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The article reports on a novel mutation in phosphomevalonate kinase (PMVK) in a 50-year-old man with porokeratosis of Mibelli. Topics covered include the keratotic papules or plaques on the patient's face, trunk, buttock and extremities; the identification of the mutation in a Chinese family from Hunan province to which the patient belongs and impact on the Human Gene Mutation Database of PMVK mutations in porokeratosis.

The Sine oculis homeobox 1 (Six1) gene is important for skeletal muscle growth and fiber specification; therefore, it is considered as a promising candidate gene that may influence porcine growth and meat quality traits. Nevertheless, the association of Six1 with these processes and the mechanisms regulating its expression remain unclear. The objectives of this study were to identify variant sites of Six1 in different pig breeds, conduct association analysis to evaluate the relationship between polymorphisms of these variants and porcine production traits in Pietrain × Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire commercial pigs, and explore the potential regulatory mechanisms of Six1 affecting production traits. A total of 12 variants were identified, including 10 single-nucleotide variations (SNVs), 1 insertion-deletion (Indel), and 1 (AC)n microsatellite. Association analysis demonstrated that the SNV, g.1595A>G, was significantly associated with meat color (redness, a*); individuals with the G allele had greater a* values (P < 0.05). Moreover, our results demonstrated that the (AC)n polymorphism in the Six1 promoter was significantly associated with weaning weight (P < 0.05), carcass weight (P < 0.05), and thoracic and lumbar back fat (P < 0.01). In addition, we found that the (AC)n variant was closely related with Six1 expression levels and demonstrated this polymorphism on promoter activity by in vitro experiments. Overall, this study provides novel evidence for elucidating the effects of Six1 on porcine production traits as promising candidate and describes two variants with these traits, which are potential reference markers for pig molecular breeding. In addition, our data on the relationship between porcine Six1 expression and the polymorphic (AC)n microsatellite in its promoter may facilitate similar studies in other species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a multiwavelength spectral and temporal analysis of the blazar OJ 287 during its recent activity between 2015 December and 2016 May, showing strong variability in the nearinfrared (NIR) to X-ray energies with detection at γ -ray energies as well. Most of the optical flux variations exhibit strong changes in polarization angle and degree. All the interband time lags are consistent with simultaneous emissions. Interestingly, on days with excellent data coverage in the NIR-UV bands, the spectral energy distributions (SEDs) show signatures of bumps in the visible-UV bands, never seen before in this source. The optical bump can be explained as accretion-disc emission associated with the primary black hole of mass ~1.8 × 1010 M☉ while the little bump feature in the optical-UV appears consistent with line emission. Further, the broad-band SEDs extracted during the first flare and during a quiescent period during this span show very different γ -ray spectra compared to previously observed flare or quiescent spectra. The probable thermal bump in the visible seems to have been clearly present since 2013 May, as found by examining all available NIR-optical observations, and favours the binary supermassive black hole model. The simultaneous multiwavelength variability and relatively weak γ -ray emission that shows a shift in the SED peak is consistent with γ -ray emission originating from inverse Compton scattering of photons from the line emission that apparently contributes to the little blue bump. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present 1.3- and/or 3-mm continuum images and 3-mm spectral scans, obtained using Northern Extended Millimeter Array (NOEMA) and Atacama Large Millimeter Array (ALMA), of 21 distant, dusty, star-forming galaxies. Our sample is a subset of the galaxies selected by Ivison et al. on the basis of their extremely red far-infrared (far-IR) colours and low Herschel flux densities; most are thus expected to be unlensed, extraordinarily luminous starbursts at z ≳ 4, modulo the considerable cross-section to gravitational lensing implied by their redshift. We observed 17 of these galaxies with NOEMA and four with ALMA, scanning through the 3-mm atmospheric window. We have obtained secure redshifts for seven galaxies via detection of multiple CO lines, one of them a lensed system at z = 6.027 (two others are also found to be lensed); a single emission line was detected in another four galaxies, one of which has been shown elsewhere to lie at z = 4.002. Where we find no spectroscopic redshifts, the galaxies are generally less luminous by 0.3-0.4 dex, which goes some way to explaining our failure to detect line emission. We show that this sample contains the most luminous known star-forming galaxies. Due to their extreme star-formation activity, these galaxies will consume their molecular gas in ≲ 100 Myr, despite their high molecular gas masses, and are therefore plausible progenitors of the massive, 'red-and-dead' elliptical galaxies at z ≈ 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Methane and methanol are potential carbon sources of industrial micro-organisms in addition to crop-derived bio-carbon sources. Methanotrophs that can utilize these simple, stable and large amounts chemicals are expected to be developed into 'cell factories' for the production of specific chemicals. In this study, a methanotroph that can synthesize lycopene, C30 carotenoid and exopolysaccharides (EPS) with relative better performances from C1 substrates was isolated, and its performances were evaluated. Methods and Results The isolated strain was identified as Methylomonas sp. ZR1 based on 16S rRNA sequence analysis. Its maximum specific growth rate achieved 0·200 h−1 under flask culture conditions, and 0·386 h−1 in bubble column reactors. ZR1 was able to utilize 35 g l−1 of methanol and even exhibited slight growth in the presence of 40 g l−1 of methanol. Furthermore, ZR1 was proved to synthesize lycopene (C40 carotenoids) besides the C30 carotenoids through HPLC- DAD and HPLC- MS/ MS analysis methods. Its carotenoid extracts exhibited excellent antioxidative activities measured by the ABTS+ method. Plenty of polysaccharides were also synthesized by ZR1, the components of the polysaccharides were identified as glucose, mannose and galactose with a proportion of 1 : 2 : 1 by GC- MS, and its yield achieved 0·13 g g−1 cell dry weight. Conclusions The isolated strain has great potential for the production of value-added bioproducts from C1 compounds because of its excellent C1 substrate utilizing abilities and its abilities to naturally synthesize lycopene, C30 carotenoids and EPS. Significance and Impact of the Study In this study, we isolated a fast-growing methanotroph, its C1 carbon substrate utilizing ability is excellent in comparison with reported methanotrophs. Furthermore, besides polysaccharides and C30 carotenoids which were commonly synthesized by methanotrophs, our findings suggested that C40 lycopene could also be naturally synthesized from methane by methanotrophs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saccharomyces uvarum is a good wine yeast species that may have great potential for the future. However, sulfur tolerance of most S. uvarum strains is very poor. In addition there is still little information about the SSU1 gene of S. uvarum, which encodes a putative transporter conferring sulfite tolerance. In order to analyze the function of the SSU1 gene, two expression vectors that contained different SSU1 genes were constructed and transferred into a sulfite-tolerant S. uvarum strain, A9. Then sulfite tolerance, SO2 production, and PCR, sequencing, RT-qPCR and transcriptome analyses were used to access the function of the S. uvarum SSU1 gene. Our results illustrated that enhancing expression of the SSU1 gene can promote sulfite resistance in S. uvarum, and an insertion fragment ahead of the additional SSU1 gene, as seen in some alleles, could affect the expression of other genes and the sulfite tolerance level of S. uvarum. This is the first report on enhancing the expression of the SSU1 gene of S. uvarum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present recent optical photometric observations of the blazar OJ 287 taken during 2015 September-2016 May. Our intense observations of the blazar started in 2015 November and continued until 2016 May and included detection of the large optical outburst in 2015 December that was predicted using the binary black hole model for OJ 287. For our observing campaign, we used a total of nine ground-based optical telescopes of which one is in Japan, one is in India, three are in Bulgaria, one is in Serbia, one is in Georgia, and two are in the USA. These observations were carried out in 102 nights with a total of ~1000 image frames in BVRI bands, though the majority were in the R band. We detected a second comparably strong flare in 2016 March. In addition, we investigated multiband flux variations, colour variations, and spectral changes in the blazar on diverse time-scales as they are useful in understanding the emission mechanisms. We briefly discuss the possible physical mechanisms most likely responsible for the observed flux, colour, and spectral variability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims This study was conducted to evaluate the biocontrol potential of Bacillus subtilis CICC 10034 , Rhodobacter sphaeroides CGMCC 1.2182 and Agrobacterium tumefaciens CGMCC 1.2554 against patulin (PAT)-producer Penicillium expansum and their ability to remove PAT. Methods and Results Bacillus subtilis effectively inhibited P. expansum both on apples and in in vitro experiments, which reduced the rot diameter on apples by 38% compared with the control. The reduction was followed by those induced by A. tumefaciens (27·63%) and R. sphaeroides (23·67%). None of the cell-free supernatant (CFS) was able to prevent pathogen growth. Three antagonists could suppress PAT production by P. expansum on apples by 98·5, 93·7 and 94·99% after treatment with B. subtilis, R. sphaeroides and A. tumefaciens respectively. In addition, the three strains led to a 0·56-1·47 log CFU g−1 reduction in colony number of P. expansum on apples. Survival of antagonists on apple wounds revealed their tolerance to PAT. Furthermore, both live and autoclaved cells of three strains efficiently adsorbed artificially spiked PAT from medium. Conclusions The selected antagonists could be applied before harvesting to control apple infection by PAT-producing fungi and also during processing to act as PAT detoxifiers. Significance and Impact of the Study Since little information related to the capability of R. sphaeroides and A. tumefaciens to inhibit P. expansum is currently available, the results of this study provide some new perspectives to the biocontrol field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pigs exposed to elevated ambient temperatures exhibit reduced average daily gain, alterations in muscle and fat deposition during growth phases, and decreased overall health. Negative aspects of gastrointestinal (GI) function, integrity and permeability also result from hyperthermia. Artificial sweeteners have the potential to ameliorate the negative effects of heat stress (HS) by increasing GI glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-2 production while capsicum oleoresin has been shown to reduce inflammatory response. Study objectives were to examine the effects of a blend of an artificial sweetener and capsicum oleoresin (CAPS-SUC) on growth performance of pigs. Forty-eight pigs (12 weeks of age, 47.3 kg ± 7.6kg) were assigned to six treatments: thermoneutral conditions (21°C) fed ad libitum with (TN+) or without supplement (TN-), heat stress (35°C) fed ad libitum with (HS+) or without supplement (HS-), and thermoneutral conditions pair-fed to HS intake with (PFTN+) or without supplement (PFTN-). Dietary supplementation began 2 days prior to the 3-day environmental treatment period. Body weight was recorded on day -1 and day 3 relative to start of environmental treatment. Body temperature (BT) and respiration rate (RR) were measured thrice daily and feed intake (FI) were recorded daily. Blood samples were collected on day -1 and day 3 to determine metabolite profiles and complete blood count. Following sacrifice, duodenum, ileum, and colon sections were collected for histology. Pigs in HS conditions exhibited increased BT and RR (~2.7-fold) compared to TN and PFTN groups (P < 0.01). Irrespective of day, HS+ animals had increased RR when compared to HS- animals (P < 0.04). Heat stress decreased FI compared to TN. Regardless of environmental treatment, supplement with CAPS-SUC increased feed efficiency by 0.12kg (P < 0.04); in addition, glucose concentrations in the circulation tended to decrease in CAPS-SUC vs. non-supplemented animals (P = 0.1). Insulin concentrations in the circulation increased in HS compared to PFTN (P < 0.04), but did not differ from TN so was likely linked to altered feed intake. Similarly, monocyte count increased during HS compared to PFTN (P = 0.01), but HS and TN did not differ. Lymphocyte count tended to be decreased in HS compared to PFTN and TN (P = 0.052). CAPS-SUC increased basophil count (P < 0.03), irrespective of environmental treatment. Ileal villus height tended to decrease during HS and PFTN compared to TN (P < 0.08), indicating an effect of intake. Duodenal and colon villus height and duodenal, ileal and colon crypt depth did not differ between groups. Overall, CAPS-SUC supplementation increases pig feed efficiency and may improve immune response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Although elevated serum IgE levels have been reported in psoriasis, the role of IgE in psoriasis still needs to be clarified. Objectives To analyse serum total IgE levels in addition to the presence and distribution of IgE and Fcε RI in psoriatic lesions, and to investigate alteration of IgE and Fcε RI after successful systemic treatment. Methods Total serum IgE levels were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The expression and localization of IgE and Fcε RI was investigated using immunohistochemistry and double immunofluorescence. Results Elevated total serum IgE levels were found in 39% of patients with psoriasis. The levels of total serum IgE were significantly higher in male patients compared with female patients. Furthermore, total serum IgE levels decreased after successful systemic treatment. A positive correlation between IgE+ and Fcε RI+ cells and a significant increase of these cells was found in psoriatic lesions when compared with normal skin. Interestingly, IgE+ and Fcε RI+ cells decreased significantly after successful therapy with ustekinumab. IgE and Fcε RI were coexpressed on mast cells, epidermal Langerhans cells, dermal dendritic cells, macrophages and a small number of neutrophils. Conclusions IgE might participate in the development of psoriasis by activating Fcε RI-bearing cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The best approach for cholecystocholedocholithiasis remains a matter of debate. The aim of this study was to evaluate the technical aspects, learning curve and outcome of laparoscopic transcystic common bile duct exploration (LTCBDE). Methods: Patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy with LTCBDE between January 2007 and December 2012 were identified from an institutional database. Data on preoperative investigations, intraoperative and postoperative findings were retrieved retrospectively from the patients' hospital notes. Results: There were 399 women (56.4 per cent) and 309 men (43.6 per cent), with a median age of 58 (range 18-87) years. Microincision (incision of the cystic duct at the confluence with the common bile duct (CBD) with extension of only 3-5mm at the lateral margin of the CBD) and lithotripsy were used in the transcystic exploration in 119 patients, and increased the success rate of LTCBDE from 74.2 to 91.0 per cent. The median duration of operation was 85 (i.q.r. 65-120) min and the median postoperative hospital stay was 2 (1-3) days. Retained common bile duct stones were observed in 13 patients, and postoperative complications developed in 27 patients. The cumulative sum duration of operation learning curve comprised two phases; phase 1 included the first 250 patients and phase 2 the remaining 458 patients. Duration of operation and postoperative hospital stay decreased with increasing volume per surgeon. Recurrence of common bile duct stones was diagnosed in 26 patients during a median follow-up of 4 years. Conclusion: LTCBDE with or without microincision and/or lithotripsy is a safe and effective approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An abstract of the article “Guo's Single-Armed Suture Technique for Microsurgical Vasoepididymostomy" by Y. Yuan and colleagues is presented.

The article presents an abstract on the transformation of penile tunica albuginea fibroblasts which plays an important role in Peyronie's Disease (PD).

Giant cell tumour (GCT) of the spine is rarely encountered in daily clinical practice. Most of the tumours occur at the sacrum instead of at the spine above the sacrum, which has been reported to account for 1.3-9.3% of all spine GCTs. This article is a review of our radiological experience of the diagnosis of spine GCT above the sacrum based on 34 patients at a single institution. The purpose of this pictorial review is to highlight the imaging findings of GCT and to provide clues that may distinguish it from other, more common neoplasms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A real-time loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RealAmp) assay for the detection of Listeria was developed. The RealAmp assay, using primers specific for the hemolysin-encoding hlyA gene, was verified using Listeria monocytogenes strains ( n = 58) from different regions of the world. Both the sensitivity and specificity of the RealAmp assay were high. The RealAmp assay could detect 103 CFU ml−1 within 30 min. A comparative evaluation of the RealAmp assay, the API Listeria assay, and the real-time PCR assay revealed that the RealAmp assay is simpler, faster, and has a higher specificity than the other two assays. Significance and Impact of the Study Conventional culture and molecular detection methods are always time consuming and require a specific laboratory infrastructure, thereby restricting their use for the rapid detection and diagnosis of pathogens. A real-time loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RealAmp) assay performed by ESEtube scanner to rapidly detect Listeria monocytogenes isolated from food was developed. The results showed that the RealAmp assay using the tube scanner was more efficient and precise than the conventional API Listeria assay and the real-time PCR assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Infantile hemangiomas (IH) are common pediatric tumors. This meta-analysis was performed to review the therapeutic efficacy and safety of pulsed dye laser (PDL) in the treatment of IH. Methods: Seven databases were searched, including PubMed, OvidSP, Karger, Elsevier, EMBASE, Web of Science and Wiley Online Library. The review collected the characteristics of year of publication, hemangiomas cases, prior treatment, laser parameters, adverse side, pretreatment symptom, and number of response from all articles. Results: A total of 1580 studies were identified, the first round search retrieved 39 articles met inclusion criteria. Of those, only 13 articles with 1529 hemangiomas were included in the meta-analysis. This meta-analysis demonstrated an overall resolution rate of 89.1% with 6.28% incidence of adverse effect. Conclusion: PDL may be the effective modality to decrease the proliferative phase and accelerate rates of involution and resolution with few adverse events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the spectroscopic analysis of a large sample of late-M, L, and T dwarfs from the United Kingdom Deep Infrared Sky Survey. Using the YJHK photometry from the Large Area Survey and the red-optical photometry from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey we selected a sample of 262 brown dwarf candidates and we have followed-up 196 of them using the echelle spectrograph X-shooter on the Very Large Telescope. The large wavelength coverage (0.30-2.48 μm) and moderate resolution (R ~ 5000-9000) of X-shooter allowed us to identify peculiar objects including 22 blue L dwarfs, 2 blue T dwarfs, and 2 low-gravity M dwarfs. Using a spectral indices-based technique, we identified 27 unresolved binary candidates, for which we have determined the spectral type of the potential components via spectral deconvolution. The spectra allowed us to measure the equivalent width of the prominent absorption features and to compare them to atmospheric models. Cross-correlating the spectra with a radial velocity standard, we measured the radial velocity of our targets, and we determined the distribution of the sample, which is centred at -1.7 ± 1.2 km s-1 with a dispersion of 31.5 km s-1. Using our results, we estimated the space density of field brown dwarfs and compared it with the results of numerical simulations. Depending on the binary fraction, we found that there are (0.85 ± 0.55) × 10-3 to (1.00 ± 0.64) × 10-3 objects per cubic parsec in the L4-L6.5 range, (0.73 ± 0.47) × 10-3 to (0.85 ± 0.55) × 10-3 objects per cubic parsec in the L7-T0.5 range, and (0.74 ± 0.48) × 10-3 to (0.88 ± 0.56) × 10-3 objects per cubic parsec in the T1-T4.5 range. We notice that there seems to be an excess of objects in the L-T transition with respect to the late-T dwarfs, a discrepancy that could be explained assuming a higher binary fraction than expected for the L-T transition, or that objects in the high-mass end and low-mass end of this regime form in different environments, i.e. following different initial mass functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The red imported fire ant (RIFA) Solenopsis invicta Buren causes severe damage to humans and animals as well as the environment. Chemical treatment is the main strategy of RIFA management, which also is potentially toxic to the environment. Plant essential oils (EOs) are considered as potential substance that can be used to control insects. This study aimed to identify the chemical composition of camphor EO and investigate the insecticidal activity on RIFAs. The chemical composition of the EO was analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry and gas chromatography with flame ionization detection. Results revealed that 36.61% camphor and 30.05% cineole were the major components. The insecticidal activity of camphor EO was assessed against RIFA workers by conducting two different bioassays: fumigant toxicity and repellence. Fumigant toxicity assay results showed that the lethal dose (LC50) of the EO at 24 h was 1.67 and 4.28 μg/ml for minor and major workers, respectively; knockdown time (KT50) was 10.82 and 14.73 h. At 2.55 μg/ml, the highest average mortality of the ants was 84.89% after 72 h. Camphor EO exhibited fumigant toxicity against minor and major workers as indicated by the effects on attacking, feeding, and climbing behaviors. This EO was also strongly repellent to the two size workers of the colony as observed in their behavior against Tenebrio molitor treated with 5 μl EO. The fumigant toxicity and repellence of camphor EO against RIFA indicated that this substance could be a potential alternative for the development of eco-friendly products used to control pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we identified the ZmCLA4 gene, which is responsible for the qLA4-1 associated with leaf angle, by positional cloning, and parsed the genetic mechanism.Maize architecture is a major contributing factor to their high level of productivity. Maize varieties with an erect-leaf-angle (LA) phenotype, which increases light harvesting for photosynthesis and grain-filling, have elevated grain yields. Although a large body of information is available on the map positions of quantitative trait loci (QTL) for LA, little is known about the molecular mechanism of these QTL. In this study, the ZmCLA4 gene, which is responsible for the qLA4-1 QTL associated with LA, was identified and isolated by fine mapping and positional cloning. The ZmCLA4 gene is an orthologue of LAZY1 in rice and Arabidopsis. Sequence analysis revealed two SNPs and two indel sites in ZmCLA4 between the D132 and D132-NIL inbred maize lines. Association analysis showed that C/T/mutation667 and CA/indel965 were strongly associated with LA. Subcellular localization verified the functions of a predicted transmembrane domain and a nuclear localization signal in ZmCLA4. Transgenic maize plants with a down-regulated ZmCLA4 RNAi construct and transgenic rice plants over-expressing ZmCLA4 confirmed that the ZmCLA4 gene located in the qLA4 QTL regulated LA. The allelic variants of ZmCLA4 in the D132 and D132-NIL lines exhibited significant differences in leaf angle. ZmCLA4 transcript accumulation was higher in D132-NIL than in D132 during all the developmental stages and was negatively correlated with LA. The gravitropic response was increased and cell shape and number at the leaf and stem junctions were altered in D132-NIL relative to D132. These findings suggest that ZmCLA4 plays a negative role in the control of maize LA through the alteration of mRNA accumulation, leading to altered shoot gravitropism and cell development. The cloning of the gene responsible for the qLA4-1 QTL provides information on the molecular mechanisms of LA in maize and an opportunity for the improvement of plant architecture with regard to LA through maize breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To develop a Methanoculleus-specific real-time quantitative PCR ( RT- qPCR) assay with high coverage and specificity for the analysis of methanogenic populations in anaerobic digestion. Methods and Results A Methanoculleus-specific primer/probe set for RT- qPCR was designed in this study based on all Methanoculleus 16 S rRNA gene sequences in Ribosomal Database Project ( RDP) according to Taq Man chemistry. The newly designed primer/probe set was shown to have high coverage and specificity by both in silico and experimental analyses. Amplification efficiency of the Methanoculleus-specific primer/probe set was determined to be ideal for RT- qPCR applications. Subsequent field testing on anaerobic digesters showed that results from RT- qPCR were consistent with those from clone library analysis, validating the accuracy of the RT- qPCR assay. Conclusions The Methanoculleus-specific RT- qPCR assay designed in this study can serve as a rapid and effective tool for the quantification of Methanoculleus populations in anaerobic digestion. Significance and Impact of the Study Methanoculleus populations represent important members of archaeal communities in methanogenic processes, necessitating the need to develop effective tools to monitor Methanoculleus population abundance. The RT- qPCR developed in this study provides an essential tool for the quantification of Methanoculleus populations in anaerobic digestion and for the understanding of the functions of these methanogens in anaerobic biotransformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four experiments were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of a computer-controlled simulated digestion system (CCSDS) for predicting apparent metabolizable energy (AME) and true metabolizable energy (TME) using in vitro digestible energy (IVDE) content of feeds for roosters. In Exp. 1, the repeatability of the IVDE assay was tested in corn, wheat, rapeseed meal, and cottonseed meal with 3 assays of each sample and each with 5 replicates of the same sample. In Exp. 2, the additivity of IVDE concentration in corn, soybean meal, and cottonseed meal was tested by comparing determined IVDE values of the complete diet with values predicted from measurements on individual ingredients. In Exp. 3, linear models to predict AME and TME based on IVDE were developed with 16 calibration samples. In Exp. 4, the accuracy of prediction models was tested by the differences between predicted and determined values for AME or TME of 6 ingredients and 4 diets. In Exp. 1, the mean CV of IVDE was 0.88% (range = 0.20 to 2.14%) for corn, wheat, rapeseed meal, and cottonseed meal. No difference in IVDE was observed between 3 assays of an ingredient, indicating that the IVDE assay is repeatable under these conditions. In Exp. 2, minimal differences (<21 kcal/ kg) were observed between determined and calculated IVDE of 3 complete diets formulated with com, soybean meal, and cottonseed meal, demonstrating that the IVDE values are additive in a complete diet. In Exp. 3, linear relationships between AME and IVDE and between TME and IVDE were observed in 16 calibration samples: AME = 1.062 x IVDE - 530 (R² = 0.97, residual standard deviation [RSD] = 146 kcal/kg, P < 0.001) and TME = 1.050 x IVDE - 16 {R² = 0.97, RSD = 148 kcal/kg, P < 0.001). Differences of less than 100 kcal/kg were observed between determined and predicted values in 10 and 9 of the 16 calibration samples for AME and TME, respectively. In Exp. 4, differences of less than 100 kcal/kg between determined and predicted values were observed in 3 and 4 of the 6 ingredient samples forAME and TME, respectively, and all 4 diets showed the differences of less than 25 kcal/kg between determined and predicted AME or TME. Our results indicate that the CCSDS is repeatable and additive. This system accurately predicted AME or TME on 17 of the 26 samples and may be a promising method to predict the energetic values of feed for poultry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study looks at toxicity and survival data when chemoradiation ( CRT) is delivered using intensity-modulated radiation therapy ( IMRT) after induction chemotherapy. Forty-one patients with esophageal adenocarcinoma treated with IMRT from March 2007 to May 2009 at Memorial Sloan- Kettering Cancer Center were analyzed. All patients received induction chemotherapy prior to CRT. Thirty-nine percent ( n = 16) of patients underwent surgical resection less than 4 months after completing CRT. Patients were predominantly male (78%), with a median age of 68 years (range 32-85 years). The majority of acute treatment-related toxicity was hematologic or gastrointestinal, with 17% of patients having grade 3+ hematologic toxicity and 12% of patients having grade 3+ gastrointestinal toxicity. Only two patients developed grade 2-3 pneumonitis (5%) and 5 patients experienced post-operative pulmonary complications (29%). Eight patients (20%) required a treatment break. With a median follow up of 41 months for surviving patients, 2-year overall survival was 61%, and the cumulative incidences of local failure ( LF) and distant metastases were 40% and 51%, respectively. This rate of LF was reduced to 13% in patients who underwent surgical resection. Surgery and younger age were significant predictors of decreased time to LF on univariate analysis. Induction chemotherapy followed by CRT using IMRT in the treatment of esophageal cancer is well tolerated and is not associated with an elevated risk of postoperative pulmonary complications. The use of IMRT may allow for integration of more intensified systemic therapy or radiation dose escalation for esophageal adenocarcinoma, ultimately improving outcomes for patients with this aggressive disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interferon ( IFN)-β has efficient antitumor effect both in vitro and in vivo, but its clinical implication is limited by short half-life and systemic toxicities. Gene therapy could be the choice to avoid the defects. Adenovirus vector containing human IFN-β gene was transfected into esophageal squamous cell carcinoma KYSE150 cells. Expression of human (h) IFN-β was detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunocytochemistry in KYSE150 cells. Cell growth and clonogenic assays, and flow cytometry were used to observe the antiproliferation effect and apoptosis on tumor cells, respectively. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunocytochemistry showed obvious h IFN-β expression in KYSE150 cells after transfection and the tumor cell proliferation was obviously inhibited through cell proliferation and clonogenic assays. Flow cytometry analysis showed 27.3% cell apoptosis in adenovirus vector containing human IFN-β gene transfection group compared with 1.12% in empty vector control group. These findings indicate that h IFN-β gene mediated by recombinant adenovirus may have antitumor activity against human esophageal carcinoma cell by inducing apoptosis in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mammalian cyclin-dependent kinase subunit ( Cks) family has two members, Cks1 and Cks2. Overexpression of Cks1 and Cks2 has been reported to be associated with high aggressiveness and poor prognosis in several malignancies, including prostate and hepatocellular carcinomas. However, whether Cks1 and Cks2 are overexpressed in esophageal carcinoma remains uncharacterized. To investigate whether overexpression of the Cks family is clinically relevant in esophageal carcinoma, and whether expression patterns of Cks1 and Cks2 can serve as biomarkers for esophageal carcinoma. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, and Western blot analyses were applied to detect the expression of Cks1 and Cks2 at the mRNA and protein levels, respectively. The associations between Cks1 or Cks2 expressions and clinical features and p27kip1 expressions in esophageal carcinoma were analyzed. Comparing with the adjacent noncancerous tissues, esophageal carcinoma exhibited elevated expression of Cks1 in 58% cases at the mRNA level and 54% cases at the protein level, and elevated expression of Cks2 in 65% cases at the mRNA level and 61% cases at the protein level, respectively. The expressions of both Cks1 and Cks2 were negatively associated with the p27kip1 protein level in the tumor tissues. Furthermore, overexpression of Cks1 and Cks2 in esophageal carcinoma was closely associated with poor pathological features of esophageal carcinoma, including higher histologic grade of tumor, regional lymph nodes invasion, and neoplastic embolus. Overexpression of Cks1 and Cks2 is associated with the aggressive tumor behaviors of esophageal carcinoma. Further efforts are needed to determine whether overexpression of Cks1 and Cks2 can serve as novel biomarkers for esophageal carcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two bacterial strains used for industrial production of 2-keto-L-gulonic acid (2-KLG), Ketogulonigenium vulgare 2 and Bacillus thuringiensis 1514, were loaded onto the spacecraft Shenzhou VII and exposed to space conditions for 68 h in an attempt to increase their fermentation productivities of 2-KLG. An optimal combination of mutants B. thuringiensis 320 and K. vulgare 2194 (KB2194-320) was identified by systematically screening the pH and 2-KLG production of 16 000 colonies. Compared with the coculture of parent strains, the conversion rate of L-sorbose to 2-KLG by KB2194-320 in shake flask fermentation was increased significantly from 82·7% to 95·0%. Furthermore, a conversion rate of 94·5% and 2-KLG productivity of 1·88 g l−1 h−1 were achieved with KB2194-320 in industrial-scale fermentation (260 m3 fermentor). An observed increase in cell number of K2194 (increased by 47·8%) during the exponential phase and decrease in 2-KLG reductase activity (decreased by 46·0%) were assumed to explain the enhanced 2-KLG production. The results suggested that the mutants KB2194-320 could be ideal substitutes for the currently employed strains in the 2-KLG fermentation process and demonstrated the feasibility of using spaceflight to breed high-yielding 2-KLG-producing strains for vitamin C production. Significance and Impact of the Study KB2194-320, a combination of two bacterial strains bred by spaceflight mutation, exhibited significantly improved 2-KLG productivity and hence could potentially increase the efficiency and reduce the cost of vitamin C production by the two-step fermentation process. In addition, a new pH indicator method was applied for rational screening of K2, which dramatically improved the efficiency of screening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After 2010, three outbursts of H1743−322 were detected by RXTE. We have carried out timing and spectral analysis of the data, emphasizing on the two with relatively complete evolution history presented in the RXTE/Proportional Counter Array observations. We then constitute an enlarged outburst sample for H1743−322 which allows us to investigate the spectral transitions in more details. We find that the spectral transitions to high-soft state constrain a region for four outbursts in hardness–intensity diagram. An extension of the region locates in the vicinity of the failed outburst in 2008, and excludes it from a successful group. We therefore suggest that the failed outburst in 2008 may present the first almost successful outburst sample, which is important for modelling the outburst, especially upon the conditions required for transition to high-soft state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have used the Two-Micron All-Sky Survey and the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer to look for ultracool dwarfs that are part of multiple systems containing main-sequence stars. We cross-matched L dwarf candidates from the surveys with Hipparcos and Gliese stars, finding two new systems. The first system, G255-34AB, is an L2 dwarf companion to a K8 star, at a distance of 36 pc. We estimate its bolometric luminosity as log L/L⊙ = −3.78 ± 0.045 and Teff = 2080 ± 260 K. The second system, GJ499ABC, is a triple, with an L5 dwarf as a companion to a binary with an M4 and K5 star. These two new systems bring the number of L dwarf plus main-sequence star multiple systems to 24, which we discuss. We consider the binary fraction for L dwarfs and main-sequence stars, and further assess possible unresolved multiplicity within the full companion sample. This analysis shows that some of the L dwarfs in this sample might actually be unresolved binaries themselves, since their MJ appears to be brighter than the expected for their spectral types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To examine the inhibition effects of rhizosphere fungal strain MF-91 on the rice blast pathogen Magnaporthe grisea and sheath blight pathogen Rhizoctonia solani. Methods and Results Rhizosphere fungal strain MF-91 and its metabolites suppressed the in vitro mycelial growth of R. solani. The inhibitory effect of the metabolites was affected by incubation temperature, lighting time, initial pH and incubation time of rhizosphere fungal strain MF-91. The in vitro mycelial growth of M. grisea was insignificantly inhibited by rhizosphere fungal strain MF-91 and its metabolites. The metabolites of rhizosphere fungal strain MF-91 significantly inhibited the conidial germination and appressorium formation of M. grisea. Moreover, the metabolites reduced the disease index of rice sheath blight by 35·02% in a greenhouse and 57·81% in a field as well as reduced the disease index of rice blast by 66·07% in a field. Rhizosphere fungal strain MF-91 was identified as Chaetomium aureum based on the morphological observation, the analysis of 18S ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer sequence and its physiological characteristics, such as the optimal medium, temperature and initial pH for mycelial growth and sporulation production. Conclusions Rhizosphere fungus C. aureum is effective in the biocontrolling of rice blast pathogen M. grisea and sheath blight pathogen R. solani both in in vitro and in vivo conditions. Significance and Impact of the Study This study is the first to show that rhizosphere fungus C. aureum is a potential fungicide against rice blast and sheath blight pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a new sample of mid-L to mid-T dwarfs with effective temperatures of 1100–1700 K selected from the UKIDSS Large Area Survey (LAS) and confirmed with infrared spectra from X-shooter/Very Large Telescope. This effective temperature range is especially sensitive to the formation history of Galactic brown dwarfs and allows us to constrain the form of the sub-stellar birth rate, with sensitivity to differentiate between a flat (stellar like) birth rate and an exponentially declining form. We present the discovery of 63 new L and T dwarfs from the UKIDSS LAS DR7, including the identification of 12 likely unresolved binaries, which form the first complete sub-set from our programme, covering 495 square degrees of sky, complete to J = 18.1. We compare our results for this sub-sample with simulations of differing birth rates for objects of masses 0.10–0.03 M⊙ and ages 1–10 Gyr. We find that the more extreme birth rates (e.g. a halo type form) can likely be excluded as the true form of the birth rate. In addition, we find that although there is substantial scatter we find a preference for a mass function, with a power-law index α in the range −1 < α < 0 that is consistent (within the errors) with the studies of late T dwarfs. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

ABSTRACT We present an ultra-cool dwarf (UCD) catalogue compiled from low southern Galactic latitudes and mid-plane, from a cross-correlation of the Two Micron All-Sky Survey (2MASS) and the SuperCOSMOS survey. The catalogue contains 246 members identified from 5042 deg2 within 220° ≤ ℓ ≤ 360° and 0° < ℓ ≤ 30°, for | b| ≤ 15°. Sixteen candidates are spectroscopically confirmed in the near-infrared as UCDs with spectral types from M7.5V to L9, the latest being the unusual blue L dwarf 2MASS J11263991−5003550. Our catalogue selection method is presented enabling UCDs from ∼M8V to the L-T transition to be selected down to a 2MASS limiting magnitude of [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) have been associated with clinical outcome in various malignancies. The aim of this study was to examine CTC status in the peripheral blood of patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) before and after radiotherapy, and to evaluate its clinical significance. A total of 72 ESCC patients treated with radical radiotherapy were enrolled in this study. The nested reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the three representative markers of CTCs, namely carcinoembryonic antigen, cytokeratin 19, and survivin. The results showed that CTC(+), a status with positive expression of at least one of these three markers, in patients with ESCC pre- and post-radiotherapy were 54.2% (39/72) and 38.9% (28/72), respectively ( P= 0.059). Furthermore, CTC (+) in patients pre- or post-radiotherapy was both correlated with lymph metastasis and adverse 2-year progression-free survival. It was also found that changes in CTC status after radiotherapy could reflect patients' response to radiotherapy. The response rates in cases with CTC status pre-radiotherapy(+)/post-radiotherapy(+), pre-radiotherapy(−)/post-radiotherapy(+), pre-radiotherapy(−)/post-radiotherapy(−), pre-radiotherapy(+)/post-radiotherapy(−) were 58.3% (21/36), 0% (0/3), 73.7% (14/19), and 85.7% (12/14), respectively. In a multivariate analysis of Cox proportional hazard model, only CTC (+) post-radiotherapy was an independent unfavorable prognostic factor for ESCC apart from subsequent chemotherapy and patients' Karnofsky performance status scores. In conclusion, positive detection of CTCs in patients with ESCC after radiotherapy may be a promising biomarker for radiation efficiency and prognosis assessment in ESCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims The objective of this study was to examine transcriptional changes in Escherichia coli when the bacterium was growing in the lettuce rhizoshpere. Methods and Results A combination of microarray analyses, colonization assays and confocal microscopy was used to gain a more complete understanding of bacterial genes involved in the colonization and growth of E. coli K12 in the lettuce root rhizosphere using a novel hydroponic assay system. After 3 days of interaction with lettuce roots, E. coli genes involved in protein synthesis, stress responses and attachment were up-regulated. Mutants in curli production ( crl, csgA) and flagella synthesis ( fliN) had a reduced capacity to attach to roots as determined by bacterial counts and by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Conclusions This study indicates that E. coli K12 has the capability to colonize lettuce roots by using attachment genes and can readily adapt to the rhizosphere of lettuce plants. Significance and Impact of the Study Results of this study show curli production and biofilm modulation genes are important for rhizosphere colonization and may provide useful targets to disrupt this process. Further studies using pathogenic strains will provide additional information about lettuce- E. coli interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Control of bleeding remains key to successful hepatic resection. The present randomized clinical trial compared infrahepatic inferior vena cava (IVC) clamping with low central venous pressure (CVP) during complex hepatectomy using portal triad clamping (PTC). Methods: Consecutive patients undergoing complex hepatectomy were allocated randomly to PTC combined with infrahepatic IVC clamping or to PTC with low CVP. Primary outcome was blood loss during parenchymal transection. Secondary outcomes were intraoperative surgical and haemodynamic parameters, postoperative recovery of liver and renal function, postoperative morbidity and mortality, and duration of hospital stay. Results: Between January 2008 and September 2010, 192 patients were randomized. Compared with low CVP, infrahepatic IVC clamping significantly decreased blood loss during parenchymal transection (mean(s.e.m.) 243(158) versus 372(197) ml; P < 0·001), was associated with faster recovery of liver function, and caused less impairment in renal function and fewer haemodynamic changes. The degree of cirrhosis correlated positively with CVP ( R2 = 0·963, P = 0·019) and with infrahepatic IVC pressure ( R2 = 0·950, P = 0·025). For patients with moderate or severe cirrhosis, infrahepatic IVC clamping was more efficacious in controlling blood loss during parenchymal transection (mean(s.e.m.) 2·9(1·8) versus 6·1(2·4) ml/cm2; P < 0·001). Conclusion: PTC combined with infrahepatic IVC clamping is more efficacious in controlling bleeding during complex hepatectomy than PTC with low CVP, especially in patients with moderate to severe cirrhosis. Registration number: NCT01355887 (). Copyright © 2012 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BSTRACT [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have used blue near-infrared colours to select a group of 12 spectroscopically confirmed United Kingdom InfraRed Telescope (UKIRT) Infrared Deep Sky Survey (UKIDSS) T dwarfs later than T4. From amongst these, we identify the first two kinematic halo T-dwarf candidates. Blue near-infrared colours have been attributed to collisionally induced hydrogen absorption, which is enhanced by either high surface gravity or low metallicity. Proper motions are measured and distances estimated, allowing the determination of tangential velocities. and components are estimated for our objects by assuming . From this, ULAS J0926+0835 is found to have km s and km s, and ULAS J1319+1209 is found to have km s and km s. These values are consistent with potential halo membership. However, these are not the bluest objects in our selection. The bluest is ULAS J1233+1219, with , and surprisingly this object is found to have young disc-like and . Our sample also contains Hip 73786B, companion to the metal-poor K5 dwarf Hip 73786. Hip 73786 is a metal-poor star, with and is located at a distance of 19 pc. space velocity components are calculated for Hip 73786A and B, finding that km s, km s and km s. From the properties of the primary, Hip 73786B is found to be at least -Gyr old. As a metal-poor object, Hip 73786B represents an important addition to the sample of known T dwarf benchmarks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have carried out a search for late-type T dwarfs in the UKIRT Infrared Deep Sky Survey Galactic Plane Survey 6th Data Release. The search yielded two persuasive candidates, both of which have been confirmed as T dwarfs. The brightest, UGPS J0521+3640, has been assigned the spectral type T8.5 and appears to lie at a distance of 7-9 pc. The fainter of the two, UGPS J0652+0324, is classified as a T5.5 dwarf and lies at an estimated distance of 28-37 pc. Warm- Spitzer observations in IRAC channels 1 and 2, taken as part of the GLIMPSE360 Legacy Survey, are available for UGPS J0521+3640 and we used these data with the near-infrared spectroscopy to estimate its properties. We find best-fitting solar metallicity BT-Settl models for and 650 K and and 5.0. These parameters suggest a mass between 14 and for an age between 1 and 5 Gyr. The proximity of this very cool T dwarf, and its location in the Galactic plane, makes it an ideal candidate for high-resolution adaptive optics imaging to search for cool companions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optimized concurrent chemoradiotherapy has not been established for patients with advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of concurrent chemotherapy and selective lymph node (SLN) late course accelerated hyperfractionated (LCAF) intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) for the patients with thoracic SC C. Twelve patients with T3-4N0-1M0-1a thoracic esophageal SCC were included. The total dose of SLN LCAF IMRT was 59.6 Gy/34 fractions in 5.4 weeks. The concurrent chemotherapy protocol was as following: cisplatin 10 mg/m on days 1-5 and 22-26, pemetrexed in escalating doses, from the base level of 500 mg/m once every 21 days. The primary objectives were to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), recommended dose (RD), and dose limiting toxicities (DLTs). Secondary end point included determination of preliminary radiographic response rates. As a result, three patients were enrolled in dose level 1 with pemetrexed 500 mg/m and nine patients in dose level 0 with 400 mg/m, respectively. At dose level 1, DLTs occurred in two of three patients. However, only two of nine patients in Level 0 developed DLTs. The complete response and partial response were observed in eight and four patients, respectively. Furthermore, no patient experienced cancer progression with a median follow-up of 9 months. In conclusion, the concurrent SLN LCAF IMRT and chemotherapy is feasible. The MTD of pemetrexed in this regimen was 500 mg/m and RD was 400 mg/m. Although toxicities were common, the protocol was safe, well tolerated, and achieved an encouraging outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT We present the discovery of the first T dwarf + white dwarf binary system LSPM 1459+0857 AB, confirmed through common proper motion and spectroscopy. The white dwarf is a high proper motion object from the LSPM catalogue that we confirm spectroscopically to be a relatively cool ( Teff= 5535 ± 45 K) and magnetic ( B∼ 2 MG) hydrogen-rich white dwarf, with an age of at least 4.8 Gyr. The T dwarf is a recent discovery from the UKIRT Infrared Deep Sky Survey (ULAS 1459+0857) and has a spectral type of T4.5 ± 0.5 and a distance in the range 43-69 pc. With an age constraint (inferred from the white dwarf) of >4.8 Gyr, we estimate Teff= 1200-1500 K and log g= 5.4-5.5 for ULAS 1459+0857, making it a benchmark T dwarf with well-constrained surface gravity. We also compare the T dwarf spectra with the latest LYON group atmospheric model predictions, which, despite some shortcomings, are in general agreement with the observed properties of ULAS 1459+0857. The separation of the binary components (16 500-26 500 au or 365 arcsec on the sky) is consistent with an evolved version of the more common brown dwarf + main-sequence (MS) binary systems now known, and although the system has a wide separation, it is shown to be statistically robust as a non-spurious association. The observed colours of the T dwarf show that it is relatively bright in the z band compared to other T dwarfs of similar type, and further investigation is warranted to explore the possibility that this could be a more generic indicator of older T dwarfs. Future observations of this binary system will provide even stronger constraints on the T dwarf properties, and additional systems will combine to give a more comprehensively robust test of the model atmospheres in this temperature regime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To characterize and identify a novel Huperzine A (HupA)-producing fungal strain Slf14 isolated from Huperzia serrata (Thunb. ex Murray) Trev. in China. Methods and Results: The isolation, identification and characterization of a novel endophytic fungus producing HupA specifically and consistently from the leaves of H. serrata were investigated. The fungus was identified as Shiraia sp. Slf14 by molecular and morphological methods. The HupA produced by this endophytic fungus was shown to be identical to authentic HupA analysed by thin layer chromatographic, High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), LC-MS, 1H NMR and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition activity in vitro. The amount of HupA produced by Shiraia sp. Slf14 was quantified to be 327·8 μg l−1 by HPLC, which was far higher than that of the reported endophytic fungi, Acremonium sp., Blastomyces sp. and Botrytis sp. Conclusions: The production of HupA by endophyte Shiraia sp. Slf14 is an enigmatic observation. It would be interesting to further study the HupA production and regulation by the cultured endophyte in H. serrata and in axenic cultures. Significance and Impact of the Study: Although the current accumulation of HupA by the endophyte is not very high, it could provide a promising alterative approach for large-scale production of HupA. However, further strain improvement and the fermentation process optimization are required to result in the consistent and dependable production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the discovery of 47 new T dwarfs in the Fourth Data Release (DR4) from the Large Area Survey (LAS) of the United Kingdom Infrared Telescope (UKIRT) Infrared Deep Sky Survey with spectral types ranging from T0 to T8.5. These bring the total sample of LAS T dwarfs to 80 as of DR4. In assigning spectral types to our objects we have identified eight new spectrally peculiar objects, and divide seven of them into two classes. H2O- H-early have a H2O- H index that differs with the H2O- J index by at least two subtypes. CH4- J-early have a CH4- J index that disagrees with the H2 index by at least two subtypes. We have ruled out binarity as a sole explanation for both types of peculiarity, and suggest that they may represent hitherto unrecognized tracers of composition and/or gravity. Clear trends in and are apparent for our sample, consistent with weakening absorption in the red wing of the K i line at 0.77 μm with decreasing effective temperature. We have used our sample to estimate space densities for T6–T9 dwarfs. By comparing our sample to Monte Carlo simulations of field T dwarfs for various mass functions of the form , we have placed weak constraints on the form of the field mass function. Our analysis suggests that the substellar mass function is declining at lower masses, with negative values of α preferred. This is at odds with results for young clusters that have been generally found to have . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Differences in the number of Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) in lesional skin and peripheral blood and their functioning in plaque vs. guttate psoriasis have not been reported. Objectives To investigate whether there is a differential expression of Foxp3+ Tregs and a differential regulation of inflammatory cytokines in plaque vs. guttate psoriasis vulgaris. Methods The number and the percentage of Foxp3+ cells in different phases of skin lesions of patients with plaque and guttate psoriasis vulgaris were assessed by immunohistochemical staining. The expression of Foxp3 and interleukin (IL)-17 protein in CD4 populations was measured by flow cytometry. Inflammatory cytokine production by transforming growth factor-β1-induced Foxp3+ Tregs was assessed in an in vitro study. The cytokines in supernatant and serum were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results The percentage of Foxp3+ CD3+ cells in the papillary layer was higher than in the reticular layer of dermis and in epidermis ( P < 0·05). The numbers of Foxp3+ Tregs in skin lesions and peripheral blood were higher in plaque than in guttate psoriasis, whereas the percentage of IL-17+ CD4+ cells was higher in guttate than in plaque psoriasis ( P < 0·05). The numbers of Foxp3+ cells were positively correlated with the Psoriasis Severity Index score of skin lesions ( P < 0·0001), and the percentages of Foxp3+ CD4+ cells in peripheral blood were positively correlated with the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score of patients ( P < 0·05). The inhibitory functions of Tregs to IL-17 and IL-6 in guttate psoriasis and to tumour necrosis factor-α in plaque psoriasis were deficient. Conclusions Differential expression and regulatory functioning for inflammatory cytokine production by Foxp3+ Tregs may imply a different immunopathogenesis for plaque and guttate psoriasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the discovery of a very cool d/sdL7+T7.5p common proper motion binary system, SDSS J1416+13AB, found by cross-matching the United Kingdom Infrared Telescope (UKIRT) Infrared Deep Sky Survey (UKIDSS) Large Area Survey Data Release 5 (UKIDSS LAS DR4) against the Sloan Digital Sky Survey Data Release 7. The d/sdL7 is blue in and and has other features suggestive of low metallicity and/or high gravity. The T7.5p displays spectral peculiarity seen before in earlier type dwarfs discovered in UKIDSS LAS DR4, and referred to as CH4- J-early peculiarity, where the CH4- J index, based on the absorption to the red side of the J-band peak, suggests an earlier spectral type than the H2O- J index, based on the blue side of the J-band peak, by ∼2 subtypes. We suggest that CH4- J-early peculiarity arises from low metallicity and/or high gravity, and speculate as to its use for classifying T dwarfs. UKIDSS and follow-up United Kingdom Infrared Telescope/Wide Field CAMera (UKIRT/WFCAM) photometry shows the T dwarf to have the bluest near-infrared colours yet seen for such an object with . Warm Spitzer IRAC photometry shows the T dwarf to have extremely red , which is the reddest yet seen for a substellar object. The lack of parallax measurement for the pair limits our ability to estimate parameters for the system. However, applying a conservative distance estimate of 5–15 pc suggests a projected separation in range 45–135 au. By comparing colours of the T dwarf to spectral models, we estimate that and , with . This suggests a mass of ∼30 MJupiter for the T dwarf and an age of ∼10 Gyr for the system. The primary would then be a 75 MJupiter object with and a relatively dust-free atmosphere. Given the unusual properties of the system we caution that these estimates are uncertain. We eagerly await parallax measurements and high-resolution imaging which will constrain the parameters further. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on a randomized trial which assessed the clinical efficacy of fish oil emulsion after gastrointestinal cancer surgery. The study included 206 patients with gastrointestinal or colonic cancer who were randomized to receive either isocaloric and isonitrogenous intravenous infusions of either soybean oil alone or soybean plus fish oil emulsion. It found that fish oil emulsion-supplemented parenteral nutrition reduces systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and length of hospital stay.

Forkhead box protein 3 (FOXP3) has been studyed as a biomarker in many human malignancies recently. But in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) the studies are limited. In this study, expression of FOXP3 in ESCC tissue was evaluated in relation to the clinical data. Detection of FOXP3 mRNA was made by using quantitative real-time PCR while protein expression was assessed by immunocytochemistry (n = 112). The results were correlated to the clinical data including age, gender, carcinoma size, carcinoma differentiation, lymphatic invasion and pathological stage. A significantly higher FOXP3 expression in tumors was confirmed than in normal-appearing mucosa. The FOXP3 mRNA and protein expressions were higher in advanced stages (stage II B and III) than in early stages (stage I and stage II A). A significantly higher FOXP3 expression in tumors with lymph node metastasis was also confirmed than in those without lymph node metastasis. No significant correlation was found in age, gender, carcinoma size, or carcinoma differentiation. These results suggest that expression of FOXP3 was higher in ESCC tissue and was closely correlated to lymphatic invasion and pathological stage. It may imply that FOXP3 might play an important role in esophageal carcinoma progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Intermittent blood-glucose fluctuation (BGF) can accelerate diabetes and its complications, but it is still unknown whether BGF can damage the skin of patients with diabetes. Aim. To investigate the effects of repetitive fluctuation in blood glucose concentration on the biophysical properties, structure and antioxidant capacity of diabetic mouse skin. Methods. Mice with alloxan-induced diabetes were injected with glucose three times daily to induce repetitive BGF. Six weeks later, skin elasticity and skin hydration were measured to evaluate skin water-holding capacity and contraction function. The histological changes of skin were also studied, using haematoxylin and eosin. In addition, we compared levels of blood sugar and advanced glycation end products (AGEs), the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydroxyproline in the skin of normal mice and diabetic mice with or without BGF. Results. The diabetic mice with BGF displayed an 18.6% increase in blood sugar level, an 11.3% increase in AGEs content and a 13.1% increase in MDA content compared with the diabetic mice ( P < 0.01). There was a greater reduction in skin elasticity, skin hydration, hydroxyproline content and SOD activity in the diabetic mice with BGF ( P < 0.01). Histological examination showed that BGF enhanced skin lesions in diabetic mice. Conclusions. Repetitive fluctuation in blood-glucose concentration produced a marked detrimental effect on skin structure and function in diabetic mice. The deleterious effects of BGF on skin appeared to due at least partly to the oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study which examines the efficacy of minor and major hepatectomy in patients with hilar cholangiocarcinoma (HC). The study shows that major liver resection must be reserved for Bismuth-Corlette type HC with vascular invasion due to its higher operative morbidity rate. It notes that patients with Bismuth-Corlette type I, II or III HC should undergo minor hepatectomy and patients with type III HC with hepatic arterial invasion should have major hepatectomy.