils, and lymphocytes in BALF from the Feishu acupuncture group were all significantly decreased compared with those of the model and sham acupuncture groups. The specific acupuncture on Feishu upon allergic asthma put down the pulmonary expression of ChAT, repaired at the level of gene expression the pulmonary expression of mAchR M1, and restored the pulmonary expression of mAchR M2 (especially in the bronchiolar epithelium) which has a role in inhibiting Ach release; while sham acupuncture had no effect. These results confirmed the therapeutic effects of Feishu acupuncture on allergic asthma, suggesting that the mechanisms may involve suppression of the Ach signal both from its synthesis and during its release.

A Rapid and Sensitive UPLC-MS/MS Method for Quantification of Bruceantinol in Rat Plasma and Its Application to a Pharmacokinetic Study.

Bruceantinol (BOL), a quassinoid compound isolated from the fruits of Brucea javanica, has been reported to have cytotoxic and antibacterial effects. In this study, a rapid, sensitive, and specific ultra-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method was developed for the quantitative determination of BOL in rat plasma. The samples were treated by simple liquid-liquid extraction with ethyl acetate and separated on an UPLC BEH C18 column (2.1 mm × 50 mm) using a 3-min gradient elution scheme, which consists of water (0.1% v/v, formic acid) and methanol (0.1%, v/v, formic acid) to achieve the separation of BOL and sinomenine (IS) with high selectivity. The electrospray ionization source was used in positive ion mode; the multiple reaction monitoring quantified the target fragment ions m/z 629.6 → 569.5 for BOL and m/z 330.5 → 207.3 for IS. This work was evaluated with regards to the specificity, extraction recovery, matrix effect, linearity, accuracy, precision, stability, and dilution integrity. This approach was used to examine the pharmacokinetics of BOL in rats after oral (0.3 mg/kg) and intravenous (0.15 mg/kg) administration. BOL presented fast excretion and very low oral bioavailability.

Astragaloside IV, a Natural PPARγ Agonist, Reduces Aß Production in Alzheimer's Disease Through Inhibition of BACE1.

A number of epidemiological studies have established a link between Alzheimer's disease (AD) and diabetes mellitus (DM). So, nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) plays an important role in the treatment of AD. However, current PPARγ-targeting drugs such as thiazolidinediones (TZDs) are associated with undesirable side effects. We identified herbal extract with a small molecular, astragaloside IV (AS-IV), as a selective PPARγ natural agonist in nervous cells by developing a PPAR-PPRE pathway regulatory system. Cultured SH-SY5Y cells transfected with pEGFP-N1-BACE1 were treated with AS-IV for 24 h or AS-IV plus the PPAR-γ antagonist GW9662 in vitro. APP/PS1 mice were intragastrically treated with AS-IV or AS-IV plus the GW9662 every 48 h for 3 months. Immunofluorescence, western blotting, and real-time PCR were used to examine the expression of PPARγ and BACE1. Immunohistochemical staining was performed to analyze the distribution of Aß plaques in the APP/PS1 mouse brain. The levels of Aß were determined using ELISA kits. AS-IV was shown to be a PPARγ agonist by establishing a high-throughput screening model for PPARγ agonists. The results showed that AS-IV treatment increased activity of PPARγ and inhibited BACE1 in vitro. As a result, Aß levels decreased significantly. GW9662, which is a PPARγ antagonist, significantly blocked the beneficial role of AS-IV. In vivo, AS-IV treatment increased PPARγ and BACE1 expression and reduced neuritic plaque formation and Aß levels in the brains of APP/PS1 mice. These effects of AS-IV could be effectively inhibited by GW9662. These results indicate that AS-IV may be a natural PPARγ agonist that suppressed activity of BACE1 and ultimately attenuates generation of Aß. Therefore, AS-IV may be a promising agent for modulating Aß-related pathology in AD.

Near-field coupling and resonant cavity modes in plasmonic nanorod metamaterials.

Plasmonic resonant cavities are capable of confining light at the nanoscale, resulting in both enhanced local electromagnetic fields and lower mode volumes. However, conventional plasmonic resonant cavities possess large Ohmic losses at metal-dielectric interfaces. Plasmonic near-field coupling plays a key role in a design of photonic components based on the resonant cavities because of the possibility to reduce losses. Here, we study the plasmonic near-field coupling in the silver nanorod metamaterials treated as resonant nanostructured optical cavities. Reflectance measurements reveal the existence of multiple resonance modes of the nanorod metamaterials, which is consistent with our theoretical analysis. Furthermore, our numerical simulations show that the electric field at the longitudinal resonances forms standing waves in the nanocavities due to the near-field coupling between the adjacent nanorods, and a new hybrid mode emerges due to a coupling between nanorods and a gold-film substrate. We demonstrate that this coupling can be controlled by changing the gap between the silver nanorod array and gold substrate.

Size and dielectric-environment dependence of transversal resonance modes of localized surface plasmons in silver nanorods.

Tuning transversal resonance modes of localized surface plasmons (LSPs) by the size and the ambient dielectric medium of Ag nanorods is presented. It is found that the resonance wavelength and intensity of the transversal modes of LSPs are closely related to the dimensions of the Ag nanorods embedded in anodic aluminum oxide membranes. The transversal resonance peak exhibits obvious redshifts from 365 to 396 nm with increasing nanorod diameter from 40 to 80 nm, and the resonance intensity remarkably enhances with increasing nanorod diameter. In addition, it is observed that the transversal resonance modes of LSPs in Ag nanorods are strongly sensitive to their surrounding dielectric medium such as water, ethanol, and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, and the transversal resonance peak distinctly redshifts from 422 to 467 nm when the refractive index of the dielectric medium increases from 1.342 to 1.435. As a result, a refractive index sensitivity of up to 484 nm/RIU can be achieved based on the transversal resonance modes. The transverse resonance modes of LSPs in the Ag nanorods can be used for sensitive quantification of chemical and biological species.

[Effect of astragaloside on mRNA expression of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signal transduction in anemia model mice induced by chemotherapy].

To study the influence of astragaloside on mRNA expression of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signal transduction in anemia model mice induced by chemotherapy, 48 male BALB/c mice which were 6-7 week old were picked as the research objects and randomly divided into four groups, blank group, model group, astragaloside group and astragaloside IV group. Each group was 12 mice. Chemotherapy anemia model was established by cyclophosphamide. The mice were drawn blood from eyeball after 14 days treatment. The QPCR was used to test the mRNA concentrations of Akt, PI3K, BCL-xl, bad, FoxO, mTOR, PTEN in mouse spleen. In comparison of blank group, astragaloside group and astragaloside IV group,the erythrocyte counting and values of Hb in model group were significantly lower (P<0.05). The volumes mRNA of Akt,PI3K,BCL-xl,bad,mTOR were lower in blank group, compared with other groups (P<0.05 or P<0.01). The similar trend in astragaloside IV group except PI3K, comparing with blank group (P<0.05 or P<0.01). The contents of these five genes were no significant differentiations between astragaloside group and blank group. The statistics were obvious between astragaloside group and astragaloside IV group (P<0.05 or P<0.01). The concentrations of FoxO, PTEN were higher in model group,compared with blank group and astragaloside group (P<0.05 or P<0.01), but no difference with astragaloside IV group. Comparing with blank group, the volumes of these two genes were increased in astragaloside IV group (P<0.05), FoxO was higher in astragaloside group (P<0.05), but PTEN was not significant. There was no the same as astragaloside group and Astragaloside IV group. Therefore, astragaloside could increase the contents of Akt, PI3K, BCL-xl, bad, mTOR (P<0.01), decrease the concentrations of FoxO, PTEN (P<0.05). The changes in cyclophosphamide-induced anemia were highly significant by astragaloside. It could be related to the mRNA expression of PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signal Transduction.

[Effect of Electroacupuncture at "Zusanli"(ST 36) on the Expression of Ghrelin/cAMP/PKA in the Jejunum in Rats with Spleen Qi Deficiency Syndrome].

OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) at "Zusanli"(ST 36) on Ghrelin/cAMP/PKA expression in the jejunum in rats with spleen qi deficiency syndrome, so as to reveal its underlying mechanism in improving energy metabolism. METHODS: Forty male SD rats were randomly divided into 4 groups:normal group, spleen qi deficiency syndrome (model) group, EA group and non-acupoint group (n=10 in each group).The model of spleen qi deficiency syndrome was established by improper diet and overstrain. EA (2 Hz/15 Hz, 0.5 mA) was applied to bilateral "Zusanli" (ST 36) in the EA group and non-acupoint in non-acupoint group for 20 min, once a day for 6 days. The pathologic changes of the jejunum tissue were detected by H&E staining. Ghrelin, ATP and cAMP levels in jejunum tissue were determined by ELISA. The expression levels of PKA protein in jejunum tissue were determined by Western blot. RESULTS: H&E staining showed that the intestinal villi of the model group were swelling, shortening and thickening, with a damaged or broken top-part in the model group, and basically restored to normal after EA treatment. ELISA results showed that the contents of Ghrelin, ATP and cAMP in the jejunum tissue were significantly lower in the model group than in the normal group (P<0.05), while significantly higher in the EA group than in the model group (P<0.05). Western blot results showed that the expression of PKA protein in the jejunum tissue was significantly lower in the model group than in the normal group (P<0.05), and significantly higher in the EA group than in the model group and non-acupoint group (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: EA at ST 36 can improve the morphological changes in the jejunum of spleen qi deficiency rats, which may be associated with its effects in increasing Ghrelin, ATP and cAMP contents, and up-regulating PKA expression, leading to an increase of energy metabolism and spleen qi at last.

Cathodoluminescence and photoconductive characteristics of single-crystal ternary CdS/CdSe/CdS biaxial nanobelts.

The cathodoluminescence and optoelectronic properties based on an individual CdS/CdSe/CdS biaxial nanobelt are revealed in the present study. Both typical CdS and CdSe emissions are detected from as-grown CdS/CdSe/CdS nanobelts. The photodetector based on this nanobelt exhibits high sensitivity and excellent cycle stability. This opens a door to rational design of germanium chalcogenide compounds with unique optical properties.

Advanced glycation end products induce oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in SH-SY5Y cells.

This study aimed to investigate the direct effects of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) on the mitochondrial structure and function of SH-SY5Y cells and the possible molecular mechanism(s) underlying mitochondria dysfunction by AGEs. SH-SY5Y cells were cultured in 400 µg/ml of AGE-bovine serum albumin (BSA) for 24 h, and changes in the mitochondrial function of SH-SY5Y cells were analysed as follows. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) were detected using 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate molecular probes. Mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) was determined by flow cytometry using fluorescent probes. The expression of cytochrome c (Cyt c) protein level was assessed by Western blotting. Mitochondrial structures were observed by transmission electron microscopy. Our results showed that AGE-BSA induced an increase in ROS levels, a decrease in mitochondrial ΔΨm, and the release of Cyt c from mitochondria in SH-SY5Y cells. The mitochondria of SH-SY5Y cells showed remarkable swelling and vacuolisation, but these changes were recovered after pretreatment with neutralising anti-receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) antibody. Our results suggested that AGE-BSA induced mitochondrial dysfunction in SH-SY5Y cells through RAGE pathways. Thus, AGEs are potential mechanistic links between diabetes mellitus and Alzheimer's disease.

Novel low-cost Fenton-like layered Fe-titanate catalyst: preparation, characterization and application for degradation of organic colorants.

Novel low-cost layered Fe-titanate catalyst for photo-Fenton degradation of organic contaminants was successfully developed by ion exchange of Fe(3+) with Na(+) layered nano Na-titanates which was prepared by alkali hydrothermal method. The as prepared materials were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDX). The catalytic activity of the Fe-titanate catalyst was evaluated by the decolorization of three different dyes (rhodamine 6G (R6G), methyl blue (MB), and methyl orange (MO)) under UV irradiation at room temperature. Effect of several important factors such as Fe loading in the catalyst, initial solution pH, catalyst dosage, H2O2 amount, and reaction time was systematically studied. It was found that the decolorization was very efficient for all three dyes. The efficiency reached 98% for R6G, 98.5% for MB, and 97% for MO, respectively, under optimal conditions. The oxidation process was quick, and only 15 min is needed for all three dyes. Moreover, the Fe-titanate catalyst could be used in a wider and near neutral pH range compared with classic Fenton systems which need to be operated at around pH 3.0. Kinetic analysis results showed that the oxidation kinetics was accurately represented by pseudo-first-order model. More importantly, the catalyst was very stable and could be reused for at least four cycles when operated under near neutral pH. The Fe leaching from the catalyst measured was almost negligible, which not only demonstrated the stability of the catalyst, but also avoided the formation of secondary Fe pollution. Therefore, the reported Fe-titanates are promising nanomaterials which can be used as Fenton like catalyst for the degradation of organic contaminant in wastewater.

[Effects of acupuncture on kidney morphological structure and expression of TGF-beta1 mRNA in rats with spontaneous hypertension].

OBJECTIVE: To explore mechanism of acupuncture for renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF) in hypertension rats. METHODS: Twenty-four 24-week-old male spontaneously hypertensive rats were randomly divided into a model group, a perindopril group and an acupuncture group, eight cases in each one. In the acupuncture group, with rats tied up, electroacupuncture was applied at bilateral "Quchi" (LI 11) and "Zusanli" (ST 36) under mild vibration of needle handle for 20 min, once a day. In the perindopril group, perindopril (0.4 mg/kg) suspension liquid was applied for intragastric administration, once a day. In the model group, rats were tied up for 20 min a day without any treatment. Eight same-age same-race Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats with normal blood pressure were taken as a control group, which was given with free diet but no treatment. The treatment was reuqired for six weeks. The systolic blood pressure of caudal artery was tested. Kidney morphological structure was observed by HE coloration. Deposition optical density of type I and III collagen in kidney was tested by immunohistochemistry. Expression of transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) mRNA was tested by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method. RESULTS: Compared with the model group, the blood pressure was significantly decreased in the acupuncture group (P < 0.01), the damage of kidney morphology was minor, positive depositional area of type I and III collagen was obviously decreased (both P < 0.05), and the expression of semi-quantitative analysis of TGF-beta1 mRNA was decreased (P < 0.05), which had similar effect as western medication perindopril. CONCLUSION: Acupuncture at "Quchi" (LI 11) and "Zusanli" (ST 36) probably intervenes the process of RIF by reducing synthesis of kidney type I , III collagen and restraining expression of TGF-beta1.

Micro-nano-structured Fe2O3:Ti/ZnFe2O4 heterojunction films for water oxidation.

Iron(III) oxide photoelectrodes show promise in water oxidation applications. In this study, micro-nano-structured hematite films are synthesized, and Ti ions are doped to improve photoelectric conversion efficiency. The photocurrent increases for enhanced electrical conductivity. Further enhanced photocurrent is achieved for Fe(2)O(3):Ti/ZnFe(2)O(4) heterojunction electrodes. Cyclic voltammograms combined with optical absorbance examinations demonstrate that the conduction and valence band edges of ZnFe(2)O(4) shift from those of Ti doped Fe(2)O(3) to the negative direction, which facilitates the efficient separation of electron-hole pairs at the Fe(2)O(3):Ti/ZnFe(2)O(4) interface. These findings demonstrate that, by doping hematite and by engineering the interface between the hematite and the electrolyte, charge separation can be effectively promoted and photocurrent density can be dramatically increased.