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Effects of three-dimensional (3D) perturbations due to an unstable n = 1 (n is the toroidal mode number) internal kink (IK) on the energetic particles (EPs) are systematically investigated for the HL-2M tokamak, utilizing the MARS-F/K code [Liu et al., Phys. Plasmas 7, 3681–3690 (2000)] and a recently developed test particle tracing module. A high-beta sawteething HL-2M scenario, simulated by the TRANSP code [Breslau et al., Transp Computer Software (2018)], is chosen for this study. In general, the 3D perturbation associated with an unstable IK is found to affect the EP drift orbit, confinement, and loss in HL-2M. The instability-induced EP loss fraction is found to be typically less than 10%, without counting for the prompt orbit loss associated with the 2D equilibrium field for counter-current particles. The latter reaches about 16% in HL-2M. For co-current EPs, a 100 G 3D magnetic field (inside the plasma) due to the IK does not induce any EP loss assuming a static perturbation. A sawtooth-like time-varying perturbation field, with the peak amplitude reaching 1000 G, can however produce about 30% loss for the co-current EPs in HL-2M. The majority of lost EPs tend to strike the lower divertor region, with a small fraction of particles striking the low-field side mid-plane region of the limiting surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A systematic investigation is carried out, studying the effect of the neutral beam injection induced energetic particles (EPs) on the n = 1 (n is the toroidal mode number) internal kink (IK) instability in the HL-2M tokamak, utilizing the MARS-F/K code [Liu et al., Phys. Plasmas 7, 3681 (2000) and 15, 112503 (2008)]. A high-beta sawteething HL-2M scenario, simulated by the TRANSP code [Breslau et al. Computer Software (2018)], is chosen for this study. Compared to the fluid model, non-perturbative magnetohydrodynamic (MHD)-kinetic hybrid computations with MARS-K show a generally stabilization effect on the IK, due to drift kinetic resonances associated with EPs. The bounce resonance of trapped EPs has minor influence on the mode stability. In the absence of the plasma equilibrium flow and with the assumed particle pitch distribution, the transit resonance of co-current (countercurrent) passing EPs destabilizes (stabilizes) the IK. With plasma flow, both co- and countercurrent passing EPs tend to stabilize the mode, but the effect is stronger with the countercurrent particles. These modeling results provide useful guidance for interpreting MHD instabilities in the future high-performance experiments in HL-2M. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two coordination polymers, {[L1Zn(adc)]2⋅5H2O}n (1), {[L1Cd(adc)]2⋅2.75H2O}n (2) (L1 = bis(4-(1H-imidazol-1-yl)phenyl)methanone, H2adc = adamantane-1,3-dicarboxylic acid) were synthesized under solvothermal conditions. They were characterized by infrared spectroscopy, elemental analysis and single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. In compound 1 (or 2), metal ions are linked by L1 and adamantane-1,3-dicarboxylate ligands with the formation of chains of two kinds in the [1 0] and [110] directions, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spin-valley locking in monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides has attracted enormous interest, since it offers potential for valleytronic and optoelectronic applications. Such an exotic electronic state has sparsely been seen in bulk materials. Here, we report spin-valley locking in a Dirac semimetal BaMnSb2. This is revealed by comprehensive studies using first principles calculations, tight-binding and effective model analyses, angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy measurements. Moreover, this material also exhibits a stacked quantum Hall effect (QHE). The spin-valley degeneracy extracted from the QHE is close to 2. This result, together with the Landau level spin splitting, further confirms the spin-valley locking picture. In the extreme quantum limit, we also observed a plateau in the z-axis resistance, suggestive of a two-dimensional chiral surface state present in the quantum Hall state. These findings establish BaMnSb2 as a rare platform for exploring coupled spin and valley physics in bulk single crystals and accessing 3D interacting topological states. Valley dependent spin polarization called spin-valley locking appears in absence of magnetism but it is limited to rare examples of transition metal dichalcogenides. Here, the authors report evidence of spin-valley locking and stacked quantum Hall effect in a bulk Dirac semimetal BaMnSb2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three nickel(II), manganese(II) and cadmium(II) complexes, [NiL2] (I), [MnL2] (II) and [Cd(HL)2(NO3)]·NO3 (III), derived from 4-bromo-N'-(1-(pyridin-2-yl)ethylidene)benzohydrazide (HL) were prepared and characterized by IR and UV spectra. Structures of the complexes were further confirmed by single crystal X-ray diffraction techniques (CIF files CCDC nos. 1874307 (I), 1874308 (II), and 1874309 (III)). The Ni atom in complex I and the Mn atom in complex II are in octahedral coordination. The Cd atom in complex III is in square antiprism coordination. The nickel complex is effective on the inhibition of Jack bean urease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cobalt coordination polymer with V-shaped ligands, {[L1Co(trans-CHDCA)] · 2H2O}n (L1 = bis(4-(1H-imidazol-1-yl)phenyl)methanone, trans-H2CHDCA = trans-1,2-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid) has been synthesized under solvothermal conditions. It has been characterized by IR spectra, elemental analyses and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The crystal is monoclinic, sp. gr. P21/c, Z = 4. In crystal, trans-CHDCA2– ions bridge Co atoms into wave-like chain along the c-axis. Furthermore, chains are linked by bis(4-(1H-imidazol-1-yl)phenyl)methanone to form 2D layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By first-principle study, we propose a possible stable helium-based compound with chemical formula of Na2HeO. It has a structure of space group F m − 3 m. Energy calculation indicates that it has a local minimum with a lattice constant a = 4. 0 7 Å. Electronic band structure suggests that it is a wide gap insulator. Analysis on Hirshfeld charges and charge density distribution shows a chemical bond formed between O and He atoms in this structure. Results from both elastic constants and phonon dispersion indicate that this compound in the proposed structure is both mechanically and dynamically stable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Superior and inferior rice grains have different weights and are located on the upper primary branch and lower secondary branches of the panicle, respectively. To study differences in germination vigour of these two types of grain, a number of factors were investigated from 0 to 48 h of germination. The present study demonstrated that in inferior grains the starch granule structure was looser at 0 h, with full water absorption at 48 h, while in superior grains the structure was tight and dense. Relative water content increased, and dry matter decreased, more rapidly in inferior grains than in superior ones. Abscisic acid and gibberellin levels, as well as α-amylase activity, also changed more rapidly in inferior grains, while soluble sugar content and amylase coding gene expression increased more rapidly in inferior than superior grains during early germination. The expression of OsGAMYB was higher in inferior grains at 24 h but higher in superior grains at 48 h. The phenotypic index of seedlings was higher in seedlings from superior grains at the two-leaf stage. However, the thousand-grain weight and yield per plant in superior and inferior plants showed no significant difference at harvest. The present study indicates that inferior grains germinate faster than superior ones in the early germination stage. Although inferior grains produced weaker seedlings, it is worthwhile using them in rice production due to their comparative yield potential over that of superior grains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral epithelial adhesion to the lamina propria underlies the physiologic function of the oral mucosa and contributes to resisting bacterial invasion, preventing body fluid loss, and maintaining routine chewing; thus, understanding the factors that positively influence oral epithelial adhesion is a research topic of great interest. Rete pegs contribute to oral epithelial adhesion by enlarging the contact areas, whereas integrins are the major molecules that mediate epithelial cell adhesion to the basement membrane. Keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) can promote both rete peg elongation in the skin and the expression of integrins in various cell types. Herein, we tested the effects of submucosal injection of KGF in the ventral surfaces of rat tongues on oral epithelial adhesion. The data confirmed that topical injection of KGF elevated the adhesive forces, elongated the rete pegs, and increased the abundance of integrins, KGF, and KGF receptor on the rat tongue ventral surface. However, HYD-1 (Lys-Ile-Lys-Met-Val-Ile-Ser-Trp-Lys-Gly), an integrin antagonist, inhibited the KGF-enhanced epithelial adhesion and rete peg elongation. Moreover, KGF promoted the expression of integrin subunits α6, β4, α3, and β1 in human immortalized oral epithelial cells in 2- and 3-dimensional culture systems. In vitro cell attachment assays demonstrated that HYD-1 inhibited the adhesion of human immortalized oral epithelial cells on Matrigel. Strikingly, the expression of integrins, KGF, and KGFR in human masticatory mucosae with longer rete pegs was more abundant than that in the lining mucosae with shorter rete pegs. In addition, rete peg lengths were positively correlated with the expression levels of integrins, KGF, and KGF receptor. These findings indicate that KGF strengthens oral epithelial adhesion and rete peg elongation via integrins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interaction of cell-penetrating peptide human immunodeficiency virus transacting activator of transcription, peptide Tat (49-57), which is the minimal transduction domain of human immunodeficiency virus Tat protein, with calf thymus DNA was investigated with UV/Vis spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, circular dichroism, and viscometry. Peptide Tat (49-57) could interact with DNA via the groove binding mode, which is accompanied with electrostatic interaction. The fluorescence experiments revealed that the binding constant was 2.63×105 l×mol-1. The UV/Vis spectroscopy and circular dichroism results revealed that the interaction of Tat (49-57) binding with calf thymus DNA disturbed the acting force of accumulation between DNA base pairs. The antimicrobial study using Tat (49-57) against bacteria proved that Tat (49-57) possessed antimicrobial activity against both Grampositive and Gram-negative bacteria with low haemolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A CsF-promoted carboxylation of aryl(hetaryl) terminal alkynes with atmospheric CO2 in the presence of trimethylsilylacetylene was developed to give functionalized propiolic acid products at room temperature. A wide range of propiolic acids bearing functional groups was successfully obtained in good to excellent yields. Mechanistic studies demonstrate that in the carboxylation process the alkynylsilane intermediate was first in situ generated, which was then trapped by CO2, giving rise to the corresponding functionalized propiolic acids after acidification. The advantages of this approach include avoiding use of transition-metal catalysts, wide substrate scope together with excellent functional group tolerance, ambient conditions and a facile work-up procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hypersensitive response and pathogenicity (hrp)-type III secretion system (T3SS) is a key pathogenicity factor in Erwinia amylovora, the causal agent of fire blight disease, which has recently reached Central/East Asia, the native origin of apple germplasm resources. It is well understood that the hrp-T3SS in E. amylovora is transcriptionally regulated by the master regulator HrpL, an ECF alternative sigma factor. Recent genetic and biochemical evidence has further demonstrated that transcription of hrpL is positively regulated by alternative sigma factor 54 (RpoN), its modulation protein (YhbH), a σ54-enhancer binding protein (HrpS), and integration host factor (IHF). However, the bacterial/host signals that activate the sigma factor cascade remain elusive. Biofilm formation also plays an important role in E. amylovora virulence and is the main contributing factor to population growth in xylem. Three exopolysaccharides, amylovoran, levan, and cellulose, are required for biofilm formation, and amylovoran and levan also contribute to virulence in other aspects of plant infection. In this short review, we summarized recent findings on the regulation of the T3SS and biofilm formation in E. amylovora by bacterial secondary messengers, including both linear and cyclic nucleotides. As an internal "switch", the linear nucleotide second messengers (p)ppGpp mediates a stringent response under nutrient stress, which then activates RpoN-dependent regulation of the hrpL gene. Furthermore, cyclic di-GMP has been elucidated as a positive regulator of both amylovoran and cellulose biosynthesis and as a negative regulator of the T3SS. We present models for the T3SS and biofilm regulatory pathways in E. amylovora and discuss potential future research directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To determine the basic biochemical features of microparticles ( MP) in patients with venous malformation ( VM) of the head and neck. Methods Microparticles were isolated from peripheral venous blood of VM patients or healthy subjects and from lesional fluid of VM patients. Flow cytometry and real-time polymerase chain reaction were employed to determine the concentration, cellular origin, and RNA expression of obtained MP. A functional coagulation test was applied to measure the coagulant activity of MP. Results Circulating levels of total MP, platelet-derived MP, and endothelial MP were significantly elevated in VM patients and were consistently increased in VM patients with more extensive lesions. Lesional MP ( MP from lesional fluid of VM) in VM patients were more abundant than circulating MP from VM patients or healthy subjects. Moreover, MP from VM patients displayed markedly distinct mRNA and micro RNA expression compared with healthy subjects. Furthermore, MP from VM patients exhibited enhanced procoagulant activity, as evidenced by significantly shorter coagulation time. Conclusions This study demonstrates for the first time that patients with VM have an altered MP profile and MP may be associated with VM-associated thrombogenesis. Further studies are required to explore the precise pathophysiological roles of MP in VM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the process of hydrogen generation via photocatalytic water splitting, solute ions may be adsorbed on the surface of the graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) monolayer, modifying its electronic and optical performances, as well as its redox ability due to chemical bond relaxation. With the aid of first principles calculations, we investigated the properties of a g-C3N4 monolayer with a series of nonmetal (NM) ions adsorbed on its surface. The obtained results revealed that the adsorbed solute ions can form NM–N or NM–C bonds with the g-C3N4 monolayer and result in bond relaxation, altering the valence band maximum and conduction band minimum synchronously. The small coverage rate of Br, Cl and I ions enhances the redox ability of g-C3N4 synchronously, while the adsorption of the other solute ions enhances the oxidizability and weakens the reducibility. In addition, the adsorption of solute ions can alter the active sites by impacting the distribution of the highest occupied molecular orbital and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital. Therefore, we can adjust the electronic, optical performances and redox ability of a g-C3N4 monolayer by selecting the suitable type and quantity of solute ions, e.g., the photocatalytic efficiency of g-C3N4 can be enhanced by H ions plus B, N, Si, O, P and As ions with high coverage rates plus halogen ions with low coverage rates while it is suppressed by C, S, Se and Te ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our recent study established the increased circulating microparticles (MPs) and their procoagulant activity in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). In the present study, we further evaluated different phenotypes of circulating MPs in OSCC patients and explored their clinical significance and effects on angiogenesis (a critical event in tumor progression). To conduct the study, circulating MPs in 45 OSCC patients and 18 healthy volunteers were characterized and quantified by transmission electron microscopy and flow cytometry. Correlations between circulating MPs and clinicopathologic data, microvessel density, and proangiogenic factor levels in patients with OSCC were analyzed by immunohistochemistry and Spearman rank correlation test. Additionally, the in vitro studies were performed with use of human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Our results showed that the levels of circulating MPs as well as the subsets of platelet-derived, endothelium-derived, and pan-leukocyte MPs in stages III to IV OSCC were significantly higher than stages I to II and healthy subjects. Moreover, these increased circulating MPs were significantly correlated with tumor size, TNM stages, microvessel density, and expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP9) in OSCC patients. The in vitro studies revealed that circulating MPs isolated from OSCC patients could be effectively taken up by human umbilical vein endothelial cells and could promote the proliferation, migration, invasion, and tube formation of recipient endothelial cells, accompanied by increased expression of proangiogenic factors. In summary, circulating MPs play important roles in angiogenesis and local tumor progression of OSCC. Our results shed new light on the progression of OSCC and might be helpful to explore novel treatment strategies targeting tumor angiogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our recent study established the increased circulating microparticles (MPs) and their procoagulant activity in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). In the present study, we further evaluated different phenotypes of circulating MPs in OSCC patients and explored their clinical significance and effects on angiogenesis (a critical event in tumor progression). To conduct the study, circulating MPs in 45 OSCC patients and 18 healthy volunteers were characterized and quantified by transmission electron microscopy and flow cytometry. Correlations between circulating MPs and clinicopathologic data, microvessel density, and proangiogenic factor levels in patients with OSCC were analyzed by immunohistochemistry and Spearman rank correlation test. Additionally, the in vitro studies were performed with use of human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Our results showed that the levels of circulating MPs as well as the subsets of platelet-derived, endothelium-derived, and pan-leukocyte MPs in stages III to IV OSCC were significantly higher than stages I to II and healthy subjects. Moreover, these increased circulating MPs were significantly correlated with tumor size, TNM stages, microvessel density, and expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP9) in OSCC patients. The in vitro studies revealed that circulating MPs isolated from OSCC patients could be effectively taken up by human umbilical vein endothelial cells and could promote the proliferation, migration, invasion, and tube formation of recipient endothelial cells, accompanied by increased expression of proangiogenic factors. In summary, circulating MPs play important roles in angiogenesis and local tumor progression of OSCC. Our results shed new light on the progression of OSCC and might be helpful to explore novel treatment strategies targeting tumor angiogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Lymphatic malformations ( LMs), slow-flow vascular anomalies resulting from abnormal development of lymphatic channels, often progress rapidly after trauma or infection. Objectives To explore the possible mechanism by which local infection promotes the progression of LMs. Methods Immunohistochemistry in serial sections and immunofluorescence were performed to label polarized macrophages. Tertiary lymphoid organs ( TLOs) in LMs were identified using antibodies against CD3 (a T-cell marker), CD20 (a B-cell marker) and PNAd (a high endothelial venule marker). Pearson's correlation and cluster analysis were carried out to delineate the relationship between macrophage infiltration and TLO formation. Rat models of LM were established to examine the role of lipopolysaccharide in LM development. Results Compared with normal skin tissues, both M1- and M2-polarized macrophages were prevalent in LMs. Moreover, M2-polarized macrophages were significantly increased in infected LMs with an elevated density of TLOs. M2-polarized macrophages were observed in the centre of TLOs accompanied by intensive staining of macrophage colony-stimulating factor, a strong chemotactic factor for monocytes/macrophages, suggesting that macrophages might be recruited through TLOs. Cluster analysis and Pearson's correlation suggested a close relationship between macrophage infiltration and TLO formation. Furthermore, the expression of CD68 was also correlated with that of vascular endothelial growth factor ( VEGF)-C and Ki67. Importantly, in an established LM rat model, lipopolysaccharide promoted the progression of the malformations with increased macrophage infiltration and TLO formation. Conclusions M2-polarized macrophages that may be recruited through TLOs in infected LMs may contribute to the progression of the disease by secreting VEGF-C, and therefore accelerating the proliferation of lymphatic endothelial cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel multi-component self-assembled nano-vaccines containing both Pam3CSK4 and CpG were developed for the first time. These multi-component vaccines could effectively activate the macrophages in vitro and elicit strong antibody immune responses and anti-tumor immune responses in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous studies have demonstrated that circulating microparticles (MPs) play important roles in a variety of diseases (e.g., atherosclerosis, hypertension, and diabetes), but the association between circulating MPs and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remains largely unknown. In the present study, the circulating platelet-derived MPs (PMPs) in 63 patients with OSCC, 22 patients with infected keratocystic odontogenic tumor, and 31 healthy volunteers were characterized and quantified by flow cytometric analysis. The coagulation function of patients with OSCC was correspondingly evaluated. Meanwhile, the inflammation-related cytokines were detected in plasma by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and in tumor tissues by immunohistochemistry. Our results showed that the plasma level of circulating PMPs was significantly higher in OSCC patients compared with healthy volunteers and patients with infected keratocystic odontogenic tumor, and they showed positive correlation with the increased level of fibrinogen. Moreover, the coagulation time was significantly shorter after the MPs were added to the MP-free plasma. Most important, the levels of interleukin 6 and tumor necrosis factor α in plasma and tumor tissues were significantly increased in OSCC patients, which were closely correlated with the elevated level of circulating PMPs. In summary, this study suggests that the elevated level of circulating PMPs, showing close correlation with the secretion of inflammation-related factors, may contribute to the increased procoagulant activity in patients with OSCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The thermal stability and electronic structures of anatase TiO2 doped with early transition metals (TM) (group III-B = Sc, Y and La; group IV-B = Zr and Hf; group V-B = V, Nb and Ta) have been studied using first principles calculations. It was found that all doped systems are thermodynamically stable, and their band gaps were reduced by 1–1.3 eV compared to pure TiO2. Doping with transition metals affects the strength of the hybrid orbital of TM–O bonding, and the band gap increases approximately linearly with the MP value of TM–O bonding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of vertical compressive stress on Sb2Te3 nano-films have been investigated by the first principles calculation, including stability, electronic structure, crystal structure, and bond order. It is found that the band gap of nano-film is sensitive to the stress in Sb2Te3 nano-film and the critical thickness increases under compressive stress. The band gap and band order of Sb2Te3 film has been affected collectively by the surface and internal crystal structures, the contraction ratio between surface bond length of nano-film and the corresponding bond length of bulk decides the band order of Sb2Te3 film. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Previous studies have implicated vascular destabilization and changes in extracellular matrix ( ECM) composition in venous malformations ( VMs). Objectives To evaluate the expression levels of the connective tissue growth factor ( CCN) family of matricellular proteins in VMs and explore their association with vascular destabilization. Methods The expression levels of CCNs 1-6, transforming growth factor ( TGF)-β, phosphorylated Tie2 and phosphorylated platelet-derived growth factor receptor β in normal human skin tissues and VMs were detected by immunohistochemistry. Correlation between tested proteins was explored using the Spearman rank correlation test, followed by clustering analysis. In vitro studies using human umbilical vein endothelial cells ( HUVECs) were performed for mechanism investigation. Results Expression of CCN2 was found to be strongly positive in fibroblast-like cells, endothelial cells and around blood vessels in normal human skin tissues, but it was significantly downregulated in VMs. Correlation analyses showed that expression levels of CCN2 and TGF-β in VMs were positively correlated. The immunoreactivity of CCN2 was also closely correlated with perivascular α-smooth muscle cell actin+ cell coverage in VMs. Moreover, in vitro studies in HUVECs indicated that CCN2 might act as a downstream target of TGF-β, as demonstrated by the findings that treatment with exogenous TGF-β or exogenous CCN2 could significantly upregulate the expression level of CCN2, and increase the expression levels of ECM components. Upregulation of the TGF-β/ CCN2 pathway was also detected in bleomycin-treated VM specimens. Conclusions This study unmasks the downregulation of the TGF-β/ CCN2 pathway in VMs, and indicates its target potential for sclerotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recurrence is very common if the mucoceles of the anterior lingual salivary glands (ALSGs) are treated by surgery due to its anatomic characteristics. Therefore, more effective and less invasive treatment methods are urgently required to be applied instead of surgery. In this study, 40 patients with the mucocele of the ALSGs received the intralesional injections of pingyangmycin, and the median number of injections per patient was 2.075 (range, 1-3). All cases completely recovered with no recurrence after follow-up of more than 16 months. The complications included the local swelling, pain, and ulceration following injection, and all these symptoms resolved 7-10 days after the injection. Taken together, sclerotherapy with pingyangmycin is an effective and safe treatment method for the mucocele of the ALSGs and may be the primary treatment modality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The STEP-NC—AP 238 and ISO 14649 standard is the result of a 10-year international effort to replace the RS274D (ISO 6983) G and M code standard with a modern associative language that connects the CAD design data used to determine the machining requirements for an operation with the CAM process data that is used in creating a machining solution to satisfy these requirements. STEP-NC builds on the previous 10 years effort to develop the STEP neutral data standard for CAD data, and uses the modern geometric constructs in that standard to specify device independent tool paths, and CAM independent volume removal features. STEP-Manufacturing, Team 24 in Working Group 3 (WG3) of ISO TC184/SC4, is developing and validating the STEP-NC standard in liaison with Working Group (WG7) of ISO TC184/SC1 who provides the domain-specific input (ISO 14649) used within the standard. This paper reviews the demonstrations carried out by STEP-Manufacturing over the past 10 years. These demonstrations have been international collaborations between industry, academia, and research agencies. Each demonstration focused on extending the STEP-NC data model for a different application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of novel side group-modified cyclotriphosphazene derivatives were synthesized by the reaction of hexachlorocyclotriphosphazene [N3P3Cl6] with 2,2′-diphenol and the potassium salt of 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde, and subsequent reduction of aldehyde groups to alcohol groups by the use of sodium borohydride. The bromination reaction was carried out with PBr3 to give N3P3(O2C12H8) (p-BrCH2-C6H4-O-)4. This compound was employed in reactions with macrocyclic polyamides, imidazole, or morpholine to produce title compounds. The target compounds were characterized by 1H NMR, 31P NMR, 13C NMR, and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. Supplemental materials are available for this article. Go to the publisher's online edition of Phosphorus, Sulfur, and Silicon and the Related Elements to view the free supplemental file. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the features of diode-pumped lasers, a thermal model of the square cross-section of a Yb:KGd(WO4)2 (Yb:KGW) laser crystal was established. According to the latest reports on thermal parameters and considering the heat transfer on side surfaces, temperature distribution pumped-face distortion and thermal lens local length were obtained by solving the anisotropy heal conductive equation. Under pump powers of 16 W, the highest temperature located at the centre of the pumped front surface was 309.9 °C, the maximum distortion was 0.55 µm and the thermal lens focal length at the pump spot was 4.2 cm. It is shown that thermal lensing in b-cut Yb:KGW is quite serious and it can be lessened if the heat transfer is considered. As such, based on the calculations of thermal lens focal length, we designed a plane-concave cavity and then made a further study on the continuous output performances of diode-pumped Yb:KGW lasers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2011; 34: 1020-1029 Summary Background The epidemiology and effects of functional constipation (FC) on Chinese people remain unclear. Aim To investigate the epidemiology of FC and its distinction from constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-C) in China. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted in a representative adult Chinese population ( n = 16 078), which was selected from five regions using randomised, stratified, multistage sampling methodology. All respondents completed the modified Rome II questionnaire; 20% were asked to complete the 36-item Short Form (SF-36) and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Results Overall, 948 respondents (6%) had FC and FC was more prevalent in women than in men (8% vs. 4%, P < 0.001). Straining and hard stools were the two most frequent symptoms. FC was associated significantly with dyspepsia and abdominal bloating. All SF-36 domain scores were lower for respondents with FC than for those without. The prevalence of clinically meaningful daytime sleepiness was significantly higher in respondents with FC than in those without (22% vs. 14%, P = 0.003). Respondents with FC were more likely to strain, but less likely to have a feeling of incomplete emptying after a bowel movement than those with IBS-C. Respondents with IBS-C experienced similar demographics, quality of life and daytime sleepiness to those with FC. Conclusions The prevalence of FC in China is substantially lower than that in Western countries. FC has negative effects on quality of life and daytime sleepiness. The demographics and burden of illness are similar between FC and IBS-C, although the clinical symptoms are somewhat different. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral Diseases (2011) , 328-334 The aim of this study was to assess the expression levels of two proteins, such as PRDX6 and cyclophilin A (CypA), and to evaluate their relationship with clinicopathologic features and survival in tongue squamous cell carcinomas (TSCCs). An immunohistochemical study was performed comprising a total of 42 tissue samples of patients suffering from TSCCs as well as 10 corresponding adjacent normal tissues. After detection of PRDX6 and CypA, their expression levels were semiquantitatively evaluated and correlated with clinicopathologic variables. Both PRDX6 and CypA expressions were significantly higher in tissue samples of TSCCs compared with the 10 corresponding adjacent normal tissues ( < 0.01). A statistically significant correlation in TSCCs regarding the expression of PRDX6 and CypA was revealed ( P = 0.005), and the lymphadenectasis was correlated with PRDX6 ( P < 0.05). Results of a multivariate analysis revealed age, CypA expression, cervical lymph node metastases, and tongue cancer differentiation to be independent prognostic variables in respect of the overall survival rate ( P < 0.05). It could be detected that PRDX6 and CypA are associated with tumorigenesis in TSCCs. High levels of CypA expression may predict reduced survival time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we used the Atherton-Todd reaction to synthesize amino acid methyl ester 5'-phosphoamidates of uridine as prodrugs. Their structures were confirmed by 1H NMR, 31P NMR, 13C NMR, IR, and mass spectrometry. Supplemental materials are available for this article. Go to the publisher's online edition of Phosphorus, Sulfur, and Silicon and the Related Elements to view the free supplemental file. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of magnetic relaxation on flux jump is studied in high temperature superconducting slab. The magnetothermal diffusion equations based on the Kim model are presented in this paper to estimate the effect of magnetic relaxation on flux jump inside the slab in the flux dynamics process. Numerical results obtained show that the flux-jump phenomenon could be suppressed by the magnetic relaxation and the dependence of the number of flux jumps on the relaxation time are obvious. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structure and stability of AgXen Z(n=1–3, Z=-1, 0, +1) cluster series at CCSD(T) theoretical level have been investigated. It is shown that the cations are more stable and have more compact geometries than the anions and neutrals. The role of the interaction was explained using the natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to compare the survival time and quality of life (QOL) of patients who have received different treatment for tracheoesophageal/bronchoesophageal fistula. Between January 2003 and December 2007, 35 patients with malignant tracheoesophageal/bronchoesophageal fistula were recorded as the control group, gastrostomy group, and stenting group, respectively, according to the treatments they chose. Two weeks after the treatment, European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Core 30 Questionnaire (QLQ-C30), Quality of Life Questionnaire-esophageal module (QLQ-OES18), and a respiratory symptom-related QOL index are employed to assess QOL of these patients. There is no significant difference in survival time and constituent ratio of death reason among groups. Except for eight patients who died within 2 weeks after the treatment, all other 27 patients returned back the questionnaires. As compared to the control group, patients in the gastrostomy group gained a low score in emotional function and financial situation, while patients in the stenting group had lower scores in financial problems and seven respiratory and eating-related symptoms. In contrast with the gastrostomy group, patients in stenting group had higher scores in emotional and social functions, and lower scores in six respiratory and eating-related symptoms. With patients' QOL considered, the self-expandable coated stenting should be the first choice of therapy for malignant tracheoesophageal/bronchoesophageal fistula, whereas gastrostomy should be kept from use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) is a osteolytic bone lesionthat rarely involves the jaws. To date, a total of 92 casesof JABCs have been described in detail in English literature.They prevalently occur in the first 2 decades(72.8%) with slight female predilection. It affects themandible more often (68.5%) with a predominant locationin the mandibular ramus (31.3%) and its posteriorregions (20.4%). A painless (54.7%) or painful (43.2%)bone swelling is the most frequent clinical sign.Radiologically 93.8% of the lesions present as a radiolucency;in 69.4% multilocular in appearance. 15.2%of JABCs were secondary in nature, including 8 casesassociated with fibrous dysplasia. The recurrence rate(13.3%) did not differ significantly when comparingthe surgical technique (curettage, 15.2%; resection,11.8%). JABCs are known for their different clinicaland radiographic features, therefore often posing adiagnostic dilemma. Some JABC's may be secondary innature. Careful curettage is considered to be suitableas treatment for JABCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Recent studies revealed that immune and immune-mediated inflammatory events may contribute to the pathogenesis of haemangioma. As a modulator of immune responses, the allograft inflammatory factor-1 (AIF-1) is involved in immune dysfunction and macrophage activation. Objective To investigate the possible role of AIF-1 in the progression of haemangioma. Methods In a retrospective study of haemangiomas in the oral and facial regions, we assessed lesional immunoreactivities for AIF-1, CD68 and Ki67. Negative controls were similarly confirmed, including 24 pyogenic granulomas, 26 vascular malformations, five samples of normal skin, 10 squamous cell carcinomas of the tongue and three placentas. Immunostaining for each antigen in the haemangiomas was compared with control tissues. Results Out of all the samples, intense immunoreactivity for AIF-1 was detected in 17 of 19 (89%) haemangioma specimens, with a specific location in the endothelial cells. The intensity of AIF-1 immunostaining did not show remarkable difference among proliferating, involuting and involuted haemangiomas. CD68-positive endothelial cells were found in the neovessels of haemangiomas, as well as in pyogenic granulomas and squamous cell carcinoma. Conclusions The exclusive expression of AIF-1 on endothelial cells of haemangiomas suggests that it may play a significant role in the pathophysiology and progression of haemangiomas. AIF-1 can be used as an additional biomarker for infantile haemangiomas. CD68-positive cells participate in the neovessel formation during proliferative haemangioma and contribute to the promotion of haemangioma growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Sonic hedgehog (SHH) protein produced in the zone of polarising activity (ZPA) is a major determinant of the identity and numbers of digits in early limb development. Preaxial polydactyly types II (PPD2) and Ill (PPD3( have been mapped to a critical region at 7q36, and subsequently shown to be caused by point mutations in the ZPA regulatory sequence (ZRS), a long range cis-regulator for the SHH gene. Triphalangeal thumb-polysyndactyly syndrome (TPTPS( and syndactyly type IV (S04) were also mapped to the 7q36 region but pathogenic mutations in ZAS have not yet been affirmed. Methods and results: We performed linkage and haplotype analysis in six Han Chinese families with TPTPS and/or SD4, and refined the disease locus to an interval of 646 kb containing ZRS. In all families, the affected individuals heterozygous at rs10254391 (a single nucleotide polymorphism within ZRS) revealed a remarkable allele imbalance on sequence chromatogram. Using realtime quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), we identified duplication of ZRS and found that this duplication segregated with the limb phenotypes in all families but was not detected in unaffected family members or in unrelated control individuals. The duplication was also confirmed by interphase fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) in an affected individual. We designed 17 additional qPCR assays and defined the minimum duplications in all six families, ranging from 131kb to 398kb. Conclusion: Both TPTPS and SD4 are due to duplications involving ZAS, the limb specific SHH enhancer. Point mutations in the ZRS and duplications encompassing the ZRS cause distinctive limb phenotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of non-uniform Jc distributions on flux jumps in high-temperature superconductors is investigated with the simplified models in the form of a composite superconducting slab consisting of different pinning regions. The magnetization loops and flux jumps for the simplified models are calculated with the modified recursion formulas which could predict the flux-jump fields. The valid ranges of the temperature and sweep rate for Bfj1 are specified and the fields of the subsequent jumps after the first flux jump of the inhomogeneous models are obviously lower than that of the homogeneous models. The results indicate that flux jump instability could be stimulated by non-uniform Jc distributions and with the increase of the discrepancy of Jc between different pinning regions the instability also increase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is an inherited autosomal dominant disorder. Haematoma is an unusual complication of neurofibromatosis and extremely rare in the maxillofacial region. A case of haematoma in NF1 of the left face is presented. MR images of acute haematoma in NF1 and radiographic features of the mandible are described. Stenosis of the internal jugular vein was noted in MR angiography (MRA). Surgical resection of the tumour and evacuation of blood clots were performed. Histological and immunohistochemical examination demonstrated that the neurofibroma tumour cells infiltrated the mural layer of vessels without malignant translation. MRI is a good choice for depicting haematoma in neurofibromatosis. Intratumour haemorrhage may result from the infiltration of vessels into the lesion and minor trauma on the affected area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]