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This paper is concerned with self-representation subspace learning. It is one of the most representative subspace techniques, which has attracted considerable attention for clustering due to its good performance. Among these methods, low-rank representation (LRR) has achieved impressive results for subspace clustering. However, it only considers the similarity between the data itself, while neglecting the differences with other samples. Besides, it cannot well deal with noise and portray cluster-to-cluster relationships well. To solve these problems, we propose a Contrastive Self-representation model for Clustering (CSC). CSC simultaneously takes into account the similarity/dissimilarity between positive/negative pairs when learning the self-representation coefficient matrix of data while the form of the loss function can reduce the effect of noise on the results. Moreover, We use the ℓ 1 , 2 -norm regularizer on the coefficient matrix to achieve its sparsity to better characterize the cluster structure. Thus, the learned self-representation coefficient matrix well encodes both the discriminative information and cluster structure. Extensive experiments on seven benchmark databases indicate the superiority of our proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, there has been tremendous interest in developing graph-based subspace clustering in high-dimensional data, which does not require a priori knowledge of the number of dimensions and subspaces. The general steps of such algorithms are dictionary representation and spectral clustering. Traditional methods use the dataset itself as a dictionary when performing dictionary representation. There are some limitations that the redundant information present in the dictionary and features may make the constructed graph structure unclear and require post-processing to obtain labels. To address these problems, we propose a novel subspace clustering model that first introduces feature selection to process the input data, randomly selects some samples to construct a dictionary to remove redundant information and learns the optimal bipartite graph with K-connected components under the constraint of the (normalized) Laplacian rank. Finally, the labels are obtained directly from the graphs. The experimental results on motion segmentation and face recognition datasets demonstrate the superior effectiveness and stability of our algorithm. • We propose a new method based on dictionary representation for subspace clustering. • We utilize the bipartite graph and feature selection based on the ℓ 12 -norm. • We propose an efficient optimization method based on ALM method. • We conduct valid experiments to verify the effectiveness of our method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To link to full-text access for this article, visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cell.2008.03.025 Byline: Yi Tang (1), Wenhui Zhao (1), Yue Chen (3), Yingming Zhao (3), Wei Gu (1)(2) Keywords: PROTEINS; SIGNALING Abstract: The activation of the tumor suppressor p53 facilitates the cellular response to genotoxic stress; however, the p53 response can only be executed if its interaction with its inhibitor Mdm2 is abolished. There have been conflicting reports on the question of whether p53 posttranslational modifications, such as phosphorylation or acetylation, are essential or only play a subtle, fine-tuning role in the p53 response. Thus, it remains unclear whether p53 modification is absolutely required for its activation. We have now identified all major acetylation sites of p53. Although unacetylated p53 retains its ability to induce the p53-Mdm2 feedback loop, loss of acetylation completely abolishes p53-dependent growth arrest and apoptosis. Notably, acetylation of p53 abrogates Mdm2-mediated repression by blocking the recruitment of Mdm2 to p53-responsive promoters, which leads to p53 activation independent of its phosphorylation status. Our study identifies p53 acetylation as an indispensable event that destabilizes the p53-Mdm2 interaction and enables the p53-mediated stress response. Author Affiliation: (1) Institute for Cancer Genetics, College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA (2) Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA (3) Department of Biochemistry, UT Southwestern Medical Center Dallas, TX 75390, USA Article History: Received 9 August 2007; Revised 24 December 2007; Accepted 14 March 2008 Article Note: (miscellaneous) Published: May 15, 2008

• A new organic cation ClC 6 H 4 C 2 H 4 NH 3 + was introduced into perovskite solar cells. • The grain size, crystallization and morphology of the thin films are discussed. • The 2D perovskite thin films are obtained by hot-casting method. • The PSC based on (CPEA) 2 (MA) n−1 Pb n I 3n+1 show a maximum efficiency of 11.86%. • The moisture-resistant of 2D PSCs and 3D PSCs are studied. Two-dimensional layered organic-inorganic perovskite hybrids have attracted increasing attention due to their outstanding moisture resistance and promising optoelectronic properties. However, the photovoltaic performance in solar cells is still a huge challenge for two-dimensional perovskite films. With the aim to improve the efficiency of 2D perovskite solar cells, the new (ClC 6 H 4 C 2 H 4 NH 3) 2 MA n−1 Pb n I 3n+1 perovskite family (abbreviated as (CPEA) 2 MA n−1 Pb n I 3n+1) are synthesized by a simple one-step hot-casting method in this study. It is found that the variation of n value (n = 3–6) has great influence on the microstructure, grain size, charge mobility, trap density and photovoltaic performance of the 2D (CPEA) 2 (MA) n−1 Pb n I 3n+1. Due to the best film quality and prolonged carrier lifetime, the (CPEA) 2 MA 4 Pb 5 I 16 (n = 5) perovskite solar cell exhibits a highest efficiency of 11.86%, with a V oc of 0.989 V, a J sc of 19.92 mA/cm2 and FF of 60%, respectively. It is anticipated that our approach to explore new organic spacer cations in 2D perovskites may pave the way for their application with high performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Quantitative determination for SBS content of aged modified asphalt by FTIR and potentiometric titration tests. • The rheological properties were investigated after TFOT and long-term aging of modified asphalt. • The actual SBS content versus the rheological indexes of aged modified asphalt can be well-fitted. The content of styrene–butadiene–styrene (SBS) modifier has a significant influence on the physical and chemical characteristics of asphalt. However, determining the SBS content in SBS modified asphalt (SBS MA) after aging remains a challenge. To facilitate the understanding of the relationship between physical properties and SBS content, the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and potentiometric titration test were utilized to detect SBS content of aged binders. In this paper, radial and linear SBS were incorporated into asphalt binders at three levels, and their rheological properties were investigated after thin film oven aging (TFOT) and long-term aging. Furthermore, the actual SBS content versus the rheological index at different aging stages was investigated. The results showed that both I C=C and Na 2 S 2 O 3 titration volume highly correlated with SBS content (R2 > 0.99), and there was only a slight difference between the actual content of SBS determined by the two methods. The fatigue resistance, high-temperature elastic, and low-temperature cracking characteristics of asphalt were weakened after aging, due to SBS degradation, especially in the early stage. In addition, the resistance to deformation, elastic recovery, anti-fatigue properties of radial SBS MA were superior to that of linear SBS MA at the same SBS content, while the low-temperature cracking performance demonstrated an opposite trend. The actual SBS content versus the rheological indexes after aging can be well-fitted by a nonlinear equation. Therefore, FTIR and potentiometric titration tests can effectively predict SBS content and analyze the aging degree of SBS MA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Few studies of policy mix concerning renewable portfolio standards (RPS) and emissions trading (ET) investigate a scenario in which the retailer is required to comply with quota obligations. This paper focuses on the impact of RPS, with an ET counterpart, on the electricity market when RPS are imposed on the state grid companies. The evolution game is employed to model transactions between multiple buyers and multiple sellers. The results show that ET enhances the price competitiveness of electricity from renewable energy source (RES-E) and reduces power generating companies' profit at the same time. On the other hand, when the RPS level goes up, the state grid companies gain a windfall created by the difference between the lower wholesale price of thermal power and the unchanging retail price. The windfall will be used to pay for the increasing cost of supporting RES-E. Thus, the thermal power generating companies are confronted with the double cost when introducing ET and RPS, but the state grid companies do not pay for the cost of supporting RES-E. This paper appeals to the Chinese government for the assessment of policy effects from a policy mix perspective. Highlights • The evolution game is employed to model transactions between multiple sellers and multiple buyers. • The quota obligation imposed on the state grid company is studied. • Emissions trading hurts the renewable power generating companies' profit and enhances the price competitiveness of RES-E. • The state grid companies do not pay for the cost of supporting RES-E. • The thermal power generating companies bear both the cost of emissions trading and the cost of supporting RES-E. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many female animals use different strategies to assess male quality to increase their own reproductive fitness. In moths, females usually use chemical signals (sex pheromones) to attract males from a distance. Once males approach a female, they release close range pheromones from hairpencils to facilitate female acceptance. However, detailed mechanisms involved in male sex pheromone biosynthesis and its action in promoting female acceptance have not yet been fully characterized. This study screened a series of candidate genes via a transcriptome analysis of the male hairpencil of Helicoverpa armigera . Using pharmacological inhibitor and RNAi-mediated knockdown assays, we demonstrated that Ca 2+ and cyclic-AMP were involved in pheromone biosynthesis activating neuropeptide (PBAN)-induced male sex pheromone biosynthesis. The functional analysis of candidate enzymes involved in the male sex pheromone biosynthesis pathway demonstrated that a decreased mRNA levels of acetyl-CoA carboxylase, Δ11-desaturase, and fatty-acyl reductase 2 by RNAi-mediated knockdown led to a significant decrease in the production of fatty acyl alcohols and the efficacy of female acceptance. Our results demonstrated the important role of the fatty acyl alcohol biosynthetic pathway in a PBAN-induced male sex pheromone biosynthesis and the importance of hairpencil compounds in female mating acceptance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trace amounts of sulphion can threaten the performance and lifespan of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). The fuel mainly originates from refinery hydrogen, in which methyl mercaptan (MeSH), ethyl mercaptan (EtSH), dimethyl sulfide (DMS) and ethyl sulfide (EMS) inevitably exist. Herein, their negative effects are investigated on PEMFC and rotating disk electrode (RDE) levels, and the poisoning mechanisms are revealed by structural characterizations and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The result indicates that MeSH and EtSH are 1.6 times more threatening than H 2 S, therefore, it is essential to limit the content of MeSH and EtSH. Nevertheless, the poisoning effect of DMS and EMS is weak enough to be tolerated. Moreover, the findings that the occupation of top site on Pt (111) weakly affects the hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) would contribute to the design of new catalysts with stronger toxicity resistance. This work is significant for the durability improvement of PEMFCs. [Display omitted] • MeSH and EtSH are 1.6 times more threatening than H 2 S on PEMFC. • The effect of occupation of top site on Pt (111) on the hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) is very weakly. • The adsorption mechanisms of MeSH, EtSH, DMS and EMS on Pt/C catalysts are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Obesity is associated with higher incidence of cancer, but the predisposing mechanisms remain poorly understood. The NAD + -dependent deacetylase SirT1 orchestrates metabolism, cellular survival, and growth. However, there is no unifying mechanism to explain the metabolic and tumor-related effects of SirT1. In this work, we demonstrate that genetic ablation of the endogenous inhibitor of SirT1, Deleted-in-Breast-Cancer-1 ( Dbc1 ), unexpectedly results in obesity and insulin resistance. Dbc1 deficiency promoted SirT1-dependent gain of function of stearoyl-coenzyme A desaturase 1 (Scd1), increasing plasma and tissue levels of unsaturated fatty acids. The metabolic abnormalities in Dbc1 –/– mice were reversed by ablation of hepatic SirT1 or by inhibition of Scd1 activity. Furthermore, loss of Dbc1 impaired activation of the master tumor suppressor p53 and treatment with an Scd1 inhibitor extended survival of tumor-prone TP53 –/– mice by decreasing tumor-related death. Together, our findings illustrate a shared mechanism of obesity and tumor progression mediated by hepatic SirT1 and resulting in the activation of a key lipid synthetic enzyme, with potential therapeutic implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Different AEs are applied to improve the performance of ECBP mining algorithm. • The AEs' characteristics for feature extraction of ECBP are compared. • Propose the pattern aggregation degree and category transfer entropy for AE evaluation. • Application potential of different AEs are analyzed for demand side management. Studies of electricity consumption behavior patterns (ECBPs) are very important for demand-side management and emission reduction. Most of the existing ECBPs studies have limitations in data volume, algorithm performance and application potential in large-scale data scenario. Based on various autoencoders, this study proposes an ECBPs mining method with better performance and wider application potential. Two indices are constructed for model evaluations. The empirical research results based on the high-frequency power consumption data of residents show that the representation learning of ECBPs through autoencoders can not only effectively reduce the data dimension (reduced by 90%) for pattern mining but also achieve an effect no less than that of pattern mining from the original data, with the difference in pattern aggregation degree between them being only 0.003. Different autoencoders have characteristics in the representation mapping of the original data space. The results also show that the curves decoded by different autoencoders reflect different characteristics suitable for different scenarios. This study solves the dimension disaster problem of ECBPs mining in the context of large-scale data, and provides a better tool for more complex ECBPs based tasks such as multi-energy prosumers modeling and energy system optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Four controlled trials of incentive-based demand response have been conducted. • DID model with DTW non-parametric matching algorism have been proposed. • Discrepancy effect of residential DR implementation strategy is recognized. • Effect among different sociodemographic groups have been estimated. • Provide DR implementation framework for areas with similar power market. One of the most important economic principles is that people respond to incentives. Economics is essentially the study of incentives. However, whether these incentives can replace attitudes and norms that deserve our protection is still unclear especially in the field of environment. And to answer this question, residents' demand response (DR) for energy conservation and emission reduction trials have been taken. Large-scale, hybrid frequency historical data for electricity usage and microcosmic behavior data have been integrated and analyzed. Empirical results show that monetary incentives have a significant effect on residents' electricity saving behavior, which saved 0.116 kgwatt-hours (kWh), accounting for 12% of the total demand in peak-hour consumption. Moral suasion has a significant effect only for residents from high-income communities with a reduction in usage by 8.9%. Through matching survey data analysis, we found that families participating in DR save electricity through adjusting other major and small appliances rather than reducing the usage of air conditioners. Families with large number of major and small appliances response 0.51 kWh and 0.38 kWh more, respectively. Monetary incentive is indispensable in China's current stage of encouraging families' reducing peak-hour electricity usage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanism through which circular RNA of ataxin 7 (circATXN7) regulates the proliferation and invasion of esophageal cancer (EC) cells via microRNA (miR)-4319/NLR family CARD domain containing 5 (NLRC5). The localization of circATXN7 in EC cells was determined by RNA fluorescent in situ hybridization (RNA-FISH). The mRNA levels of circATXN7, miR-4319, and NLRC5 were quantified by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reactions. The binding activity of circATXN7 to miR-4319 was assessed using RNA-binding protein immunoprecipitation. Whether circATXN7 regulates the proliferation of EC cells via miR-4319 was explored using dual-luciferase reporter gene colony formation assays. Protein levels were quantified by western blot. The effect of NLRC5 on the proliferation and invasion of EC cells was examined using colony formation and Transwell assays. A subcutaneous transplanted tumor nude mouse model was established to observe the effect of circATXN7 on the proliferation of EC cells in vivo. circATXN7 localized mainly to the cytoplasm. Overexpression or inhibition of miR-4319 significantly regulated the proliferation of EC cells, while circATXN7 competitively inhibited miR-4319 expression. Overexpression of miR-4319 significantly inhibited NLRC5 expression, indicating NLRC5 is a downstream regulatory target of miR-4319. circATXN7 influenced NLRC5 expression via miR-4319. In vivo tumor formation experiments in nude mice revealed that knocking down circATXN7 regulated NLRC5 expression via miR-4319 and significantly inhibited the proliferation of EC cells. In vitro cell and in vivo animal experiments showed that circATXN7 regulates the proliferation, invasion, and migration of EC cells through the miR-4319/NLRC5 signaling pathway. [Display omitted] • CircATXN7 is mainly located in the cytoplasm of esophageal cancer cells. Further studies have shown that circATXN7 competitively inhibits the expression of miR-4319. • MiR-4319 targets NLRC5, and its overexpression inhibits the expression of NLRC5. CircATXN7 can affect the expression of NLRC5 through miR-4319. • In vitro cell and in vivo animal experiments showed that circATXN7 regulates the proliferation, invasion, and migration of EC cells through the miR-4319/NLRC5 signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pathological aggregation of amyloid polypeptides is associated with numerous degenerative diseases. Preventing aggregation and clearing amyloid deposits are considered as promising strategies against amyloidosis. With the capacity of crossing the blood-brain barrier and good biocompatibility, the hydroxylated single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT-OH) has been shown with excellent anti-amyloid properties. Here, we systematically studied the SWCNT-OH effects on the fibrillization of the β2m 21 – 31 peptides utilizing all-atom discrete molecular dynamics (DMD) simulation. Our results demonstrated the isolated β2m 21 – 31 peptides first nucleated into unstructured oligomers followed by coil-to-sheet conformational conversions in oligomers with at least six peptides. The elongation and lateral surfaces of the preformed β-sheet could catalyze the other unstructured monomers and small oligomers converted into β-sheet formations via dock-lock fibril growth and secondary nucleation processes. Eventually, the β2m 21 – 31 peptides would self-assemble into well-ordered cross-β structures. Regardless of isolated monomers or well-defined cross-β assemblies, the β2m 21 – 31 would attach on the surfaces of SWCNT-OH adopting unstructured formations indicating the SWCNT-OH not only inhibited the fibrillization of β2m 21 – 31 but also destroyed pre-formed proto-fibrils. Overall, our study displays a complete picture of the fibrillization mechanism of β2m 21 – 31 and the amyloid inhibitory mechanism of SWCNT-OH, offering new insight into the de-novo design of anti-amyloid inhibitors. [Display omitted] • The fibrillization of β2m 21-31 involves the primary and secondary nucleations of β-sheet aggregates and β-sheet growth. • The conformational conversion of β2m 21-31 from unstructured to β-sheet starts from hexamers. • The SWCNT-OH not only inhibits the aggregation of β2m 21-31 but also destroys the pre-formed cross-β aggregates of β2m 21-31. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hydrophobic nature of dioxins is a major obstacle to their bioremediation. The present study attempted to improve the bioaccessibility of dioxins in two-phase partitioning bioreactors and activated sludge reactors. Dibenzofuran and n -hexadecane were used as model compounds for dioxins and non-aqueous phase liquids (NAPLs), respectively. First, biosurfactants produced by dioxin-degrading Rhodococcus sp. strain p52 were analyzed. Then, the role of n -hexadecane during the biodegradation of dibenzofuran was evaluated. The results showed that high NAPL ratios (n -hexadecane ≥40 g/L) in the two liquid-phase systems favored dibenzofuran removal, while the cell surface of strain p52 became extremely hydrophobic (>97%), which promoted its adhesion to NAPLs and subsequent transport of dibenzofuran from NAPL to the cells. In addition, a bioaugmented activated sludge reactor with n -hexadecane as the supplemented carbon source could not only facilitate the aerobic granular sludge formation but also improve dibenzofuran removal and the activated sludge settling properties. Simultaneously, conjugative transfer of catabolic plasmids was promoted. This study demonstrated the potential application of strain p52 with NAPLs for the bioremediation of dioxins. [Display omitted] • Strain p52 can produce biosurfactants containing trehalolipids and fatty acids. • n -hexadecane enhanced dibenzofuran removal by strain p52. • Aerobic granules formed in bioaugmented reactor supplemented with n -hexadecane. • n -hexadecane facilitated the transfer of catabolic plasmids in the reactor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DNA damage causes genomic instability. To maintain genome integrity, cells have evolved DNA damage response, which is involved in replication fork disassembly and DNA replication termination. However, the mechanism underlying the regulation of replication fork disassembly and its connection with DNA damage repair remain elusive. The CMG-MCM7 subunit ubiquitination functions on the eukaryotic replication fork disassembly at replication termination. Until now, only ubiquitin ligases CUL2LRR1 have been reported catalyzing MCM7 ubiquitination in human cells. This study discovered that in human cells, the ubiquitin ligase RNF8 catalyzes K63-linked multi-ubiquitination of MCM7 at K145 both in vivo and in vitro. The multi-ubiquitination of MCM7 is dynamically regulated during the cell cycle, primarily presenting on chromatin during the late S phase. Additionally, MCM7 polyubiquitylation is promoted by RNF168 and BRCA1 during DNA replication termination. Upon DNA damage, the RNF8-mediated polyubiquitination of MCM7 decreased significantly during the late S phase. This study highlights the novel role of RNF8-catalyzed polyubiquitination of MCM7 in the regulation of replication fork disassembly in human cells and linking it to DNA damage response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The real time pH monitoring is crucial for human body health and environmental protection. In this work, a triphenylamine-conjugated TPA-SA (triphenylamine (TPA) and salicylaldehyde (SA)) with ESIPT segment was successfully designed, synthesized and further applied in pH detection bearing larger Stoke shift. Optical properties indicated that the sensor TPA-SA displayed obvious AIE (aggregation induced emission) phenomenon in DMSO/H 2 O (1/1, v/v) mixed solution, nano-scaled granular-like aggregates of TPA-SA could be obtained through scanning electron microscope images (SEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). It was worth mentioning that TPA-SA showed excellent fluorescence reaction to changes in pH, and p K a was calculated to be 4.75. In addition, due to its special optical properties, the further practical application of sensor TPA-SA was successfully conducted in pH sensing strips, information storage and the fluorescence cell imaging in HeLa cells, which may be commercially used in near further. [Display omitted] • Synthesis of pH sensitive AIE chemo-sensor: TPA-SA. • TPA-SA presented the recyclable detecting ability for pH with high sensitivity and fast response time. • TPA-SA could be fabricated as portable pH test strip to achieve fast detection with pH range from 2.0 to 7.4. • The probe was successfully applied as recovered and reused information storage materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Making environmental impact assessment (EIA) is extremely vital to the green development of pumped hydro energy storage plants (PHESPs). But, three critical issues have not been addressed. First, some key environmental factors having big influences on PHESP have not been identified and evaluated. Second, massive of information loss and distortion exist in current research. Third, there is a lack of a systematic and clear framework for EIA of PHESP. To handle the above three problems and make EIA of PHESP more reasonable, innovations are made from the following aspects: first, to fully reflect environmental characteristics of PHESP, a comprehensive and rational EIA evaluation criteria system including four criteria is built. Second, a group decision-making model is proposed by combining uncertain linguistic variables (ULVs), triangular fuzzy number (TFN) and TODIM (an acronym in Portuguese of interactive and multiple attribute decision making), this model can effectively reduce information loss and distortion. Third, an integrated decision-making framework is constructed from the perspective of system science, this framework can make EIA easy and efficient. Besides, a case study is employed to validate the practicability and effectiveness of the improvements made above. The results show that the proposed framework is of great use for performing EIA of PHESP, and PHESP A 1 performs best among the four alternatives in the environmental aspect. Meanwhile, sensitivity analysis shows that the ranking of four alternatives is very stable; comparative analysis proves that the proposed model is more effective than fuzzy Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method in reflecting gaps among four alternatives, because its standard deviation 0.360 is bigger than the standard deviation 0.153 gotten by the fuzzy TOPSIS method. Finally, some valuable managerial implications are put forward to the project managers to guide the practical work. • An evaluation criteria system is established for EIA of PHESP. • The TODIM-based group decision model can reduce information loss and distortion. • The integrated framework proposed has good practicability and effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a well-established biomarker for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we investigated the acetylation state of AFP in vivo. AFP acetylation was regulated by the acetyltransferase CBP and the deacetylase SIRT1. Acetylation of AFP at lysines 194, 211, and 242 increased the stability of AFP protein by decreasing its ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. AFP acetylation promoted its oncogenic role by blocking binding to the phosphatase PTEN and the pro-apoptotic protein caspase-3, which increased signaling for proliferation, migration, and invasion and decreased apoptosis. High levels of acetylated AFP in HCC tissues were associated with HBV infection and correlated with poor prognosis and decreased patient survival. In HCC cells, hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx) and palmitic acid (PA) increased the level of acetylated AFP by disrupting SIRT1-mediated deacetylation. AFP acetylation plays an important role in HCC progression and provides a new potential prognostic marker and therapeutic target for HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In China, high-speed rails are often constructed over bridges in the region of soft soils. Differential settlement could occur in the foundation soils between bridge abutment and approach embankment that causes "bumps" to affect the smoothness at the end of a bridge. A three-dimensional finite element model is developed to investigate the use of fibre reinforced lightweight concrete in the transition zone of bridge approach for high-speed railways. Time-frequency analysis is performed using the method of Fast Fourier transform. The sensitivity analysis of rail speed, density of backfills, and the structural type of the trapezoidal shaped transition zone is conducted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • CRISPR/Cas9 induces random deletions in the target region of GABRR2 gene. • Both big and small indels can lead to unexpected high probability of exon truncation/skipping and exon recruitment. • It is the first observation of exon recruitment by CRISPR/Cas9-mediated GABRR2 gene editing. Abstract CRISPR/Cas9 and its variations provide an efficient tool for targeted genome editing. CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing can induce mutations in genome that has high probability to cause exon truncation or deletion. However, screening mutations in diploid cells is difficult because of two copies of chromosome. It is an important task for determining genotypes in diploid cells subjected to editing before using these cells in gene function study. In this study, we applied CRISPR/Cas9 to edit the GABRR2 gene in mouse retinal ganglion cells to study what exactly happened in two alleles and what real mRNA isoforms formed in diploid cells. A single sgRNA was employed to generate double-strand DNA breaks. PCR sequencing was used for single clone validation in diploid cells subjected to editing. The indels and the corresponding effects at the target locus were further studied at genomic and RNA levels. We observed that CRISPR/Cas9 induces random deletions in the target region of GABRR2 gene, and both big and small indels can lead to unexpected high probability of exon truncation/skipping. In addition, random deletions in genomic region recruited introns to generate new "exon". It is the first observation of exon recruitment by CRISPR/Cas9-mediated GABRR2 gene editing. The observations may offer a reference for the future gene splicing study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is widely recognized that vegetation restoration plays a key role in controlling soil erosion in China's Loess Plateau. However, the effects of vegetation types on soil erosion on steep slopes of the Loess Plateau are not yet fully understood. In this study, we carried out our experiments on surface runoff and soil loss monitoring at nine runoff plots with different vegetation types over a nine-year period from 2008 to 2016 to evaluate the effects of vegetation and rainfall on soil erosion. We classified forty-three rainfall events into three rainfall types based on a rainfall concentration index and further analyzed the sensitivities of the runoff and soil loss to these rainfall types. The results indicated that the grassland ( Bothriochloa ischaemum L.) and shrubland (Sea-buckthorn) with high ground cover had a lower runoff depth and soil loss compared to the forestlands with poor ground cover with an average reduction of 50% in annual runoff depth and 92% in annual soil loss. Comparison of the mean runoff coefficient and soil loss in the three rainfall types demonstrated that rainfall events with high intensity and short duration caused more surface runoff and soil loss under all vegetation types. A power function fitted well in the runoff-soil loss relationship and the result showed that the grassland and shrubland had a smaller magnitude term which reflects less soil susceptibility to erosion. The research implies that the ground cover is an important factor in controlling soil and water loss and vegetation measures with high ground cover should be strongly recommended for soil erosion control on the Loess Plateau. It is helpful for vegetation restoration strategy and conserving soil and water on steep slopes of this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While high-speed railway (HSR) often brings regional prosperity and a boom in real estate, it is unclear how the housing vacancy rate (HVR) changes after the opening of HSR. We identify the HVR changes in response to HSR operation by employing smart meter data of approximately 10 million households in more than 80 counties in the middle and lower regions of the Yangtze River Basin. We find that HSR opening could reduce the urban HVR by 1.64% and its reducing effect is stronger in district-urban than in county-urban areas. The decreasing effect of HSR operation on urban HVR is more noticeable in areas with better air quality, lower living costs, and more service industries. The opposite effects are observed in rural areas, where the HSR operation has increased the rural HVR by 1.16%. Our findings indicate that the siphoning effect of HSR exists on HVR as the rural population along the HSR is attracted to central cities, and positive HSR promotion strategies contribute to reducing urban HVR. With the development of transportation infrastructure, the difference in HVR due to urban and rural population mobility should be taken into account. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel and simple sensing scheme based on the giant Goos-Hanchen shift enhanced by the excitation of the Bloch surface wave in a truncated one-dimensional photonic crystal structure is proposed and experimentally demonstrated. The significantly enhanced Goos-Hanchen shift is directly measured by a position sensitive detector and the following amplifier. The bulk refractive index sensitivity of the sensor is investigated by utilizing sodium chloride solutions and glycerol solutions with different concentrations as test samples. The results show that the Goos-Hanchen shift sensor has a superior sensitivity of 2.0*10 −9 RIU/nm, which outperforms the SPR enhanced Goos-Hanchen shift sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In-vivo real-time dose rate measurement has attracted much attention in the tumour-treatment field because of the demand for precise delivery of radiotherapy. An optical fiber based dosimeter is presented, which is fabricated by embedding scintillator materials inside the fiber core. Five micron-scale powder based scintillator materials have been identified and their characteristics are compared in this investigation. The dosimeters have been fabricated separately but with exactly the same production process. Their emission spectra have been measured. Furthermore, an evaluation of the dosimeter’s performance has been made by analyzing the signal intensity emitted from the scintillation material following transmission through a 25 m length of plastic optical fiber (POF) to a distal MPPC (multi-pixel photon counter) detector. The excellent linearity of the relationship of the signal intensity and the dose rate has been established and simultaneously measured using an ionization chamber (IC) to ensure efficacy of the results. The dependence of the resulting fluorescence signal on water depth of two materials was also obtained and compared with the IC. The investigation clearly shows that currently Gd 2 O 2 S:Tb is the optimum choice of material for the X-ray optical fiber dosimeter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper is to develop a model for the decision-makers/stakeholders to design biofuel supply chain under uncertainties. Life cycle energy and CO 2 emission of biofuel supply chain are employed as the objective functions, multiple feedstocks, multiple transportation modes, multiple sites for building biofuel plants, multiple technologies for biofuel production, and multiple markets for biofuel distribution are considered, and the amount of feedstocks in agricultural system, transportation capacities, yields of crops, and market demands are considered as uncertainty variables in this study. A bi-objective interval mix integer programming model has been developed for biofuel supply chain design under uncertainties, and the bio-objective interval programming method has been developed to solve this model. An illustrative case of a multiple-feedstock-bioethanol system has been studied by the proposed method, and the results show that the proposed model can help decision-makers/stakeholders plan and design the biofuel supply chain by proposing feasible solutions to them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The association of estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) with cardiovascular disease risk among patients with type 2 diabetes is unclear. Here we prospectively investigated the race-specific association of estimated GFR with the risk of coronary heart disease and stroke among 11,940 Caucasian and 16,451 African-American patients. During mean follow-up of 6.1-6.8 years, 6647 coronary heart disease and 2750 stroke incident cases were identified. Age- and sex-adjusted hazard ratios of coronary heart disease associated with baseline estimated GFR (90 or more, 75-89, 60-74, 30-59, and 15-29 ml/min per 1.73 m2) were 1.00, 1.04, 1.13, 1.37, and 2.07 (significant trend) for African Americans, and 1.00, 1.09, 1.10, 1.31, and 2.18 (significant trend) for Caucasians, respectively. A significantly increased stroke risk was observed among both African-American and Caucasian participants with an estimated GFR under 60 ml/min per 1.73 m2. When using the updated mean values of estimated GFR, these significant associations became stronger. Participants with mildly decreased estimated GFR (60-89 ml/min per 1.73 m2) during follow-up were also at a significantly higher risk of coronary heart disease and stroke. Thus, even mildly reduced estimated GFR at baseline (under 75 ml/min per 1.73 m2) and during follow-up (under 90 ml/min per 1.73 m2) increased the risk of incident coronary heart disease and stroke among both African-American and Caucasian type 2 diabetes patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been proved that top-down governance alone has limitations in the process of air pollution control, and public participation plays an important role in promoting air pollution governance. However, whether the public awareness of participating in haze governance can be guided by government and the guiding mechanism are still unclear. This paper is based on data from a leading Chinese social media—— Sina Weibo. Over 10.54 million haze-related blogs from 2013 to 2017 have been excavated. Based on the latent Dirichlet allocation (LDA) topic model, the characteristics and evolutionary path of the government and public concern have been analyzed. Furthermore, the empirical results indicate the following. (1) The government has a significant role in promoting the public concern about participating in haze governance. (2) Regional heterogeneity, especially regions with underdeveloped economies, low levels of education and aging populations should receive special attention. (3) The effect of the government is not all-round, "haze governance" and "public participation" have significant impacts on the public concern regarding "participating in haze governance". (4) Media and government have a reciprocal relationship in terms of attracting public attention to haze governance. They are vying for people's limited attention. (5) There are spatial spillover effects of local government. Finally, policy implications and the fairness of online promotion and reflection on the public are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The PDD curves of capped and uncapped fiber X-ray sensors are almost opposite. • A theoretical model was established to explain the different trend of PDD curves. • The peak or valley of the curves of Cerenkov radiation are at a depth of 1.5 cm. The use of optical fiber X-ray sensors is of great significance in X-ray detection. To reduce the influence of background noise attributed to sources such as Cerenkov radiation, the response of a plain (no scintillator material added) optical fiber to the X-ray radiation is investigated. The percentage dose-depth (PDD) of plain optical fibers with and without visible light blocking end caps are calculated and are clearly different. The leakage of Cerenkov radiation and presence of Compton scattering from water into the sensing probe is considered as the reason for the difference. A theoretical model to explain the difference is proposed. The experimental results fit well to the theoretical expectation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]