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The forkhead box O (FoxO) protein is the main transcriptional effector downstream of the insulin/insulin‐like signaling pathway and regulates many developmental and physiological processes. Holometabolous insects with loss‐of‐function mutations in FoxO exhibit phenotypes distinct from those of hemimetabolous insects in which RNA interference was used. Despite the functional importance of FoxO, whether hemimetabolous insects share an evolutionally conserved function of FoxO with holometabolous insects remains to be clarified. We used the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR‐associated 9 (CRISPR/Cas9) genome editing‐system to establish a homozygous FoxO‐null mutant (NlFoxO4E) of the wing‐dimorphic brown planthopper (BPH) Nilaparvata lugens, an economically important insect pest of rice fields. The phenotypes of NlFoxO4E mutants included extended nymphal duration, shortened lifespan, reduced reproduction, and decreased stress resistance. In addition, depletion of NlFoxO promoted cell proliferation in wing buds and led to 100% long‐winged morphs, in stark contrast to short‐winged wild‐type BPHs. These findings indicate that NlFoxO is highly functionally conserved with its counterpart in holometabolous insects, and is required for optimal fitness of N. lugens. The insights from FoxO studies may facilitate the identification of potential target genes for BPH control applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The large extracellular matrix protein hemicentin-1 from mouse and zebrafish physically binds to the basement membrane protein nidogen-2. • Hemincentin-1 and laminins compete for binding to the G3 domain of nidogen-2, with binding between hemicentin-1 and nidogen-2 occurring kinetically faster, but binding between laminin and nidogen-2 being thermodynamically more stable. Hemicentin-1 and nidogen-2 display partially overlapping localization in. • different mouse and zebrafish tissues. • Loss-of-function studies in zebrafish embryos indicate that hemicentin-1, nidogen-2 and laminin-5 are all required for proper epidermal-dermal junction formation. • Synergistic enhancement studies via combined partial loss-of-function conditions in zebrafish embryos point to a tight genetic interaction between hemicentin-1 and nidogen-2 as well as between laminin-5 and nidogen-2, but not between hemicentin-1 and laminin-5, to promote epidermal-dermal junction formation, in line with the identified differential physical binding properties. • A model is proposed according to which hemicentin-1 plays a temporary, chaperone-like role during early steps of basement membrane formation, allowing molecular nidogen-2 networking before its G3-mediated binding to laminins. Hemicentins are large proteins of the extracellular matrix that belong to the fibulin family and play pivotal roles during development and homeostasis of a variety of invertebrate and vertebrate tissues. However, bona fide interaction partners of hemicentins have not been described as yet. Here, applying surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy and co-immunoprecipitation, we identify the basement membrane protein nidogen-2 (NID2) as a binding partner of mouse and zebrafish hemicentin-1 (HMCN1), in line with the formerly described essential role of mouse HMCN1 in basement membrane integrity. We show that HMCN1 binds to the same protein domain of NID2 (G2) as formerly shown for laminins, but with an approximately 3.5-fold lower affinity and in a competitive manner. Furthermore, immunofluorescence and immunogold labeling revealed that HMCN1/Hmcn1 is localized close to basement membranes and in partial overlap with NID2/Nid2a in different tissues of mouse and zebrafish. Genetic knockout and antisense-mediated knockdown studies in zebrafish further show that loss of Nid2a leads to similar defects in fin fold morphogenesis as the loss of Laminin-α5 (Lama5) or Hmcn1. Finally, combined partial loss-of-function studies indicated that nid2a genetically interacts with both hmcn1 and lama5. Together, these findings suggest that despite their mutually exclusive physical binding, hemicentins, nidogens, and laminins tightly cooperate and support each other during formation, maintenance, and function of basement membranes to confer tissue linkage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kaon generalized parton distributions (GPDs) and the leading Fock state light-front wave functions are investigated in the framework of Nambu–Jona-Lasinio model with proper time regularization. In addition, we compared the form factors, parton distribution functions, and generalized form factors obtained from them, respectively. The first Mellin moments of GPDs result in the form factors of local currents. The second Mellin moments of vector GPDs are related to gravitational form factors, the quark mass distribution θ 2 and the quark pressure distribution θ 1 . When taking a Fourier transform of GPDs in impact parameter space, we can get the mean-squared impact parameter for the quarks of the kaon: ⟨ b ⊥ 2 ⟩ K u = 0.149 fm 2 , ⟨ b ⊥ 2 ⟩ K s = 0.088 fm 2 . This means that the kaon s quark is nearer to the center of transverse momentum than the u quark. We also give the light-cone energy radius for the quarks of the kaon from the mass distribution θ 2 : r E , L C u , K = 0.187 fm, r E , L C s , K = 0.167 fm, and the light-cone charge radius from quark form factors of the kaon: r c , L C u , K = 0.390 fm, r c , L C s , K = 0.296 fm, which means that the s quark has a smaller extent than the u quark. The light-front transverse-spin distributions ρ u 1 b ⊥ , s ⊥ and ρ u 2 b ⊥ , s ⊥ show distortions, the average shift are ⟨ b ⊥ y ⟩ 1 u = 0.116 fm and ⟨ b ⊥ y ⟩ 2 u = 0.083 fm. On the kinematic domain associated with the valence-quark dominance, the unpolarized Wigner distribution from light-front wave functions is sharply peaked. It extends as the transverse position variable increases in magnitude and has a domain of negative support. Through the comparison of distributions from the two methods, we find that they give the same multi-dimensional mapping of the kaon in the Nambu–Jona-Lasinio model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the value of a horizontal rafting plate in treating tibial plateau fractures. Methods: The data of 24 patients in whom a horizontal rafting plate was used to treat a tibial plateau fracture between October 2014 and January 2018 were retrospectively analyzed, including 16 males and 8 females, aged 21–63 years old, with an average of 40 ± 14.68 years. The fractures included 13 in the left knee and 11 in the right knee. The places where the horizontal rafting plate were used included the anterior margin of tibia, anterolateral tibia, and posterolateral tibia. All cases were followed up for 12–24 months, with an average follow‐up of 17.5 ± 5.0 months. At the last follow‐up, the Rasmussen radiological criteria were used to evaluate the effect of fracture reduction and fixation. The knee joint function was evaluated using the Rasmussen functional score. Computed tomography (CT) scanning and three‐dimensional reconstruction were performed preoperatively and postoperatively, with the quality of reduction of the fractured articular surface clarified by the final follow‐up. The flexion and extension abilities of the knee joint were also measured in the postoperative follow‐up. Results: Preoperative CT scanning showed that the gap of the tibial plateau was 8.00 ± 1.40 (5–24) mm. The heights of the fracture of the articular surface at all three sites during the final follow‐ups were significantly different from the height before the surgery (P < 0.05). The vertical distance between the articular line and the highest point of the articular surface after reduction was 0.17 ± 0.05 mm. Anatomic reductions were obtained in 24 patients. The Rasmussen functional score after surgeries was 27.25 ± 0.94 points. Bony union was achieved in all the patients. According to the Rasmussen radiological criteria, the scores during the last follow‐up were as follows: the total score was 13–18 points, with an average of 16.00 ± 1.72 points; the scores were excellent in 17 cases and good in seven cases. Therefore, 100% of results were excellent or good. No infection or fracture nonunion was found. Conclusion: Using a horizontal plate can be an effective method for treating special types of fractures of the tibial plateau, including the anterior margin and anterolateral and posterolateral tibial plateau, with satisfactory treatment efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of the present study was to summarize the clinical characteristics, treatment strategies, and clinical results for anterior tibial plateau fractures caused by hyperextension injuries. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of 26 cases of anterior tibial plateau fractures that were treated with open reduction and internal fixation from January 2016 to December 2019, including 16 men and 10 women, aged 26–68 years old, with an average age of 47 ± 12.5 years. According to the three‐column theory classification, there were 16 cases of single‐column fractures (9 cases of anteromedial fractures and 7 cases of anterolateral fractures), 3 cases of two‐column fractures (anteromedial + anterolateral fractures), and 7 cases of three‐column fractures. Options for the surgical approach included anteromedial, anterolateral, modified anterior median, and anterolateral + posteromedial incision. The implants included a T‐shaped plate, an L‐shaped plate, a horizontal plate, and a TomoFix plate. The surgical approach and fixation method were selected based on the characteristics of the anterior tibial fracture. The Rasmussen radiological criteria were used to evaluate the effects of fracture reduction and fixation. The knee joint function was evaluated using the knee function evaluation criteria of the Hospital for Special Surgery. Medial and lateral stress tests, the Lachman test, and the pivot shift test were used to evaluate the stability of the knee joint. The range of knee motion was recorded. Results: All cases were followed up for 12–24 months, with an average follow up of 15.7 months. The operation time was (148 ± 42) min; the intraoperative blood loss was (150 ± 50) mL. A total of 22 cases were anatomically reduced and 4 cases were well‐reduced, and the compression reduction rate was 100%. According to the Rasmussen radiology scoring, 17 cases were excellent and 9 cases were good. The excellent and good rate was 100%. The fracture healing time was 3.3 months. There is no difference in fracture healing time for different fracture types. Both the Lachman and pivot shift test findings were normal in 24 patients and nearly normal in 2 patients. The posterior drawer test was normal in 25 patients and close to normal in 1 patient. The varus stress test was normal in 24 patients and nearly normal in 2 patients, while the valgus stress test was normal in 23 patients, nearly normal in 2 patients, and abnormal in 1 patient. The range of motion (ROM) was 100°–137°, with an average of 125° ± 11.7°. The Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) knee score at the last follow up was 79–98 points, with an average of 87.54 ± 8.36 points; the results were excellent in 21 cases and good in 5 cases. Therefore, 100% of results were excellent or good. Two cases had superficial wound infections after the operation. The recovery of 2 patients with common peroneal nerve injury was poor. Conclusion: The appropriate surgical approach and fixation method were performed according to the different positions of the anterior tibial fracture and satisfactory results were obtained after surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wing polymorphism is an evolutionary feature found in a wide variety of insects, which offers a model system for studying the evolutionary significance of dispersal. In the wing-dimorphic planthopper Nilaparvata lugens, the insulin/insulin-like growth factor signaling (IIS) pathway acts as a 'master signal' that directs the development of either long-winged (LW) or short-winged (SW) morphs via regulation of the activity of Forkhead transcription factor subgroup O (NlFoxO). However, downstream effectors of the IIS–FoxO signaling cascade that mediate alternative wing morphs are unclear. Here we found that vestigial (Nlvg), a key wing-patterning gene, is selectively and temporally regulated by the IIS–FoxO signaling cascade during the wing-morph decision stage (fifth-instar stage). RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated silencing of Nlfoxo increase Nlvg expression in the fifth-instar stage (the last nymphal stage), thereby inducing LW development. Conversely, silencing of Nlvg can antagonize the effects of IIS activity on LW development, redirecting wing commitment from LW to the morph with intermediate wing size. In vitro and in vivo binding assays indicated that NlFoxO protein may suppress Nlvg expression by directly binding to the first intron region of the Nlvg locus. Our findings provide a first glimpse of the link connecting the IIS pathway to the wing-patterning network on the developmental plasticity of wings in insects, and help us understanding how phenotypic diversity is generated by the modification of a common set of pattern elements. Author summary: Many insects are capable of developing into either long-winged or short-winged adults, but the underlying molecular basis remains largely unknown. Pioneer studies showed that the insulin/insulin-like growth factor signaling pathway acts as a 'master signal' that directs wing buds to develop into long or short wings in the wing-dimorphic planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens. However, downstream effectors mediating the IIS pathway effects are unknown. Our findings highlight that vestigial, a key wing-patterning gene, is a main downstream effector that mediates the IIS activity on the development of alternative wing morphs during the wing-morph decision stage. The molecular mechanism of wing formation, including the function of vestigial, has been studied in great depth in the model insect Drosophila melanogaster. Our data provide a first glimpse of the link connecting the IIS pathway to the wing-patterning network in regulating developmental plasticity of wings in insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A contact interaction is used to calculate an array of pion twist-two, -three and -four generalised transverse light-front momentum dependent parton distribution functions (GTMDs). Despite the interaction’s simplicity, many of the results are physically relevant, amongst them a statement that GTMD size and shape are largely prescribed by the scale of emergent hadronic mass. Moreover, proceeding from GTMDs to generalised parton distributions, it is found that the pion’s mass distribution form factor is harder than its electromagnetic form factor, which is harder than the gravitational pressure distribution form factor; the pressure in the neighbourhood of the pion’s core is commensurate with that at the centre of a neutron star; the shear pressure is maximal when confinement forces become dominant within the pion; and the spatial distribution of transversely polarised quarks within the pion is asymmetric. Regarding transverse momentum dependent distribution functions, their magnitude and domain of material support decrease with increasing twist. The simplest Wigner distribution associated with the pion’s twist-two dressed-quark GTMD is sharply peaked on the kinematic domain associated with valence-quark dominance; has a domain of negative support; and broadens as the transverse position variable increases in magnitude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To summarize the indications and the clinical effects of a transfibular neck osteotomy approach and a combined anterolateral and posterolateral approach in the treatment of fractures of the lateral tibial plateau involving the posterolateral column. Methods: Eleven patients with lateral tibial plateau fractures were included in the present study. The fractures were Schatzker type II or lateral platform fractures involving posterolateral column. The anterolateral combined posterolateral approach (lateral + posterolateral locking plate fixation) was applied in 7 patients and 4 patients underwent transfibular neck osteotomy (lateral + posterolateral locking plate fixation + 1/4 tubular plate edge fixation, fibular osteotomy with Kirschner wire tension band fixation, and hollow nail fixation for upper tibiofibular joint). All cases were followed up for 12–24 months, with an average follow‐up of 17.5 ± 5.0 months. At the last followup, the Rasmussen radiological criteria were used to evaluate the effect of fracture reduction and fixation. The knee joint function was evaluated using the knee function evaluation criteria of the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS). The Lachman test and the pivot‐shift test were used to evaluate the anterior and posterior and rotational stability of the knee joint. The range of knee motion was recorded. Results: Bone healing was achieved in all patients with fractures treated with a transfibular neck osteotomy approach and a combined anterolateral and posterolateral approach. At the last follow‐up, both the Lachman test and the pivot‐shift test results were negative. All patients had complete knee extension. For the combined anterolateral and posterolateral approach, the knee flexion angle was 110°–130°, with an average of 122.86° ± 7.56°. For the transfibular neck osteotomy approach, the knee flexion angle was 115°–130°, with an average of 120.00° ± 7.07°. For the patients in which the combined anterolateral and posterolateral approach was used, the Rasmussen score was 12–18 points, with an average of 16.00 ± 2.56 points. The results were excellent in 4 cases and good in 3 cases; therefore, 100% of results were excellent or good. For patients in which the transfibular neck osteotomy approach was used, the Rasmussen score was 10–18 points, with an average of 15.25 ± 3.77 points. The results were excellent in 2 cases, good in 1 case, and acceptable in 1 case; therefore, 75% of results were excellent or good. The HSS score for the combined anterolateral and posterolateral approach was 76–98 points, with an average of 88.43 ± 7.55 points. The results were excellent in 5 cases and good in 2 cases; therefore, 100% of results were excellent or good. The HSS score for the transfibular neck osteotomy approach was 74–96 points, with an average of 87.25 ± 9.43 points. The results were excellent in 3 cases and good in 1 case; therefore, 100% of results were excellent or good. There were no significant differences in operation time, surgical blood loss, fracture healing time, postoperative imaging score, and knee function evaluation between the two approaches. One patient who underwent transfibular neck osteotomy had a 3‐mm step that gradually appeared, but no significant abnormalities were found in the width of the platform and the lower limb force line. One patient in whom the combined anterolateral and posterolateral approach was used showed numbness in the common peroneal nerve. No common peroneal nerve injury occurred through the transfibular neck osteotomy approach. Conclusions: The anterolateral combined posterolateral approach and the transfibular neck osteotomy approach are effective in the surgical treatment of lateral tibial plateau fractures involving the posterolateral column. However, the transfibular neck osteotomy approach is more suitable for the posterolateral plateau articular surface damaged with bone separation and displacement, deep collapse, cases involving a large range of the posterolateral column, especially fractures of the lateral tibial plateau in the upper tibiofibular syndesmosis area of the line connecting the anterior and posterior margin of the fibular head to the midpoint of the plateau. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a testing and numerical study on the deformation behaviours of marine clays from Jinzhou Bay, China, where a large-scale artificial island is under construction for the Dalian offshore airport. The mechanical behaviours of marine clays were investigated by laboratory tests, triaxial creep tests and centrifugal test. An elasto-viscoplastic constitutive model (Adachi-Oka model) and a finite element programme (CFEM 2D) were used to calculate the deformation of the marine clays. The validation of the elasto-viscoplastic model and finite element programme was initially verified by the numerical simulation of triaxial creep test and the centrifugal test. In addition, the settlement of the large-scale artificial island was calculated by the verified programme, which accounted for the effect of non-linear hydraulic conductivity. The calculated results show that differential settlement exists between functional areas, with the greatest post-construction settlement attaining 288 cm in 100 years. Uneven distribution of excess pore water pressure also exists, and does not fully dissipate in 100 years. It can be concluded that the settlement of the artificial island will continue, hence enough attention should be paid. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Based on the geotechnical investigation data of artificial island at Dalian Offshore Airport, the spatial distribution of the physical and mechanical properties of deposit soils was statistically analyzed. The field investigation revealed that the deposit soils could be subdivided into three strata, i.e., the top marine deposit stratum, middle marine-continental deposit stratum, and deep continental deposit stratum. Field and laboratory test results demonstrated that the marine deposit soils had high water content (31.2% < wn < 63.10%), large void ratio (0.88 < e0 < 1.75), low permeability (kv < 10−6 cm/s), flow-plastic state (IL > 1), under consolidated (OCR < 1), high compressibility (Es < 4 MPa), low shear strength (11.7 kPa < cu < 43.7 kPa), and low bearing capacity (0 < fak < 120 kPa), they could not be used as natural foundation. The marine-continental and continental deposits were normally consolidated to over-consolidated (OCR ≥ 1), medium compressibility (4 MPa < Es < 20 MPa), high shear strength (29.7 kPa < cu < 73.7 kPa), and high bearing capacity (fak > 120 kPa). In addition, regression analysis results showed that the compression ratio was positively correlated with the natural water content, the coefficient of vertical consolidation was negatively correlated with the plasticity index, and the coefficient of vertical permeability was positively correlated with the initial void ratio. The results of the field and laboratory tests were synthesized to provide a basis for reclamation design. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In this paper, we use the two-flavor Nambu-Jona-Lasinio (NJL) model to study the quantum chromodynamics (QCD) chiral phase transition. To deal with the ultraviolet (UV) issue, we adopt the popular proper time regularization (PTR), which is commonly used not only for hadron physics but also for the studies with magnetic fields. This regularization scheme can introduce the infrared (IR) cutoff to include quark confinement. We generalize the PTR to zero temperature and finite chemical potential case use a completely new method, and then study the chiral susceptibility, both in the chiral limit case and with finite current quark mass. The chiral phase transition is second-order in and and crossover at and . Three sets of parameters are used to make sure that the results do not depend on the parameter choice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Eighty-five TPS genes were identified in G. hirsutum , including 47 previously unidentified genes. • Members of each subgroup shared similar gene structure and motif arrangement, implying similar functions. • Segmental and tandem duplications, followed by purifying selection, contributed to the expansion of TPS genes. • TPS-a subfamily played important roles in gland activity and contributed disease resistance. • VIGS assays showed that 3 genes were involved in the gland activity in G. hirsutum. Terpenoids are widely distributed in plants and play important roles in the regulation of plant growth and development and in the interactions between plants and both the environment and other organisms. However, terpene synthase (TPS) genes have not been systematically investigated in the tetraploid Gossypium hirsutum. In this study, whole genome identification and characterization of the TPS family from G. hirsutum were carried out. Eighty-five TPS genes, including 47 previously unidentified genes, were identified in the G. hirsutum genome and classified into 5 subfamilies according to protein sequence similarities, as follows: 43 GhTPS-a , 29 GhTPS-b , 4 GhTPS-c , 7 GhTPS-e/f , and 2 GhTPS-g members. These 85 TPS genes were mapped onto 19 chromosomes of the G. hirsutum genome. Segmental duplications and tandem duplications contributed greatly to the expansion of TPS genes in G. hirsutum and were followed by intense purifying selection during evolution. Indentification of cis -acting regulatory elements suggest that the expression of TPS genes is regulated by a variety of hormones. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) expression profile analysis revealed that the TPS genes had distinct spatiotemporal expression patterns, and several genes were highly and preferentially expressed in the leaves of cotton with gossypol glands (glanded cotton) versus a glandless strain. Virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) of three TPS genes yielded plants characterized by fewer, smaller, and lighter gossypol glands, which indicated that these three genes were responsible for gland activity. Taken together, our results provide a solid basis for further elucidation of the biological functions of TPS genes in relation to gland activity and gossypol biosynthesis to develop cotton cultivars with low cottonseed gossypol contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To construct chromodomain helicase DNA-bingding protein 4 (CHD4/Mi-2β) truncated recombinant plasmids, induce the expression of GST fusion proteins in E.coli, and purify and identify GST fusion proteins of CHD4/Mi-2β. Methods The gene fragments of chromodomains (CHD4-C), SWI2/SNF2-related ATPase/helicase region (CHD4-H) and DNA-binding domain (CHD4-D) were amplified by PCR and cloned into pGEX-5T vector. After the target genes were sequenced, the plasmids were transformed into E.coli BL21 (DE3) respectively, and induced with 0.8mmol/L IPTG to express fusion proteins. The GST-fusioned recombined proteins were purified with glutathione-agarose resin, and identified by SDS-PAGE and Western blotting. Results Three CHD4 truncated recombinant plasmids were constructed. The recombinant fusion proteins of GST-CHD4-C, GST-CHD4-D and GST-CHD4-H were expressed in E.coli BL21 (DE3) and existed mostly in the form of soluble protein with expected relative molecular weight of 130, 110 and 90ku. The purity of the fusion proteins reached 94.5% after purification by high-affinity glutathione-agarose resin. Conclusion GST-CHD4-C, GST-CHD4-D and GST-CHD4-H have been successfully purified, which lays an experimental foundation for further study of CHD4/Mi-2β in chromatin remodeling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Calcium-binding proteins that contain EF-hand motifs have been reported to play important roles in transduction of signals associated with biotic and abiotic stresses. To functionally characterize gens of EF-hand family in response to abiotic stress, an MtCaMP1 gene belonging to EF-hand family from legume model plant Medicago truncatula was isolated and its function in response to drought and salt stress was investigated by expressing MtCaMP1 in Arabidopsis. Methodology/Principal Findings: Transgenic Arabidopsis seedlings expressing MtCaMP1exhibited higher survival rate than wild-type seedlings under drought and salt stress, suggesting that expression of MtCaMP1 confers tolerance of Arabidopsis to drought and salt stress. The transgenic plants accumulated greater amounts of Pro due to up-regulation of P5CS1 and down-regulation of ProDH than wild-type plants under drought stress. There was a less accumulation of Na+ in the transgenic plants than in WT plants due to reduced up-regulation of AtHKT1 and enhanced regulation of AtNHX1 in the transgenic plants compared to WT plants under salt stress. There was a reduced accumulation of H2O2 and malondialdehyde in the transgenic plants than in WT plants under both drought and salt stress. Conclusions/Significance: The expression of MtCaMP1 in Arabidopsis enhanced tolerance of the transgenic plants to drought and salt stress by effective osmo-regulation due to greater accumulation of Pro and by minimizing toxic Na+ accumulation, respectively. The enhanced accumulation of Pro and reduced accumulation of Na+ under drought and salt stress would protect plants from water default and Na+ toxicity, and alleviate the associated oxidative stress. These findings demonstrate that MtCaMP1 encodes a stress-responsive EF-hand protein that plays a regulatory role in response of plants to drought and salt stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Crossveinless 2 (CV-2) is an extracellular BMP modulator protein belonging to the Chordin family. During development it is expressed at sites of high BMP signaling and like Chordin CV-2 can either enhance or inhibit BMP activity. CV-2 binds to BMP-2 via its N-terminal Von Willebrand factor type C (VWC) domain 1. Here we report the structure of the complex between CV-2 VWC1 and BMP-2. The tripartite VWC1 binds BMP-2 only through a short N-terminal segment, called clip, and subdomain (SD) 1. Mutational analysis establishes that the clip segment and SD1 together create high-affinity BMP-2 binding. All four receptor-binding sites of BMP-2 are blocked in the complex, demonstrating that VWC1 acts as competitive inhibitor for all receptor types. In vivo experiments reveal that the BMP-enhancing (pro-BMP) activity of CV-2 is independent of BMP-2 binding by VWC1, showing that pro- and anti-BMP activities are structurally separated in CV-2. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Addition of pour point depressants (PPDs) has been proved to be an efficient way to inhibit wax deposition of diesel fuels. However, the complexity of the oil is far beyond current commercial PPD products. So far it mainly depends on syntheses of numerous candidate compounds followed by repeating experimental measurements in order to improve the efficiency of PPDs. In this article, molecular dynamic simulation was successfully used to investigate the interaction between crystal planes of wax and EVA, as well as its derivatives with different branches, based on the model of wax. Side chain effects on adsorption energy and equilibrium adsorption conformations were studied under different kind and number of branches. It was concluded that side chains introduced by propylene were benefit to the affinity between the EVA-type molecules and alkanes in the wax plane, comparing with those branches introduced by butylenes. MD simulation calculations indicated that EVAP with one branch adjacent to the VA group would be a better PPD additive than EVA in diesel fuels, which has been proved in our experimental measurements. Therefore, the MD simulation is a promising method not only for exploring the interaction mechanism in polymer system, but also for directing the design of new candidates of PPD. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The growth behavior and structure of self-assembled layers of short-chain alkoxysilane of 3-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane (MPS) on hydroxyl-terminated substrates were investigated using atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and contact angle measurements. It was indicated that the self-assembled layers of MPS formed island structures and deposited integrally on the substrates. Further, the deposition of SnO2 thin films on the MPS-coated substrates was studied using X-ray diffraction (XRD), AFM, XPS, and the high-resolution stylus profilometers. It was proved that uniform and compact SnO2 thin films indeed formed on the self-assembled layers of short-chain MPS. The as-deposited SnO2 films were cassiterite and showed the property of semiconductors, which would have wide applications in gas sensors, solar cells, catalysts, etc. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The mesoporous silica/alumina membrane was prepared by the template-tailored sol–gel method, using the surfactant of cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) as the template. Further a novel procedure was explored to synthesize free-standing mesoporous silica oriented by the self-assembles of surfactants. Characterization of SEM and BET indicated that this free-standing silica films had good development of mesoporosity and a special asymmetric structure, which make it not only an attractive materials for preparing new types of catalysts, medical carriers and chemical sensors, etc. but also has promising applications in manufacturing asymmetric mesoporous membranes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Interleukin 21 (IL-21) is a recently identified novel cytokine that plays an important role in the regulation of B, T, and NK cell functions. Its effects depend on binding to and signaling through an IL-21 receptor complex consisting of the IL-21 receptor (IL-21R) and the common γ-chain (γc). In this study using biosensor technique, the ligand-binding properties of IL-21R and γc, which are presently poorly understood on a molecular level, were analyzed employing recombinant ectodomains of IL-21R and γc. The formation of a binary complex between IL-21 and immobilized IL-21R (KD 70 pM), γc and immobilized IL-21 (KD 160 μM) and a ternary complex between γc and IL-21 saturated immobilized IL-21R (KD 160 nM) could be analyzed. The γc residues involved in IL-21 binding were defined by alanine-scanning mutational analysis. The epitope comprises γc residues N44, Y103, N128, L161, E162, and L208. It is not identical but partially overlapping with the previously established γc epitope for IL-4 binding. These results open the way to understand the molecular recognition mechanism in the IL-21 receptor system and also the promiscuous binding properties of γc. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Interleukin-4 (IL-4) and IL-13 are the only cytokines known to bind to the receptor chain IL-4Rα. Receptor sharing by these two cytokines is the molecular basis for their overlapping biological functions. Both are key factors in the development of allergic hypersensitivity, and they also play a major role in exacerbating allergic and asthmatic symptoms. Knowledge of structure and function of this system has allowed the development of inhibitors that block the interaction between the cytokines and their shared receptor. Mutational analysis of IL-4 has revealed variants with high-affinity binding to IL-4Rα but no detectable affinity for the second receptor subunit, which is either γc or IL-13Rα1. These IL-4 antagonists fail to induce signal transduction and block IL-4 and IL-13 effects in vitro. IL-4 antagonists prevent the development of allergic disease in vivo and an antagonistic variant of human IL-4 is now in clinical trials for asthma. Detailed knowledge of the site of interaction of IL-4 and IL-4Rα has been gained by structure analysis of the complex of these two proteins and through functional studies employing mutants of IL-4 and its receptor subunits. Based on these new data, the hitherto elusive goal of designing small molecular mimetics may be feasible. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Interleukin 4 (IL-4) can act on target cells through an IL-4 receptor complex consisting of the IL-4 receptor α chain and the common γ chain (γc ). An IL-4 epitope for γc binding has previously been identified. In this study, the γc residues involved in IL-4 binding were defined by alanine-scanning mutational analysis. The epitope comprises γc residues I100, L102, and Y103 on loop EF1 together with L208 on loop FG2 as the major binding determinants. These predominantly hydrophobic determinants interact with the hydrophobic IL-4 epitope composed of residues I11, N15, and Y124. Double-mutant cycle analysis revealed co-operative interaction between γc and IL-4 side chains. Several γc residues involved in IL-4 binding have been previously shown to be mutated in X-linked severe combined immunodeficiency. The importance of these binding residues for γc function is discussed. These results provide a basis for elucidating the molecular recognition mechanism in the IL-4 receptor system and a paradigm for other γc -dependent cytokine receptor systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IL4-BP, the extracellular binding domain of the IL-4 receptor α chain, contains a high-affinity binding epitope for IL-4 (KD 150 pM). Previous results on the crystal structure of the IL-4/IL4-BP complex and on the functional epitope of IL-4 suggested that this contact comprises a mosaic of two binding clusters. The present mutational analysis of IL4-BP supports this view and demonstrates that the energetically most important group is the receptor carboxylate group of D72 forming an ion pair with IL-4 R88 in cluster II. The second main receptor determinant is the hydroxyl group of Y183 forming a hydrogen bond with IL-4 E9 in cluster I. The latter is engaged in additional hydrogen bonds with Y13 and also in van der Waals contacts with Y127. Receptor residue D72 as well as Y183 are each surrounded by a shell of hydrophobic groups from residues that upon mutation lead to smaller decreases in binding affinity. Analysis of IL4-BP double mutants showed that receptor side-chains within one cluster but not those of different clusters cooperate. Interaction analysis of IL-4 and IL4-BP single mutants also revealed additivity in binding of side-chains between clusters and cooperativity within each cluster I or II.These results show that the high-affinity IL-4/IL4-BP contact is constituted by two independent binding units, each containing a central polar or charged side-chain surrounded by hydrophobic groups (avocado cluster). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The homeotic complex gene Abdominal‐B (Abd‐B) is involved in regulating the development of posterior abdomens and has been extensively studied in holometabolous insects. However, the function of Abd‐B in hemimetabolous insects is not fully understood. Here, we functionally characterize an Abd‐B homologue in the brown planthopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens. The full‐length cDNA of the N. lugens Abd‐B homologue (NlAbd‐B) is 2334 nt, with an open reading frame of 1113 bp. NlAbd‐B has the highest expression level at the egg stage relative to the nymphal and adult stages and is mainly expressed in the fourth to the ninth abdominal segment of embryos. RNA interference (RNAi)‐mediated knockdown of NlAbd‐B in nymphs disrupted the development of genitalia both in females and males and caused a genitalia‐to‐leg transformation. Parental RNAi of NlAbd‐B in both female and male adults caused an extra abdominal segment in offspring nymphs, while parental RNAi of the N. lugens abdominal‐A homologue in both female and males adults led to embryos with leg‐like appendages on the second to the eighth abdominal segment. These findings suggest that NlAbd‐B plays a pivotal role in genital development and posterior abdominal patterning and thus highlight the conservational role of Abd‐B in holometabolous and hemimetabolous insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pion generalized parton distributions and light-front wave functions are investigated in the framework of Nambu–Jona-Lasinio model. The properties of pion generalized parton distributions and light-front wave functions are examined separately. Proceeding from generalized parton distributions and light-front wave functions to form factors, parton distribution functions, parton distribution amplitudes and transverse momentum dependent parton distributions, giving a complete picture of pion structure. Moreover, comparing these distributions from the two different methods and examining their peculiarities, finding that the two methods give the same distributions. This means that generalized parton distributions and light-front wave functions give the same multi-dimensional mapping of pion in the Nambu–Jona-Lasinio model. In addition, we studied generalized form factors of pion: the quark pressure distribution θ 1 and the quark mass distribution θ 2 , both are harder than electromagnetic form factor. The tensor anomalous magnetic moment B 1 , 0 and the tensor generalized form factor B 2 , 0 are harder than corresponding lattice data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common yet destructive disease affecting the articular cartilage, and is a major cause of immense suffering and disability for millions of people. Previous studies have shown that triptolide (TPL), an active compound derived from Tripterygium wilfordii , has potent immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory activities useful for treating chronic diseases. However, whether TPL has immunosuppressive activity against OA is not known. In this study, we assessed the therapeutic effects of TPL on interleukin-1-beta (IL-1β)-induced OA in rats. Histological and protein analyses revealed that TPL not only could inhibit interleukin-6 (IL-6) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) protein expression in cells and disrupt inflammation, but it also reduced the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-3 and 13. Our results also supported the ability of TPL to suppress the osteoprotegerin/receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-beta (NF-κB)/receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (OPG/RANK/RANKL) and NF-κB signaling pathways induced by IL-1β. Together these data suggest that TPL may be a potentially valuable treatment for OA, regulating associated inflammation and pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Two Ubx isoforms (NlUbx) were identified in the planthopper (BPH) Nilaparvata lugens. • Knockdown of NlUbx in short-winged BPH nymphs induced the development of T3 wingbuds. • Knockdown of NlUbx in long-winged BPH nymphs transformed hindwings to forewings. • Parental RNAi of NlUbx induced leg-like appendages in the A1 of offspring nymphs. The homeotic complex (Hox) gene Ultrabithorax (Ubx) plays pivotal roles in modifying specific morphological differences among the second (T2), the third thoracic (T3), and the first abdomen (A1) segment in several insects. Whether Ubx regulates wing dimorphism and other morphological traits in the delphacid family (order Hemiptera) remains elusive. In this study, we cloned a full-length Ubx ortholog (NlUbx) from the wing-dimorphic planthopper Nilaparvata lugens , and identified two NlUbx isoforms. RNA-interference (RNAi)-mediated silencing of NlUbx in short-winged BPH nymphs significantly induced the development of wing-like appendages from T3 wingbuds, and this effect is likely mediated by the insulin/insulin-like signaling pathway. RNAi knockdown of NlUbx in long-winged BPH nymphs led to a transformation from hindwings to forewings. Additionally, silencing of NlUbx not only dramatically changed the T3 morphology, but also led to jumping defect of T3 legs. First-instar nymphs derived from parental RNAi had an additional leg-like appendages on A1. These results suggest that Ubx plays a role in determining some morphological traits in delphacid planthoppers, and thus help in understanding evolution of morphological characteristics in arthropods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the QCD chiral phase transition at finite temperature and finite quark chemical potential within the two flavor Nambu-Jona-Lasinio (NJL) model, where a generalization of the proper-time regularization scheme is motivated and implemented. We find that in the chiral limit the whole transition line in the phase diagram is of second order, whereas for finite quark masses a crossover is observed. Moreover, if we take into account the influence of quark condensate to the coupling strength (which also provides a possible way of how the effective coupling varies with temperature and quark chemical potential), it is found that a CEP may appear. These findings differ substantially from other NJL results which use alternative regularization schemes, some explanation and discussion are given at the end. This indicates that the regularization scheme can have a dramatic impact on the study of the QCD phase transition within the NJL model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aberrantly up-regulated activity of the type II transmembrane protease Matriptase-1 has been associated with the development and progression of a range of epithelial-derived carcinomas, and a variety of signaling pathways can mediate Matriptase-dependent tumorigenic events. During mammalian carcinogenesis, gain of Matriptase activity often results from imbalanced ratios between Matriptase and its cognate transmembrane inhibitor Hai1. Similarly, in zebrafish, unrestrained Matriptase activity due to loss of hai1a results in epidermal pre-neoplasms already during embryogenesis. Here, based on our former findings of a similar tumor-suppressive role for the Na+/K+-pump beta subunit ATP1b1a, we identify epithelial polarity defects and systemic hypotonic stress as another mode of aberrant Matriptase activation in the embryonic zebrafish epidermis in vivo. In this case, however, a different oncogenic pathway is activated which contains PI3K, AKT and NFkB, rather than EGFR and PLD (as in hai1a mutants). Strikingly, epidermal pre-neoplasm is only induced when epithelial polarity defects in keratinocytes (leading to disturbed Matriptase subcellular localization) occur in combination with systemic hypotonic stress (leading to increased proteolytic activity of Matriptase). A similar combinatorial effect of hypotonicity and loss of epithelial polarity was also obtained for the activity levels of Matriptase-1 in human MCF-10A epithelial breast cells. Together, this is in line with the multi-factor concept of carcinogenesis, with the notion that such factors can even branch off from one and the same initiator (here ATP1a1b) and can converge again at the level of one and the same mediator (here Matriptase). In sum, our data point to tonicity and epithelial cell polarity as evolutionarily conserved regulators of Matriptase activity that upon de-regulation can constitute an alternative mode of Matriptase-dependent carcinogenesis in vivo. Author summary: Deciphering the mechanisms of carcinogenesis is pivotal not only for the treatment of the disease, but also for identifying potential risk factors. Model systems can help to achieve this goal. Work with zebrafish has identified several evolutionarily conserved factors driving pre-neoplastic events in the epidermis already at embryonic stages. This study focuses on the oncogene ST14, encoding the type II transmembrane protease Matriptase-1 that upon hyperactivation—as for instance due to genetic loss of its cognate transmembrane inhibitor Hai1—can drive different carcinomas. Here, we identify two additional conditions promoting oncogenic Matriptase-1 hyperactivation: hypotonic stress and compromised epithelial cell polarity. Of note, these two conditions need to occur together for Matriptase-dependent induction of pre-neoplasms in the embryonic zebrafish epidermis, in line with the multi-factor concept of carcinogenesis. Hypotonicity increases the proteolytic activity of Matriptase, while epithelial polarity defects lead to a subcellular mis-localization of Matriptase in outer epidermal cells, bringing more of it into close contact to underlying basal cells and thus inducing oncogenic pathways in them. Together, our work identifies novel modes of oncogenic Matriptase hyperactivation and function in vivo, originating from cells of the tumor environment, rather than from the tumor cells themselves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of Cu–CeO 2 –SiO 2 catalysts for the hydrogenation of methyl acetate to ethanol with different CeO 2 contents was prepared by an ammonia-evaporation method. Compared with the Cu–SiO 2 catalyst, the catalytic activity and stability of the Cu–CeO 2 –SiO 2 catalyst were greatly enhanced with an optimized CeO 2 content of about 30 wt.%. The structures of the catalysts were characterized by N 2 physisorption, N 2 O chemisorption, X-ray diffraction, H 2 temperature-programmed reduction, NH 3 -temperature programmed desorption and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results showed that adding an appropriate amount of cerium to Cu–SiO 2 catalysts strengthened the interaction between the cupreous species and the support, diminished the copper crystallite size, improved the copper dispersion and enriched the surface Cu + species. In addition, several characterizations were performed to investigate the structure changes of the catalysts after stability test, which demonstrated that the CeO 2 -modified Cu–SiO 2 catalyst restrained the aggregation and valence change of cupreous species under reaction conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fraser syndrome (FS) is a phenotypically variable, autosomal recessive disorder characterized by cryptophthalmus, cutaneous syndactyly, and other malformations resulting from mutations in FRAS1, FREM2, and GRIP1. Transient embryonic epidermal blistering causes the characteristic defects of the disorder. Fras1, Frem1, and Frem2 form the extracellular Fraser complex, which is believed to stabilize the basement membrane. However, several cases of FS could not be attributed to mutations in FRAS1, FREM2, or GRIP1, and FS displays high clinical variability, suggesting that there is an additional genetic, possibly modifying contribution to this disorder. An extracellular matrix protein containing VWA-like domains related to those in matrilins and collagens (AMACO), encoded by the VWA2 gene, has a very similar tissue distribution to the Fraser complex proteins in both mouse and zebrafish. Here, we show that AMACO deposition is lost in Fras1-deficient zebrafish and mice and that Fras1 and AMACO interact directly via their chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan (CSPG) and P2 domains. Knockdown of vwa2, which alone causes no phenotype, enhances the phenotype of hypomorphic Fras1 mutant zebrafish. Together, our data suggest that AMACO represents a member of the Fraser complex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A new landfill liner system composed of two-layer soils was proposed. The upper soil layer composed of 90% raw clay plus 10% lime contributes significant to bearing capacity of liners, and the lower soil layer containing 3 or 6% granular activated carbon (GAC) or 3 or 6% acid-activated bentonite contributes to adsorption capacity of liners. The results from unconfined compressive strength tests showed that the method of adding lime into liner soil material was effective measure to improve compressive strength of liners. The batch test results indicated that GAC and acid-activated bentonite were two potential materials for use as adsorptive amendments for trapping heavy metal ions in liners. To investigate the transport of Cr(VI) through the new liner system, laboratory column tests were performed. The column tests results indicated that the lower soil layer containing adsorptive amendments prevented effectively the transport of Cr(VI). The diffusion coefficients of Cr(VI) for liner soil materials were back-calculated by a one-dimensional numerical transport program. The diffusion coefficient of Cr(VI) was 4.64×10−8 m2/s on average for the upper soil layer. The diffusion coefficient of the lower soil layer was 5.4×10−10 m2/s to 7.0×10−10 m2/s. The differences of diffusion coefficients may be due to different grain size distributions and moulding density between these soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The potential interaction of daidzin, an ingredient of soy isoflavones, with human telomeric antiparallel G-quadruplex dAG3(T2AG3)3 was studied using ESI-MS, PAGE, CD and molecular simulation. Experimental studies indicated that daidzin molecules interacted with dAG3(T2AG3)3 and formed DNA–daidzin complex with the stoichiometric ratio of 1:1 and 1:2. The transition temperature of the G-quadruplex increased at higher ratio of daidzin to DNA. Under molecular crowding conditions the interactions between daidzin and the G-quadruplex become much stronger. Combining computational simulation and experimental results, it is demonstrated that the dAG3(T2AG3)3/daidzin complex with a stoichiometric ratio of 1:1 is stabilized through the π–π conjugacy interactions and hydrogen bondings between daidzin and the bases of G-quadruplex. This work provides guidance not only on exploring the molecular anti-cancer mechanism of dietary isoflavones, but also searching small natural products as promising anticancer candidates that can inhibit telomerase activity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The extracellular matrix architecture is composed of supramolecular fibrillar networks that define tissue specific cellular microenvironments. Hemicentins (Hmcn1 and Hmcn2) are ancient and very large members (> 600 kDa) of the fibulin family, whose short members are known to guide proper morphology and functional behavior of specialized cell types predominantly in elastic tissues. However, the tissue distribution and function of Hemicentins within the cellular microenvironment of connective tissues has remained largely unknown. Performing in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence analyses, we found that mouse Hmcn1 and Hmcn2 show a complementary distribution throughout different tissues and developmental stages. In postnatal dermal–epidermal junctions (DEJ) and myotendinous junctions (MTJ), Hmcn1 is primarily produced by mesenchymal cells (fibroblasts, tenocytes), Hmcn2 by cells of epithelial origin (keratinocytes, myocytes). Hmcn1−/− mice are viable and show no overt phenotypes in tissue tensile strength and locomotion tests. However, transmission electron microscopy revealed ultrastructural basement membrane (BM) alterations at the DEJ and MTJ of Hmcn1−/− mice, pointing to a thus far unknown role of Hmcn1 for BM and connective tissue boundary integrity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since sodium-ion batteries are considered to be the promising energy storage devices, carbon materials as the anodes have been intensively studied. They have good cycling stability, but their capacities are generally not high enough to meet the increasing demands. In order to solve this problem, a carbon-bimetallic composite is synthesized in one step using a simple pyrolysis method with low-cost biomass and cobalt ferrate as the precursors. This simple synthesis method allows the in-situ production of bi-alloys embedded into disordered carbon matrix derived from the tapioca starch to form high-performance anode material for sodium-ion batteries. The initial discharge capacity is 712 mA h g−1 at 0.05 A g−1and the initial Coulombic efficiency is 89.2%. Moreover, the introduction of bi-alloys not only facilitates the reaction kinetics, but also effectively mitigates the volume expansion and consequently promotes the cyclability. As a result, the half-cell sodium-ion battery delivers a capacity of more than 419 mA h g−1 at a high current of 10 A g−1, and after 200 cycles at a current density of 1 A g−1, its capacity degradation is only 0.2% per cycle with a Coulombic efficiency of about 100%. This high-performance materials with a low-cost preparation method could be great potential for commercialized applications. [Display omitted] • Use of low-cost tapioca starch to prepare high disorder graphitic anode for Na-ion batteries. • The in-situ generation of Co 3 Fe 7 can alleviating the volume expansion of electrode. • The composite electrode exhibits excellent capacity and cycling stability. • The cell shows a capacity of 419 mA h g−1 at 10 A g−1. • The capacity loss of the cell is less than 0.2% per cycle at 1 A g−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A single insulin receptor (InR) gene has been identified and extensively studied in model species ranging from nematodes to mice. However, most insects possess additional copies of InR, yet the functional significance, if any, of alternate InRs is unknown. Here, we used the wing-dimorphic brown planthopper (BPH) as a model system to query the role of a second InR copy in insects. NlInR2 resembled the BPH InR homologue (NlInR1) in terms of nymph development and reproduction, but revealed distinct regulatory roles in fuel metabolism, lifespan, and starvation tolerance. Unlike a lethal phenotype derived from NlInR1 null, homozygous NlInR2 null mutants were viable and accelerated DNA replication and cell proliferation in wing cells, thus redirecting short-winged–destined BPHs to develop into long-winged morphs. Additionally, the proper expression of NlInR2 was needed to maintain symmetric vein patterning in wings. Our findings provide the first direct evidence for the regulatory complexity of the two InR paralogues in insects, implying the functionally independent evolution of multiple InRs in invertebrates. Author summary: The highly conserved insulin/insulin-like growth factor signaling pathway plays a pivotal role in growth, development, and various physiological processes across a wide phylogeny of organisms. Unlike a single InR in the model species such as the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster and the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, most insect lineages have two or even three InR copies. However, the function of the alternative InRs remains elusive. Here, we created a homozygous mutation for a second insulin receptor (InR2) in the wing-dimorphic brown planthopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens, using the clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats/CRISPR-associated (CRISPR/Cas9) system. Our findings revealed that InR2 possesses functions distinct from the BPH InR homologue (NlInR1), indicating that multiple InR paralogues may have evolved independently and may have functionally diversified in ways more complex than previously expected in invertebrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated how cold storage affects the nutraceutical diversity and physiological quality of Torreya yunnanensis seeds, using a widely targeted UPLC-MS/MS-based metabolomics analysis. The 373 identified metabolites were divided into nine categories: lipids, phenolic acids, amino acids and derivatives, organic acids, nucleotides, saccharides, vitamins and alcohols. Among them, 49 metabolites showed significant changes after 3 months of cold storage, affecting 28 metabolic pathways. The content of amino acid-related metabolites significantly increased, while the content of sugar-related metabolites decreased during storage. Notably, the content of proline acid, shikimic acid, α-linolenic acid and branched-chain amino acids showed significant changes, indicating their potential role in seed storage. This study deepens our understanding of the nutraceutical diversity and physiological quality of T. yunnanensis seeds during storage, providing insight for conservation efforts and habitat restoration. • A widely targeted UPLC-MS/MS-based metabolomics analysis was used to identify 373 metabolites, which were divided into 9 categories. After 3 months of cold storage, 49 metabolites showed significant changes affecting 27 metabolic pathways. • Amino acid-related metabolite levels significantly increased while sugar-related metabolite levels decreased during storage. • Proline acid, shikimic acid, α-linolenic acid and branched-chain amino acids levels significantly changed during cold storage, indicating their potential role in seed storability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The brown planthopper Nilaparvata lugens is one of the most destructive insect pests in Asia, demonstrating high fertility and causing huge crop losses by sucking sap of rice as well as transmitting viruses. However, functional genomic studies on N. lugens are seriously constrained by lack of genetic tools. Here, we employed two eye pigmentation genes to generate germ-line mutations in N. lugens using the CRISPR/Cas9 (clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats/CRISPR-associated) system. We showed that injection of single guide RNA of the cinnabar gene of N. lugens ( Nl-cn ) into pre-blastoderm eggs induced insertion and deletion (indels) in the founder generation (G 0 ), which were heritably transmitted to the following G 1 generation, leading to bright red compound eyes and ocelli. Mutations of N. lugens white ( Nl-w ) generated a high mutant rate of up to 27.3%, resulting in mosaic eyes consisting of white and lightly pigmented ommatidia in both G 0 and G 1 individuals. The specificity of CRISPR/Cas9-mediated mutagenesis was further bolstered by PCR and RNA interference-based knockdown analysis. These results show that CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene editing is achievable in a hemipteran insect, offering a valuable tool for the study of functional genomics and pest management in this planthopper species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The VWC domain of Chordin family proteins consists of subdomains SD1 and SD2. In previous experiments with VWC1 from CV-2 SD-1 was shown to be crucial for BMP interaction. Now the SD1 from VWC1 and VWC3 of Chordin and CHL2 were established to confer BMP affinity and specificity to these proteins also. In addition, these SD1 subdomains are mediating binding to Tsg. Mutational analysis revealed similar binding epitopes of the various SD1 proteins for BMP-2 and Tsg. Inhibitory activity of CHL2 in C2C12 cells is reduced by mutations in SD1 of VWC1 and even more of VWC3. These results together provide strong evidence that the SD1 subdomain module of about 40 residues represents the crucial binding partner for BMPs and Tsg in these Chordin family proteins and likely in other BMP-binding VWC domains also. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The influence of micelle morphology transformation on the structure of mesoporous materials is fundamental in designing optimal, well-ordered, mesoporous materials. Firstly, the steady-state fluorescence technique was adopted to determine the first and second critical micelle concentrations of cetyltrimethylammonium chloride (CTAC) as 125 and 210 mmol L−1 in an equimolar mixture of water and ethanol at 25°C. Using tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) as the precursor, mesoporous silicas (with a surface area of 545.7–1210.5 m 545.7 ∼ 1210.5 m2 g−1 and a pore volume of 0.26 ∼ 0.80 cm3 g−1) were synthesized with the CTAC templates in the equimolar mixture of water and ethanol. Characterization by small-angle X-ray diffraction and N 2 adsorption/desorption techniques revealed that the surface area and pore volume of silica increased with the content of CTAC, whereas there existed a transition point at the CTAC/TEOS ratio of 0.15 corresponding to the fade-away of well-ordered mesoporous structure. The negative effect of the much higher content CTAC on the periodic structure of mesoporous silica is attributed to micelle transformation from spheres to cylinders related to the second critical micelle concentration of CTAC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: There is much uncertainty about the effects of early lowering of elevated blood pressure (BP) after acute intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH). Our aim was to assess the safety and efficiency of this treatment, as a run-in phase to a larger trial. Methods: Patients who had acute spontaneous ICH diagnosed by CT within 6 h of onset, elevated systolic BP (150–220 mm Hg), and no definite indication or contraindication to treatment were randomly assigned to early intensive lowering of BP (target systolic BP 140 mm Hg; n=203) or standard guideline-based management of BP (target systolic BP 180 mm Hg; n=201). The primary efficacy endpoint was proportional change in haematoma volume at 24 h; secondary efficacy outcomes included other measurements of haematoma volume. Safety and clinical outcomes were assessed for up to 90 days. Analysis was by intention to treat. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT00226096. Findings: Baseline characteristics of patients were similar between groups, but mean haematoma volumes were smaller in the guideline group (12·7 mL, SD 11·6) than in the intensive group (14·2 mL, SD 14·5). From randomisation to 1 h, mean systolic BP was 153 mm Hg in the intensive group and 167 mm Hg in the guideline group (difference 13·3 mm Hg, 95% CI 8·9–17·6 mm Hg; p<0·0001); from 1 h to 24 h, BP was 146 mm Hg in the intensive group and 157 mm Hg in the guideline group (10·8 mm Hg, 95% CI 7·7–13·9 mm Hg; p<0·0001). Mean proportional haematoma growth was 36·3% in the guideline group and 13·7% in the intensive group (difference 22·6%, 95% CI 0·6–44·5%; p=0·04) at 24 h. After adjustment for initial haematoma volume and time from onset to CT, median haematoma growth differed between the groups with p=0·06; the absolute difference in volume between groups was 1·7 mL (95% CI −0·5 to 3·9, p=0·13). Relative risk of haematoma growth ≥33% or ≥12·5 mL was 36% lower (95% CI 0–59%, p=0·05) in the intensive group than in the guideline group. The absolute risk reduction was 8% (95% CI −1·0 to 17%, p=0·05). Intensive BP-lowering treatment did not alter the risks of adverse events or secondary clinical outcomes at 90 days. Interpretation: Early intensive BP-lowering treatment is clinically feasible, well tolerated, and seems to reduce haematoma growth in ICH. A large randomised trial is needed to define the effects on clinical outcomes across a broad range of patients with ICH. Funding: National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The purpose of this study was to determine the morphine-induced place preference in rats pre-exposed to footshock stress and corticosterone (CORT). The authors also studied the involvement of dopamine mechanisms in the CORT-induced place preference. The results showed that chronic footshock or CORT exposure but not acute footshock or CORT exposure similarly potentiated the conditioned place preference to morphine. The CORT-induced conditioned place preference were established only with high and middle dose (5, 3 mg/kg) CORT. The dopamine levels in NAc of rats injected with CORT (5, 3, 1 mg/kg, i.p.) increased significantly. The findings suggest that the increase of dopamine levels in NAc induced by CORT might be the medium between stress and morphine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The corresponding description of this figure should be "As shown in Fig.2, the full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the Tl-1223(006) reflection peak is only 0.58 , which shows that the film possesses a good crystalline structure", instead of "As shown in Fig.2, the FWHM of the Tl-1223(003) reflection peak is only 0.58 , which shows that the film possesses a good crystalline structure". 36(2019)057401] Jian Xing( ) 1, Li-Tian Wang( ) 1, Xiao-Xin Gao( ) 1, Xue-Lian Liang( ) 1, Kai-Yong He( ) 1, Ting Xue( ) 1, Sheng-Hui Zhao( ) 1, Jin-Li Zhang( ) 1, Ming He( ) 1,2, Xin-Jie Zhao( ) 1,3, Shao-Lin Yan( ) 1, Pei Wang( ) 4, and Lu Ji( ) 1,3* 1 College of Electronic Information and Optical Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China 2 Tianjin Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Sensor and Sensing Network Technology, Tianjin 300350, China 3 Key Laboratory of Photoelectronic Thin Film Devices and Technology of Tianjin, Tianjin 300350, China 4 Beijing Institute of Radio Measurement, Beijing 100854, China (Received 26 October 2020; accepted 18 December 2020; published online 27 January 2021) DOI: 10.1088/0256-307X/38/2/029901 1 4 1 6 1 8 2 0 0. 0 1. 5 3. 0 4. 5 6. 0 I n t e n s i t y (1 0 4 c p s) w (d e g) F W H M = 0. 5 8 O Fig. In Fig.2 of the article, [1] the figure caption should be"Rockingcurveofthe(006)peakoftheTl-1223thin film" instead of "Rocking curve of the (003) peak of the Tl-1223 thin film". [Extracted from the article]

Figure 2 in the original paper (Chin. Phys. B 27 057403 (2018)]) is replaced by a new one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Pd catalysts supported on phosphorus doped alumina (Pd/Al 2 O 3 -xP) were prepared and applied to anthraquinone hydrogenation. • P-doped catalyst (Pd/Al 2 O 3 -1P) exhibited excellent catalytic performance and reusability in anthraquinone hydrogenation. • The phosphorus incorporation would enhance the anchor strength of Pd nanoparticle and inhibit the generation of byproducts. Pd catalysts loaded on P-doped alumina (Pd/Al 2 O 3 - x P) were prepared and applied to H 2 O 2 production by means of anthraquinone hydrogenation. The catalytic performance over Pd/Al 2 O 3 - x P catalysts showed a volcano-shape trend with phosphorus content. Pd/Al 2 O 3 -1P catalyst containing 1 wt% phosphorus exhibited the most excellent catalytic performance and reusability. The physicochemical properties of phosphorus-doped supports and Pd-loaded catalysts were investigated by several characterization methods. Doping phosphorus into Al 2 O 3 increased thermal stability and adjusted surface acid intensity of the supports. Introducing suitable amount of phosphorus improved the Pd dispersion, regulated the reducibility of the catalysts. These factors contributed to the superior performance of Pd/Al 2 O 3 -1P for the anthraquinone hydrogenation reaction. Furthermore, Pd/Al 2 O 3 catalyst gradually deactivated during the recycle test, which was mainly attributed to Pd loss and byproduct deposition on the catalyst. Incorporation of phosphorus could enhance the anchoring effect between Pd nanoparticle and support, which could also inhibit the generation of byproducts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is much uncertainty about the effects of early lowering of elevated blood pressure (BP) after acute intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH). Our aim was to assess the safety and efficiency of this treatment, as a run-in phase to a larger trial.Methods: Patients who had acute spontaneous ICH diagnosed by CT within 6 h of onset, elevated systolic BP (150-220 mm Hg), and no definite indication or contraindication to treatment were randomly assigned to early intensive lowering of BP (target systolic BP 140 mm Hg; n=203) or standard guideline-based management of BP (target systolic BP 180 mm Hg; n=201). The primary efficacy endpoint was proportional change in haematoma volume at 24 h; secondary efficacy outcomes included other measurements of haematoma volume. Safety and clinical outcomes were assessed for up to 90 days. Analysis was by intention to treat. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT00226096.Findings: Baseline characteristics of patients were similar between groups, but mean haematoma volumes were smaller in the guideline group (12.7 mL, SD 11.6) than in the intensive group (14.2 mL, SD 14.5). From randomisation to 1 h, mean systolic BP was 153 mm Hg in the intensive group and 167 mm Hg in the guideline group (difference 13.3 mm Hg, 95% CI 8.9-17.6 mm Hg; p<0.0001); from 1 h to 24 h, BP was 146 mm Hg in the intensive group and 157 mm Hg in the guideline group (10.8 mm Hg, 95% CI 7.7-13.9 mm Hg; p<0.0001). Mean proportional haematoma growth was 36.3% in the guideline group and 13.7% in the intensive group (difference 22.6%, 95% CI 0.6-44.5%; p=0.04) at 24 h. After adjustment for initial haematoma volume and time from onset to CT, median haematoma growth differed between the groups with p=0.06; the absolute difference in volume between groups was 1.7 mL (95% CI -0.5 to 3.9, p=0.13). Relative risk of haematoma growth >or=33% or >or=12.5 mL was 36% lower (95% CI 0-59%, p=0.05) in the intensive group than in the guideline group. The absolute risk reduction was 8% (95% CI -1.0 to 17%, p=0.05). Intensive BP-lowering treatment did not alter the risks of adverse events or secondary clinical outcomes at 90 days.Interpretation: Early intensive BP-lowering treatment is clinically feasible, well tolerated, and seems to reduce haematoma growth in ICH. A large randomised trial is needed to define the effects on clinical outcomes across a broad range of patients with ICH.Funding: National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]