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Volatile sex pheromones are vital for sexual communication between males and females. Females of the American cockroach, Periplaneta americana, produce and emit two sex pheromone components, periplanone-A (PA) and periplanone-B (PB). Although PB is the major sex attractant and can attract males, how it interacts with PA in regulating sexual behaviors is still unknown. In this study, we found that in male cockroaches, PA counteracted PB attraction. We identified two odorant receptors (ORs), OR53 and OR100, as PB/PA and PA receptors, respectively. OR53 and OR100 were predominantly expressed in the antennae of sexually mature males, and their expression levels were regulated by the sex differentiation pathway and nutrition-responsive signals. Cellular localization of OR53 and OR100 in male antennae further revealed that two types of sensilla coordinate a complex two-pheromone-two-receptor pathway in regulating cockroach sexual behaviors. These findings indicate distinct functions of the two sex pheromone components, identify their receptors and possible regulatory mechanisms underlying the male-specific and age-dependent sexual behaviors, and can guide novel strategies for pest management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The modulation of immunometabolic pathways is emerging as a promising therapeutic target for immune-mediated diseases. However, the immunometabolic features of psoriatic disease and the potential targets for immunometabolic intervention in the different T-cell subsets involved in its pathogenesis remain unclear. Methods: In this study, we analyzed circulating blood single-cell data from healthy controls (HC), psoriasis (PSO), and psoriatic arthritis (PSA) patients, and revealed their metabolic features of T-cell subsets: CD4+ central memory T cells (TCMs), CD8+ effective memory T cells (TEMs), regulatory T cells (Tregs), mucosal-associated invariant T cells (MAITs), and ɣƍ T cells. Pearson test was performed to determine the linkages between differential metabolic and inflammatory pathways. Based on these results, we also analyzed the potential impacts of biological antibodies on differential metabolic pathways by comparing the immunometabolism differences between PSA patients without and with biological treatment. Results: Our results suggest that upregulation of ascorbate and aldarate metabolism, as well as fatty acid degradation, may enhance the immune suppression of Tregs. Enhanced metabolism of alpha-linolenic acid, linoleic acid, and arachidonic acid may inhibit the pro-inflammatory functions of CD4 + TCMs and CD8+ TEMs in PSO and PSA, and protect the immune suppression of Tregs in PSA. We propose that supporting ascorbic acid and fatty acid metabolic pathways may be an adjunctive reprogramming strategy with adalimumab and etanercept therapy. Discussion: These findings not only provide insights into immunometabolism characteristics of psoriatic disease, but also offer preliminary options for the auxiliary treatment of psoriasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces a comprehensive framework for the point cloud processing of traditional buildings. The framework includes segmentation using the RANSAC algorithm and distributed storage based on a fuzzy weighting approach. The methodology employs a height threshold parameter for segmentation to extract building structural elements effectively. Furthermore, an interactive access control model distributes tasks across nodes to achieve load balancing during point cloud matching and analysis. Experimental results demonstrate segmentation accuracy exceeding 99% and alignment time reduction to 967 ms for point cloud models. The distributed computation efficiency reaches 0.8, outperforming conventional methods. The proposed techniques enable accurate dimensional capture, efficient data storage, and information extraction from traditional buildings to support digital preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Glutathione is an important bioactive tripeptide and is widely used in the food, medicine, and cosmetics industries. The aim of this study was to provide an efficient method for producing GSH and to explore its synthesis mechanism. Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain HBSD-W08 was screened for GSH production, and its fermentation medium was optimized using single-factor experiments of the Plackett-Burman and central composite rotatable designs. This method was used to analyze the effects of the presence and concentration of various carbon sources, organic and inorganic nitrogen sources, metal ions, and precursor amino acids on GSH production and catalase, superoxide dismutase, and γ-glutamylcysteine synthetase activity. Results: The three most significant factors affecting GSH production were peptone (optimal concentration [OC]: 2.50 g L− 1), KH2PO4 (OC: 0.13 g L− 1), and glutamic acid (OC: 0.10 g L− 1). GSH productivity of HBSD-W08 was obtained at 3.70 g L− 1 in the optimized medium. The activity of γ-GCS, which is a marker for oxidative stress, was found to be highly positively correlated with GSH production. Conclusions: This finding revealed an underlying relationship between GSH synthesis and oxidative stress, providing useful information for developing effective GSH fermentation control strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. CircFBXW7 has been determined to be involved in various cancers; however, its role in nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains unclear. This study examined the function and potential mechanism of circFBXW7 in NSCLC. Methods. The structure of circFBXW7 was verified via RT-PCR and Sanger sequencing. The expression of circFBXW7 in NSCLC was determined by qRT-PCR. The effect of circFBXW7 overexpression on the proliferation, migration, and invasion of NSCLC cells was examined by CCK-8 and Transwell assays. Furthermore, a circFBXW7-miRNA network was established to explore their interaction. Predicted miRNA was determined by qRT-PCR. Moreover, the miRNA mimics were synthesized, wherein its effect on proliferation, migration, and invasion of NSCLC cells overexpressed circFBXW7 was assessed. Results. The circularity of circFBXW7 was verified. The expression of circFBXW7 was found to be downregulated in NSCLC cells compared with that in normal human lung epithelial BEAS-2B cells. Overexpression of circFBXW7 reduced cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Furthermore, according to the circFBXW7-miRNA network prediction and qRT-PCR validation, miR-492 was identified to be the target of circFBXW7. The inhibitory effect of circFBXW7 overexpression on cell proliferation, migration, and invasion was reversed by miR-492 mimics. Conclusion. CircFBXW7 is downregulated in NSCLC. CircFBXW7 inhibits NSCLC cells proliferation, migration, and invasion by regulating miR-492. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ruxolitinib is an important treatment for steroid refractory graft-versus-host disease (SR-GVHD). Therefore, we reported the updated results of a systematic review and meta-analysis of ruxolitinib as treatment for SRGVHD. In addition, we wanted to compare the efficacy and safety between children and adults with SR-GVHD. Overall response rate (ORR) after ruxolitinib treatment was chosen as the primary end point. Complete response rate (CRR), infection, myelosuppression, and overall survival (OS) were chosen as secondary end points. A total of 37 studies were included in this meta-analysis, and 1,580 patients were enrolled. ORR at any time after ruxolitinib treatment was 0.77 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.68-0.84] and 0.78 (95% CI: 0.74-0.81), respectively, for SR-aGVHD and SR-cGVHD. CRR at any time after ruxolitinib treatment was 0.49 (95% CI: 0.40-0.57) and 0.15 (95% CI: 0.10-0.23), respectively, for SR-aGVHD and SR-cGVHD. The ORRs at any time after treatment was highest in mouth SR-cGVHD, followed by skin, gut, joints and fascia, liver, eyes, esophagus, and lung SR-cGVHD. The incidence rate of infections after ruxolitinib treatment was 0.61 (95% CI: 0.45-0.76) and 0.47 (95% CI: 0.31-0.63), respectively, for SR-aGVHD and SRcGVHD. The incidence rates of overall (grades I-IV) and severe (grades III-IV) cytopenia were 53.2% (95% CI: 16.0%-90.4%) and 31.0% (95% CI: 0.0-100.0%), respectively, for SR-aGVHD, and were 28.8% (95% CI:13.0%-44.6%) and 10.4% (95% CI: 0.0-27.9%), respectively, for SR-cGVHD. The probability rate of OS at 6 months after treatment was 63.9% (95% CI: 52.5%-75.2%) for SR-aGVHD. The probability rates of OS at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years after treatment were 95% (95% CI: 79.5%-100.0%), 78.7% (95% CI: 67.2%-90.1%), and 75.3% (95% CI: 68.0%-82.7%), respectively, for SR-cGVHD. The ORR, CRR, infection events, and myelosuppression were all comparable between children and adults with SR-GVHD. In summary, this study suggests that ruxolitinib is an effective and safe treatment for SR-GVHD, and both children and adults with SR-GVHD could benefit from ruxolitinib treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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At the early stage of public health emergencies, when the conventional medical reserves prepared are insufficient, and productivity could temporarily not meet the surge in demand, donations can be used to cover excess demand for medical supplies to a large extent. This paper explicitly considers the allocation problem of limited medical reserves during a public health emergency, incorporating uncertainty in demand and donated supplies and the priorities of health care centers. The problem is formulated as a two-stage stochastic program that regards the donated supplies as an efficient recourse action, aiming to minimize the total losses. The optimal allocation strategy of limited medical reserves and donations is obtained by solving the model using Gurobi solver. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed approach is verified by a series of computational results, which show that the solutions of our method not only benefit the emergency demand fulfill rate but reduce the total losses as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Squalene is an important bioactive substance, which is widely used in the development of functional foods, pharmaceutical products and cosmetics. In this paper, the sources and analytical methods of squalene in different biomass and the dynamic changes of squalene in olive oil were described. The contents of squalene in olive oil and other oils were compared. The research progress of the biological activity of squalene in olive oil was reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reports that optical characterization was performed on wafers sliced from crystals grown by physical vapor transport. Determining energy band gaps at room temperature from optical transmission measurements on wafers; Low-temperature photoluminescence spectra.

Aim. Cyclophilin A (CypA)/CD147 signaling plays critical roles in the regulation of inflammation and bone metabolism. This study aimed to investigate the participation of CypA/CD147 in mice periapical lesions progression and its relationship with bone resorption. Methodology. Periapical lesions were induced by pulp exposure in the first lower molars of 40 C57BL/6J mice. The mice were sacrificed on days 0, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42, and 49. Mandibles were harvested for X-ray imaging, microcomputed tomography scanning, histologic observation, immunohistochemistry, enzyme histochemistry, and double immunofluorescence analysis. Western blot was employed to further detect the related molecular signaling pathways in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells treated with CypA inhibitor. Results. The volume and area of the periapical lesions increased from day 0 to day 35 and remained comparably stable until day 49. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated that the CypA expression levels also increased from day 0 to day 35 and decreased until day 49, similar to CD147 expression (R2 = 0.4423, P < 0.05), osteoclast number (R2 = 0.5101, P < 0.01), and the expression of osteoclastogenesis-related matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) (R2 = 0.4715, P < 0.05). Serial sections further confirmed the colocalization of CypA and CD147 on osteoclasts with immunohistochemistry. And the distribution of CypA-positive or CD147-positive cells was positively correlated with the dynamics of MMP-9-positive cells by using immunofluorescence analysis. Furthermore, CD147 and MMP-9 expression in RAW 264.7 cells were both downregulated with CypA inhibitor treatment (P < 0.05). Conclusions. The present study reveals the positive correlation of CypA/CD147 signaling and osteoclast-related MMP-9 expression in mice inflammatory periapical lesions progression. Therefore, intervention of CypA/CD147 signaling could probably provide a potential therapeutic target for attenuating inflammatory bone resorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complete mitochondrial genome of a conehead katydid Euconocephalus pallidus was determined. The mitochondrial genome is 15,888 bp in size with an A + T content of 71.67%. It contains 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, two ribosomal RNA genes, and a control region. The order and orientation of these genes conform to the ancestral form of insects. Phylogenetic analysis supports a close relationship between E. pallidus and E. nasutus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gene expression chip of a salt-tolerant wheat mutant under salt stress was used to clone a salt-induced gene with unknown functions. This gene was designated as TaSR (Triticum aestivum salt-response gene) and submitted to GenBank under accession number EF580107. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis showed that gene expression was induced by salt stress. Arabidopsis and rice (Oryza sativa) plants expressing TaSR presented higher salt tolerance than the controls, whereas AtSR mutant and RNA interference rice plants were more sensitive to salt. Under salt stress, TaSR reduced Na+ concentration and improved cellular K+ and Ca2+ concentrations; this gene was also localized on the cell membrane. β-Glucuronidase (GUS) staining and GUS fluorescence quantitative determination were conducted through fragmentation cloning of the TaSR promoter. Salt stress-responsive elements were detected at 588-1074 bp upstream of the start codon. GUS quantitative tests of the full-length promoter in different tissues indicated that promoter activity was highest in the leaf under salt stress. Bimolecular fluorescence complementation and yeast two-hybrid screening further showed the correlation of TaSR with TaPRK and TaKPP. In vitro phosphorylation of TaSR and TaPRK2697 showed that TaPRK2697 did not phosphorylate TaSR. This study revealed that the novel TaSR may be used to improve plant tolerance to salt stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies and a major cause of cancer-related mortality in the world. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, noncoding RNAs that play essential roles in various stages during cancer progression. The aim of the current study was to elucidate the role of miR-1269 in the pathogenesis of HCC. Methods The expression of miR-1269 in HCC cells and tissues were determined by Real-time PCR analysis. Cell viability, colony formation and anchorage-independent growth ability assays were performed to examine cell proliferative capacity and tumorigenicity. Flow cytometry analysis was conducted to determine cell cycle progression. The expression of p21, CyclinD1, phosphorylated Rb, Rb and FOXO1 were examined by Western blotting analysis. Luciferase assay was used to determine whether FOXO1 is the direct target of miR-1269. Results miR-1269 was upregulated in HCC cells and tissues. Ectopic miR-1269 expression promoted, but inhibition of miR-1269 reduced, proliferation, tumorigenicity and cell cycle progression of HCC cells. Furthermore, we demonstrated that FOXO1 was a direct target of miR-1269. Suppression of FOXO1 by miR-1269 was associated with dysregulation of p21, cyclin D1, phosphorylated Rb and Ki67 expression, thereby playing an essential role in the growth of HCC cells. Conclusions Our study indicated that overexpression of miR-1269 promotes cell proliferation in HCC through directly suppressing FOXO1, and functions as an oncomiR in HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An approach to selectively and efficiently detect single strand DNA is developed by using streptavidin coated gold nanoparticles (StAuNPs) as efficient quenchers. The central concept for the successful detection is the combination the of streptavidin-biotin interaction with specific probe-target DNA hybridization. Biotin labeled probe DNAs act as "bridges" to bring Cy5 labeled targets to the particle surface and the fluorophore dye can be rapidly and efficiently quenched by StAuPNs. By measuring the changes of photoluminescence intensity of Cy5, an efficient, selective, and reversed detection of DNA hybridization is realized. The methodology may pave a new way for simple and rapid detections of biomolecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diacylglycerol acyltransferase-1 (DGAT1) is a potential therapeutic target for treatment of obesity and related metabolic diseases. However, the degree of DGAT1 inhibition required for metabolic benefits is unclear. Here we show that partial DGAT1 deficiency in mice suppressed postprandial triglyceridemia, led to elevations in glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and peptide YY (PYY) only following meals with very high lipid content, and did not protect from diet-induced obesity. Maximal DGAT1 inhibition led to enhanced GLP-1 and PYY secretion following meals with physiologically relevant lipid content. Finally, combination of DGAT1 inhibition with dipeptidyl-peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibition led to further enhancements in active GLP-1 in mice and dogs. The current study suggests that targeting DGAT1 to enhance postprandial gut hormone secretion requires maximal inhibition, and suggests combination with DPP-4i as a potential strategy to develop DGAT1 inhibitors for treatment of metabolic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytic acid ( myo-inositol 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 hexa kisphosphate) is an important constituent of soybean meal. Since phytic acid and its mineral salts (phytates) are almost indigestible for monogastrics, their abundance in grain food/feed causes nutritional and environmental problems; interest in breeding low phytic acid has therefore increased considerably. Based on gene mapping and the characteristics of inositol polyphosphates profile in the seeds of a soybean mutant line Gm- lpa-ZC-2, the soybean ortholog of inositol 1,3,4,5,6 penta kisphosphate (InsP) 2-kinase (IPK1), which transforms InsP into phytic acid, was first hypothesized as the candidate gene responsible for the low phytic acid alteration in Gm- lpa-ZC-2. One IPK1 ortholog ( Glyma14g07880, GmIPK1) was then identified in the mapped region on chromosome 14. Sequencing revealed a G → A point mutation in the genomic DNA sequence and the exclusion of the entire fifth exon in the cDNA sequence of GmIPK1 in Gm- lpa-ZC-2 compared with its wild-type progenitor Zhechun No. 3. The excluded exon encodes 37 amino acids that spread across two conserved IPK1 motifs. Furthermore, complete co-segregation of low phytic acid phenotype with the G → A mutation was observed in the F population of ZC- lpa x Zhexiandou No. 4 (a wild-type cultivar). Put together, the G → A point mutation affected the pre-mRNA splicing and resulted in the exclusion of the fifth exon of GmIPK1 which is expected to disrupt the GmIPK1 functionality, leading to low phytic acid level in Gm- lpa-ZC-2. Gm- lpa-ZC-2, would be a good germplasm source in low phytic acid soybean breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the reflectance of the butterfly wings are measured by using the microspectrophotometer as the optical character with the reflectance on several scales on the wings. Reflectance spectra from different wing scale zones with the same color are dramatically different. And it suggests that the tiny structural difference has the great influence on the reflectance property. In addition, the microstructures of the butterfly wings can be simplified to a 2D crossing grating. By simulating a two-dimensional model using rigorous coupled-wave analysis technique, the optical properties of the butterfly wings were investigated. The simulation results depend strongly on the structural parameters and refractive index. The research will reveal the mechanisms of the structural color of 2D crossing grating butterfly wings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic syndromes with dermatologic findings and multisystemic involvement (e.g., visceral cancer predisposition) are underrecognized. Patients may have incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity; some patients may solely exhibit subtle skin signs, which create a diagnostic challenge for physicians. Interdisciplinary diagnostic knowledge is required for the early diagnosis and monitoring of patients with these syndromes. Cutaneous changes in the face--one of the most highly exposed areas--can be easily noticed by patients themselves, their families and friends, and physicians; these changes may serve as early indicators of genetic syndromes with malignancies. In this article, we present examples of genetic syndromes with malignancies for which a thorough faciocutaneous examination is helpful in establishing a diagnosis. These examples include lentiginosis-related syndromes (e.g., Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, Carney complex), photosensitivity-related syndromes (Bloom syndrome, Rothmund-Thomson syndrome), and hamartoma-related syndromes (Cowden syndrome, multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome, tuberous sclerosis complex, Gardner syndrome, Muir-Torre syndrome). The characteristics of these faciocutaneous clues are summarized and discussed. Objective evaluation of these faciocutaneous clues in combination with other clinical information (e.g., family history, histopathological findings, combination with other concomitant faciocutaneous lesions) is emphasized to narrow the diagnosis. The list of genetic syndromes with faciocutaneous manifestations is still expanding. Increased awareness of faciocutaneous markers can alert physicians to underlying syndromes and malignancies, render earlier screening and detection of associated medical issues, and allow for genetic counseling of family members. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary 1. Growth hormone (GH ) has been demonstrated to overcome the inappropriate deceleration of growth rate in children with central precocious puberty treated with gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue (GnRHa ). However, the underlying mechanisms remain largely unclear. In the present study, we investigated the potential involvement of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR ) pathway in the growth promotion by GH using in vitro cultured growth plate chondrocytes isolated from adolescent rats treated with GnRHa. 2. Chondrocytes were stimulated with GH in the presence or absence of the Janus tyrosine kinase (JAK ) 2 inhibitor AG490 (1, 10 and 100 nmol/L ), the EGFR kinase inhibitor AG1478 (0.1, 1 and 10 nmol/L ), U0126 (an inhibitor of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (Erk ) activation; 10 μmol/L ) or a neutralizing antibody against epidermal growth factor (EGF Ab; 0.1, 1 and 10 μg/mL ). The proliferation of chondrocytes was assessed by the 3- (4,5-dimethyl-2 thiazoyl )-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide assay and immunostaining for proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA ). Phosphorylation of Erk1/2 and EGFR was detected by western-blotting. Intracellular mRNA and extracellular protein levels of EGF were detected using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and ELISA, respectively. 3. Growth hormone promoted the proliferation of chondrocytes, which was correlated with increased phosphorylation of Erk1/2 and EGFR and enhanced expression of EGF. Pretreatment with AG490, AG1478, U0126 or EGF Ab completely or partially inhibited the proliferation of chondrocytes and activation of Erk1/2 and EGFR. Pretreatment with AG490, AG1478, or U0126 partially inhibited the expression of EGF. 4. The findings indicate that GH promotes chondrocyte proliferation by activating EGFR signalling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present study was to examine the protective action and mechanisms of pinocembrin (1) on the neurovascular unit (NVU) in permanent cerebral ischemic rats. Focal cerebral ischemia was induced by occlusion of middle cerebral artery (MCAO) in rats. Compound 1 (3, 10, or 30 mg/kg) was intravenously injected at 0, 8, 16 h after MCAO. At 24 h of occlusion, 1 alleviated neuronal apoptosis, edema of astrocytic end-feet, and the deformation of endothelial cells and capillaries as revealed by the transmission electron microscopy study. To understand the mechanisms of action, the anti-inflammation effect of 1 was examined. Compound 1 reduced the expressions of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, inducible NO synthase and aquaporin-4; inhibited the activation of microglias and astrocytes; and downregulated the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in the ischemic brain. The ischemia-induced decreases in mRNA expressions of tight junction constituent proteins, occludin and ZO-1, were also inhibited by 1. These results indicated that 1 can protect the rat brain against ischemia injury by inhibiting the inflammatory cascade, reducing the expression of MMP-9, and preventing the integrity of tight junction. This resulted in the protective action of 1 on the NVU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have got the humanized antibody with high affinity and specificity against keratin by phage antibody library technology. To improve protein yields and get high affinity and specific anti-keratin antibody, we chose to express it in Pichia pastoris. Anti-keratin ScFv gene from plasmid p3MH/ScFv was subcloned into vector pPIC9K. After confirmed by DNA sequence analysis, the recombinant plasmid pPIC9K/ScFv was transduced into the genome of GS115 P. pastoris. Muts multiple insert transformants were screened by G418 and induced by 5 mL/L methanol to express soluble ScFv. After 6 days of methanol induction, anti-keratin ScFv was efficiently secreted into the medium. Western blot and ELISA assay proved the expressed protein had specific keratin-binding activity. After purification, we examined its effect on cultured keratinocytes by Cell cycle analysis, Which indicated that human ScFv against keratin 17 can inhibit the proliferation of keratinocytes by influence the synthesize of keratinocyte DNA. The successful expression of anti-keratin ScFv in P. pastoris laid a solid foundation for its further application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract  The root microsomal proteomes of salt-tolerant and salt-sensitive wheat lines under salt stress were analyzed by two-dimensional electrophoresis and mass spectrum. A wheat V-H+ATPase E subunit protein was obtained whose expression was enhanced by salt stress. In silicon cloning identified the full-length cDNA sequences of nine subunits and partial cDNA sequences of two subunits of wheat V-H+ATPase. The expression profiles of these V-H+ATPase subunits in roots and leaves of both salt-tolerant and salt-sensitive wheat lines under salt and abscisic acid (ABA) stress were analyzed. The results indicate that the coordinated enhancement of the expression of V-H+ATPase subunits under salt and ABA stress is an important factor determining improved salt tolerance in wheat. The expression of these subunits was tissue-specific. Overexpression of the E subunit by transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana was able to enhance seed germination, root growth and adult seedling growth under salt stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The German cockroach, Blattella germanica, and the American cockroach, Periplaneta americana are the most common and synanthropic household pests of interest to public health. While they have increasingly served as model systems in hemimetabolous insects for studying many biological issues, there is still a lack of stable reference gene evaluation for reliable quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) outputs and functional genomics. Here, we evaluated the expression variation of common insect reference genes, including the historically used actin, across various tissues and developmental stages, and also under experimental treatment conditions in these two species by using three individual algorithms (geNorm, BestKeeper, and NormFinder) and a comprehensive program (RefFinder). RPL32 in B. germanica and EF1α in P. americana showed the overall lowest variation among all examined samples. Based on the stability rankings by RefFinder, the optimal but varied reference genes under specific conditions were selected for qPCR normalization. In addition, the combination of RPL32 and EF1α was recommended for all the tested tissues and stages in B. germanica, whereas the combination of multiple reference genes was unfavorable in P. americana. This study provides a condition-specific resource of reference gene selection for accurate gene expression profiling and facilitating functional genomics in these two important cockroaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Activated T cells present in psoriatic plaques play a key role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. CCR7 on T cells plays a crucial role in native immune response and formation of secondary lymphoid organ. Aims: To determine whether differential expression and functions of the CCR7 occur in psoriasis patients in China, we examined CCR7 on T cells from normal and psoriasis subjects. Methods: Skin specimens and T cells from 33 patients and 22 healthy controls were analyzed by immunohistology, flow cytometry, and RT-PCR. Results: Patients with psoriasis had a skewed distribution of T lymphocytes, with an increased level of CCR7+ T lymphocytes compared to healthy controls (P < 0.01) By flow cytometry, it was found that CCR7 was selectively, frequently, and functionally expressed on CD4+ (20.5±6.8%)but not on CD8+ (9.5±3.4%) T cells from patients with psoriasis, whereas this phenomenon was not seen in normal subjects. Through RT-PCR it was also found that CCR7 was highly expressed on T cells in patients with psoriasis than in healthy controls in the level of gene. Conclusions: Patients with psoriasis had a skewed distribution of T lymphocytes, with an increased level of CCR7+ T lymphocytes compared to healthy controls. CD4+ CCR7+ T cells had abnormal expression, which might induce protraction and persistence of psoriasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute vascular- and neuroprotective effects of pinocembrin (1) were evaluated in a rat model of focal cerebral ischemia. Focal cerebral ischemia was induced by the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 24 h. 5,7-Dihydroxyflavanone (compound 1; at 3, 10, or 30 mg/kg), intravenously injected at 0, 8, and 16 h after MCAO, reduced the cerebral infarct volumes by 47, 39, and 37%, respectively, as visualized by 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining (P < 0.01). Treatment with 1 also reduced brain swelling and improved behavioral deficits significantly (P < 0.01 and 0.05, respectively). To evaluate the effect of 1 on blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption, mixture of Evans Blue (EB) and sodium fluorescein (NF) was intravenously injected immediately after MCAO. Global NF/EB uptake and fluorescence imaging of local BBB disruption were measured. Treatment with compound 1 reduced the leakage of both dyes, manifesting a preventive action in BBB integrity. This is the first time to demonstrate that 1 has acute neurovascular protective action against permanent focal cerebral ischemia. The mechanism of neurovascular protective action of 1 is under investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the effect of acupuncture or moxibustion at acupoint Geshu (BL 17) on raising leukocyte and promoting marrow proliferation. Method: Wister rats were selected to established the leukopenia and immuno-suppression model by intraperitoneal injection of cytoxan (CTX). After they were grouped and treated, leukocyte and marrow karyocyte were counted in different phases to evaluate the effect of acupuncture or moxibustion at acupoint Geshu (BL 17) on raising leukocyte and promoting marrow hematopoiesis. Results: Acupuncture or moxibustion at acupoint Geshu (BL 17) and routine western medicine could all significantly raise leukocyte and increase marrow karyocyte. The currative effect was better in moxibustion group than in acupuncture group and in routine western medicine group ( P<0.05). Conclusion: Moxibustion at acupoint Geshu (BL 17) can markedly raise peripheral blood leukocyte and marrow karyocyte of the leucopenia model in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evaluates the physiological role of melanin-concentrating hormone 1 receptor (MCH1R) in New Jersey. Generation of MCH1R-deficient mice; Characteristics of MCH1R-deficient mice; Induction of hyperphagia and mild obesity in wild-type mice by infusing MCH.

Kniest dysplasia is an autosomal-dominant chondrodysplastic condition characterized by disproportionate dwarfism, short trunk, small pelvis, kyphoscoliosis, short limbs, prominent joints, premature osteoarthritis, and craniofacial manifestations. The craniofacial abnormalities include tracheomalacia, midface hypoplasia, cleft palate, early onset myopia, retinal detachment, prominent eyes, and sensorineural hearing loss. Radiologic features include dumbbell-shaped femora, platyspondylia with anterior wedging of vertebral bodies, coronal clefts of thoracolumbar vertebral bodies, low broad ilia, and short tubular bones with broad metaphyses and deformed large epiphyses. This form of chondrodysplasia is associated with mutations in type II collagen splicing sequences. Mutations have been identified in the COL2A1 (type II collagen) gene between exons 12 and 24. Type II collagen is the predominant structural protein in cartilage, and mutations in this collagen account for the Kniest dysplasia phenotype. Histopathologic and ultrastructural features of epiphyseal plate cartilage have been described, but tracheal cartilage in an affected neonate has not been examined. The authors report the histopathologic and ultrastructural findings of anterior tracheal cartilage from a 35-day-old female with suspected chondrodysplasia who had tracheomalacia with airway obstruction. The tracheal cartilage was moderately cellular, but lacked cystic and myxoid changes in its matrix. The chondrocytes had abundant cytoplasmic PAS-positive inclusions. Some of these inclusions were diastase-resistant and were also highlighted on Alcian blue staining. Ultrastructural examination revealed chondrocytes with greatly dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum containing granular proteinaceous material. There were also frequent aggregates of typical glycogen. The defect in the COL2A1 gene is secondary to mutations, especially at splice junctions, and this markedly disrupts triple helix formation. The mutated type II procollagen results in intracellular retention within the chondrocytes, as abundant granular proteinaceous material within the dilated RER. A relationship is known to exist between the proportion of mutated to normal type II collagen in the matrix and the severity of the phenotype. With low levels of normal type II collagen, the phenotypic manifestations become more severe, such as in achondrogenesis type II. Both the quantity and quality of type II collagen modulates the phenotypic expression of type II collagenopathies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Syncytial giant cell hepatitis in the neonatal period has been associated with many different etiologic agents and may present initially as cholestasis. Infectious causes are most common and include: (1) generalized bacterial sepsis, (2) viral agents, (3) toxoplasmosis, (4) syphilis, (5) listeriosis, and (6) tuberculosis. Viral hepatitis may be due to cytomegalovirus, rubella virus, herpes simplex, HHV-6, varicella, coxsackievirus, echovirus, reovirus 3, parvovirus B19, HIV, enteroviruses, paramyxovirus, and hepatitis A, B, or C (rare). Giant cell hepatitis may result in fulminant liver failure with massive hepatocyte necrosis and severe liver dysfunction leading to death, resolution with severely compromised liver function, or liver transplantation. The authors report a 6-week-old male who had an unremarkable perinatal period, became jaundiced after developing diarrhea, and subsequently developed liver dysfunction with massively increased liver enzymes and a coagulopathy. Open wedge and core liver biopsies were performed to determine if the patient should be listed for liver transplantation. Giant cell hepatitis with a significant mixed lymphocytic and neutrophilic infiltrate was present on both the wedge and core biopsies. The residual 60% of hepatocytes had ballooning degeneration and many possessed pyknotic nuclei. The hepatocytes were arranged in a pseudoacinar pattern. Electron microscopy showed paramyxoviral-like inclusions in the giant cells, characterized as large inclusions with fine filamentous, beaded substructures (18-20 nm). Paramyxoviridae are nonsegmented, negative-sense, single-stranded RNA viruses. This family is divided into the Paramyxovirinae subfamily containing respirovirus (Sendai virus, parainfluenza virus type 3), rubula virus (mumps, parainfluenza virus type 2), and morbillivirus genera (measles); and Pneumovirinae subfamily (pneumovirus genus [respiratory syncytial virus]). Supportive care to determine if hepatic function resolves following the viral episode, liver transplantation with fulminant liver failure, and ongoing evaluation in those who recover to assess chronic liver disease are necessary. Ultrastructural evaluation may unmask the etiologic agent for hepatitis and direct therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A quiz on multiple asymptomatic papules on the glans penis is presented.