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Background: Epimedin A (EA) has been shown to suppress extensive osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption, but the effects of EA remain incompletely understood. The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of EA on osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption to explore the corresponding signalling pathways. Methods: Rats were randomly assigned to the sham operation or ovariectomy group, and alendronate was used for the positive control group. The therapeutic effect of EA on osteoporosis was systematically analysed by measuring bone mineral density and bone biomechanical properties. In vitro, RAW264.7 cells were treated with receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) and macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) to induce osteoclast differentiation. Cell viability assays, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining, and immunofluorescence were used to elucidate the effects of EA on osteoclastogenesis. In addition, the expression of bone differentiation-related proteins or genes was evaluated using Western blot analysis or quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR), respectively. Results: After 3 months of oral EA intervention, ovariectomized rats exhibited increased bone density, relative bone volume, trabecular thickness, and trabecular number, as well as reduced trabecular separation. EA dose-dependently normalized bone density and trabecular microarchitecture in the ovariectomized rats. Additionally, EA inhibited the expression of TRAP and NFATc1 in the ovariectomized rats. Moreover, the in vitro results indicated that EA inhibits osteoclast differentiation by suppressing the TRAF6/PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway. Further studies revealed that the effect on osteoclast differentiation, which was originally inhibited by EA, was reversed when the TRAF6 gene was overexpressed. Conclusions: The findings indicated that EA can negatively regulate osteoclastogenesis by inhibiting the TRAF6/PI3K/AKT/NF-κB axis and that ameliorating ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis in rats with EA may be a promising potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of osteoporosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chalcogenide perovskites are promising lead-free, stable absorber materials for solar cells. This work reports the synthesis of orthorhombic phase pure CaSnS3 thin films by facile low temperature sulfurization of solution-processed CaSnO3 oxide precursors. Structural characterization confirms complete anion exchange to produce crystalline CaSnS3 films with vertically aligned rod-like grains. Optical studies show strong visible light absorption with direct bandgap of 1.72 eV, ideal for photovoltaics. Electrical measurements indicate p-type conductivity with hole concentration of 1.2×1017 cm-3 and mobility around 8 cm2V-1s-1 at room temperature. First-principles DFT calculations corroborate the p-type electronic structure. Prototype CaSnS3 solar cells are fabricated with TiO2 electrode, demonstrating power conversion efficiency of 2.5% under AM1.5G, open-circuit voltage of 0.55 V, short circuit current density of 11.5 mA/cm² and fill factor of 0.62. The cells also exhibit remarkable ambient shelf stability over 6 months. The comprehensive results validate the photovoltaic potential of these earth abundant, sustainable chalcogenide perovskites synthesized via scalable low-cost solution methods. Further interface engineering can enable enhanced efficiencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of local thinning thickness defects on the buckling of cylindrical shells is investigated. A static buckling model of cylindrical shells with defects is established based on the Hamiltonian system. The complete symplectic eigensolutions of the cylindrical shell are superimposed to derive the buckling modes of the cylindrical shell with defects. A total of seven different cylindrical shells with axisymmetric and non-axisymmetric defects are considered. Local buckling modes can be captured by this new analytical model with symplectic methodology. By constraining the defect volume, the influence of different defect shapes on buckling of the cylindrical shell is investigated. Comparing with step defects and parabolic defects, the analysis concludes that defects of exponential function are more harmful to buckling of cylindrical shells. This article establishes a cylindrical shell model with arbitrary thickness changes under the Hamiltonian system and evaluates the buckling characteristics of cylindrical shells with thickness defects. A new symplectic approach is developed where the symplectic eigensolutions of the complete cylindrical shell are superimposed to obtain the corresponding buckling modes. Local buckling modes can be captured by this new analytical model. The occurrence of local buckling often drives a significant decrease in critical buckling load. The effects of defect parameters including location, depth, and shape on structure buckling are determined and analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alloying is commonly recognized as an efficient method to enhance the high-temperature properties of TiAlN coatings. In this study, a series of Ti 1−x−y−z Al x Ta y Y z N (0.01 ≤ y ≤ 0.06, 0.01 ≤ z ≤ 0.06) coatings with similar Al content was investigated, concerning phase structure, thermal stability, and oxidation resistance. The presence of an excessive Y-content in Ti 0.41 Al 0.52 Ta 0.01 Y 0.06 N and Ti 0.41 Al 0.52 Ta 0.02 Y 0.05 N coatings causes a mixed cubic and wurtzite structure, leading to reduced hardness. A single-phase cubic structure was obtained by low Y-containing Ti 1−x−y−z Al x Ta y Y z N coatings with z ≤ 0.03. Among them, the Ti 0.41 Al 0.52 Ta 0.05 Y 0.02 N coating obtains the highest hardness value of 34.3 ± 0.9 GPa in the as-deposited state. Moreover, the thermal stability and oxidation resistance of the Ti 0.46 Al 0.54 N coating were significantly improved by co-alloying with Ta and Y. Upon annealing at 900 °C, the Ti 0.41 Al 0.52 Ta 0.05 Y 0.02 N coating shows a peak hardness of 35.8 ± 1.4 GPa. Increasing Ta-content and decreasing Y-content give rise to a decline in oxide scale thickness when exposed to air at 900 °C for 10 h. However, the Ti 0.41 Al 0.52 Ta 0.05 Y 0.02 N coatings exhibit the best oxidation resistance after oxidation at 1000 °C for 15 h with an oxide scale of ~3.24 μm. In general, the Ti 0.41 Al 0.52 Ta 0.05 Y 0.02 N coatings showed the best comprehensive performance in this work. • Cubic Ti 1−x−y−z Al x Ta y Y z N coatings (z ≤ 0.03) coating present better mechanical stability. • The thermal properties of TiAlN are improved by the co-alloying of Ta and Y. • Ta content primarily determines the oxidation resistance of Ti 1−x−y−z Al x Ta y Y z N. • Y contributes more to the oxidation resistance of TiAlTaYN at higher temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of Fe-rich content on the microstructure, phase structure, elements distribution, and magnetic properties of Sm(Co $_{0.91-\mathit {x}}$ FexCu0.07Zr0.02)7.6 ($x$ = 0.22, 0.30, and 0.35) magnets has been investigated systematically. With the increase of Fe content, the 2:17H, 2:17R, and 1:3R phases appeared in the Fe-rich solid solution. The different phase structures in the high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) images showed a locally short-range ordered state with dislocations. The presence of 2:17R phase and 1:3R phase was negative to the spinodal decomposition during the aging stage. In addition, the high Fe content caused Cu element enrichment in some area of the final state magnet, which further affected the formation of cellular structure. The Fe content increased from $x$ = 0.22 to $x$ = 0.35, the average cell size increased from 83.67 to 112.46 nm, the thickness of cell boundary increased from 9.6 to 18.25 nm, and the density of Zr-rich platelets increased from 0.036 to 0.06 nm. Furthermore, the defective cellular structures in the magnet ($x$ = 0.35) with incomplete and discontinuous cell boundaries had weak pinning field and poor coercivity. Moreover, the magnetooptical Kerr optical microscope observation revealed that the domain width of magnet ($x$ = 0.35) was significantly higher than that of magnet ($x$ = 0.22), and the reversal magnetic domain was formed first in the magnet ($x$ = 0.35), which caused a poor coercivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For systematic explorations of the mechanical properties and damage evolution law of coal samples under cyclic loading, natural coal samples of No. 3 coal seam in a mine located in Shaanxi Province were considered as the research object. The RMT-150B rock mechanics test system was used to perform uniaxial compression and uniaxial cyclic loading–unloading tests with different stress levels, and the law of energy evolution during the damage and destruction process of coal masses was successfully obtained. The experimental results indicate that compared with uniaxial compression, the mechanical behavior of coal masses under cyclic loading–unloading shows obvious cyclic hysteresis. Cyclic loading exhibits a clear enhancement effect on the strength of coal masses, and the failure mode of coal samples is more severe. Before the stress peak stage of coal samples, their elastic modulus at different stress levels first increased with the cyclic index, and then gradually stabilized. The residual deformation exhibited a rapid decrease and then tended to a stable development trend. Higher loading stress is beneficial to restrain the axial deformation of coal samples. Before coal masses are broken, the total input energy, elastic energy, and dissipation energy increase with the axial stress. The input energy increases the fastest, as it increases exponentially. This is followed by the elastic energy density, which exhibits a linear energy storage law. The dissipation energy density increases slowly, which presents a U-shaped variation trend. At the cyclic stability state, the residual elastic energy ratio is between 68 and 70%, and the accumulation and dissipation of the elastic strain energy are in a dynamic equilibrium. With increasing axial stress, the damage evolution of coal samples varies from fast to slow. The critical value of the damage variable for the different stress levels is 0.68–0.86. The research gives the characteristics of coal masses damage evolution based on energy analysis under cyclic loading, and provides a theoretical reference for deep mining coal stability analysis and dynamic disaster prevention. Highlights: The mechanical behavior of coal masses under cyclic loading-unloading shows obvious cyclic hysteresis. Higher loading stress is beneficial to restrain the axial deformation of coal samples. Before the sample is broken, the input energy, elastic energy density, and dissipation energy density all increase with the increase of axial stress. Under different stress levels, the critical value of coal samples damage variable ranges from 0.68 to 0.86 under cyclic loading and unloading condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cochliobolus lunatus (anamorph: Curvularia lunata) is a major pathogenic fungus that causes the Curvularia leaf spot of maize. ClMAT1-1-1 and ClMAT1-2-1, the C. lunatus orthologs of C. heterostrophus ChMAT1-1-1 and ChMAT1-2-1, were investigated in the present study to uncover their functions in C. lunatus. Southern blot analysis showed that these mating-type MAT genes exist in the C. lunatus genome as a single copy. ClMAT1-1-1 and ClMAT1-2-1 were knocked out and complemented to generate ΔClmat1-1-1 and ΔClmat1-2-1 and ΔClmat1-1-1-C and ΔClmat1-2-1-C, respectively. The mutant strains had defective sexual development and failed to produce pseudothecia. There were no significant differences in growth rate or conidia production between the mutant and wild-type strains. However, the aerial mycelia and mycelial dry weight of ΔClmat1-1-1 and ΔClmat1-2-1 were lower than those of wild type, suggesting that MAT genes affect asexual development. ClMAT genes were involved in the responses to cell wall integrity and osmotic adaptation. ΔClmat1-2-1 had a lower conidial germination rate than the wild-type strain CX-3. The virulence of ΔClmat1-2-1 and ΔClmat1-1-1 was also reduced compared with the wild-type. Complementary strains could restore all the phenotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a rare earth element, yttrium has been widely concerned for improving the wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and especially oxidation resistance of TiAlN coatings. In this study, a novel theoretical and experimental strategy is designed to explore the influence of various Y contents on the structure, thermal stability and oxidation resistance of Ti 0.46 Al 0.54 N coatings. First-principle calculations show that Y-addition reduces the solubility of AlN in cubic TiAlN, coinciding with the additional wurtzite (w) phase as Y content increases above 0.05. Y-addition improves the thermal stability of TiAlN by retarding w-AlN formation along the most preferred decomposition sequence of TiAlYN → TiYN+AlN → TiN+AlN + YN. Alloying with moderate Y (z ≤ 0.04) into TiAlN leads to enhanced oxygen adsorption to form protective Al 2 O 3 layers, and thus optimizes the oxidation resistance. However, an excessive Y-addition (z ≥ 0.05) has the opposite effect due to the promoted transformation of TiO 2. • Incorporation of Y reduces the solubility of AlN in cubic TiAlYN. • Y-containing coatings exhibit superior thermal stability than TiAlN coating. • TiAlYN shows the decomposition sequence of TiAlYN → TiYN + AlN → TiN + AlN + YN. • Y-addition (≤4 at.%) is conducive to the oxidation resistance of TiAlN coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dark current mechanisms of terahertz quantum-well photodetectors (THz QWPs) are systematically investigated experimentally and theoretically by measuring two newly designed structures combined with samples reported previously. In contrast to previous investigations, scattering-assisted tunneling dark current is found to cause significant contributions to total dark current. A criterion is also proposed to determine the major dark current mechanism at different peak response frequencies. We further determine background limited performance (BLIP) temperatures, which decrease both experimentally and theoretically as the electric field increases. This work gives good description of dark current mechanism for QWPs in the THz region and is extended to determine the transition fields and BLIP temperatures with response peaks from 3 to 12 THz. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Loess sequences provide some of the most important continental records of climatic change, and various pedogenesis proxies from Chinese loess deposits have provided humidity records for the Miocene through Holocene. Amongst these proxies, magnetic properties have often been used to reconstruct paleoprecipitation; however, an increasing number of studies have recognized that magnetic records from loess deposits are also influenced by temperature and hence they can be used to reconstruct paleotemperatures. In the present study, the magnetic characteristics of modern loessic soils and loessic paleosols from five regions spanning a broad climatic gradient were studied to investigate the temperature dependence of the pedogenic production of magnetic minerals. The results indicate that the magnetic characteristics are dependent on the temperature of particularly season, rather than mean annual temperature in temperate region. The findings can potentially provide insights into changes in climatic seasonality on geological timescales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To identify the role of miR-146a and tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) for improving the apoptosis of hippocampal neurons induced by microglia activation. Methods: Mouse microglial cell line (BV2 cell) was employed and treated with lipopolysaccharide. Mouse hippocampal nerve cell line (HT22 cell) was then grown in BV2 conditioned medium, and miR-146a overexpression and silencing cell lines were constructed. CCK8 and clone formation test were utilized to evaluate the proliferation ability of the transfected cells, and the level of inflammatory factors was measured by ELISA. Apoptosis was determined extensively by flow cytometry. The apoptosis-related protein and TRAF6 protein expressions were verified by Western blot. TRAF6 was identified to be the target gene of miR-146a based on double Luciferase Report. Finally, both TRAF6 and miR-146a were used to treat HT22 cells and the above indexes were detected repeatedly. Results: Interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, and IL-6 expressions in BV2 cells increased significantly. miR-146a overexpression distinctly increased the cell proliferation ability and B-cell lymphoma-2 expression ((Bcl-2, p < 0.05); meanwhile, the apoptosis rate of cells, apoptosis-related proteins (Bcl-2 associated X and cleaved caspase-3), and TRAF6 gene and protein expressions were significantly decreased (p < 0.05). However, these above results were reversed for miR-146a silence. There is a targeting relationship between miR-146a and TRAF6. Silencing TRAF6 gene can promote HT22 cells' proliferation and inhibit apoptosis. The effect of miR-146a on HT22 cells was reversed by adding TRAF6 mimics to miR-146a overexpression cells. Conclusion: miR-146a can inhibit the apoptosis of hippocampal neurons caused by microglia activation via targeting TRAF6 and down-regulating its expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study tested a transactional model of associations between couple relationship intimacy and one's own and one's partner's depressive symptoms across 10 years. Background: Depressive symptoms and couple relationship intimacy are important aspects of individual functioning and family well‐being. Partners' mental health and experiences in couple relationships may be interdependent. Method: Six waves of data from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development were used. At each wave, 654 couples (654 men and 654 women all married and/or living together) reported their relationship intimacy and depressive symptoms. An actor–partner interdependence random intercept cross‐lagged panel model was estimated to examine reciprocal relations between men's and women's depressive symptoms and couple relationship intimacy. Results: The cross‐lagged paths showed that higher than personal average couple relationship intimacy perceived by men and women predicted intraindividual increases in their partner's perceptions of couple relationship intimacy at the next time point. Moreover, for women, higher than personal average relationship intimacy predicted subsequent intraindividual decreases in their depressive symptoms (while the reverse was not true), whereas for men, lower than average depressive symptoms predicted intraindividual increases in self‐perceived relationship intimacy (while the reverse was not significant). Conclusion: We found reverse temporal precedence of depressive symptoms and couple relationship intimacy for men and women. Partners' relationship intimacy was interdependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the mechanism of leader discharge inception in SF6 gas with and without spacers exposed to fast oscillating impulse. A photomultiplier and a current probe are employed for the investigation of discharge development. The results show that the back discharge plays an important role in the initiation and the further development of the leader discharge along the spacer surface in the presence of fast oscillating impulses. In the case of SF6 gap, the steepness of impulse plays a notable role in the extension of the streamer from which the leader discharge is triggered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Perforated appendicitis has poorer clinical outcomes compared to non-perforated appendicitis. However, accurate outcome comparisons in research and clinical audits are challenged by its wide spectrum of manifestation. Previous attempts at the classification of severity have been complex and difficult to reproduce. In our study, we used another institution's (Jones et al., TX, USA) previously described simple classification system of peritoneal contamination and examined its usefulness in predicting outcomes.Methods: With ethical approval, we retrospectively reviewed the records of all paediatric patients operated at our institution for perforated appendicitis from 2016 to 2017. Patient demographics, intra-operative and histological findings, post-operative outcomes and length of stay were collected. Patients were categorised into group 1 (purulence in right lower quadrant only) and group 2 (contamination in two or more quadrants). Post-operative complications were defined as procedure-related (e.g. post-operative ileus, intra-abdominal abscess, visceral injury) and non-procedure-related (e.g. bronchospasm). Statistical analysis using χ2 tests for categorical data and Mann-Whitney U-tests for non-parametric continuous variables was performed, with a significance of P < 0.05.Results: There were 134 eligible patients. We excluded 19 with incomplete data, leaving 115 for analysis, of which 69 (60%) were in group 2. Those in group 2 had a longer stay (P = 0.005) and more post-operative complications (P = 0.001), particularly procedure-related events (P = 0.006). There were no differences in age (P = 0.182), gender (P = 0.876), readmission rate (P = 0.317) and non-procedure-related post-operative complications (0.152).Conclusion: This simple classification of perforated appendicitis appears to differentiate clinical outcomes well, particularly for iatrogenic morbidity, making it useful for operative preparation and outcomes research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microstructure of magnesium matrix composite (MMC) was investigated by transmission electron microscopy, and fracture behaviour of composite by step-by-step tensile in the strain range of 0.8–2.0% has been determined using the dislocation and microcrack analysis. The results indicated that the interface between matrix and double-sized SiC particle (SiCp) showed a good combination. With increasing the strain from 0 to 2.0%, the dislocation density was gradually increased, especially in the interface of SiCp/matrix. Some microcracks can be found in the interface between micrometre-SiCp and matrix while no microcracks were observed around nano-SiCp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the 1990s, many jurisdictions introduced police cautions as an alternative to referral to court for juveniles committing comparatively minor offences. The policy was motivated by a concern that contact with the court system for such offenders might be criminogenic. In recent years, however, elected officials have criticised police cautions as a 'soft option' and this (in some jurisdictions at least) has led to a decline in their use. Past research has often failed to ensure that the comparison group for a police caution consists of children referred to court who could have received a police caution. The current study overcomes this problem and employs a rigorous set of procedures for minimising the risk of selection bias. Our results indicate that cautioning young offenders who have committed comparatively minor offences and who have not previously been referred to court results in a lower risk of reoffending than referral to court. We conclude that restrictions on the use of cautions in these circumstances could increase the risk of juvenile reoffending. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the clinical characteristics, imaging changes and early diagnostic methods of neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE). Methods: Thirty-five SLE patients, of which 16 had overt neuropsychiatric symptoms, underwent examination for multiple autoantibodies, including anti-double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) antibody, anti-nucleosome antibody, anti-cardiac-phospholipid antibody (aCL)-IgG, aCL-IgM, anti-β2-glycoprotein I antibody and anti-ribosomal P antibody, and the SLEDAI score of every patient was recorded. All patients further received neuropsychological tests, including the Mini-Mental State Examination, the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale and the Self-Rating Depression Scale. Imaging examination using 3D arterial spin labeling was performed on 3.0 T MRI scanners. After processing the 3D arterial spin labeling image, the cerebral blood flow map was obtained and the cerebral blood flow value was calculated. Results: The values of anti-dsDNA, anti-nucleosome antibody, aCL-IgG and anti-β2-glycoprotein I antibodies were significantly higher in the NPSLE group than those in the SLE group. The SLEDAI scores of the NPSLE group were significantly higher than those of the SLE group. There were no significant differences between the NPSLE group and the SLE group in the directional ability, memory, attention, numeracy, recall ability or language ability scores on the Mini-Mental State Examination scale. Furthermore, there were no symptoms of anxiety or depression in any of the patients, according to the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale and Self-Rating Depression Scale. In the 35 patients with SLE, decreases in blood perfusion were seen in some areas, and were unilateral and asymmetrically distributed. There was obvious asymmetry between sides in areas including the frontal lobe, temporal lobe, parietal lobe and occipital lobe. The incidence of perfusion decreases in frontal lobe in the NPSLE group was significantly higher than in the SLE group. Conclusion: Neurological lesions in SLE patients can be detected by arterial spin labeling. Cerebral blood flow abnormalities may be helpful for the early diagnosis of neurological lesions in NPSLE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the tremendous impact of temperature on development and fecundity of Bactrocera cucurbitae (Coquillett), this paper aimed to evaluate effects of warm-temperature treatments on the physiological metabolism of B. cucurbitae. The physiological metabolism of B. cucurbitae, specifically hydroxyproline, malondialdehyde, acetylcholinesterase, superoxide dismutase, total antioxidation capacity, and peroxidase were analyzed with six indices through 25°C-1 hour treatment, 37°C-1 hour treatment and 45°C-1 hour treatment. Results indicated that superoxide dismutase, acetylcholinesterase, malondialdehyde, and hydroxyproline activity increased significantly with temperature. The indices reached maximum values after the 45°C 1-hour treatment, respectively, 465.7 (u/gf·wt), 0.4 (µmol/min/g f·wt), 14.8 (µmol/g f·wt), and 0.5 (µg/ml). Total antioxidation capacity and peroxidase maintained stability and activity, respectively, 55.3 (FRAR Ag f·wt) and 31.2 (U/mg protein) after the 45°C 1-hour treatment. Results of the study will help in further studying reproduction and regulatory networks at warm temperatures and increase lethal effect under hot temperature. Short-term, warm conditions have become more frequent because of climate change. The specific influence of short-term, extremely warm temperatures on insect pests should receive more research attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examines the silicon L[sub 2, 3] emission spectra of silicon crystals implanted with cobalt at certain doses through the use of soft-x-ray-emission spectroscopy. Comparison between metal silicides by ion implantation and those produced from solid-state reaction of deposited layers; Limitations of methods for implanted systems; Characteristics of cobalt-implantation.

Abstract: Importance: Reticular pseudodrusen (RPD) is strongly associated with late age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) but their aetiology remains unknown. RPD have been associated with reduced choroidal thickness (ChT) but most studies are limited by small sample size and varying severity of AMD. Background: To investigate the relationship between choroidal thickness and RPD in eyes with intermediate AMD (iAMD), controlling for variables known to influence ChT. Design: Retrospective cohort study. Participants: Participants were recruited from Centre for Eye Research Australia. Methods: Colour fundus photographs, fundus auto fluorescence, near‐infrared and spectral‐domain ocular coherence tomography (OCT) were graded for RPD. ChT was measured from enhanced‐depth imaging OCT scans at the centre of fovea, 1500 and 3000 μm nasal, temporal, superior and inferior from centre of fovea. Main Outcome Measures: ChT between RPD and non‐RPD group. Results: A total of 297 eyes from 152 subjects were included. A total of 84 (28%) had RPD and were older than non‐RPD group (75.1 ± 5.4 years and 68.7 ± 6.9 years, respectively; P < 0.001). In unadjusted analysis, the RPD group was significantly associated with thinner choroids across all measured locations (P ≤ 0.022). After adjustment for variables, the presence of RPD was no longer associated with ChT (P ≥ 0.132 for all locations) but age (P < 0.001) and refractive error (P = 0.002) remained significantly associated with ChT. Conclusions and Relevance: Age and refractive error, rather than RPD, was significantly associated with reduced ChT in eyes with iAMD. Choroidal insufficiency may be a less important variable in RPD aetiology than previously considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: In the large randomised NEPTUNE study, peginterferon alfa‐2a 180 μg/wk for 48 weeks produced higher hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) seroconversion rates 24 weeks post‐treatment (36%) than a lower dose (90 μg/wk) and/or shorter duration (24 weeks) (range 14%‐26%). Aim: To determine seroconversion rates 5 years after completion of treatment in NEPTUNE. Methods: HBeAg‐positive patients who completed 24 weeks’ follow‐up in NEPTUNE (with peginterferon alfa‐2a 90 μg/wk × 24 weeks [group 1]; 180 μg/wk × 24 weeks [2]; 90 μg/wk × 48 weeks [3] or 180 μg/wk × 48 weeks [4]) were followed up. Results: Three hundred and eighty three of the 544 patients in the original study were enrolled in the long‐term follow‐up study. Many patients (196 overall; more in groups 1‐3 than 4) received nucleos(t)ide analogues or immunomodulators during follow‐up, and more patients had missing data at year 5 in groups 2 and 4 (48 weeks, 50/112) than in groups 1 and 3 (24 weeks, 23/103), which confounds the planned per‐protocol analysis. HBeAg seroconversion rates in groups 1, 2, 3 and 4 at year 5 were 47.5%, 50.7%, 52.2% and 67.1%, respectively, (odds ratio for group 4 versus 1‐3: 2.02; 95% CI 1.21, 3.38), using multiple imputation methods for missing measurements. Conclusion: Seroconversion rates are durable for up to 5 years after completion of peginterferon alfa‐2a therapy and, consistent with NEPTUNE, the results suggest that the licensed regimen (180 μg × 48 weeks) is more efficacious for HBeAg‐positive patients than a lower dose and/or shorter treatment duration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reaction of Cu(NO3)2 . 3H2O with rigid ligand 4'-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl)-[1,1'-biphenyl]-3,5- dicarboxylic acid (H3L) gave a new metal-organic framework of [Cu2(μ3-OH)(L)(H2O)2]n (I) (CIF file CCDC no. 1533273). Complex I has a truncated cuboctahedra that was connected by trigonal Cu3O(N4CR)3 trimers using each tetrazolate (N4CR) moiety and shows a overall 3D nnt net with (6.82)6(83)2(62.84)3 topology. The properties of gas adsorption and the degradation of the methyl violet have been examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Overcoat thickness is continuously being decreased to achieve higher areal density in magnetic media. The mechanical integrity of thin carbon films (∼30 Å) must be robust enough to act as an effective protection against wear and corrosion. Presently, technologies such as ion beam deposition and plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition are replacing sputtering to produce overcoats. Ion beam carbon (IBC) technology produces ultrathin durable and corrosion resistant overcoats. In the IBC process, a hydrocarbon (C[sub x]H[sub y]) gas is used as a precursor. In this article, we report the results of our work to study the effect of hydrocarbon precursors on the properties of the overcoat produced. Different precursors such as: ethane (C[sub 2]H[sub 6]), ethylene (C[sub 2]H[sub 4]), acetylene (C[sub 2]H[sub 2]), and a mixture of ethylene and acetylene were used for ion-beam carbon deposition. Hydrogen content in the carbon film varied depending upon the precursor used, which subsequently affected the overcoat hardness, resistivity, and lubricant-carbon interaction, which in turn influenced the head-media interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate inference of regulatory networks from experimental data facilitates the rapid characterization and understanding of biological systems. High-throughput technologies can provide a wealth of time-series data to better interrogate the complex regulatory dynamics inherent to organisms, but many network inference strategies do not effectively use temporal information. We address this limitation by introducing Sliding Window Inference for Network Generation (SWING), a generalized framework that incorporates multivariate Granger causality to infer network structure from time-series data. SWING moves beyond existing Granger methods by generating windowed models that simultaneously evaluate multiple upstream regulators at several potential time delays. We demonstrate that SWING elucidates network structure with greater accuracy in both in silico and experimentally validated in vitro systems. We estimate the apparent time delays present in each system and demonstrate that SWING infers time-delayed, gene-gene interactions that are distinct from baseline methods. By providing a temporal framework to infer the underlying directed network topology, SWING generates testable hypotheses for gene-gene influences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article introduces thermal conductivity constraints into concurrent design. The influence of thermal conductivity on macrostructure and orthotropic composite material is extensively investigated using the minimum mean compliance as the objective function. To simultaneously control the amounts of different phase materials, a given mass fraction is applied in the optimization algorithm. Two phase materials are assumed to compete with each other to be distributed during the process of maximizing stiffness and thermal conductivity when the mass fraction constraint is small, where phase 1 has superior stiffness and thermal conductivity whereas phase 2 has a superior ratio of stiffness to density. The effective properties of the material microstructure are computed by a numerical homogenization technique, in which the effective elasticity matrix is applied to macrostructural analyses and the effective thermal conductivity matrix is applied to the thermal conductivity constraint. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed optimization algorithm, several three-dimensional illustrative examples are provided and the features under different boundary conditions are analysed. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Purpose The purpose of the study is to evaluate the stability and ease of replacement of a new modular intraocular lens (IOL) system consisting of a hydrophobic acrylic base unit and a hydrophobic acrylic optic in the rabbit model. Methods Five New Zealand white rabbits were utilized. Bilateral phacoemulsification was performed; one eye received the test IOL (ClarVista Harmoni Modular IOL System) and the other, a commercially available hydrophobic acrylic control IOL (Alcon AcrySof SA60AT). Slit-lamp examinations were performed weekly during postoperative weeks 1 to 6. IOL replacement procedures were performed at weeks 2 and 6 using standard instruments. The rabbits were sacrificed at the end of the study (week 6), with all globes analyzed grossly using the Miyake-Apple technique and sectioned and processed for histopathologic examination. Results The base component and the optic of the Harmoni IOL system remained stable and centred throughout the clinical follow up. Disengagement of the optic component from the base and replacement of the optic were safely and easily accomplished at 2 and 6 weeks postoperatively. Explantation of the control lens required posterior synechiolysis and capsular bag manipulation due to the position of the loops at the periphery of the bag, thus causing zonular stress. Conclusions Replacement of the Harmoni optic was found to be safe and efficient compared with the control IOL, as manipulation of the capsular bag to remove haptic components is not necessary with the modular design. The base component of the modular system remained stable and centred throughout the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The insulin-like factor 3 ( INSL3) gene encodes 131 amino acids, consisting of two exons. In human beings, mutations of this gene may lead to bilateral cryptorchidism and infertility. However, the role of INSL3 in male spermatogenesis still remains controversial. We have analysed the coding sequence of INSL3 by PCR and DNA sequencing in 97 azoospermic patients with a history of bilateral cryptorchidism (patient group) versus 49 males with obstructive azoospermia (control group). The G178A mutation, which were predicted to alter the protein sequence (alanine to threonine), was detected in the patient group but not in the control group. While synonymous mutations G27A and G126A were detected in the control group, each occurred only in a single sample. When the patient group were divided into two subgroups according to the testicular biopsy result: sperm+ subgroup (51 cases with spermatozoa can be detected) or sperm- subgroup (46 cases with spermatozoa could not be detected). The INSL3 G178A polymorphism was not significantly associated with spermatozoa or no spermatozoa in the testes of males with a history of bilateral cryptorchidism. In conclusion, the evidence suggests that mutations of INSL3 may not directly contribute to the damage of spermatogenesis in patients with bilateral cryptorchidism history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suaeda salsa is a succulent halophyte belonging to Suaedoideae; sodium, chloride and sulfate ions or combination of the ions were useful to its growth. The seed germination is important event in plants life cycle, and it is sensitive to salt stress. To further understand the molecular mechanisms of S. salsa seed germination under salt stress, cDNA-AFLP and qRT-PCR were used to identify genes differentially expressed during seed germination under 100 mM NaCl stress (0, 12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 h), and 113 transcript derived fragments (TDFs) over 80 bp in length were identified using cDNA-AFLP. Gene ontology analysis revealed that these genes were involved in stress response, signal transduction and protein synthesis, etc. Further, four genes closely related to salt resistance were selected and their expression during S. salsa seed germination were investigated by qRT-PCR. The result showed differential gene expression at various germination stages under salt stress. Further work will be focused on cloning these genes and identifying their functions in S. salsa germination process under salt stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Astrocytes are the largest glial population in the mammalian brain. Astrocytes in the cerebral cortex are reportedly generated from four sources, namely radial glia, progenitors in the subventricular zone (SVZ progenitors), locally proliferating glia, and NG2 glia; it remains an open question, however, as to what extent these four cell types contribute to the substantial increase in astrocytes that occurs postnatally in the cerebral cortex. Here we summarize all possible sources of astrocytes and discuss their roles in this postnatal increase. In particular, we focus on astrocytes derived from local proliferation within the cortex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) is an mRNA surveillance mechanism that plays integral roles in eliminating mRNAs with premature termination codons to prevent the synthesis of truncated proteins that could be pathogenic. One response to the accumulation of detrimental proteins is apoptosis, which involves the activation of enzymatic pathways leading to protein and nucleic acid cleavage and culminating in cell death. It is not clear whether NMD is required to ensure the accurate expression of apoptosis genes or is no longer necessary since cytotoxic proteins are not an issue during cell death. The present study shows that caspases cleave the two NMD factors UPF1 and UPF2 during apoptosis impairing NMD. Our results demonstrate a new regulatory pathway for NMD that occurs during apoptosis and provide evidence for role of the UPF cleaved fragments in apoptosis and NMD inhibition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the latest SCIAMACHY limb ozone scientific vertical profiles, namely the current V2.9 and the upcoming V3.0, are extensively compared with ozonesonde data from the World Ozone and Ultraviolet Radiation Data Centre (WOUDC) database. The comparisons are made on a global scale from 2003 to 2011, involving 61 sonde stations. The retrieval processors used to generate V2.9 and V3.0 data sets are briefly introduced. The comparisons are discussed in terms of vertical profiles and stratospheric partial columns. Our results indicate that the V2.9 ozone profile data between 20 and 30 km are in good agreement with ground-based measurements, with less than 5% relative differences in the latitude range of 90° S-40° N (with the exception of the tropical Pacific region, where an overestimation of more than 10% is observed), which corresponds to less than 5DU partial-column differences. In the tropics the differences are within 3 %. However, this data set shows a significant underestimation northwards of 40° N (up to ∼15 %). The newly developed V3.0 data set reduces this bias to below 10% while maintaining a good agreement southwards of 40° N with slightly increased relative differences of up to 5% in the tropics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this manuscript, the latest SCIAMACHY limb ozone scientific vertical profiles, namely the current V2.9 and the upcoming V3.0, are extensively compared with ozone sonde data from the WOUDC database. The comparisons are made on a global scale from 2003 to 2011, involving 61 sonde stations. The retrieval processors used to generate V2.9 and V3.0 data sets are briefly introduced. The comparisons are discussed in terms of vertical profiles and stratospheric partial columns. Our results indicate that the V2.9 ozone profile data between 20-30 km is in good agreement with ground based measurements with less than 5% relative differences in the latitude range of 90° S- 40° N (with exception of the tropical Pacific region where an overestimation of more than 10% is observed), which corresponds to less than 5DU partial column differences. In the tropics the differences are within 3 %. However, this data set shows a significant underestimation northwards of 40° N (up to ~15 %). The newly developed V3.0 data set reduces this bias to below 10% while maintaining a good agreement south wards of 40° N with slightly increased relative differences of up to 5% in the tropics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circadian rhythm disturbances overlap between psychotic disorders, e.g. schizophrenia, and major depression. We hypothesized that circadian gene variants previously associated with unipolar depression would be overrepresented also in patients with psychotic disorder. Six genetic polymorphisms in ARNTL, PER2 and CRY2 were genotyped in 566 schizophrenia spectrum disorder patients and 926 controls. The rs2290036-C variant of ARNTL was over-represented in psychosis patients, and the variants rs934945-G and rs10462023-G of PER2 were associated with a more severe psychotic disorder. The directions of these genetic associations were in line with those previously identified for depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Onyx(®) (ev3, Irvine, CA, USA) is a liquid embolic agent composed of ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer dissolved in dimethyl sulphoxide used for the treatment of intracranial arteriovenous malformations. Onyx is a preferred embolizing agent due to its unique properties, non-adhesive nature, and durability. In addition to its approved intracranial application, Onyx is also being used successfully in extracranial embolization in areas including extracranial aneurisms and vascular malformations, trauma, gastrointestinal bleeding, and neoplasms. Because of its increasing utilization, it is important for reporting radiologists to be able to recognize its extracranial appearance across different imaging techniques and to be familiar with its uses. The goal of this review is to describe the extracranial uses of Onyx and its appearance in various extracranial locations at radiography and CT, while providing didactic examples. Onyx appears radiodense at CT and plain radiography and has a curvilinear pattern following the expected path of the vessel embolized. At CT, Onyx creates streak artefact that may obstruct the view of surrounding tissues consistent with descriptions of other tantalum devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Absolute values of gravity wave momentum flux (GWMF) deduced from satellite measurements by the Sounding of the Atmosphere using Broadband Emission Radiometry (SABER) instrument and the High Resolution Dynamics Limb Sounder (HIRDLS) are correlated with sea surface temperature (SST) with the aim of identifying those oceanic regions for which convection is a major source of gravity waves (GWs). Our study identifies those latitude bands where high correlation coefficients indicate convective excitation with confidence. This is based on a global ray-tracing simulation, which is used to delineate the source and wind-filtering effects. Convective GWs are identified at the eastern coasts of the continents and over the warm water regions formed by the warm ocean currents, in particular the Gulf Stream and the Kuroshio. Potential contributions of tropical cyclones to the excitation of the GWs are discussed. Convective excitation can be identified well into the mid-mesosphere. In propagating upward, the centers of GWMF formed by convection shift poleward. Some indications of the main forcing regions are even shown for the upper mesosphere/lower thermosphere (MLT). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We present results of adsorption experiments of Sn and 1,4-benzenedimethanethiol (BDMT) on Cu(001), which illustrate the capabilities of a new setup specifically designed to perform surface studies by Direct Recoil Spectroscopy (DRS). The system consists of three UHV chambers connected in series with a 1–100 keV ion accelerator. In the main UHV chamber the DRS technique is combined with other more standard techniques such as Auger and Energy Loss Electron Spectroscopy, and Low Energy Electron Diffraction. The capabilities of the instrument are exemplified by two adsorption studies on the (001) face of Cu. First we describe measurements for 0.5 monolayer of Sn adsorbed on Cu that are in agreement with the crystallographic symmetry R45° seen by LEED and the appearance of Cu vacancies along the [100] direction. Then we present a study of self-assembling of 1,4-benzenedimethanethiol (BDMT) on Cu(001) from the vapour phase. For this system we show that it is possible to form a standing-up phase at large exposures, of the order of 106 L, and discuss its stability with temperature. We also discuss a S enrichment effect induced during the first adsorption stages of BDMT. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Two recent genome-wide studies showed that the single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the HLA- DQ region (rs2856718 and rs9275572) were associated with chronic hepatitis B virus infection and chronic hepatitis C virus-associated hepatocellular carcinoma in Japanese patients. We tested the effects of the two single-nucleotide polymorphisms for all major HBV outcomes and lamivudine treatment in Han Chinese. A total of 1649 samples were enrolled, and peripheral blood samples were collected in this study. The single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the HLA- DQ region were genotyped using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry. Our study demonstrated the clear relevance of HLA- DQ rs2856718 and rs9275572 with HBV susceptibility, natural clearance and HBV-associated HCC. HLA- DQ rs2856718G and rs9275572A were strongly associated with decreased risk of chronic HBV infection (odds ratio = 0.641; P = 2.64 × 10−4; odds ratio = 0.627, P = 7.22 × 10−5) and HBV natural clearance (odds ratio = 0.610; P = 4.80 × 10−4; odds ratio = 0.714, P = 0.013). Moreover, rs9275572A was also associated with development of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (odds ratio = 0.632, P = 0.008). In addition, we showed for the first time to our knowledge that rs9275572 was a predictor for lamivudine therapy (viral response: odds ratio = 2.599, P = 4.43 × 10−4; biochemical response: odds ratio = 2.279, P = 4.23 × 10−4). Our study suggested that HLA- DQ loci were associated with both HBV clearance and HBV-related diseases and outcomes of lamivudine treatment in Han Chinese. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Solution-processed lithium fluoride (sol-LiF) nanoparticles synthesized in polymeric micelle nanoreactors enabled tuning of the surface work function of tin-doped indium oxide (ITO) films. The micelle reactors provided the means for controlling surface coverage by progressively building up the interlayer through alternating deposition and plasma etch removal of the polymer. In order to determine the surface coverage and average interparticle distance, spatial point pattern analysis was applied to scanning electron microscope images of the nanoparticle dispersions. The work function of the sol-LiF modified ITO, obtained from photoelectron emission yield spectroscopy analysis, was shown to increase with surface coverage of the sol-LiF particles, suggesting a lateral depolarization effect. Analysis of the photoelectron emission energy distribution in the near threshold region revealed the contribution of surface states for surface coverage in excess of 14.1%. Optimization of the interfacial barrier was achieved through contributions from both work function modification and surface states. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This research conducted quasi-experiments in four middle schools to evaluate the long-term effects of an intelligent web-based English instruction system, Computer Simulation in Educational Communication ( CSIEC), on students' academic attainment. The analysis of regular examination scores and vocabulary test validates the positive impact of CSIEC, and in most cases, the positive impact is statistically significant. The reliability is ensured by the spectrum of the students from Grade 1 to Grade 3 in three junior high schools and from Grade 1 to Grade 2 in one senior high school, and of the teachers with or without blended learning experience, as well as by the various school locations from rural to urban areas in four provinces of China. The learning content-oriented design and the instant feedback feature of the web-based system, as well as its regular integration into the English class, contributed to its reliable positive effect on students' learning performance in ordinary examinations. This is the research's implication for instructional design. The conclusion of this paper could serve as a reference to the technical feasibility and pedagogical benefit of regular usage of appropriate Computer Assisted Learning system in the mainstream subject of middle schools. The multiple quasi-experiments in divergent school settings to ensure the results' reliability distinguish this research from previous ones that just implemented one single experiment in one school. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic hepatitis B infection is an important cause of liver-related mortality in China. This study assessed the efficacy and safety of entecavir in a heterogeneous patient population from a 'real-world' clinical practice setting in China. This prospective, observational cohort provides 48-week data on 2600 patients from 50 sites in China who received entecavir (0.5 or 1.0 mg) and were assessed for virologic, serologic and biochemical responses. Patients were nucleos(t)ide-naïve or -experienced and had compensated or decompensated liver function. At Week 48, 1545/2424 (64%) patients with compensated liver disease and 30/44 (68%) patients with decompensated liver disease achieved HBV DNA <50 IU/mL. Greater proportions of nucleos(t)ide-naïve than nucleos(t)ide-experienced (69% vs 53%), and adefovir-experienced than lamivudine/telbivudine-experienced (62% vs 52%) patients achieved this endpoint. Most patients with HBV DNA <50 IU/mL also achieved HBV DNA <12 IU/L (60%, 45% and 61% of nucleos(t)ide-naïve, nucleos(t)ide-experienced and decompensated patients, respectively). In patients with compensated liver disease, ALT values normalized in 1532/1792 patients (85%), and HBeAg loss and HBeAg seroconversion were observed in 17% and 15% of treatment-naïve and 15% and 11% of treatment-experienced patients. Entecavir was generally well tolerated. Adverse event rates were comparable between treatment-naïve and treatment-experienced patients with compensated liver disease, but were higher in decompensated than in compensated patients, consistent with previous reports in these patients with more advanced disease. Four patients discontinued treatment due to adverse events. In a 'real-world' setting, entecavir was efficacious and well tolerated throughout 48 weeks in a heterogeneous Chinese CHB population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied the effects of intranasal dexmedetomidine combined with oral ketamine for premedication in children. One hundred and sixty children aged between 2 and 6 years were randomly allocated to one of four groups: 1 μg.kg−1 intranasal dexmedetomidine with 3 mg.kg−1 oral ketamine (Group 1); 1 μg.kg−1 intranasal dexmedetomidine with 5 mg.kg−1 oral ketamine (Group 2); 2 μg.kg−1 intranasal dexmedetomidine with 3 mg.kg−1 oral ketamine (Group 3); and 2 μg.kg−1 intranasal dexmedetomidine with 5 mg.kg−1 oral ketamine (Group 4). Sedation levels 10, 20 and 30 min after premedication were evaluated using a 5-point sedation scale. A 4-point emotional state score was used to evaluate patients when they were separated from their parents and their response to intravenous cannulation or facemask application. Approximately 90% of patients readily accepted premedication and onset times of acceptable sedation were similar in all four groups. Patients in Group 4 were significantly more sedated than those in Group 1 after 30 min (p = 0.036). A significantly higher proportion of patients in Group 3 (84%) and Group 4 (87%) accepted intravenous cannulation compared with those in Group 1 (40%) and Group 2 (54%) (p = 0.001). We conclude that the administration of 2 μg.kg−1 intranasal dexmedetomidine and 3 mg.kg−1 oral ketamine was the optimal combination, with children being easily separated from their parent, accepting intravenous cannulation and without causing excessive side-effects or postoperative complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Telbivudine, one of the oral anti-hepatitis B virus ( HBV) nucleoside analogues, has been used for more than 5 years to treat HBeAg-positive and -negative chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. This includes not only global Phase II and III trials, but also Chinese Phase III trials and several real-world clinical practice studies from China. The present review will first focus on 1-, 2- and 3-year data of telbivudine therapy on HBV DNA suppression, alanine aminotransferase ( ALT) normalization, hepatitis B e antigen ( HBeAg) seroconversion, viral resistance and safety in HBeAg-positive and -negative CHB patients. Second, telbivudine treatment predictors, including HBV DNA undetectability, ALT level and other immune-related markers at 12 and 24 weeks will be summarized to optimize therapy. Besides several retrospective studies, the Chinese EFFORT prospective study adapted from telbivudine virological response at 24 weeks has shown very promising results. Finally, the Chinese experience of using telbivudine in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy to prevent perinatal transmission of HBV infection will be touched on citing the latest studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) inhibitors administered prior to or immediately after experimental stroke confer acute neuroprotection. However, it remains unclear if delayed treatment with a PTEN inhibitor improves long-term functional recovery after stroke. We addressed the issue in this study. Adult male mice were subjected to 1h of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) followed by treatment with a well-established PTEN inhibitor BPV or saline daily for 14days, starting at 24h after MCAO. Functional recovery was assessed with behavioral tests and acute infarct volumes were analyzed histologically. Delayed BPV treatment did not reduce infarction during the acute phase, but significantly improved long-term functional recovery after MCAO. Since PTEN is a critical intrinsic inhibitory factor in axonal regeneration, we further examined BPV effects on axonal densities following MCAO using bielschowsky silver staining and immunohistochemistry with antibodies against myelin basic protein. Delayed BPV treatment significantly increased axon densities in the ischemic brain at 14days after MCAO. Moreover, PTEN expression persistently remained high in the ischemic brain over 14days after MCAO, and BPV treatment increased post-ischemic activation of Akt and mTOR in the ischemic brain. Akt and mTOR activation are the well-established cascades downstream to PTEN inhibition and have been shown to contribute to post-injury axonal regrowth in response to PTEN inhibition. Consistently, in an in vitro neuronal ischemia model, BPV enhanced axonal outgrowth of primary cortical neurons after oxygen-glucose deprivation and the enhancing effects were abolished by Akt/mTOR inhibition. In conclusion, delayed BPV treatment improved functional recovery from experimental stroke possibly via enhancing axonal growth and Akt/mTOR activation contributed to BPV-enhanced post-stroke axon growth. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Although fast-growing Populus species consume a large amount of water for biomass production, there are considerable variations in water use efficiency (WUE) across different poplar species. To compare differences in growth, WUE and anatomical properties of leaf and xylem and to examine the relationship between photosynthesis/WUE and anatomical properties of leaf and xylem, cuttings of six poplar species were grown in a botanical garden. The growth performance, photosynthesis, intrinsic WUE (WUEi), stable carbon isotope composition (δ13C) and anatomical properties of leaf and xylem were analysed in these poplar plants. Significant differences were found in growth, photosynthesis, WUEi and anatomical properties among the examined species. Populus cathayana was the clone with the fastest growth and the lowest WUEi/δ13C, whereas P. × euramericana had a considerable growth increment and the highest WUEi/δ13C. Among the analysed poplar species, the highest total stomatal density in P. cathayana was correlated with its highest stomatal conductance (gs) and lowest WUEi/δ13C. Moreover, significant correlations were observed between WUEi and abaxial stomatal density and stem vessel lumen area. These data suggest that photosynthesis, WUEi and δ13C are associated with leaf and xylem anatomy and there are tradeoffs between growth and WUEi. It is anticipated that some poplar species, e.g. P. × euramericana, are better candidates for water-limited regions and others, e.g. P. cathayana, may be better for water-abundant areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Variation in style length and anther–stigma distance (ASD) was investigated in 18 populations of Ixiolirion songaricum, an early-spring ephemeral perennial herb in northern Xinjiang. The effect of ASD on autonomous self-pollen deposition and seed set was assessed using bagging experiments. Seed production under autonomous self-pollination, cross-pollination and natural pollination was determined by manual pollination experiments. Stigmas of multiple flowers within an individual were sandwiched between two separate anther levels, and no individuals possessed approach or reverse herkogamy. Style length varied continuously among flowers, resulting in a wide range of variation in ASD. There were fewer flowers with a small ASD than with a large ASD in populations. ASD was negatively correlated with autonomous self-pollen deposition and seed set, but it was positively correlated with natural pollination seed set. Seed production under natural pollination was higher than that under autonomous self-pollination, but it was smaller than that under cross-pollination. Variation in style length and ASD among flowers was not caused by style or stamen elongation in I. songaricum, which differ from other species reported in literature that have continuous variation in style length and ASD. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Sixty-two surface soil samples, collected along a precipitation gradient in the Loess Plateau and the Alxa Plateau area, northwest China, were analyzed using environmental magnetic parameters (χ lf, χ fd%, χ ARM, SIRM, HIRM, SOFT, and back field IRM), grain size, and weight loss on ignition. The results show that the magnetic mineral assemblage in the surface soil is dominated by magnetite and maghemite, with some hematite. Cross plots of χ fd% vs. χ ARM/SIRM indicate that the main magnetic grain sizes in the surface soils are pseudo single domain (PSD) and multidomain (MD). The samples from the Alxa area are dominated by magnetic minerals with a larger grain size while those from the Loess Plateau are dominated by magnetic minerals with a finer grain size. The main magnetic minerals in the surface soil of the Loess Plateau originate from both the aeolian dust and pedogenic processes, with the later dominating. Compared to magnetic susceptibility, frequency-dependent magnetic susceptibility has a stronger correlation with precipitation in this large area of complex geology and topography. This result is not consistent with previous studies and we suggest that caution is needed when using magnetic susceptibility as an indicator of environmental change in arid regions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Aims: Aim of the study was to investigate the faecal microbiota of geriatric cats, as aging affects the nutrient digestibility and metabolic function of the feline intestine. Methods and Results: Twenty geriatric cats were randomly assigned to two groups that were fed different foods. Coriobacteriaceae, Clostridium cluster XIV, bifidobacteria and lactic acid bacteria were the dominant faecal bacterial groups, accounting for c. 40% of total bacteria. Clostridium cluster IX was less predominant (0·5% of total bacteria), while the remaining bacterial populations enumerated only accounted for 0·2% of total bacteria. Highly diverse microbial profiles were demonstrated for geriatric cats with denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis, although a few common bands were evident. Some differences were seen in the feline faecal microbiota between animal groups at the same time or over time for individual animals. However, no obvious clustering based on animal group or sample time was indicated. Conclusions: Geriatric cats harboured a complex faecal microbiota and c. 41% of total bacteria have been detected with the probes employed. Significance and Impact of the Study: First molecular-based study examining faecal microbiota of geriatric felines. Knowledge of the microbiota associated with ageing in cats may allow improved development of foods specific for the needs of senior cats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two different primary annealing conditions (continuous heating and discontinuous heating) on conventional oriented silicon steel were employed, and the evolution of microstructure and Goss frequency, as well as orientations of Goss neighbourhood from recovery to secondary recrystallisation, was investigated by means of optical microscopy and advanced electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) technique. It could be concluded that high Goss frequency before secondary recrystallisation possibly did not contribute to sharp Goss orientation, even excellent magnetic property and that no grains with less deviation from ideal Goss first began to grow. As for coincidence site lattice (CSL) grain boundary and high energy grain boundary theories, the latter can explain the development of Goss due to its high frequency compared with CSL boundary of low frequency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]