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The purpose of the experiment was to investigate the effect of fresh Cajanus cajan leaf powder on the growth performance, breeding economic benefits, slaughtering performance, meat quality, and intestinal microorganisms of finishing pigs. Twenty-four healthy Hainan black pigs with similar weights in the same batch were randomly divided into four groups, with six replicates in each group and one pig in each replicate. The pigs in the control group were fed a basal diet, and the experimental group B, group C, and group D were supplemented with 10%, 15%, and 20% fresh Cajanus cajan leaf powder in the basal diet, respectively. The pre-test period was seven days, and the formal test period was 270 days. The results showed that compared with the control group, the average daily feed intake of finishing pigs in the experimental groups decreased significantly (P<0.05), and the average daily gain and final weight of finishing pigs in the experimental group D decreased significantly (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, experimental group B, and experimental group D, the breeding profit of the experimental group C increased by 6.36%, 5.68%, and 9.99%, respectively. Compared with the control group, the backfat thickness of finishing pigs in the experimental groups decreased significantly (P<0.05), the meat color score of the experimental groups increased significantly (P<0.05), and the pH24 h value of pork in the experimental group B and group C increased significantly (P<0.05). The content of total amino acids, total essential amino acids and flavor amino acids in the longissimus dorsi muscle of the experimental groups increased significantly (P<0.05). The content of saturated fatty acids in the experimental group C and group D decreased significantly (P<0.05), the content of monounsaturated fatty acids and unsaturated fatty acids increased significantly (P<0.05), and the content of polyunsaturated fatty acids increased significantly in the experimental group D (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the relative abundance of Bacteroides in the experimental group B increased (P<0.05), while the relative abundance of Proteobacteria in the experimental group B and group C decreased (P<0.05). At the genus level, the relative abundance of Escherichia-shigella in the experimental groups decreased (P<0.05). The study indicates that adding fresh Cajanus cajan leaf powder to the diet can improve slaughter performance, meat quality, and flavor of fattening pigs, optimize intestinal microbial structure, reduce fat deposition and relative abundance of harmful bacteria, and adding 15% fresh Cajanus cajan leaf powder was the best. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The spliceosome-associated protein CWC22 of the spinal dorsal horn modulates nociception bidirectionally in mice; • Spp1 is a downstream gene of CWC22-mediated alternative splicing in inflammatory pain; • Spp1 splicing variants are variably regulated by CWC22, and Spp1 V4 is involved in nociception. Increasing evidence suggests that alternative splicing plays a critical role in pain, but its underlying mechanism remains elusive. Herein, we employed complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) to induce inflammatory pain in mice. A combination of genomics research techniques, lentivirus-based genetic manipulations, behavioral tests, and molecular biological technologies confirmed that splicing factor Cwc22 mRNA and CWC22 protein were elevated in the spinal dorsal horn at 3 days after CFA injection. Knockdown of spinal CWC22 by lentivirus transfection (lenti-sh Cwc22) reversed CFA-induced thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia, whereas upregulation of spinal CWC22 (lenti- Cwc22) in naïve mice precipitated pain. Comprehensive transcriptome and genome analysis identified the secreted phosphoprotein 1 (Spp1) as a potential gene of CWC22-mediated alternative splicing, however, only Spp1 splicing variant 4 (Spp1 V4) was involved in thermal and mechanical nociceptive regulation. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that spinal CWC22 regulates Spp1 V4 to participate in CFA-induced inflammatory pain. Blocking CWC22 or CWC22-mediated alternative splicing may provide a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of persistent inflammatory pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let μ M , D be the self-affine measure generated by an expanding integer matrix M ∈ M n (Z) and a finite digit set D ⊂ Z n . It is well known that the two measures μ M , D and μ M ~ , D ~ have the same spectrality if M ~ = B - 1 M B and D ~ = B - 1 D , where B ∈ M n (R) is a nonsingular matrix. This fact is usually used to simplify the digit set D or the expanding matrix M. However, it often transforms integer digit set D or integer expanding matrix M into real, which brings many difficulties to study the spectrality of μ M ~ , D ~ . In this paper, we introduce a similar transformation of general linear group G L n (p) for some self-affine measures, and discuss their spectral properties. This kind of similar transformation can keep the integer properties of D and M simultaneously, which leads to many advantages in discussing the spectrality of self-affine measures. As an application, we extend some well-known spectral self-affine measures to more general forms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let μ M , D be a self-similar measure generated by an n × n expanding real matrix M = ρ - 1 ⁢ I and a finite digit set D ⊂ ℤ n , where 0 < | ρ | < 1 and I is an n × n unit matrix. In this paper, we study the existence of a Fourier basis for L 2 ⁢ (μ M , D) , i.e., we find a discrete set Λ such that E Λ = { e 2 ⁢ π ⁢ i ⁢ 〈 λ , x 〉 : λ ∈ Λ } is an orthonormal basis for L 2 ⁢ (μ M , D) . Under some suitable conditions for D, some necessary and sufficient conditions for L 2 ⁢ (μ M , D) to admit infinite orthogonal exponential functions are given. Then we set up a framework to obtain necessary and sufficient conditions for L 2 ⁢ (μ M , D) to have a Fourier basis. Finally, we demonstrate how these results can be applied to self-similar measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let M = ρ − 1 I ∈ M n (R) be an expanding matrix with 0 < ∣ ρ ∣ < 1 and D ⊂ Z n be a finite digit set with 0 ∈ D and Z (m D) − Z (m D) ⊂ Z (m D) ∪ { 0 } ⊂ m − 1 Z n for a prime m, where Z (m D) := { x : ∑ d ∈ D e 2 π i ⟨ λ , x ⟩ = 0 } . Let μM,D be the associated self-similar measure defined by μ M , D (⋅) = 1 | D | ∑ d ∈ D μ M , D (M (⋅) − d) . In this paper, the necessary and sufficient conditions for L2(μM,D) to admit infinite orthogonal exponential functions are given. Moreover, by using the order theory of polynomial, we estimate the number of orthogonal exponential functions for all cases that L2(μM,D) does not admit infinite orthogonal exponential functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing excellent comprehensive performance anode materials is of vital importance for rechargeable metal ion batteries in the domain of energy conversion and storage. By first-principles calculations, we have appreciated that the highly conductive planar hexacoordinate Be 2 Al and Be 2 Ga monolayers can be served as universal anodes for alkali / alkaline metal ion batteries. Due to favorable adsorption energy landscape, the diffusion barriers of Li, Na, K, and Ca atoms on the Be 2 Al and Be 2 Ga surfaces are as low as 0.116, 0.075, 0.046, 0.270 eV and 0.044, 0.025, 0.014, 0.217 eV, respectively, indicative of fast rate capabilities. At the same time, the Be 2 Al and Be 2 Ga monolayers exhibit the desirable mean open-circuit voltages of 0.049 and 0.104 V for Li + , 0.234 and 0.278 V for Na + , 0.249 and 0.227 V for K + , as well as 0.120 and 0.124 V for Ca2＋, respectively, conducive to achieve high operating voltage at the full-cell level. Arising from stable double-sided multilayer adsorption, the Be 2 Al (Be 2 Ga) monolayer can deliver ultrahigh reversible specific capacities up to 2382 (1222), 4764 (1833), 2382 (1222), and 7146 (3665) mA h g − 1 for Li, Na, K, and Ca atoms, respectively. All of these advantages along with reliable cycling stability demonstrate that these two 2D materials enjoy great potential as promising anodes for Li, Na, K, and Ca ions batteries. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on active noise control in the presence of disturbance from an α -stable distribution. The filtered-x fractional lower-order covariance algorithm has been introduced to enhance the performance of traditional algorithms in impulsive noise environments. For minimal adjustment of the weight vector, another filtered-x normalized fractional lower-order covariance (FxNFLOC) algorithm is proposed. Furthermore, the projection approach of the filtered-x least mean square (FxLMS) algorithm is explored. Within this framework, a new algorithm called filtered-x least mean logarithmic square (FxLMLS), which employs a logarithmic function, is devised. The convergence conditions of the developed schemes are also derived. Numerical examples demonstrate the effectiveness and superior performance of the FxNFLOC and FxLMLS algorithms in handling impulsive noise over existing competitors in various scenarios. • The filtered-x fractional lower-order covariance algorithm is extended into a general framework. • Two new active impulsive noise control algorithms, referred to as FxLMLS and FxNFLOC, are derived. • The step-size bounds of the FxLMLS and FxNFLOC algorithms are derived. • Superior performance of the proposed algorithms over existing methods is demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C12H8Br2O2, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 4.1957(13) Å, b = 13.402(4) Å, c = 11.160(3) Å, β = 99.645(10)°, V = 618.7(3) Å3, Z = 2, Rgt(F) = 0.0287, wRref(F2) = 0.0701, T = 273(2) K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C12H16Br2O4, monoclinic, P21/n (no. 14), a = 12.594(5) Å, b = 4.4613(16) Å, c = 12.878(4) Å, β = 91.209(12)∘, V = 723.4(4) Å3, Z = 2, Rgt(F) = 0.0450, wRref(F2) = 0.1103, T = 293 (2) K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C8H8N6·C5H9O2, monoclinic, I2/a (no. 15), a = 13.2666(17) Å, b = 11.0435(15) Å, c = 19.778(3) Å, β = 92.707(10)°, V = 2894.4(7) Å3, Z = 8, Rgt(F) = 0.0528, wRref(F2) = 0.1511, T = 293(2) K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C20H22Br2N2O4, triclinic, P 1 ‾ (no. 2), a = 5.0060(12) Å, b = 9.135(2) Å, c = 11.650(3) Å, V = 518.6(2) Å3, Z = 1, Rgt(F) = 0.0474, wRref(F2) = 0.1270, T = 273(2) K, β = 78.492(7). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the Cauchy problem for the Davey-Stewartson equation The dichotomy between scattering and finite time blow-up shall be proved for initial data with finite variance and with mass-energy M(u0)E(u0) above the ground state threshold M(Q)E(Q). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent experimentally observed intrinsic ferromagnetism in two-dimensional (2D) van der Waals crystals has ignited substantial interests due to their great potential in spintronic devices. However, their practical applications are hampered by rather low Curie temperature and small magnetic anisotropic energy. Here, we predict from first-principles calculations that the 2D pristine hexagonal manganese carbide (h-MnC) sheet exhibits robust ferromagnetic and half-metallic features with complete spin polarization, sizable magnetic anisotropic energy, and wide half-metallic gap near the Fermi energy level. Moreover, the h-MnC sheet can retain its structure up to the temperature of 1000 K, indicating a highly thermodynamic stability. The Monte Carlo simulations based on the Heisenberg model with single-ion anisotropy predict a Curie temperature of 233 K in 2D h-MnC crystal. We confirm the robustness of the ferromagnetism and half-metallicity against the external strain from −6% to 10%. Also, a feasible experimental fabrication route is proposed to realize the h-MnC monolayer via heterostructure engineering and exfoliation techniques. Overall, the robustness of the half-metallicity in combination with the high-temperature ferromagnetism render the freestanding h-MnC monolayer and even its energetically favorable h-MnC/MoS2 and h-MnC/MoSe2 heterostructures quite promising materials for developing practical spintronic nanodevices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been demonstrated to serve distinct roles in human tumorigenesis. Previous studies have found that lncRNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 4 (SNHG4) was dysregulated in several tumors. However, the expression, clinical significances, and action mechanisms of SNHG4 in prostate cancer (PCa) are still unclear. Methods: Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) was utilized to detect SNHG4 expression in tissue samples and PCa cells. Cell counting kit‐8, 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine, clonogenic formation, wound‐healing, and transwell invasion assays were, respectively, used to evaluate cell proliferation, colony formation ability, migration, and invasion. Flow cytometric analysis was applied to assess cell apoptosis. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays were conducted to determine the binding between SP1 and SNHG4 promoter. Luciferase reporter assay, qRT‐PCR, and western blot analysis were carried out to explore and confirm the interaction among SNHG4, miR‐377, and ZIC5. Results: SNHG4 was highly expressed in PCa and its upregulation was induced by transcription factor SP1. The high levels of SNHG4 were distinctly associated with tumor stage, lymph node metastasis, and reduced overall survival of patients with PCa. SNHG4 knockdown inhibited the growth, migration, and invasion of PCa cells. In addition, miR‐377 was a target of SNHG4 and ZIC5 was a target gene of miR‐377 in PCa. SNHG4 promoted ZIC5‐mediated growth and metastasis through modulating miR‐377. Conclusion: Our findings illuminate how SNHG4 formed a regulatory network to display a tumor‐promotive effect in PCa and revealed that SNHG4 may be a novel therapeutic target and prognostic marker for patients with PCa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study investigated the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with conventional swallowing training on the swallowing function in brainstem stroke patients with cricopharyngeal muscle dysfunction (CPD).Methods: Twenty-eight brainstem stroke patients with CPD were assigned randomly to an anodal tDCS group or a sham tDCS group. The patients received anodal tDCS or sham tDCS over the bilateral oesophageal cortical area combined with simultaneous catheter balloon dilatation and conventional swallowing therapy for 20 days. Swallowing function was assessed using the functional oral intake scale (FOIS) and the functional dysphagia scale (FDS) and by measuring the pharyngoesophageal Segment Opening (PESO) before and immediately after the intervention.Results: Both groups showed a significant improvement in the FDS, FOIS and PESO scores immediately after the intervention (all p < .005). However, compared with the sham stimulation group, the anodal tDCS group showed greater improvements in the FDS, FOIS and PESO scores immediately after the intervention (all p < .005).Conclusion: The bihemispheric anodal tDCS combined with simultaneous catheter balloon dilatation and conventional swallowing therapy effectively improves the swallowing function in patients with CPD caused by a brainstem stroke. tDCS may be an effective adjuvant therapy in CPD rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the self-affine measure μ M , D generated by an expanding matrix M ∈ M 2 (ℤ) and an integer digit set D = 0 0 , α 1 α 2 , β 1 β 2 , − α 1 − β 1 − α 2 − β 2 with α 1 β 2 − α 2 β 1 ≠ 0 , Su et al. proved that if α 1 β 2 − α 2 β 1 ∉ 2 ℤ , then L 2 (μ M , D) contains an infinite orthogonal set of exponential functions if and only if det (M) ∈ 2 ℤ [J. Su, Y. Liu and J. C. Liu, Non-spectrality of the planar self-affine measures with four-element digit sets, Fractals (2019), https://doi.org/10.1142/S0218348X19501159 ]. In this paper, we show that the above conclusion also holds for α 1 β 2 − α 2 β 1 ∈ 2 ℤ. So, a complete characterization of L 2 (μ M , D) containing an infinite orthogonal set of exponential functions is given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of Monte Carlo simulations of the planar electric double layers are carried out in the primitive model for two electrolyte mixtures next to a smooth and uniformly charged hard wall representing an ideal biological interface with low and moderate surface charge densities. The structural information of the double layers is applied to reveal charge inversion and overcharging through the addition of multivalent electrolyte at a certain physiological concentration. Various values for the radius of the ions are taken into account to capture the impact of short-range correlations. Meanwhile, the influence of image charges on ion distribution is analyzed, which stems from dielectric discontinuity between the interior and exterior of the membrane matrix. It is clearly shown that depending on the amount of foreign salt, the large size of charged species regardless of its polarity plays a positive role in promoting charge inversion. Moreover, our findings indicate that charge inversion do not signify the reversal of the electrophoretic mobility, in consistent with the recent theoretical predictions by Horno and co-workers [J. Colloid Interface Sci. 356, 325 (2011)]. In addition, the depletion effect triggered by repulsive image forces which are intertwined with the excluded volume correlations gives rise to an anomalous overcharging for low surface charged surface in the high concentrations of trivalent salt. Overall, the ion distribution in a double layer is exclusively governed by entropic and electrostatic contributions but with preferentially leading status for different magnitudes of surface charge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Availability of high-performance anode materials remains a great challenge for the clean energy storage systems. Here, we predict the planar hexacoordinate Be 2 Zn monolayer by first-principles calculations as a highly conductive metallic conductor with all-round structural stabilities. More impressively, the material delivers ultrahigh theoretical specific capacities of 1285, 1928, 1285, and 3856 mA h g−1 for Li, Na, K, and Ca atoms, respectively, with low migration barriers of 18, 7, 4, and 119 meV as well as with favorite average open-circuit voltages of 0.346, 0.366, 0.322, and 0.151 V. Its structural reversibility at the maximum loading concentrations is jointly confirmed by ab-initio molecular dynamics simulations at the upper temperature of 400 K for commercial battery operation under normal ambient environments and subsequent energy minimization calculations. Moreover, the monolayer can tolerate heavy tensile strain up to around 20% far surpassing the structural deformations at different charging stages, which convincingly guarantees its superlative cycle stability during the charging and discharging processes. Taken together, these appealing findings show that the metallic Be 2 Zn monolayer has great potential to be used as a universal Li, Na, K, and Ca ion battery anode. • Be 2 Zn is predicted to an extremely rare planar hypercoordinate monolayer. • Be 2 Zn holds excellent electronic and ionic conductivities. • Be 2 Zn exhibits the favorable mean open-circuit voltages. • Be 2 Zn delivers ultrahigh reversible capacities. • Be 2 Zn shows outstanding cycle stability for anode applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transverse spins of guided waves and surface waves are studied in a rigorous and unified manner. In particular, analytical derivations show that the transverse spin of guided waves also depends on the mean direction of propagation, which may have important applications in spin-dependent unidirectional optical interfaces. As an example of which, we propose two optical logic gates related to the transverse spin of guided waves, i.e., the XNOR and XOR gates, which are realized via the Y-shaped and the T-shaped waveguides, respectively. The extinction ratios of XNOR and XOR logic gates are 16 dB and 14 dB respectively. Our results may have potential application value in the design of nanoscale integrated all-optical logic gate devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A meta-analysis was performed to analyze the efficacy of 3% hypertonic saline (HS) in bronchiolitis. Pubmed and MEDLINE databases were searched for relevant articles. A total of 2 authors selected the articles according to the inclusion criteria and then data were carefully extracted. Weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95% confidence interval (95% CI) values were used to pool continuous data, including length of stay and clinical severity score (CSS). Relative risk (RR) with 95% CI was calculated to determine the association between 3% HS and re-admission. The pooled data revealed that infants treated with 3% HS exhibited shorter durations of hospitalization compared with those treated with normal saline (NS; WMD=−0.43; 95% CI=−0.70, −0.15). Subgroup analysis examining the combination of HS or NS with additional medication demonstrated that 3% HS with epinephrine significantly decreased the length of hospital stay, with a WMD=−0.62 (95% CI=−0.90, −0.33). The results indicated a lower CSS score in the 3% HS group compared with the NS group (SMD=−0.80; 95% CI=−1.06, −0.54). The pooled outcome indicated a beneficial effect of 3% HS on decreasing re-admission rates compared with NS (RR=0.93; 95% CI=0.70, 1.23). No potential publication bias was observed (Begg's, P=0.133; Egger's, P=0.576). In conclusion, 3% HS was demonstrated to be a more successful therapy compared with NS for infants with bronchiolitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suppose that 0 < | ρ | < 1 and m ≥ 2 is an integer. Let μ ρ , m be the self-similar measure defined by μ ρ , m ( ⋅ ) = 1 m ∑ j = 0 m − 1 μ ρ , m ( ρ − 1 ( ⋅ ) − j ) . In this paper, we prove that L 2 ( μ ρ , m ) contains an infinite orthonormal set of exponential functions if and only if ρ = ± ( q / p ) 1 / r for some p , q , r ∈ N + with gcd ( p , q ) = 1 and gcd ( p , m ) > 1 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Whole genome variants offer sufficient information for genetic prediction of human disease risk, and prediction of animal and plant breeding values. Many sophisticated statistical methods have been developed for enhancing the predictive ability. However, each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, so far, no one method can beat others. Results: We herein propose an Ensemble Learning method for Prediction of Genetic Values (ELPGV), which assembles predictions from several basic methods such as GBLUP, BayesA, BayesB and BayesCπ, to produce more accurate predictions. We validated ELPGV with a variety of well-known datasets and a serious of simulated datasets. All revealed that ELPGV was able to significantly enhance the predictive ability than any basic methods, for instance, the comparison p-value of ELPGV over basic methods were varied from 4.853E−118 to 9.640E−20 for WTCCC dataset. Conclusions: ELPGV is able to integrate the merit of each method together to produce significantly higher predictive ability than any basic methods and it is simple to implement, fast to run, without using genotype data. is promising for wide application in genetic predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims. Bladder cancer–specific nuclear matrix protein-4 (BLCA-4) is a protein expressed mainly in bladder cancer tissues. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate its assisting diagnostic potential in non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). Methods. Twenty patients with NMIBC, 20 with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and 20 normal controls were included in this study. Blood and urine samples were collected from all patients. Moreover, cancer foci and adjacent tissue samples were collected from NMIBC patients, and normal bladder tissue samples were collected from patients with BPH. A competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to determine the BLCA-4 level in serum and urine, and immunohistochemistry was used to examine BLCA-4 expression in bladder cancer, adjacent, and normal tissues. Results. Median urinary BLCA-4 levels in the NMIBC, BPH, and normal control groups were 0.759 ng/mL, 0.309 ng/mL, and 0.171 ng/mL, respectively. Urinary BLCA-4 level was significantly higher in the NMIBC group than in the other 2 groups (P<0.01); meanwhile, the BPH group was higher than the normal control group (P<0.05). Median serum BLCA-4 levels in the NMIBC, BPH, and normal control groups were 5.680 ng/mL, 5.928 ng/mL, and 5.473 ng/mL, respectively, showing no significant difference among groups (P>0.05). Conclusion. As a new marker of bladder cancer, urinary BLCA-4 level detection might apply for clinical diagnosis or postoperative monitoring for NMIBC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Aims: To investigate the efficacy of chitin biological absorbable catheters in a rat model of autologous nerve transplantation. Methods: A segment of sciatic nerve was removed to produce a sciatic nerve defect, and the sural nerve was cut from the ipsilateral leg and used as a graft to bridge the defect, with or without use of a chitin biological absorbable catheter surrounding the graft. The number and morphology of regenerating myelinated fibers, nerve conduction velocity, nerve function index, triceps surae muscle morphology, and sensory function were evaluated at 9 and 12 months after surgery. Results: All of the above parameters were improved in rats in which the nerve graft was bridged with chitin biological absorbable catheters compared with rats without catheters. Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that use of chitin biological absorbable catheters to surround sural nerve grafts bridging sciatic nerve defects promotes recovery of structural, motor, and sensory function and improves muscle fiber morphology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let D n = { 0 , a n , b n } = { 0 , 1 , 2 } ( m o d 3 ) , p n ∈ 3 Z + , n ≥ 1 , satisfy sup n ≥ 1 ⁡ max ⁡ { | a n | , | b n | } p n < ∞ . It is well-known that there exists a unique Borel probability measure μ { p n } , { D n } generated by the following infinite convolution product μ { p n } , { D n } = δ p 1 − 1 D 1 ⁎ δ ( p 1 p 2 ) − 1 D 2 ⁎ ⋯ in the weak convergence. In this paper, we give some conditions to ensure that there exists a discrete set Λ such that the exponential function system { e 2 π i λ x } λ ∈ Λ forms an orthonormal basis for L 2 ( μ { p n } , { D n } ) . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2009, the draft genome of the reference inbred line of maize ( Zea mays L. spp. mays cv. B73) was published so that, using this specific corn variety, molecular analyses of physiological processes became possible. However, the morphology and developmental patterns of B73 maize, compared with that of the more frequently used hybrid varieties, have not yet been analyzed. Here, we describe organ development in seedlings of B73 maize and in those of six other hybrid cultivars, and document significant morphological as well as quantitative differences between these varieties of Z. mays. In a second set of experiments, we used etiolated seedlings of B73 maize to analyze the effect of blue light (BL) on the patterns of proteins in the tip vs. growing region of this sheath-like organ. By using two-dimensional difference gel electrophoresis (2D DIGE), coupled with tandem mass spectrometry, we detected, in the microsomal fraction of maize coleoptile tips, rapid changes in the abundance of protein spots of maize phototropin 1 and several metabolic enzymes. In the sub-apical (growing) region of the coleoptile, proteomic changes were less pronounced. These results suggest that the tip of the coleoptile of B73 maize may serve as a unique model system for dissecting BL responses in a light-sensitive plant organ of known function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A new non-convex regularization is utilized to attain robustness and sparseness, and its proximity operator is derived, which makes the corresponding optimization problem solvable in an efficient manner. • We theoretically analyze that any limit point of the iterates is a critical point of the objective function. • There are no tunable parameters other than the termination conditions in the proposed algorithm and experiments demonstrate that our method exhibits better restoration results, compared with the competing approaches. In this paper, we propose a new non-convex regularization term named half-quadratic function to achieve robustness and sparseness for robust principal component analysis, and derive its proximity operator, indicating that the resultant optimization problem can be solved in computationally attractive manner. In addition, the low-rank matrix component is expressed as the factorization form and proximal block coordinate descent is leveraged to seek its solution, whose convergence is rigorously analyzed. We prove that any limit point of the iterations is a critical point of the objective function. Furthermore, the parameter that controls the robustness and sparseness in our algorithm, is automatically adjusted according to the statistical residual error. Experimental results based on synthetic and real-world data demonstrate that the devised algorithm can effectively extract the low-rank and sparse components. MATLAB code is available at https://github.com/bestzywang. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common neurodegenerative disorder associated with dementia, not only severely decreases the quality of life for its victims, but also brings a heavy economic burden to the family and society. Unfortunately, few chemical drugs designed for clinical applications have reached the expected preventive or therapeutic effect so far, and combined with their significant side-effects, there is therefore an urgent need for new strategies to be developed for AD treatment. Traditional Chinese Medicine has accumulated many experiences in the treatment of dementia during thousands of years of practice; modern pharmacological studies have confirmed the therapeutic effects of many active components derived from Chinese herbal medicines (CHM). Ginsenoside Rg1, extracted from Radix Ginseng, exerts a -secretase inhibitor effect so as to decrease A aggregation. It can also inhibit the apoptosis of neuron cells. Tanshinone IIA, extracted from Radix Salviae miltiorrhizae, and baicalin, extracted from Radix Scutellariae can inhibit the oxidative stress injury in neuronal cells. Icariin, extracted from Epimedium brevicornum, can decrease A levels and the hyperphosphorylation of tau protein, and can also inhibit oxidative stress and apoptosis. Huperzine A, extracted from Huperzia serrata, exerts a cholinesterase inhibitor effect. Evodiamine, extracted from Fructus Evodiae, and curcumin, extracted from Rhizoma Curcumae Longae, exert anti-inflammatory actions. Curcumin can act on A and tau too. Due to the advantages of multi-target effects and fewer side effects, Chinese medicine is more appropriate for long-term use. In this present review, the pharmacological effects of commonly used active components derived from Chinese herbal medicines in the treatment of AD are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent studies suggest that tumor-associated macrophage-produced IL-6 is an important mediator within the tumor microenvironment that promotes tumor growth. The activation of IL-6/STAT3 axis has been associated with chemoresistance and poor prognosis of a variety of cancers including colorectal carcinoma and thus serves as a potential immunotherapeutic target for cancer treatment. However, it is not fully understood whether anticytokine therapy could reverse chemosensitivity and enhance the suppressive effect of chemotherapy on tumor growth. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of IL-6 inhibition therapy on the antitumor effect of carboplatin. Enhanced expression of IL-6 and activation of STAT3 were observed in human colorectal carcinoma samples compared to normal colorectal tissue, with higher levels of IL-6/STAT3 in low grade carcinomas. Treatment of carboplatin (CBP) dose-dependently increased IL-6 production and STAT3 activation in human colorectal LoVo cells. Blockade of IL-6 with neutralizing antibody enhanced chemosensitivity of LoVo cells to carboplatin as evidenced by increased cell apoptosis. IL-6 blockade abolished carboplatin-induced STAT3 activation. IL-6 blockade and carboplatin synergistically reduced cyclin D1 expression and enhanced caspase-3 activity in LoVo cells. Our results suggest that inhibition of IL-6 may enhance chemosensitivity of colon cancers with overactive STAT3 to platinum agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shoot of grass coleoptiles consists of the mesocotyl, the node, and the coleoptile (with enclosed primary leaf). Since the 1930s, it is known that auxin (indole-3-acetic acid, IAA), produced in the tip of the coleoptile, is the central regulator of turgor-driven organ growth. Fifty years ago, it was discovered that antibiotics that suppress protein biosynthesis, such as cycloheximide, inhibit auxin (IAA)-induced cell elongation in excised sections of coleoptiles and stems. Based on such inhibitor studies, the concept of 'growth-limiting proteins (GLPs)' emerged that was subsequently elaborated and modified. Here, we summarize the history of this idea with reference to IAA-mediated shoot elongation in maize ( Zea mays) seedlings and recent studies on the molecular mechanism underlying auxin action in Arabidopsis thaliana. In addition, the analysis of light-induced inhibition of shoot elongation in intact corn seedlings is discussed. We propose a concept to account for the GLP-mediated epidermal wall-loosening process in coleoptile segments and present a more general model of growth regulation in intact maize seedlings. Quantitative proteomic and genomic studies led to a refinement of the classic 'GLP concept' to explain phytohormone-mediated cell elongation at the molecular level (i.e., the recently proposed theory of a 'central growth regulation network,' CGRN). Novel data show that mesocotyl elongation not only depends on auxin but also on brassinosteroids (BRs). However, the biochemical key processes that regulate the IAA/BR-mediated loosening of the expansion-limiting epidermal wall(s) have not yet been elucidated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Though people have experimentally studied the temperature dependence of the refractive index (RI) of optical fibers made of amorphous silica (a-SiO 2 ), the temperature ranges in the previous experiments are usually below 800 K, and a rigorous theoretical model for the experimental results has still been absent. In this paper, the temperature dependence of the RI of a-SiO 2 is studied theoretically and experimentally, where by means of an optical fiber delay line, the experiment is carried out in the temperature range of 301–1275 K for the first time, and the theoretical result agrees well with the experimental one. Our work has potential application in temperature sensors by means of optical fiber delay lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We devise a new robust rank-one matrix completion algorithm based on maximum correntropy, which is not only robust to outliers, but also does not require the matrix rank. • To solve the non-convex optimization and obtain a high computational efficiency, half-quadratic optimization is adopted. • The kernel size is adaptive and there are no tunable parameters except for the termination conditions. Matrix completion refers to seeking a low-rank matrix to match an incomplete matrix and fill its missing entries, and is an important topic because many real-world data can be modeled as low-rank matrices. Most existing schemes rely on ℓ 2 -norm minimization and hence are not robust to outliers. Even the ℓ 1 -norm based robust matrix completion algorithms proposed in the literature have poor recovery performance for large gross errors, and require knowing the matrix rank, which is difficult to accurately determine in practice. In this paper, we devise a robust and fast rank-one matrix completion algorithm via combining the maximum correntropy criterion (MCC) and half-quadratic (HQ) optimization theory. The MCC, i.e., minimizing the Welsch cost function, can resist the gross errors but it is non-convex. While HQ optimization can transform the Welsch cost function into a quadratic form, making the resultant optimization problem easy to solve. Furthermore, an adaptive kernel width strategy is derived and there are no tunable parameters except for the termination conditions in our algorithm. Computer simulations using synthetic data and experimental results of real-world images demonstrate that the developed method achieves accurate recovery performance and high computational efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder that is often associated with weak tongue motility. However, the link between the degenerated dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN) and lingual dysfunction remains unclear. In the present study, we investigated the localization of dopamine receptor 1 (D1) and dopamine receptor 2 (D2) and alternations in their expression in cholinergic motoneurons of the hypoglossal nucleus (HN) using double-label immunofluorescence, Western blotting and semi-quantitative reverse transcription and polymerase chain reaction (SqRT–PCR) in rats that received microinjections of 6-hydroxydopamine bilaterally into the SN (6-OHDA rats). The results revealed that a large population of choline acetyltransferase immunoreactive (ChAT-IR) neurons was distributed throughout HN and that almost all of the ChAT-IR motoneurons were also D1-IR and D2-IR. Several tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-IR profiles were observed in a nonuniform pattern near the ChAT-IR, D1-IR or D2-IR somas, suggesting potent dopaminergic innervation. In the 6-OHDA rats, TH immunoreactivity in the SN was significantly decreased, but food residue was increased and treadmill occupancy time was shortened. In the HN, protein expression of TH and D2 was increased, whereas that of ChAT and D1 was decreased. A similar pattern was observed in mRNA levels. The present study suggests that dopamine may modulate the activity of cholinergic neurons via binding with D1 and D2 in the HN. Changes in the expression of ChAT, TH, D1 and D2 in the HN of 6-OHDA rats might be associated with the impaired tongue motility in PD. These findings should be further investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that is characterized by degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN). Destruction of the SN can lead to gastric dyskinesis accompanied by decreased expression of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) and increased expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) in the dorsal vagus complex (DVC), which includes the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMV) and nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS). However, it is unclear if the SN and DVC are directly connected. Objective: To investigate the neural projection from the SN to the DVC in rats. Methods: Retrograde and anterograde tracing techniques combined with double-labeling immunofluorescence technique were used. Results: Destruction of the SN significantly decreases ChAT immunoreactivity (IR) and increases TH-IR in the DVC. After injection of the retrograde tracer fluoro-gold (FG) into the DVC, FG-labeled neurons were observed in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN), lateral hypothalamus (LH), inferior olive (IO), and locus coeruleus (LC). No FG-positive cells were observed in the SN or striatum. Furthermore, after injection of anterograde tracer biotinylated dextran amine (BDA) into the SN, BDA-positive fibers were observed in the caudate putamen (Cpu), globus pallidus (GP), LC, and LH but not in the DVC. Conclusion: This study is the first to demonstrate that neurons in the SN do not directly innervate the DVC in rats. The DVC might be indirectly innervated by the SN through the hypothalamus and/or the LC. These data provide important morphological insights into the potential mechanism underlying the gastroparesis observed in PD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Observational studies suggest that B vitamin supplementation reduces cardiovascular risk in adults, but this association remains controversial. This study aimed to summarize the evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating B vitamin supplementation for the primary or secondary prevention of major adverse cardiovascular outcomes and to perform a cumulative meta-analysis to determine the evidence base. Methodology and Principal Findings: In April 2013, we searched PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library to identify relevant RCTs. We included RCTs investigating the effect of B vitamin supplementation on cardiovascular outcome. Relative risk (RR) was used to measure the effect using a random-effect model. Statistical heterogeneity scores were assessed using the Q statistic. We included data on 57,952 individuals from 24 RCTs: 12 primary prevention trials and 12 secondary prevention trials. In 23 of these trials, 10,917 major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) occurred; in 20 trials, 7,203 deaths occurred; in 15 trials, 3,422 cardiac deaths occurred; in 19 trials, 3,623 myocardial infarctions (MI) occurred; and in 18 trials, 2,465 strokes occurred. B vitamin supplementation had little or no effect on the incidence of MACE (RR, 0.98; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.93–1.03; P = 0.37), total mortality (RR, 1.01; 95% CI: 0.97–1.05; P = 0.77), cardiac death (RR, 0.96; 95% CI: 0.90–1.02; P = 0.21), MI (RR, 0.99; 95% CI: 0.93–1.06; P = 0.82), or stroke (RR, 0.94; 95% CI: 0.85–1.03; P = 0.18). Conclusion/Significance: B vitamin supplementation, when used for primary or secondary prevention, is not associated with a reduction in MACE, total mortality, cardiac death, MI, or stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large yellow croaker (Larimichthys crocea) is one of the most important marine fish in China, representing the highest yield of fish species in marine net cage aquaculture. In recent years, the rotten body disease caused by scuticociliate was the main perniciousness for the fish fry, and led considerable economic losses. To date, no treatments had proven to be effective to the disease, so it was urgent to carry out the researches on disease-resistance breeding of this fish. Based on genome resequence for a natural population, a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to identify those loci associated with the rotten body disease resistance was performed in this work. A total of 3000 fish from 6 sub-populations were collected, and 270 phenotypic extremes were selected for genotyping. Two analysis models were employed to verify the accuracy and reliability of GWAS results. 2,019,067 SNPs were remained, and 14 SNPs were finally identified to be correlated with disease resistance, explaining phenotypic variance ranging from 5.4% to 9.2%. Within these regions, 5 candidate genes, NF-κB1, UBXN1, PTX3, DAB2IP and CYR61, which were involved in NF-κB signaling pathway, suggested the importance of NF-κB signaling pathway in the disease resistance. These results showed the complex polygenic architecture in large yellow croaker resistance against parasite scuticociliate. It also provided valuable foundation for future marker-assisted selection breeding of large yellow croaker against scuticociliate. • GWAS was firstly applied on rotten disease resistance in L.crocea by genome resequence. • Five candidate genes were found, which were involved in NF-κB signaling pathway. • The scuticociliate resistance trait in L.crocea might be controlled by multigenes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large yellow croaker (Larimichthys crocea) is one of the most important marine fish in China, representing the highest yield of fish species in marine net cage aquaculture. In recent years, the rotten body disease caused by scuticociliate was the main perniciousness for the fish fry, and led considerable economic losses. To date, no treatments had proven to be effective to the disease, so it was urgent to carry out the researches on disease-resistance breeding of this fish. Based on genome resequence for a natural population, a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to identify those loci associated with the rotten body disease resistance was performed in this work. A total of 3000 fish from 6 sub-populations were collected, and 270 phenotypic extremes were selected for genotyping. Two analysis models were employed to verify the accuracy and reliability of GWAS results. 2,019,067 SNPs were remained, and 14 SNPs were finally identified to be correlated with disease resistance, explaining phenotypic variance ranging from 5.4% to 9.2%. Within these regions, 5 candidate genes, NF-κB1, UBXN1, PTX3, DAB2IP and CYR61, which were involved in NF-κB signaling pathway, suggested the importance of NF-κB signaling pathway in the disease resistance. These results showed the complex polygenic architecture in large yellow croaker resistance against parasite scuticociliate. It also provided valuable foundation for future marker-assisted selection breeding of large yellow croaker against scuticociliate. • GWAS was firstly applied on rotten disease resistance in L.crocea by genome resequence. • Five candidate genes were found, which were involved in NF-κB signaling pathway. • The scuticociliate resistance trait in L.crocea might be controlled by multigenes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We investigate the figure of merit of a quantum dot (QD) system irradiated with an external microwave filed by nonequilibrium Greenʼs function (NGF) technique. Results show that the frequency of microwave field influence the figure of merit ZT significantly. At low temperature, a sharp peak can be observed in the figure of merit ZT as the frequency of ac field increases. As the frequency varies, several zero points and resonant peaks emerge in the figure of merit ZT. By adjusting the frequency of the microwave field, we can obtain high ZT. The figure of merit ZT increases with the decreasing of linewidth function Γ. In addition, Wiedemann–Franz law does not hold, particularly in the low frequency region due to multi-photon emission and absorption. Some novel thermoelectric properties are also found in two-level QD system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Based on anisomerous double nanostructure, an electron-spin filter can be formed [M.W. Lu, Appl. Surf. Sci. 252 (2005) 1747]. To structurally manipulate the spin polarization in spin filter, we dope a tunable into the device by using modern material growth techniques such as molecular beam epitaxy. It is shown that the degree of electron-spin polarization depends greatly on the height and/or position of the . Thus, the device can be used as a tunable spin-polarized source by the . [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To understand the precipitates in Mg–Zn alloys, we perform first-principles calculations to investigate the stability and elastic properties of Laves MgZn2 and monoclinic Mg4Zn7. We find that the relative stability of MgZn2 and Mg4Zn7 is dependent on their compositions, implying that either one or both of the phases can exist within precipitates. The elastic moduli indicate that the strain resistance of MgZn2 and Mg4Zn7 is much greater than that of Mg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The spin-wave resonance (SWR) frequency in a ferromagnetic thin film with single-ion surface and bulk anisotropies has been studied by using the linear spin-wave approximation and Green''s function techniques. The effects of surface and bulk anisotropies, film thickness, spin quantum number, and external magnetic field on the SWR frequency have been investigated. It is found that the SWR frequencies all increase, as the external magnetic field, the bulk anisotropy, and the spin quantum number increase, respectively. The surface anisotropy affects strongly the SWR frequencies of the middle and low modes (except for the lowest one). With large bulk anisotropy, the surface anisotropy affects mainly the resonance frequency of the lowest spin-wave mode. As the film thickness decreases, the SWR frequency of the same mode increases. The present results direct the method to enhance and adjust the SWR frequency of ferromagnetic thin films. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We report a theoretical investigation on the Goos–Hänchen (GH) effect of spin electron beams in realistic magnetic-barrier (MB) nanostructures under an applied voltage, which can be experimentally created by lithographic patterning of ferromagnetic (FM) or superconducting films. GH shifts of spin electron beams are calculated numerically for the InAs material system, with the help of the stationary phase method. It is shown that a significant spin polarization effect can be induced by such MB nanostructures with symmetric magnetic field profiles. It also is shown that both magnitude and sign of the spin polarization is closely relative to the electric barrier (EB) produced by a constant voltage applied to the metallic FM stripe of system. These interesting properties may provide an alternative way to spin injection into the semiconductor, and such nanostructures can serve as voltage-tunable spin beam splitters. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Time operator is studied on the basis of field quantization, where the difficulty stemming from Pauliʼs theorem is circumvented by borrowing ideas from the covariant quantization of the bosonic string, i.e., one can remove the negative energy states by imposing Virasoro constraints. Applying the index theorem, one can show that in a different subspace of a Fock space, there is a different self-adjoint time operator. However, the self-adjoint time operator in the maximal subspace of the Fock space can also represent the self-adjoint time operator in the other subspaces, such that it can be taken as the single, universal time operator. Furthermore, a new insight on Pauliʼs theorem is presented. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In plants, the steroidal hormone brassinosteroid (BR) regulates numerous developmental processes, including photomorphogenesis. Genetic, proteomic, and genomic studies in Arabidopsis have illustrated a fully connected BR signal transduction pathway from the cell surface receptor kinase BRI1 to the BZR1 family of transcription factors. Genome-wide analyses of protein-DNA interactions have identified thousands of BZR1 target genes that link BR signaling to various cellular, metabolic, and developmental processes, as well as other signaling pathways. In controlling photomorphogenesis, BR signaling is highly integrated with the light, gibberellin, and auxin pathways through both direct interactions between signaling proteins and transcriptional regulation of key components of these pathways. BR signaling also cross talks with other receptor kinase pathways to modulate stomata development and innate immunity. The molecular connections in the BR signaling network demonstrate a robust steroid signaling system that has evolved in plants to orchestrate signal transduction, genome expression, metabolism, defense, and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The year 2012 marks the 150th anniversary of the publication of Charles Darwin's first botanical book, on the fertilization of orchids (1862), wherein he described pollen grains and outlined his evolutionary principles with respect to plant research. Five decades later, the growth-promoting effect of extracts of Orchid pollen on coleoptile elongation was documented. These studies led to the discovery of a new class of phytohormones, the brassinosteroids (BRs) that were isolated from rapeseed (Brassica napus) pollen. These growth-promoting steroids, which regulate height, fertility, and seed-filling in crop plants such as rice (Oryza sativa), also induce stress- and disease resistance in green algae and angiosperms. The origin and current status of BR-research is described here, with reference to BR-action and -signal transduction, and it is shown that modern high-yield rice varieties with erect leaves are deficient in endogenous BRs. Since brassinosteroids induce pathogen resistance in rice plants and hence can suppress rice blast- and bacterial blight-diseases, genetic manipulation of BR-biosynthesis or -perception may be a means to increase crop production. Basic research on BR activity in plants, such as Arabidopsis and rice, has the potential to increase crop yields further as part of a 21th century ‘green biotech-revolution’ that can be traced back to Darwin's classical breeding experiments. It is concluded that ‘Nothing in brassinosteroid research makes sense except in the light of Darwinian evolution’ and the value of basic science is highlighted, with reference to the genetic engineering of better food crops that may become resistant to a variety of plant diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In terms of the volume-integrated Poynting vector, we present a quantum field-theory investigation of the zitterbewegung (ZB) of photons, and show that this ZB occurs only in the presence of virtual longitudinal and scalar photons. To present a heuristic explanation for such a ZB, by assuming that the space time is sufficiently close to the flat Minkowski space, we show that the gravitational interaction can result in the ZB of photons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Parkinson''s disease (PD) has been characterized by dopaminergic neuron degeneration in the substantia nigra (SN) accompanied by pathology of the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMV). PD patients have often experienced gastrointestinal dysfunctions, such as gastroparesis. However, the mechanism underlying these symptoms in PD patients is not clear. In the present study, we investigated alterations of cholinergic and catecholaminergic neurons in the DMV and gastric motor function in rats microinjected with 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) bilaterally into the SN (referred to as 6-OHDA rats) and explored possible mechanisms. A strain gauge force transducer was used to record gastric motility in vivo. Expression of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) was evaluated by immunofluorescence and western blot analysis. Acetylcholine (Ach) content was measured using ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC/MS/MS) analysis. After treatment with 6-OHDA for 6weeks, 6-OHDA rats exhibited decreased ChAT and enhanced TH expression in the DMV and decreased Ach content in the gastric muscular layer. Delayed gastric emptying and impaired gastric motility in vivo were observed in 6-OHDA rats. The results of the present study indicated that decreased ChAT and enhanced TH expression in the DMV may be correlated with the development of delayed gastric emptying and impaired gastric motility, which may be partly due to the decreased Ach release from the vagus. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) plays an important role in innate immune responses. In this report, the full-length cDNA sequence and genomic structure of Pseudosciaena crocea TLR3 (PcTLR3) were identified and characterized. The full-length cDNA of PcTLR3 was of 3384bp, including a 5′-terminal untranslated region (UTR) of 65bp, a 3′-terminal UTR of 589bp and an open reading frame (ORF) of 2730bp encoding a polypeptide of 909 amino acid residues. The full-length genome sequence of PcTLR3 was composed of 5721 nucleotides, including five exons and four introns. The putative PcTLR3 protein contained a signal peptide sequence, 16 leucine-rich repeat (LRR) motifs, a transmembrane region and a Toll/interleukin-1 receptor (TIR) domain. Quantitative real-time reverse transcription PCR analysis revealed a broad expression of PcTLR3 in most tissues, with the predominant expression in liver, then intestine, and the weakest expression in blood cells. The expression of PcTLR3 after injection with poly inosinic:cytidylic (I:C) and Vibrio parahemolyticus was tested in spleen, blood cells and liver. The results indicated that PcTLR3 transcripts could be induced in the three tissues by injection with poly I:C. The highest expression was in the blood cells with 43.5 times (at 6h) greater expression than in the control (p <0.05). In addition, after V. parahemolyticus challenge, a moderate up-regulation and down-regulation of PcTLR3 was found in blood cells and liver, respectively. Our results suggested that PcTLR3 might play an important role in fish’s defense against both viral and bacterial infection. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Formosa landlocked salmon ( Oncorhynchus masou formosanus), an endemic, critically endangered subspecies of Cherry salmon ( Oncorhynchus masou) complex, is only found in Taiwan. Because the eyed eggs and ungutted carcasses of Pacific salmons (genus Oncorhynchus) are imported for aquaculture and food to Taiwan from overseas every year, the requirement for preventing illegal trade or accidental commercial imports to avoid unwanted fish from contaminating the gene pool of Formosa landlocked salmon and infect them with diseases is critical for the conservation of Formosa landlocked salmon. Traditional morphology-based species identification is impossible for salmon eggs and larvae that lack clearly defined morphological features. In the present study, the genetic differences among four subspecies ( Oncorhynchus masou ishikawae, O. masou subsp., Oncorhynchus masou masou and O. masou formosanus) of Cherry salmon complex were determined from microsatellite DNA and amplified fragment length polymorphism analyses. We successfully generated a genetic marker to aid traditional taxonomy and investigate the integrity of the current taxonomic status among members of Cherry salmon complex. Use of molecular markers, in combination with traditional morphological identification, is a promising tool for identifying four closely related subspecies of Cherry salmon complex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]