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Previous studies have shown a relationship between SPECC1 and the prognosis of breast cancer, indicating a potential function for SPECC1 in the initiation and progression of cancer. However, the role played by SPECC1 in other tumors is not yet known. Therefore, we used bioinformatics techniques to conduct a thorough investigation into the possible mechanism of SPECC1 in pan-cancer, analyzing data reported in the literature as well as databases such as GTEx and CCLE, cBioportal, TCGA, and UCSC XENA. Comparing the results with matching normal tissues, the majority of cancers, including pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) and breast invasive carcinoma (BRCA), exhibited higher levels of SPECC1, while hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) showed lower expression levels. SPECC1 was also found to be genetically mutated in endometrial cancer, sarcoma, and esophageal cancer. The prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma, kidney papillary cell carcinoma, and breast cancer is highly correlated with dysregulation of SPECC1 expression. This work helps guide clinical therapy by highlighting the sensitivity of tumor-treating medicines and the prognostic importance of SPECC1 in various malignancies. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed focused adhesion, collagen-containing extracellular matrix (collagen), and the primary enrichment domains for SPECC1-related genes. These findings were obtained through gene annotation (GO) examination of SPECC1 expression. Primary mediators of the cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction include PICOC1-associated genes, cell-substrate junction genes, and extracellular matrix containing collagen. PICOC1-associated genes primarily mediate the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. Drug sensitivity assay showed that SPECC1 high-expressing cell lines were more sensitive to docetaxel, doxorubicin, etc. In conclusion, the current study shows how SPECC1 is expressed in different cancers and how this expression relates to the prognosis of the tumor. It also revealed the mutations and copy number variations of SPECC1 in various tumors and its potential involvement in cellular pathway regulatory networks and cytological processes. This study examines the relationship between immune genes, cellular infiltration, and immunological scores in the tumor microenvironment, which explain the severity of the disease. This study looks at the response of SPEC1 expression to anticancer therapy. Explains the prognostic significance and drug response of SPECC-1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The association between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and proteinuria is undetermined, with few studies on hypertension, a high-risk group for renal impairment. Therefore, we aimed to explore whether OSA is an independent risk factor for proteinuria in patients with hypertension. We investigated the cross-sectional association between OSA and proteinuria. Participants were divided into groups by apnea hypopnea index (AHI) category. Multivariable Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between OSA severity, objectively measured sleep dimensions, and proteinuria which is mainly defined by 24-h urine protein quantification > 300 mg/24 h. Sensitivity analyses were performed by excluding those with comorbidities (primary aldosteronism and homocysteine ≥ 15 μmol/L). Of the 2106 participants, the mean age was 47.57 ± 10.50 years, 67.2% were men, and 75.9% were OSA patients. In total participants, compared with those without OSA, patients with mild OSA, moderate OSA, and severe OSA showed 1.09 (95% CI 0.80–1.40), 1.24 (95% CI 0.89–1.74) and 1.47 (95% CI 1.04–2.08) fold risk for proteinuria with a trend test P trend < 0.05. Each 10-unit increase in the AHI, oxygen desaturation index (ODI), and time spent with oxygen saturation < 90% (T90) was found to be associated with 13%, 10%, and 2% higher likelihood of proteinuria in the crude model, significant in adjusted models. The more severe the OSA is, the higher the risk of proteinuria. AHI and T90 are independently associated with a higher risk of structural renal damage in the population with hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study is to explore the association between community cohesion and dependency among elderly people. This is a community-based cross-sectional study, and data were obtained from a face-to-face questionnaire survey including 2017 elderly people aged ≥ 60 years from 27 locations in China. The community cohesion was measured by the Neighborhood Cohesion Inventory. Logistic regression models were created to evaluate the association between community cohesion and dependency, and stratified logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the association of important community healthcare service resources with community cohesion at different income levels. The results of the logistic regression analyses show a significant positive association between community cohesion and dependency after adjusting for sociodemographic and health-related variables, and the odds ratio (OR) was 2.42 (95%CI:1.43–4.08). Logistic regression analyses showed that the high community cohesion for the low-income group was associated with the satisfaction with the community physicians' technical expertise, daycare service, rehabilitation equipment rental services, and health records management. In the high-income group, community cohesion showed a positive association with the satisfaction with the community physicians' attitude, regular health assessment, and chronic disease care service. Community cohesion was positively associated with dependency among elderly people. Findings indicate that community cohesion may be an important accessible resource for elderly people with dependency, and the targeted provision of health resources and services are the most effective strategies to enhance community cohesion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore the association between dependency and cognitive function among older adults. A combined cross-sectional and longitudinal study was conducted in 26 locations in China. A total of 1160 participants aged ≥ 60 years were selected using a complex multistage sampling design, and 152 participants completed data collection after one year follow-up observation. A questionnaire was administered by face-to-face interviews. Dependency was measured using the standardized Chinese version of the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-II. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess the association between dependency and cognitive function. Cox proportional hazards analysis was performed to identify causality between cognition function and dependency. The results of logistic regression analysis showed that the orientation and outdoor instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) domains were significantly associated with dependency, with odds ratios of 1.45 (95% CI, 1.26–1.67; p < 0.001) and 1.16 (95% CI, 1.06–1.26; p < 0.001), respectively. In the Cox proportional hazards analysis, the DASC-21 score was significantly associated with dependency, with hazard ratio of 1.32 (95% CI, 1.03–1.69). The causality between cognition impairment and dependency was identified, and the orientation and outdoor IADL domains were significantly associated with dependency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Supraglottic squamous cell carcinoma (SGSCC) is characterized by low differentiation, rapid growth, and inconspicuous initial manifestations. Early detection and prompt treatment can significantly improve survival rates. The main focus of treatment is to maintain optimal laryngeal function. Methods: Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database, we conducted univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses to identify independent prognostic factors for T1–T2 SGSCC. We also enrolled 109 patients with T1–T2 SGSCC from the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University as an external validation set. In addition, we developed a nomogram to predict the prognosis of T1–T2 SGSCC, assessed the predictive accuracy and discriminatory ability of the nomogram using the area under the curve (AUC), C-index, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and calibration curve, and confirmed the clinical validity of the nomogram using decision curve analysis (DCA). Results: Our investigation identified nine prognostic indicators for T1–T2 SGSCC: age (≥ 65 years), marital status, American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage (II–IV), grade (III–IV), M stage (M1), radiotherapy, chemotherapy, sex (female), and surgery. These variables were used to create accurate nomograms that predict overall and specific survival rates at 1, 3, and 5 years. The nomograms demonstrated superior prognostic value and accuracy compared to AJCC staging. Laryngectomy with partial laryngectomy is the preferred treatment option for T1–T2 SGSCC cases, providing superior overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS). Radiotherapy also improves OS and CSS. Our results were based on a comprehensive analysis of various indicators, including the C-index, ROC curve, calibration curve, and DCA curve. Conclusion: Nomograms provide significant advantages in treatment decision making and diagnosis. Laryngectomy with partial laryngectomy is the most appropriate method for T1–T2 SGSCC cases. However, radiotherapy can also be used. Thus, patients with T1–T2 SGSCC should be evaluated to determine if combination therapy is the optimal treatment approach. Nevertheless, further research is needed to understand the role of chemotherapy. Overall, this study identified nine key predictors of future outcomes, aiding healthcare professionals in assessing risks and making treatment decisions for T1–T2 SGSCC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dependency is a common personality disorder among elderly people, and there is currently no good evidence to recommend an intervention strategy for this disorder. This study aimed to assess the risk factors of dependency on the basis of a social ecological model. This is a community-based cross-sectional study. A total of 1276 participants aged ≥ 60 years were selected through a complex multistage sampling design from 27 locations in China and found eligible to participate in the study. All data were collected using questionnaires by face-to-face interviews. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to identify the association between dependency and related risk factors. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess the protective factors of dependency among individuals with high risk factors of dependency. The results of multiple linear regression analysis showed that the individual, family, community, and social factors were significantly associated with dependency. Logistic regression analysis showed that good social connection and social support were the most important protective factors for individuals with a high risk of dependency. We identify that dependency is associated with protection and risk factors from the individual, family, community, and social factors among elderly individuals. Based on resilience theory, our results suggest that using a social ecological model to assess the risk factors of dependency may be an effective way to develop intervention strategies of dependency among older people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical composition of fatty acids in lipids from Plantago ovata Forssk. seeds was studied. The yield of lipids was 6.12%. The lipids consisted mainly of linoleic (41.20%) and 9-octadecenoic acid (26.56%). The antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of the obtained lipids were assessed for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated high energy, near and mid-infrared optical vortex lasers formed by a 1 μm optical vortex-pumped KTiOAsO4 (KTA) optical parametric oscillator. The orbital angular momentum (OAM) of the pump beam can be selectively transferred to the signal or idler output by changing the reflectivity of the output coupler. With this system, 1.535 µm vortex signal output with an energy of 2.04 mJ and 3.468 µm vortex idler output with an energy of 1.75 mJ were obtained with a maximum pump energy of 21 mJ, corresponding to slope efficiencies of 14% and 10%, respectively. The spectral bandwidth (full width at half maximum, FWHM) of the signal and idler vortex outputs were measured to be Δλs ~ 1.3 nm (~ 5.5 cm−1) and Δλi ~ 1.7 nm (~ 1.4 cm−1), respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new green-emitting phosphor, KAlSiO4:1.5 mol% Tb3+, x mol% Li+, was prepared via a high-temperature solid-phase method, and its crystal structure, diffuse reflectance spectrum, and luminescence were studied. The results show that the Li+ doping shifts the strongest diffraction peak to a high angle direction, reducing grain size by 11.4%. The entry of Li2CO3 improves the luminescence performance of KAlSiO4:1.5 mol% Tb3+. At a Li+ concentration of 1.5 mol%, the sample has strong absorption in the ultraviolet light range from 250 to 400 nm. The luminous intensity of the sample at 550 nm approximately quadruples after Li+ doping. Additionally, the colour purity of the sample and the internal quantum yield increase to 83.3% and 42%, respectively. The sample changes colour with time when exposed to air without an obvious fading phenomenon. The emission intensity at 200 °C is 95.1% of its value at room temperature, indicating that the phosphor has excellent thermal stability when x = 1.5. These results show the feasibility of using the silicate phosphor for generating the green light component of white light-emitting diodes for solid-state lighting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Menthol in mints elicits coolness sensation by selectively activating TRPM8 channel. Although structures of TRPM8 were determined in the apo and liganded states, the menthol-bounded state is unresolved. To understand how menthol activates the channel, we docked menthol to the channel and systematically validated our menthol binding models with thermodynamic mutant cycle analysis. We observed that menthol uses its hydroxyl group as a hand to specifically grab with R842, and its isopropyl group as legs to stand on I846 and L843. By imaging with fluorescent unnatural amino acid, we found that menthol binding induces wide-spread conformational rearrangements within the transmembrane domains. By Φ analysis based on single-channel recordings, we observed a temporal sequence of conformational changes in the S6 bundle crossing and the selectivity filter leading to channel activation. Therefore, our study suggested a 'grab and stand' mechanism of menthol binding and how menthol activates TRPM8 at the atomic level. Menthol in mints elicits a coolness sensation by selective activation of TRPM8 ion channel. Here authors dock menthol to TRPM8 and systematically validate their menthol binding models with thermodynamic mutant cycle analysis in functional tests, and shed light on TRPM8 activation by menthol at the atomic level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Minimizing the impact of radiation-induced degradation in dilute nitride based optoelectronic devices is crucial in its applications. The effects of 1-MeV electron irradiation (of 1 × 1014–1 × 1016 e/cm2 range) on undoped GaInNAs|GaAs single quantum-well (QW) structure has been studied by low-temperature photoluminescence (PL). PL spectra of GaInNAs|GaAs QW are measured before and after electron irradiation. The results show a slight enhancement of the PL intensity in relatively low electron fluence, and then subsequent deterioration of PL with the increase of cumulative electron fluences. The enhancement in PL intensity at low electron doses is explained by recombination-enhanced defect reaction model, and the degradation at high electron doses is explained by irradiation-induced defects in the lattice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The epitaxy properties of GaAs-based GaSb thin films were investigated under different growth conditions to identify suitable smooth areas on GaSb epilayer surface for growing high-quality AlInSb metamorphic buffers. The results showed notable reduction in threading dislocation densities (TDDs) and hillocks densities (HDs) of GaSb buffer layer when the temperature of substrates rising to Tc (surface reconstruction conversion temperature) + 110 °C and growth rate decreasing to 0.25 mono layer per second (ML/s). These conditions led to gradual changes in GaSb epilayer surface morphologies from tiny hillocks to near-parallel steps. The AlInSb/GaSb compound buffers were studied by employing five different structures of AlInSb metamorphic buffer layers grown on optimized GaSb layers, and then analyzed by various analytical methods. The influence of various structural buffer layers on defects were evaluated in order to suppress the formation of defects. It was shown that the buffer layer with low-temperature interface layer and superlattice structure presents obvious inhibitory effects on defects. Among these, specimens with superlattice interface exhibits the lowest TDDs of 3.1 × 107 cm−2 and moderate HDs of 2.4 × 107 cm−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the (Ag,Cu)2ZnSnS4 (ACZTS) thin films were fabricated via sputtering with a multi-target to form different layer stacks, i.e., (S1) ZnS/Sn/Cu/Ag/Mo,(S2) ZnS/Sn/Ag/Cu/Mo and (S3) ZnS/Ag/Sn/Cu/Mo. The stacked precursors were sulfurized through a soft annealing, followed by a two-step sulfurization in a chamber filled with N2 at standard atmospheric pressure. The x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy elemental profile showed a vertical non-uniform distribution of Ag in the film. Based on the results of scanning electron microscopy and electron probe microanalysis, Ag enrichment of the upper surface was beneficial for the grain size. Moreover, a dense, uniform surface could be obtained and the stability of the elemental composition could be maintained. After optimizing the order of the Ag layers, the efficiency of the solar cells increased from 1.30% to 3.65%, an improvement of 181%. The open circuit voltage is increased from 448 mV to 630 mV because of the reduced voids, increased grain size, and reduced CuZn antisite defects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 25 nm thick Ag thin film was sputtered between the Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) absorber and Mo electrode to improve the back contact in CZTS solar cells. The CZTS absorber was fabricated via a cost-effective N,N-dimethylformamide-based solution method. X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy demonstrated that Ag diffused into the CZTS and partially substituted Cu, which resulted in an increased lattice constant a and grain size. Ag doping of CZTS (ACZTS) reduced both the Sn-loss and the presence of voids. An ACZTS photovoltaic device (ITO/i-ZnO/CdS/ACZTS/Mo) was fabricated and showed higher EQE than the CZTS device over the wavelength range of 450–800 nm. The open circuit voltage increased (Voc) from 543 to 631 mV, the short circuit current density (Jsc) increased from 10.36 to 14.37 mA, and the efficiency increased from 2.02 to 3.43% after sputtering the Ag layer. This is mainly because Ag functions as a temporary protective layer that made a tighter combination between Mo and the CZTS absorber. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to report the characteristics of urolithiasis in Uyghur patients from Xinjiang, China. The composition of stones collected from 1863 patients in the Uyghur region of Xinjiang was analyzed. The median age of patients was 17 years [25th and 75th percentiles: 2, 36]. The stones were delivered by 1299 males (69.7%) and 564 females (30.3%). Calcium oxalate was the predominant stone component in 42.1% of the patients, followed by ammonium urate in 20.6%. Females had formed more stones of magnesium ammonium phosphate 8.9 vs. 5.6% (p = 0.010) and carbonate apatite 6.2 vs. 3.3% (p = 0.004). In contrast uric acid was more common in males than in females; 21.6 vs. 15.1% (p = 0.001). In this series, pediatric patients (age range 0–18) were more likely to present with a stone (51.5%, p < 0.001). Moreover, the largest number of pediatric stones was recorded in children 1–2 years old (37.9%, p < 0.001). The occurrence of ammonium urate stones was extremely high (52.4%) in children with an age below 1 year. There was a downward trend for ammonium urate with age in both children and adults (p for trend < 0.001, respectively). In contrast the frequency of uric acid declined with age in pediatric patients, but increased in adults (p for trend < 0.001, respectively). This study provides a basis for further considerations on the management of Xinjiang Uyghur patients and emphasize the severity of pediatric stone problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are of considerable concern due to their potential as human carcinogens. Thus, determining the characteristics, potential source, and examining the oxidative capacity of PAHs to protect human health is essential. This study investigated the PM2.5-bound PAHs at Dushanzi, a large petrochemical region in Xinjiang as well as northwest China. A total of 33 PM2.5 samples with 13 PAHs, together with molecular tracers (levoglucosan, and element carbon), were analyzed during the non-heating and heating periods. The results showed that the PM2.5 concentrations were 70.22 ± 22.30 and 95.47 ± 61.73 μg/m3, while that of total PAHs were 4.07 ± 2.03 and 60.33 ± 30.80 ng/m3 in sampling period, respectively. The fluoranthene, pyrene, chrysene, benzo[b]fluoranthene, and benzo[k]fluoranthene were the most abundant (top five) PAHs, accounting for 71.74 and 72.80% of total PAH mass during non-heating and heating periods. The BaP equivalent (BaPeq) concentration exceeded 1 ng/m3 as recommended by National Ambient Air Quality Standards during heating period. The diagnostic ratios and positive matrix factorization indicated that oil industry, biomass burning, coal combustion, and vehicle emissions are the primary sources. The coal combustion remarkably increased during heating period. The plasmid scission assay (PSA) results showed that higher DNA damage rate was observed during heating period. PAHs in PM2.5 such as Chr, BaP, and IcdP were found to have significantly positive correlations with the plasmid DNA damage rates. Additionally, the relationship among BaPeq and DNA damage rate suggested that synergistic reaction may modify the toxicity of PAHs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the genetic variation and relationships among 35 melon landraces collected from the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in northwestern China by using 19 polymorphic simple sequence repeat markers (SSRs). A total of 55 polymorphic alleles were amplified. The number of alleles per SSR locus ranged from 2 to 5 with an average of 2.89 alleles per locus. The average gene diversity (GD) was 0.42 with a range of 0.06-0.71, and the average observed heterozygosity was 0.22 with a range of 0.06-0.97, indicating that the genetic diversity among the Xinjiang melon landraces was abundant. Genetic variation was also detected between the landrace populations in different regions in Xinjiang. The most abundant genetic diversity was observed among the landraces in Eastern Xinjiang, with the highest GD of 0.45 and PIC of 0.39. Eleven alleles (20 %) were found exclusively in the landraces from Eastern Xinjiang, and two alleles (3.6 %) were unique to the landraces from Southern and Northern Xinjiang. The genetic similarity matrix was defined on the basis of Jaccard coefficient to determine the genetic relationships among Xinjiang landraces. Cluster analysis was performed using the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic means, showing that the 'wild Hami' (XJ-34) landrace was distinct from the 34 other landraces that were divided into three clusters. Therefore, the genetic background of XJ-34 differed from that of the other landraces. The landraces were not precisely separated on the basis of their geographic origins, although most of these landraces were likely grouped near one another, as visualized through principal coordinate analysis. Thus, western China is one of the primary or secondary centers of melon diversity because of the relatively higher genetic variation detected among Xinjiang landraces. Except the 'wild Hami' landrace, Xinjiang melon landraces could be classified into two botanical varieties, namely, var. inodorus and var. cantalupensis. However, the distinction between these two genotypes was not significantly different. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Whether radical debridement is necessary for the treatment of thoracic and lumbar tuberculosis is still questionable. The objective of this prospective randomized study was to compare the outcomes of radical debridement versus no debridement for the treatment of thoracic and lumbar tuberculosis.Methods: Seventy-four thoracic and lumbar tuberculosis patients with a neurological function of grade D and E underwent surgery and received the same chemotherapy regiment from January 2009 to October 2014. All patients were divided into group A and B by taking the drawing of lots. In group A, radical debridement, bone graft, and instrumentation were performed. Isolated posterior instrumentation without debridement were performed in group B. The operative time, blood loss, visual analogue score (VAS), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), kyphotic angle, Frankel grading, fusion rate, and complications were evaluated.Results: Group B had a better clinical outcome with regard to the operative time, blood loss, VAS score first week post-operatively, and the ESR value in the third and sixth month post-operatively than group A, and the differences between the two groups about those values all presented a significant difference (P < 0.05). However, no difference was observed between the two groups for the kyphotic angle (P = 0.088) and fusion rate (P = 0.164) at the final follow-up. Neurological function of all cases exhibited normal neurological function in the two groups at the final follow-up. Two cases of pulmonary infection and four cases of wound infection in group A. No serious complications were observed in group B.Conclusions: Isolated posterior instrumentation without debridement is a suitable treatment for selected patients because of minor surgical trauma, fewer complications, and spontaneous fusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manganese dioxide (MnO) loaded MCM-41 (MnO/MCM-41) was used as adsorbent to remove Cr(VI) and As(III) from aqueous solution. The adsorbent was synthesized and characterized. Effect of pH on the removal of Cr(VI) and As(III) was investigated. The desired pH of aqueous solution was 2 for the removal of Cr(VI) and 4 for the removal of As(III). Besides, the adsorption of As(III) and Cr(VI) can be well described by Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models, respectively. The kinetic data can be successfully depicted by pseudo-second-order model. Moreover, external and intra-particle diffusion were found to be rate-controlling steps of the adsorption process. Thermodynamic analysis suggested that the adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic. In a binary system, the presence of Cr(VI) and As(III) slightly reduced the removal efficiency of each other. The desorption study showed 0.1mol/L NaOH liquor held good desorption ability for metal loaded MnO/MCM-41. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sodalite sample used in this investigation did not exhibit the characteristic orange-yellow luminescence due to the $$ {\text{S}}_{ 2}^{ - } $$ center, because there was no trace of sulfur impurity. The heat-treated samples exhibited green and red luminescence with maximum intensity at 496 and 687 nm, respectively, under 264 nm excitation at room temperature. Their luminescence intensities were extensively dependent on the treatment temperature. The green luminescence efficiency of the sample heat-treated at 900 °C was 6.5 times higher than that of unheated natural sodalite. At 8.5 K, the green luminescence showed a vibronic structure. After heating at 1,300 °C, the crystal structure of sodalite was transformed to NaAlSiO (carnegieite), and the intense red luminescence was exhibited in the NaAlSiO sample. The peak wavelength of the red luminescence shifted from 687 nm at 300 K to 726 nm at 8.5 K. The luminescence lifetimes of the green and red luminescence at room temperature were 2.1 and 5.1 ms, respectively. It was proposed that the origin of the green luminescence is Mn replacing Na, and that of the red luminescence is Fe replacing Al in sodalite or NaAlSiO (carnegieite). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NaSO:Sm phosphors were synthesized by heating pure sodium sulphate with a small amount of SmF at 950 °C. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) measurements show that the particle size of as-synthesized phosphors is 58 and 60 nm, respectively. The samples were irradiated by Co γ-rays with irradiation doses of 10-50 kGy at room temperature and by electrons with a total fluence of 6.7×10 e/cm at a flux of 7.8×10 e/cm⋅sec. After exposure to γ-ray and high energy electron irradiations, as-synthesized phosphors show the conversion of Sm→Sm. The photoluminescence (PL) spectra of as-synthesized, γ-ray, and electron-irradiated phosphors obtained under 375 nm excitation consist of narrow emission bands with peaks at 563, 598, 644, and 704 nm, assigned to the G→H ( J=5/2,7/2,9/2, and 11/2) transitions within 4 f electronic configuration of Sm. The PL spectra of irradiated phosphors under 570 nm excitation at room temperature consist of a broad band with a peak at 695 nm and an emission line at 685.9 nm on the broad band. The broad band is assigned to the 4 f5 d→4 f (F) transition and the emission line to the D→ F transition within Sm. The PL and photoexcitation (PE) spectra at 10 K were well assigned to energy levels of Sm. Annealing at 473 K (200 °C) completely erased the Sm emission band within the detection limit at room temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of F-18 fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) dual-time-point (DTP) positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) with semiquantitative analyses for the initial staging in patients with malignant lymphoma. Methods: Forty-three patients had DTP PET/CT, with 60-min and 2-h scan [ n = 8, Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL); n = 12, indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL); n = 23, aggressive NHL]. Results: A total of 524 lesions were evaluated (406 lymph nodes and 118 extra-nodal lesions). The maximum standardized uptake value (SUV) on 2-h delayed scan (SUV) was significantly higher than those on 1-h early scan (SUV) for all groups ( P < 0.0001 for HL; P < 0.0001 for indolent NHL; P < 0.0001 for aggressive NHL). Significant differences were detected between HL and indolent NHL, between indolent NHL and the aggressive NHL for both SUV and SUV (each P < 0.0001). No significant differences were detected between HL and aggressive NHL for both SUV and SUV ( P = 0.6891 for SUV; P = 0.8828 for SUV); however, significant differences were detected for the retention index of SUV between these groups ( P = 0.0238). Conclusions: DTP F-18 FDG PET/CT with a semiquantitative technique may have the potential to provide the more accurate diagnoses for the staging of malignant lymphoma and the more important role in predicting the histological grades of malignancy compared with single-time-point F-18 FDG-PET scan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chabazite-Ca deposited on dacite laccolith from Osódi Hill, Dunabogdány, Hungary, exhibited bluish-white luminescence under ultraviolet (UV) light. The photoluminescence (PL) and optical excitation spectra of chabazite-Ca were obtained at 300 K. The PL spectrum under 300-nm excitation consists of (1) a Ce band with a peak at 340 nm, (2) a broad main band with a peak at 453 nm and (3) five narrow bands at 592, 616, 650, 700 and 734 nm due to Eu. The main band is spread over the entire visible-wavelength region. The excitation spectrum obtained by monitoring green luminescence at 520 nm consists of a band at wavelengths shorter than 200 nm and an extremely broad band with a peak at 385 nm. The extremely broad band is spread over not only the UV region but also the blue region. The features of PL and excitation spectra suggest that the origin of bluish-white luminescence is luminescent organic matter incorporated into chabazite-Ca crystals during growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

new monomer (2- N,N-dimethylamino-4,6-Bis (2-thienyl)-pyrimidine) was synthesized and its homopolymer was successfully prepared by using Ferric trichloride (FeCl) as an oxidant. The structure of the polymer and monomer was fully characterized by H-NMR, FTIR, UV-vis, Fluorescent spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction pattern. The polymer gives rise to a band at λ = 391 nm. The polymer showed the PL spectrum, gave a peak at 507 nm.We have observed that the polymer was sensitive to inorganic acids and the acidochromism behavior was investigated applying organic acid such as CFCOOH. The corresponding UV-Vis peaks were observed at 464 nm and 357 nm respectively. X-ray diffraction data shows that polymer has a certain crystallinity. The polymer exhibited an [ η] value of 0.26 dLg at 25 °C in HSO (w = 98%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The photoluminescence (PL) and optical excitation spectra of baratovite in aegirine syenite from Dara-i-Pioz, Tien Shan Mts., Tajikistan and katayamalite in aegirine syenite from Iwagi Islet, Ehime, Japan were obtained at 300 and 80 K. Under short wave (253.7 nm) ultraviolet light, baratovite and katayamalite exhibited bright blue-white luminescence. The PL spectrum of baratovite at 300 K consisted of a wide band with a peak at approximately 406 nm and a full width at half maximum (FWHM) of approximately 6.32k cm. The excitation spectrum of the blue-white luminescence from baratovite at 300 K consisted of a prominent band with a peak at approximately 250 nm. The PL and excitation spectra of katayamalite were similar to those of baratovite. The luminescence from these minerals was attributed to the intrinsic luminescence from the TiO center. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new monomer (2- N,N-dimethylamino-4,6-bis(2-furan)-pyrimidine) was synthesized and its homopolymer was successfully prepared by using ferric trichloride as an oxidant. The structure of monomer and polymer were fully characterized by 1H-NMR, FT-IR, UV, fluorescent spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. The N,N-dimethylformamide solution of the polymer showed a UV-Vis peak at 387 nm and the PL spectrum gave a peak at 517 nm. We have observed that the polymer was sensitive to inorganic acids and the protonation behavior was investigated applying inorganic acids such as HCI and H2SO4. The corresponding UV-Vis peaks were observed at 464 and 357 nm, respectively. X-ray diffraction data shows that polymer had a certain crystalline region. The polymer exhibited an [ η] value of 0.21 d l/g at 25 °C in H2SO4 (w=98 %). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract  The photoluminescence (PL) spectra, optical excitation spectra and PL decay curves of anthophyllite from Canada were obtained at 300 and 10 K. The MnO content in the sample, determined using an electron probe microanalyzer, was high at 5.77 wt%. In the PL spectra obtained under 410-nm excitation, bright red bands with peaks at 651 and 659 nm were observed at 300 and 10 K, respectively. The origin of the red luminescence was ascribed to Mn2 in anthophyllite from the analysis of the excitation spectra and PL decay times of 6.1–6.6 ms. In the PL spectra obtained under 240-nm excitation at 300 K, a small violet band with a peak at 398 nm was observed. On the violet band at 10 K, a vibronic structure was observed. The origin of the violet luminescence was attributed to a minor impurity in anthophyllite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract  The photoluminescence (PL) spectra, excitation spectra, and PL decay curves of natural, heat-treated, and γ-ray-irradiated thenardites from Ai-Ding Salt Lake, Xinjiang, China, were studied. The natural thenardite under 300 nm excitation showed milk-white luminescence, and the PL spectrum consisted of an extremely broad band with a peak located at approximately 509 nm, spreading over a wide range of UV and visible wavelengths. The excitation spectra, obtained by monitoring the luminescence at 530 nm, consisted of a broad band with a peak located at approximately 235 nm and a flat band spreading over a wide range of UV and visible wavelengths. The PL decay curve of natural thenardite consisted of a fast-decay component with a lifetime of less than 0.1 μs and a slow-decay component with a half-decay time of approximately 0.4 s. The heat treatment of thenardite at 900°C for 20 min reduced the luminescence efficiency to 1/100. The γ-ray irradiation of thenardite reduced the luminescence efficiency to approximately half. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract  The emission and excitation spectra of yellow luminescence due to S2 − in scapolites (#1 from Canada and #2 from an unknown locality) were observed at 300, 80 and 10 K. Emission and excitation bands at 10 K showed vibronic structures with a series of maxima spaced 15–30 and 5–9 nm, respectively. The relative efficiency of yellow luminescence from scapolite #2 was increased up to 117 times by heat treatment at 1,000°C for 2 h in air. The enhancement of yellow luminescence by heat treatment was ascribed to the alteration of SO3 2− and SO4 2− to S2 − in scapolite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract  The photoluminescence and excitation spectra of sodalites from Greenland, Canada and Xinjiang (China) are observed at 300 and 10 K in detail. The features of the emission and excitation spectra of the orange-yellow fluorescence of these sodalites are independent of the locality. The emission spectra at 300 and 10 K consist of a broad band with a series of peaks and a maximum peak at 648 and 645.9 nm, respectively. The excitation spectra obtained by monitoring the orange-yellow fluorescence at 300 and 10 K consist of a main band with a peak at 392 nm. The luminescence efficiency of the heat-treated sodalite from Xinjiang is about seven times as high as that of untreated natural sodalite. The emission spectrum of the S2 − center in sodalite at 10 K consists of a band with a clearly resolved structure with a series of maxima spaced about 560 cm−1 (20–25 nm) apart. Each narrow band at 10 K shows a fine structure consisting of a small peak due to the stretching vibration of the isotopic species of 32S34S−, a main peak due to that of the isotopic species of 32S2 − and five peaks due to phonon sidebands of the main peak. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural calcite from Kuerle, Xinjiang, China, shows orange-red fluorescence when exposed to short-wave ultraviolet (UV) light (Hg 253.7 nm). Photoluminescence (PL) emission and excitation spectra of the calcite are observed at room temperature in detail. The PL emission spectrum under 208 nm excitation consists of three bands: two UV bands at 325 and 355 nm and an orange-red band at 620 nm. The three bands are ascribed to Pb2+, Ce3+ and Mn2+, respectively, as activators. The Pb2+ excitation band is observed at 243 nm, and the Ce3+ excitation band at 295 nm. The Pb2+ excitation band is also observed by monitoring the Ce3+ fluorescence, and the Pb2+ and Ce3+ excitation bands, in addition to six Mn2+ excitation bands, are also observed by monitoring the Mn2+ fluorescence. These indicate that four types of the energy transfer can occur in calcite through the following processes: (1) Pb2+ → Ce3+, (2) Pb2+ → Mn2+, (3) Ce3+ → Mn2+ and (4) Pb2+ → Ce3+ → Mn2+. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Baghdadite from Fuka, Okayama Prefecture, Japan shows a bright yellow fluorescence under UV (Hg 253.7 nm) excitation. The photoluminescence (PL) spectrum at 300 K consists of one large band near 580 nm and two small UV bands at 318 and 397 nm. The optical excitation spectrum of the bright yellow fluorescence consists of two bands near 220 and 250 nm. The temperature dependence of the PL intensity exhibits linear thermal quenching. To reveal the origin of the bright yellow fluorescence from baghdadite, powder Ca3(Zr,Ti)Si2O9 crystals are synthesized. Synthetic Ca3(Zr,Ti)Si2O9 shows luminescence spectra similar to those of baghdadite, and the intensity of the yellow fluorescence is markedly increased by titanium addition. The origin of the bright yellow fluorescence from baghdadite is ascribed to the existence of titanium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, Tb3+—doped natural sodium feldspar (NaAlSi3O8) phosphors have been successfully prepared using high−temperature solid—state method with natural sodium feldspar as a substrate. Energy—dispersive X—ray spectrometry analysis (EDX) of NaAlSi3O8 showed that 0.03 wt% of Eu element was present, and elemental distribution mapping analysis showed that the distribution of trace Eu in minerals was aggregated. The crystal structure and luminescence properties of the natural sodium Eu—containing feldspar and synthetic sodium feldspar NaAlSi3O8:Eu3+, Tb3+ phosphors are discussed in detail. The crystal structure analysis of the samples showed that the Na+ in the natural matrix was partly replaced by the doped Tb3+. Studies on the photoluminescence properties of the samples indicate that Eu does not form a luminescent center in the natural mineral, however, the strong characteristic peak of Eu3+ at 615 nm appears after doping with Tb3+ and the peak at 615 nm increases with the increase of Tb3+ concentration. According to the above spectral results, the energy transfer from Tb3+ to Eu3+ is obtained. Through the measurement and analysis of color coordinates, it is found that with the increase of Tb3+ concentration, the luminescence color of the samples can be regulated in the green to red region. NaAlSi3O8:Eu3+ Tb3+ phosphors has potential application value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is caused by the larval stage of echinococcus multilocularis (E. multilocularis), and hepatectomy is the main modality in hepatic AE patients. Liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy (PHx) in such patients is challenging, and further investigation is needed. Thus far, knowledge regarding the possible impact of E. multilocularis on liver regeneration after PHx is limited. Herein, a subcutaneous infection model of E. multilocularis was developed in C57 BL/6 mice, and after 3 months, PHx was performed. Plasma and liver samples were harvested under inhalational isofluorane (2%) anaesthesia at designated post-PHx time points (0, 24, 48, 96 and 168 h). The parameters included the future remnant liver/body weight ratio (FLR/BW), liver function tests (AST and ALT) and related cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, Factor V, HMGB1, TGF-β, TSP-1, and TLR4) and proteins (MyD88 and STAT3). To assess the proliferation intensity of hepatocytes, BrdU, Ki67 and PAS staining were carried out in regenerated liver tissue. The FLR/BW in the infected group from 48 h after surgery was lower than that in the control group. The BrdU positive hepatocyte proportions reached their peak at 48 h in the control group and 96 h in the infected group and then gradually decreased. During the first 48 h after surgery, both the AST and ALT levels in the infected group were lower; however, these levels were altered from 96 h after surgery. In the infected group, the concentrations and mRNA expression levels of the pre-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 demonstrated a delayed peak. Moreover, post-operatively, the TGF-β and TSP-1 levels showed high levels in the infected group at each different time-point compared to those in the control group; however, high levels of TGF-β were observed at 96 h in the control group. The MyD88 and STAT3 protein expression levels in the infected group were markedly higher than those in the control group 96 h after surgery. Delayed liver regeneration after PHx was observed in the C57 BL/6 mice with the subcutaneous infection of E. multilocularis in the current study. This phenomenon could be partially explained by the alteration in the pro-inflammatory cytokines in the immunotolerant milieu induced by chronic E. multilocularis infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current measures mainly focus on how melatonin reduces physiological heat stress in animals, but its effects on reproductive damage to male dairy goats have been neglected. This study aimed to determine the protective effect of melatonin on male reproduction during heat stress in dairy goats and to further explore its mechanisms. A natural heat stress model of Saanen dairy goats was used to assess testicular tissue damage 7 days after heat stress and to examine semen quality changes during a spermatogenic cycle. RNA-seq, Western blot, RT-qPCR, and immunofluorescence staining were used to explore the mechanism by which melatonin protects against heat stress-induced reproductive damage and to validate the results. The data suggested that melatonin significantly alleviated the heat stress-induced decrease in sperm quality, protected varicose tubule structure, reduced the levels of heat shock proteins and apoptotic proteins and protected the spermatocytes and round spermatozoa, which are mainly affected by heat stress. RNA-seq results suggest that melatonin inhibits the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, reduces the level of p-AKT, and promotes elevated BCL-2. In addition, melatonin treatment could upregulate the gene expression of MT2 which was downregulated by heat stress and improve the change in extracellular matrix components and restore serum testosterone levels. Our results suggest that melatonin can protect against testicular and spermatogenic cell damage and improve semen quality in male dairy goats under heat stress. This study provides an important reference for subsequent studies on the molecular mechanisms of melatonin in protecting male reproductive processes under heat stress and using exogenous melatonin to prevent heat stress., (© 2022. The Author(s).)