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Background: Patients with autoimmune diseases (AD) generally carry an increased risk of developing cancer. However, the effect of AD in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients receiving surgical treatment is uncertain. The present study aimed to investigate the potential influence of AD on the survival of HCC patients undergoing hepatectomies. Methods: Operated HCC patients were identified from the Chang Gung Research Database, and the survival outcomes of HCC patients with or without AD were analyzed ad compared. Cox regression model was performed to identify significant risk factors associated with disease recurrence and mortality. Results: From 2002 to 2018, a total of 5532 patients underwent hepatectomy for their HCC. Among them, 229 patients were identified to have AD and 5303 were not. After excluding cases who died within 30 days of surgery, the estimated median overall survival (OS) was 43.8 months in the AD (+) group and 47.4 months in the AD (–) group (P = 0.367). The median liver-specific survival and disease-free survival (DFS) were also comparable between the two groups. After Cox regression multivariate analysis, the presence of AD did not lead to a higher risk of all-cause mortality, liver-specific mortality, or disease recurrence. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that autoimmune disease does not impair the OS and DFS of HCC patients undergoing liver resections. AD itself is not a risk factor for tumor recurrence after surgery. Patients eligible for liver resections, as a result, should be considered for surgery irrespective of the presence of AD. Further studies are mandatory to validate our findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the exact multiplicity and bifurcation curves of positive solutions of generalized logistic problems { − [ φ (u ′) ] ′ = λ u p (1 − u N) in (− L , L) , u (− L) = u (L) = 0 , where p > 1, N > 0, λ > 0 is a bifurcation parameter, L > 0 is an evolution parameter, and ϕ(u) is either ϕ(u) = u or φ (u) = u / 1 − u 2 . We prove that the corresponding bifurcation curve is ⊂-shape. Thus, the exact multiplicity of positive solutions can be obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The water is the main pivotal sources of irrigation in agricultural activities and affects human daily activities such as drinking. The water quality has a significant impact on various aspects and thus this review aims to addresses existing problems related to water quality prediction methods that have been found in the literature. We explore numerous quality parameters incorporated in the modelling process to measure the quality of water. Furthermore, we review the commonly adopted artificial intelligence-based models which have been utilized to forecast the water quality. 83 studies published from 2009 to 2023 were selected and reviewed based on their success in modelling and forecasting the water quality in multiple regions. We compared these articles in terms of parameters, modelling algorithms, time scale scenarios, and performance measurement indicators. This paper is beneficial to researchers that have interests to conduct future studies related to water quality forecasting. Additionally, we discuss a variety of modelling methods such as deep learning (DL) that have proven to boost the efficiency compared to traditional machine learning (ML) models. As a result, the hybrid-DL models were found to outperform other models such as standalone ML, standalone DL, and hybrid-ML. This study shows a significant limitation of the data-hungry DL models which require a big data size for modelling. Hence, at the end of this review study, we discuss the potential of some methods such as generative adversarial networks (GANs) and attention-based transformer to open the door for water quality prediction improvement. GAN has shown promising performance in other domains for synthetic data generation. The potential usage of GAN for water quality domain can overcome the limitations of lack of data and enhance the performance of the predictive models reviewed in this study. Similarly, transformer was found to be state of the art model for time series prediction and thus it can be good candidate to predict water quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilizing an inquiry-learning space (ILS) via the Go-Lab platform, we investigated students' technology acceptance, knowledge integration [KI] process, and learning outcomes of both the high-achiever KI student and low-achiever KI student. This study aimed to understand how students engage in knowledge integration tasks using an inquiry-learning space to learn Mendelian genetics and realize the relationship between student KI and domain knowledge. Using a quasi-experimental design, we examined 41 seventh-grade students in Taiwan completing Mendelian genetics KI tasks in ILS, pre/post-testing of domain knowledge tests, and a technology acceptance questionnaire. The analysis of students' interaction in the ILS and domain knowledge tests was conducted through descriptive statistics, t-tests, Pearson's correlation, and content analysis to indicate the direction and relationship between students' KI processes and learning outcomes. A technology acceptance questionnaire was analyzed through descriptive statistics and Pearson's correlation to reveal whether students accepted learning on the Go-Lab platform. The study showed that (i) students responded positively to the perceived usefulness of the Go-Lab platform, (ii) the high-achiever KI students could gradually construct links from simple to complex and diverse among genetic ideas, and the low-achiever almost built simple links, but (iii) the high-achiever and low-achiever KI students had similar learning outcomes. These findings have implications that the instruction design of knowledge integration tasks promotes students' Mendelian genetics conceptual understanding and KI progress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, we adopt the idea of velocity averaging lemma to establish regularity for stationary linearized Boltzmann equations in a bounded convex domain. Considering the incoming data, with four iterations, we establish regularity in fractional Sobolev space in space variable up to order 1 - . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurons convert external stimuli into action potentials, or spikes, and encode the contained information into the biological nervous system. Despite the complexity of neurons and the synaptic interactions in between, rate models are often adapted to describe neural encoding with modest success. However, it is not clear whether the firing rate, the reciprocal of the time interval between spikes, is sufficient to capture the essential features for the neuronal dynamics. Going beyond the usual relaxation dynamics in Ginzburg-Landau theory for statistical systems, we propose that neural activities can be captured by the U(1) dynamics, integrating the action potential and the "phase" of the neuron together. The gain function of the Hodgkin-Huxley neuron and the corresponding dynamical phase transitions can be described within the U(1) neuron framework. In addition, the phase dependence of the synaptic interactions is illustrated and the mapping to the Kinouchi-Copelli neuron is established. It suggests that the U(1) neuron is the minimal model for single-neuron activities and serves as the building block of the neuronal network for information processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data encryption technology can protect data from illegal theft. This study analyzed the Rivest, Shamir, and Adleman (RSA) algorithm, the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) algorithm, and their encryption and decryption processes, compared their merits and demerits, and combined them to from the AES + RSA algorithm to achieve network data protection. It was found from the performance analysis that the AES algorithm only took a short time to encrypt and decrypt, while the RSA algorithm, due to asymmetric encryption, spent a much longer time in decryption than in encryption; the total time consumed by the AES algorithm for encryption and decryption increased hundreds of times, but the operation time of the AES + RSA algorithm was only slightly longer than that of the AES algorithm. Also, from the perspective of security analysis, both AES and RSA algorithms had high confidentiality, which could meet the needs of information security. The results show that the combination of AES and RSA algorithms is effective in information security, which can be further popularized and applied in reality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The right choice of porous support and diamine monomer is crucial in fabricating TFC membranes with improved performance. In this study, the effect of the supporting layer and diamine monomer structure in preparing TFC membranes for dye/salt separation was investigated. Supports used are polysulfone (PSf), polyacrylonitrile (PAN), and hydrolyzed PAN (mPAN) while diamine monomers used are piperazine (PIP), 1,3-diaminopropane (DAPE), and 1,4-bis(3-aminopropyl) piperazine (BAPP). Changing the porous substrate and monomer not only affects membrane physical and chemical morphology but also the performance of TFC NF membranes. Characterization and NF tests revealed that the TFC membrane prepared using mPAN as support and PIP as diamine monomer had most hydrophilic, roughest surface, and lowest crosslinking degree, and it delivered the optimum NF performance: J = 127.66 ± 12.61 LMH; RBrilliant Blue = 99.28 ± 0.57% RCongo Red = 99.21 ± 0.08%; RNaCl = 14.00 ± 6.16%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study discussed the ablation thresholds of picosecond laser dual pulses in fused silica with different temporal separations. The results indicate that the lowest damage threshold of the dual-pulse ablation is at a temporal separation of 100 ps, which is only half of the threshold of the conventional pulse ablation. Furthermore, the energy ratios of two sub-pulses were optimized to minimize the thresholds. Regarding the underlying physical mechanisms, this study found that the first sub-pulses initially excited the electrons of the fused silica, and subsequently induced free-electron shielding and self-trapped exciton seed generation at different temporal separations. This either decreased or increased the material absorption of the second sub-pulses, resulting in changes of the ablation threshold of the fused silica. The results of the picosecond dual-pulse ablation could provide further understanding into the interaction mechanisms of dual pulses to transparent materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recommended maintenance dose of prasugrel for East Asian populations (i.e., Japanese and Taiwanese) is 3.75 mg as part of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) for the prevention of recurrent ischemia and stent thrombosis in acute coronary syndrome (ACS). This modified dosage regimen has been established in studies conducted in Japan; however, the efficacy and safety of switching from clopidogrel to prasugrel DAPT among Taiwanese patients remain to be explored. In this phase IV, multicenter, single-arm, open-label study, we evaluated the 4-week pharmacodynamic response, and the 48-week safety outcomes of prasugrel 3.75 mg after a switch from clopidogrel in Taiwanese ACS patients. A total of 203 prasugrel-naïve ACS patients (over 90% male) who had received post-PCI clopidogrel DAPT for at least 2 weeks were enrolled from ten medical centers in Taiwan and subsequently switched to prasugrel 3.75 mg DAPT. Four weeks after the switch, P2Y12 reaction unit (PRU) values were significantly decreased in the total cohort (mean − 18.2 ± 48.1; 95% confidence interval − 24.9 to − 11.5, p < 0.001), and there was an overall consistent antiplatelet response in the treated subjects. The proportion of patients with high on-treatment platelet reactivity (HPR; PRU > 208) dropped from 23.5 to 10% (p < 0.001). Female sex was associated with a greater PRU reduction with prasugrel, whereas HPR at baseline, age ≥ 65 years, and body mass index ≥ 25 best predicted HPR at Week 4. Throughout the 48-week treatment with prasugrel, the incidences of MACE (1.0%) and TIMI major bleeding (2.0%) were rather low, accompanying an acceptable safety profile of TIMI minor (6.4%) and non-major, non-minor clinically relevant bleeding (3.0%). Overall, switching to the maintenance dose of prasugrel (3.75 mg) was observed to be effective and well tolerated among post-PCI ACS patients in Taiwan. Clinical Trial Registration Number: NCT03672097. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recent Zika virus (ZIKV) epidemic poses a serious threat to global health due to its association with microcephaly and congenital diseases in newborns and neurological complications and Guillain-Barré syndrome in adults. However, the majority of people infected with ZIKV do not develop symptoms. The platforms aimed to specifically diagnose ZIKV infection are needed for patient care and public health surveillance. In the study, four ZIKV envelope (E) protein-specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) (A1, B1, C1, and 9E-1) have been developed by using the conventional mAb technology. The binding epitopes of mAbs A1, B1, C1, and 9E-1 are located at E(238-257), E(410-431), E(258-277), and E(340-356), respectively. mAb 9E-1 performs 1.4- to 47-fold strong affinity to ZIKV E protein compared to another three mAbs. mAbs A1, C1, and 9E-1 do not have cross-reactivity against the recombinant E proteins of dengue virus serotypes 2, 3, and 4. Although these four mAbs do not have ZIKV neutralizing activity, mAbs B1 and 9E-1 have been developed as the lateral flow immunochromatographic assay for specific detection of ZIKV E protein and virions. Key points: • The mAbs targeting to the regions of E(238-257), E(410-431), E(258-277), and E(340-356) do not have ZIKV neutralizing activity. • The binding epitope of mAb 9E-1 is highly specific to ZIKV E protein. • mAbs B1 and 9E-1 can bind to ZIKV virions and have been developed as the lateral flow immunochromatographic assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This prospective one-year follow-up study was conducted from 835 visits in 178 rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. Tender-/swollen-joint count, Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI), Disease Activity Score 28-ESR (DAS28-ESR), DAS28-CRP, Simplified Disease Activity Index (SDAI) and DAS28-monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (DAS28-MCP-1) scores were obtained every 3 months. Radiographs of hands and feet were acquired at baseline and one year. We evaluated the correlation and accuracy of activity scores in predicting remission, HAQ-DI changes and radiographic changes. DAS28-MCP-1 correlated strongly with DAS28-ESR, DAS28-CRP and SDAI scores (0.830, 0.899 and 0.931, respectively, with all P < 0.001). Score changes of DAS28-MCP-1 were comparable to those of DAS28-ESR, DAS28-CRP and SDAI in predicting changes in HAQ-DI and bone erosion. DAS28-MCP-1 (<2.2) was better than DAS28-ESR (<2.6) in indicating modified American Rheumatism Association remission and 2011 American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism remission (75.61% vs. 36.99% and 81.71% vs. 49.13%, respectively) with odds ratios of 5.28 and 4.62 (both P < 0.001), respectively. We compared DAS28-MCP-1 with SDAI (≦3.3) in indicating remission with odds ratios of 2.63 (P = 0.002) and 0.98, respectively (and DAS28-MCP-1 with DAS28-CRP < 2.5: 1.33 and 0.92). Therefore, DAS28-MCP-1 is useful as an alternative in assessing RA activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contractile adherens junctions support cell-cell adhesion, epithelial integrity, and morphogenesis. Much effort has been devoted to understanding how contractility is established; however, less is known about whether contractility can be actively downregulated at junctions nor what function this might serve. We now identify such an inhibitory pathway that is mediated by the cytoskeletal scaffold, cortactin. Mutations of cortactin that prevent its tyrosine phosphorylation downregulate RhoA signaling and compromise the ability of epithelial cells to generate a contractile zonula adherens. This is mediated by the RhoA antagonist, SRGAP1. We further demonstrate that this mechanism is co-opted by hepatocyte growth factor to promote junctional relaxation and motility in epithelial collectives. Together, our findings identify a novel function of cortactin as a regulator of RhoA signaling that can be utilized by morphogenetic regulators for the active downregulation of junctional contractility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12928-021-00779-2 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: The predominant distribution of the antiaging Klotho protein in both the kidneys and brain may point to its essential role in protecting against dysfunction of the kidney-brain axis during the aging process. Our previous study showed that the downregulation of Klotho was involved in aging-related cognitive impairment in aged senescence-accelerated mouse prone-8 (SAMP8) mice. The present study investigated the potential role of Klotho in aging-associated inflammation and renal injury. Methods: Age- and gender-matched groups of SAMP8 mice and their corresponding normal control senescence-accelerated mouse resistant-1 (SAMR1) were used to investigate the potential role of Klotho in aging-associated inflammation and renal injury. Results: Compared with aged SAMR1 controls, early-stage chronic kidney disease (CKD), which is associated with an increase in the urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio, inflammatory cell infiltration, glomerulosclerosis, and tubulointerstitial fibrosis, was observed in aged SAMP8 mice. Furthermore, the aging-related loss of Klotho-induced activation of the retinoic acid-inducible gene 1/nuclear factor-κB (RIG-I/NF-κB) signaling pathway and subsequent production of the proinflammatory mediators tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin-6, and inducible nitric oxide synthase in the kidneys of aged SAMP8 mice compared with SAMR1 controls. Conclusions: The present results suggest that aging-related inflammation and the development of early-stage CKD are likely associated with the downregulation of Klotho and induction of the RIG-I/NF-κB signaling pathway in 12-month-old SAMP8 mice. Moreover, aged SAMP8 mice with cognitive deficits and renal damage may be a potential mouse model for investigating the kidney-brain axis in the aging process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The plasmid vectors currently used for nonviral gene transfer have the disadvantage of carrying a bacterial backbone and an antibiotic resistance gene, which may cause side effects. The adeno-associated virus (AAV) genome is a linear single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) molecule with palindromic inverted terminal repeat (ITR) sequences forming double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) hairpin (HP) structures at each end. Based on the AAV genome, we constructed an AAV-ITR ssDNA minivector that consists of a GFP expression cassette flanked by both ITR sequences of 125 nucleotides. The minivectors were produced by digestion of the parental plasmids followed by denaturation. The self-complementary inverted T-shaped HP structure of the minivector was automatically formed. The HEK 293T cells were transfected with the AAV-ITR ssDNA minivector, plasmid, and dsDNA expression cassette. The results showed that AAV-ITR ssDNA minivector had relatively low gene expression efficiency in vitro. However, we found that the GFP expression efficiency of the D sequence-deleted AAV-ITR ssDNA minivector was significantly increased and was similar to those obtained with the plasmid and dsDNA expression cassette. Our data suggest that the AAV-ITR ssDNA minivector may be a new type of gene expression vector for gene therapy besides the virus and plasmid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In in vitro tests with 18 plant pathogens, the fungicide 3-[5-(4-chlorophenyl)-2,3-dimethyl-3-isoxazolidinyl] pyridine (SYP-Z048) was highly effective on inhibiting mycelial growth of various ascomycota and basidiomycota, with EC50 values ranging from 0.008 to 1.140 μg/ml. SYP-Z048 had much weaker activity against growth of oomycota with EC50 values > 100 μg/ml. In a second in vitro test with Monilinia fructicola isolates, SYP-Z048 inhibited mycelial growth (EC50 = 0.013 μg/ml), germ tube elongation (EC50 = 0.007 μg/ml), and sporulation but did not affect spore germination. In a detached pear fruit assay inoculated with M. fructicola isolates, SYP-Z048 showed protective and curative activity. Field tests indicated that SYP-Z048 was an efficacious fungicide for control of brown rot disease in two peach orchards. When applied to a single spot on a tomato leaflet in a compound leaf, SYP-Z048 suppressed the growth of Botrytis cinerea isolates on the rest 4 leaflets, indicating that the fungicide has systemic movement in plant tissues. These results indicate that SYP-Z048 has potential for management of brown rot causing by M. fructicola and other diseases caused by ascomycota and basidiomycota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is lack of consensus regarding the prognostic significance of primary tumor location of upper tract urothelial carcinoma(UTUC). We performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the impact of primary tumor location on prognosis in patients with UTUC who had undergone radical nephroureterectomy(RNU). We included eligible studies that reported hazard ratios(HRs) estimates with 95% confidence intervals(CIs) for the association between tumor location and recurrence-free survival(RFS) and cancer-specific survival(CSS) of UTUC. The local advanced tumors(pT3/4) and nodal positive(pN1) tumors in patients stratified by tumor location were also estimated. The review contained 17 studies including a total of 12094 patients were identified. Although it was not significant in univariable analysis, meta-analysis demonstrated that ureteral tumors had a worse prognosis than renal pelvic tumors on RFS and CSS in multivariable analysis after adjusted for all covariates. Multifocal tumors also showed a significantly association with both disease progression and cancer-specific mortality in univariable and multivariable analyses. However, no statistically significant differences were found between renal pelvic and ureteral tumors in presentation of pT3/4 and pN1 tumors. Our meta-analysis indicated that ureteral and multifocal tumors are independent prognosticators of disease progression and cancer-specific survival in patients with UTUC treated with RNU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most common solid neoplasm diagnosed in developed countries. Nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy (NS-RP) has been widely accepted as the best choice treatment for localised PCa. However, erectile dysfunction (ED) and urinary incontinence are commonly observed after NS-RP. Using meta-analysis, we examined if phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5-Is) could improve the symptoms of ED in patients undergoing NS-RP. This review contained seven randomised placebo-controlled trials with a total of 2,655 male patients. Patients in PDE5-Is group showed significant improvement in the International Index of Erectile Function-Erectile Function domain score (IIEF-EF), Global Assessment Questionnaire (GAQ), Sexual Encounter Profile question 2 (SEP-2) and SEP-3. Although the incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were high in both groups (56.44% vs. 40.63%), the safety profile were acceptable, with low incidence of discontinuation rate due to adverse events. Therefore, PDE5-Is are recommended for the treatment of post-NS-RP ED. Patients should be informed of possible adverse events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a novel method for the fabrication of hollow three-dimensional (3D) poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microvessel scaffolds is proposed. In this novel fabrication method, a salt ingot, which was used as a temporary frame to define the shape of the desired scaffold, was fabricated by extrusion molding. The salt ingot was immersed in a PLGA solution and the PGLA enveloped the ingot entirely. The femtosecond laser ablation technique was used for ablating the desired pattern on the PLGA layer and then the salt ingot was completely dissolved in distilled deionized water. A hollow 3D PLGA scaffold was obtained using this process on which bovine endothelial cells (BECs) were then cultured. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and fluorescent images of the cell seeding demonstrate that the BECs adhered and grew well on both the side-wall of the branches and the surroundings of each branch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper experimentally investigates the effects of induced nanostructures on the reduction of friction for mechanical seals. This study examines the properties of low-friction seals, whose surfaces were fabricated using a titanium-sapphire-based femtosecond laser in the authors' previous study. Tribological experiments are carried out with a ring-on-disk apparatus under various loads, which are increased in a stepwise manner. Three surface patterns on seals are used for tribological investigations: a flat surface, a step-bearing surface, and a step-bearing surface combined with nanostructures. The experimental results show that the step-bearing surface with nanostructures had the smallest friction coefficient, which was about 20 % smaller than that of the step-bearing surface without nanostructures. Nanostructures on the SiC surface generate a thicker SiO film than that on SiC without nanostructures and prevent the direct contact of the relative moving surfaces of the ring and disk when the water film breaks down. This study also examines the surface damage of the specimens. Scanning electron microscopy images indicate that the nanostructures on the specimen are not damaged with a step-bearing surface under the hydrodynamic lubrication condition. Hence, employing nanostructures on the surfaces of mechanical seals has great potential to reduce the friction coefficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nanomechanical properties of BiFeO3 (BFO) thin films are subjected to nanoindentation evaluation. BFO thin films are grown on the Pt/Ti/SiO2/Si substrates by using radio frequency magnetron sputtering with various deposition temperatures. The structure was analyzed by X-ray diffraction, and the results confirmed the presence of BFO phases. Atomic force microscopy revealed that the average film surface roughness increased with increasing of the deposition temperature. A Berkovich nanoindenter operated with the continuous contact stiffness measurement option indicated that the hardness decreases from 10.6 to 6.8 GPa for films deposited at 350°C and 450°C, respectively. In contrast, Young's modulus for the former is 170.8 GPa as compared to a value of 131.4 GPa for the latter. The relationship between the hardness and film grain size appears to follow closely with the Hall--Petch equation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates tool path planning for 5-axis flank milling of ruled surfaces in consideration of CNC linear interpolation. Simulation analyses for machining error show insights into the tool motion that generates a precision machined surface. Contradicting to previous thoughts, the resultant tool path does not necessarily produce minimal machining error when the cutter contacts the rulings of a developable surface. This effect becomes more significant as the distance between two cutter locations is increased. An optimizing approach that adjusts the tool position locally may not produce minimal error as far as the entire surface is concerned. The optimal tool path computed by a global search scheme based on dynamic programming supports this argument. A flank milling experiment and CMM measurement further validate the findings of this work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most previous studies have employed surface patterning to improve the performance of lubrication systems. However, few have experimentally analyzed improved effects on friction reduction in SiC mechanical seals by ultra-fast laser pulse texturing. This work applies surface texturing on a non-contact mechanical seal and analyzes the characteristics of the resultant surface morphology. A femtosecond laser system is employed to fabricate micro/nanostructures on the SiC mechanical seal, and generates microscale-depth stripes and induces nanostructures on the seal surface. This work examines the morphology and cross section of the SiC nanostructures that correspond to the different scanning speeds of the laser pulse. Results show that varying the scanning speed enables the application of nanostructures of different amplitudes and widths on the surface of the seal. The friction coefficient of the introduced SiC full-textured seal is about 20% smaller than that of a conventional SiC mechanical seal. Hence, femtosecond laser texturing is effective and enables direct fabrication of the surface micro/nanostructures of SiC seals. This technique also serves as a potential approach to lubricating applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diaphanosoma dubium Manuilova from (sub)tropical South China, cultured in the laboratory at 23-29°C, did not show a shortening of its lifespan at increasing temperatures, although its postembryonic development shortened, while individual clutch sizes became bigger. The optimum temperature for the population performance of this species (measured as lifetime fecundity or intrinsic rate of increase) therefore lies above 29°C. Limited literature data suggest that in tropics-adapted species, the shortening of the lifespan with temperature, which follows a quadratic function, reverses at higher temperatures. Thus, the most general descriptor of the complete temperature-lifespan relationship might be a parabola. D. dubium did not show shorter lifespans when offered more food either, and again shared this characteristic with few other tropical cladocerans (and probably copepods as well) studied by other authors. Both properties combined might be typical of tropical species and offer them an advantage (a long, prolific life in warm water rich in algae) over temperate species (like Daphnia) that, if occurring in the tropics at all, live above their temperature optimum there. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying infants that will develop significant hyperbilirubinemia with the risk of kernicterus, and planning appropriate follow-up strategies, is particularly challenging. In this study, 36,921 transcutaneous bilirubin (TcB) measurements were obtained from 6,035 healthy neonates (gestational age ≥ 35 weeks and birth weight ≥ 2,000 g) between January 1 and December 31, 2009. All measurements were performed with the JM-103 bilirubinometer at designated times between 0 and 168 postnatal hours. TcB percentiles were calculated and used to develop an hour-specific nomogram. The rate of increase in TcB was higher during the first 72 h of age, after which levels declined to a plateau by 72-108 h of age. We constructed a TcB nomogram by using the 40th, 75th, and 95th percentile values of TcB for every 12 h of the studied interval. The 75th percentile curve of the nomogram may be an ideal cutoff point for intensive follow-up of the neonate for hyperbilirubinemia as it carries very high sensitivity (78.7%) and negative predictive value (98.5%). The specificity (45.7%) and positive predictive value (15.5%) decreased to reach their lowest levels at the 40th percentile. Of the neonates in the high-risk zone, 167 (48.8%) infants had persistent subsequent hyperbilirubinemia post-discharge, compared with 292 (27.0%) infants in the high-intermediate-risk zone at discharge. One-hundred and seventeen (5.5%) infants in the low-intermediate-risk zone moved into the high-risk zone during follow-up. No newborn infants in the low-risk zone became high-risk during follow-up. We provide an hour-specific TcB nomogram to predict neonatal hyperbilirubinemia in healthy term and late-preterm Chinese infants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following a reduction in fish populations in 2004-2005, a new, single annual pulse of pelagic flatworms was observed in early summer during 2006-2009 in Liuxihe, a freshwater reservoir in South China. As soon as these worms appear, Daphnia galeata retreats into dormancy, one month earlier (July) in the presence of flatworms than previously observed (August) with fish, while the population of the related Ceriodaphnia quadrangula tends to increase. We show, through in situ lake sampling, in large enclosures and by laboratory observations, that Ceriodaphnia, although perhaps competitively inferior in its ability to acquire algal food, has a higher tolerance to flatworm toxins. As a result, Ceriodaphnia manages to coexist with and proliferate in the presence of the flatworm. Observations in the laboratory suggest that flatworm population autoregulates by being sensitive to their own toxins and that Ceriodaphnia, even if prey to the worms, likely incurs more benefit than cost from their presence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses a unified mathematical expression describing a class of chaotic systems, for which the problem of synchronization and anti-synchronization between different chaotic systems with fully uncertain parameters and different structure are studied. Based on the Lyapunov stability theory, a novel, simple, and systemic adaptive synchronization controller is designated, the analytic expression of the controller and the adaptive laws of parameters are developed. Moreover, the proposed scheme can be extended to anti-synchronize a class of chaotic systems. Two chaotic systems with different structure and fully uncertain parameters are employed as the examples to show the effectiveness of the proposed adaptive synchronization and anti-synchronization schemes. Additionally, the robustness and noise immunity of the adaptive synchronization scheme is investigated by measuring the mean squared error of the systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypothesis: Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in promoter of human nonmetastatic clone 23 type 1 (nm23-H1) may affect their binding with transcription factors and affect promoter activity as well as gene transcription. Therefore, we investigated the impact of the nm23-H1 gene polymorphisms on the neoplastic lesions of uterine cervix in mid-Taiwan women (women who live in the central area of Taiwan). We expected that women with different genotypes in nm23-H1 polymorphisms, such as rs34214448, rs 16949649, or rs2302254, may have different incidences of cervical neoplasia. Materials and Methods: In total, 366 blood samples were collected from 244 healthy women and 122 patients with cervical neoplasia to analyze 3 nm23-H1 gene single-nucleotide polymorphisms (rs34214448, rs 16949649, and rs2302254). Results: The heterozygous genotypes, TG in rs34214448 or TC in rs 16949649, were differentially distributed between patients with cervical neoplasia and normal women (Hommel adjusted P =.0440 and .0435, respectively) as compared to their homozygotes. Moreover, compared to those with wild-type homozygotes and heterozygotes, women with variant homozygotes TT in rs34214448 or CC in rs 16949649 exert different distributions between patients with cervical neoplasia and normal women (P = .058 and .058). Interestingly, we found the genotype distribution of rs34214448 has significant association with that of rs 16949649 with high consistency. Conclusions: Mid-Taiwan women with the polymorphic heterozygotes TG in rs34214448 or TC in rs 16949649 of human nonmetastatic clone 23 type 1 promoter have the tendency to develop cervical neoplasia while compared to their homozygous counterparts. However, women with variant homozygotes TT in rs34214448 or CC in rs 16949649 exhibit less tendency as compared to those with wild-type homozygotes and heterozygotes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The choice of appropriate therapeutic plans for primary endocervical adenocarcinomas (ECA) and endometrial adenocarcinomas (EMA) depend on the tumor’s site of origin. The purpose of this study was to compare the performances of the commonly used three-marker (ER/Vim/CEA), four-marker (ER/Vim/CEA/PR) and five-marker (ER/Vim/CEA/PR/p16INK4a) panels in distinguishing between primary ECA and EMA. A tissue microarray was constructed using paraffin-embedded, formalin-fixed tissues from 35 hysterectomy specimens, including 14 ECA and 21 EMA. Utilizing the avidin-biotin (ABC) technique, tissue array sections were immunostained with five commercially available antibodies (ER, Vim, CEA, PR and p16INK4a) to evaluate the performances of their respective three-, four- and five-marker panels in distinguishing between primary ECA and EMA. ER, PR and Vim were more likely to be expressed in EMA, while CEA and p16INK4a were frequently expressed in ECA. The three-marker (ER/Vim/CEA) panel exhibits the most favorable performance in the distinction between these two gynecologic malignancies (ECA vs. EMA). According to our data, when histomorphological and clinical doubt exists as to the primary site of origin, we recommend that the conventional three-marker (ER/Vim/CEA) panel is sufficient, appropriate and useful in distinguishing between primary ECA and EMA, instead of the four-marker (ER/Vim/CEA/PR) and five-marker (ER/Vim/CEA/PR/p16INK4a) panels. Ancillary PR and p16INK4a add no supplementary value to the performance of the conventional three-marker (ER/Vim/CEA) panel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cystatins are thiol proteinase inhibitors ubiquitously present in mammalian body and serve various important physiological functions. In the present study, a novel cystatin molecule (AcCystatin) was cloned from a cDNA library of Angiostrongylus cantonensis fourth-stage larvae. The putative 14-kDa protein contained 120 residues with cystatin-conserved motifs known to interact with the active site of cysteine peptidases and showed high identities with cystatins from other nematodes. RT-PCR analysis revealed that the expression pattern of AcCystatin was equal at the time points of third-stage larvae, fourth-stage larvae, and adults of the parasite life cycle. The recombinant AcCystatin (rAcCystatin) expressed and purified from Escherichia coli has been demonstrated to possess an obvious inhibitory activity against cathepsin B and could significantly upregulate nitric oxide production from IFN-γ activated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Sera from mice (non-permissive host) infected with A. cantonensis detected rAcCystatin by Western blot, while the sera from infected rats (permissive host) could not. The results implied that AcCystatin might be an immunoregulator in A. cantonensis infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gynecological pathologists are used to operating many panels of various markers in combination for the diagnostic distinction between primary endocervical and endometrial adenocarcinomas. The conventional 3-marker (ER/Vim/CEA) panel is the most promising tool. In this study, our aim is to investigate whether a 2-marker panel is enough to distinguish between these two gynecologic malignancies. Additionally, we wish to determine which one is the most favorable among eight panels tested, including six 2-marker (ER/CEA, PR/CEA, Vim/CEA, ER/p16(INK4a), PR/p16(INK4a), Vim/p16(INK4a)) and two 3-marker (ER/Vim/CEA, ER/Vim/p16(INK)) panels. A tissue microarray was constructed using paraffin-embedded, formalin-fixed tissues from 35 hysterectomy specimens, including 14 primary endocervical adenocarcinomas and 21 primary endometrial adenocarcinomas. Utilizing the avidin-biotin complex (ABC) method, tissue array sections were immunostained with five commercially available antibodies (ER, Vim, CEA, PR, and p16(INK4a)) to evaluate their individual frequencies of expression. We found that all eight aforementioned panels showed an encouraging range of overall accuracy (69.2% to 78.3%). However, one panel of 2-markers (Vim, CEA) exhibited the most efficiency (78.3%) in the diagnostic distinction between primary endocervical and endometrial adenocarcinomas. Based on the analyzed data, we conclude that the 2-marker (Vim/CEA) panel seems adequate to be an appropriate, convenient, and efficient means to distinguish between primary endocervical and endometrial adenocarcinomas. Even though there were a limited number of cases, this study still provides valuable references to help avoid wasting resources and unnecessary marker testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The choice of appropriate therapeutic plans for primary endocervical adenocarcinomas (ECA) and endometrial adenocarcinomas (EMA) depends on the tumor’s site of origin. Some panels of antibodies help to distinguish primary ECA from EMA. However, unexpected expressions of those markers often exist, which causes this diagnostic dilemma to be still unresolved. In this study, we investigate five commonly used monoclonal antibodies (p53, TTF1, CK7, CK20, and CK34βE12) to evaluate their potential use in distinguishing between these two gynecologic malignancies. A tissue microarray was constructed using paraffin-embedded, formalin-fixed tissues from 35 hysterectomy specimens, including 14 ECA and 21 EMA. Utilizing the avidin–biotin (ABC) technique, tissue array sections were immunostained with the five aforementioned commercially available antibodies. Immunohistochemical (IHC) expressions of p53, TTF1, CK7, CK20, and CK34βE12 were all nonsignificant ( P > 0.05) in frequency differences between the immunostaining results (positive vs. negative) in tumors from both the two primary adenocarcinomas (ECA vs. EMA). It is still uncertain which markers or panels would be the most appropriate for making diagnoses; hence, exploration of other useful markers, which make a definitive distinction between ECA and EMA merits further studies. This study, however, uncovered that the five commonly used monoclonal antibodies (p53, TTF1, CK7, CK20, and CK34βE12) are of no beneficial value in distinguishing between primary ECA and EMA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endocervical adenocarcinomas (ECAs) and endometrial adenocarcinomas (EMAs) are malignancies that affect the uterus; however, their biological behaviors are quite different. This distinction has clinical significance because the appropriate therapy may depend on the site of tumor origin. The purpose of this study is to evaluate two different scoring mechanisms of p16INK4a immunohistochemical (IHC) stain in distinguishing between primary ECAs and EMAs. A tissue microarray (TMA) was constructed using formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue from hysterectomy specimens, including 14 ECAs and 21 EMAs. Tissue array sections were stained with a commercially available antibody, p16INK4a. The avidin–biotin complex method was used to visualize antigens. The staining intensity and extent of the IHC reactions were evaluated using a semi-quantitative scoring system. Two scoring methods were defined on the following bases: (1) independent cytoplasmic staining alone, irrespective of nucleic stain (Method C) and (2) independent nucleic staining alone, irrespective of cytoplasmic staining. (Method N). Of the two scoring mechanisms for p16INK4a expression, Method N showed a significant difference ( P = 0.015), but Method C showed no significant ( P = 0.432) frequency differences in distinguishing between ECAs and EMAs. However, Method N had a higher overall accuracy rate (71.4%) in accurately diagnosing ECAs from EMAs in the total number of p16INK4a IHC cases. According to the data of p16INK4a expression in this TMA study, Method N is favorable and efficient in distinguishing between ECAs and EMAs, while Method C is not. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A central challenge in nanotechnology is the parallel fabrication of complex geometries for nanodevices. Here we report a general method for arranging single-walled carbon nanotubes in two dimensions using DNA origami—a technique in which a long single strand of DNA is folded into a predetermined shape. We synthesize rectangular origami templates (∼75 nm × 95 nm) that display two lines of single-stranded DNA ‘hooks’ in a cross pattern with ∼6 nm resolution. The perpendicular lines of hooks serve as sequence-specific binding sites for two types of nanotubes, each functionalized non-covalently with a distinct DNA linker molecule. The hook-binding domain of each linker is protected to ensure efficient hybridization. When origami templates and DNA-functionalized nanotubes are mixed, strand displacement-mediated deprotection and binding aligns the nanotubes into cross-junctions. Of several cross-junctions synthesized by this method, one demonstrated stable field-effect transistor-like behaviour. In such organizations of electronic components, DNA origami serves as a programmable nanobreadboard; thus, DNA origami may allow the rapid prototyping of complex nanotube-based structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract  Polyamines (putrescine, spermidine, and spermine) play an essential role in cell growth, differentiation, and apoptosis. Protein kinase C (PKC) stimulates polyamine biosynthesis through the induction of ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), a rate-limiting enzyme in polyamine biosynthesis. Activation of PKC mediates ischemic preconditioning to reduce necrosis and apoptosis in intact hearts and in isolated culture cardiomyocytes. In this study, we examined whether the ODC/polyamine system is involved in the ischemic preconditioning signaling pathway and whether this system interacts with PKC in preconditioning-induced cardioprotection. Hearts were preconditioned with three cycles of 5-min ischemia and 5-min reflow, which caused an increase of ODC expression and spermidine, spermine, and total polyamine pool levels. α-Difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) and ethylglyoxal bis (guanylhydrazone) (EGBG) inhibited the key enzymes involved in polyamine biosynthesis, and abolished the preconditioning-induced reduction in infarct size and improvement in postischemic heart contractility function. They also increased cell apoptosis extent and aggravated myocardium ultrastructure damage. Inhibition also attenuated the preconditioning-induced translocation and activation of the PKC-δ, -ε isoforms from the cytosol to the particulate. Conversely, activation of PKC by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) upregulated the ODC/polyamine system, whereas the PKC inhibitor chelerythrine (Che) downregulated the ODC/polyamine system. These findings suggest that upregulation of the polyamine synthesis metabolism occurs in response to preconditioning and mediates preconditioning-induced cardioprotection. The ODC/polyamine system and PKC signals may “cross-talk” in preconditioned hearts such that inhibiting one pathway leads to a reduction in the activity of the other pathway and vice versa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are no data regarding the feasibility and safety of a radial arterial approach with adjunctive urokinase for treating occluded autogenous radial-cephalic fistulas. We retrospectively examined 54 transradial interventions performed to treat occluded autogenous radial-cephalic fistulas within 72 h of occurrence. Urokinase was used in patients with a large thrombus burden. A total of 92 lesions in 54 consecutive patients (27 males, 27 females; mean age, 61.8+/-12.3 years) were treated via radial access. All radial punctures were successful except in one patient. Most thrombotic lesions were located within 1 cm of the radiocephalic anastomosis (79.6%). The mean length of treated thrombotic lesions was 10.3+/-5.4 cm (range, 4-32 cm). Twenty-five patients (46.3%) received urokinase (mean dose, 96,000+/-30,000 U). After transradial intervention, systolic, diastolic, and mean pressures in the radial artery decreased from 179+/-41, 77+/-17, and 111+/-22 mm Hg to 71+/-29, 36+/-15, and 48+/-19 mm Hg (all p's\0.001), respectively. Four radial interventions were unsuccessful. The anatomic and clinical success rates of the radial approach were both 92.6%; postinterventional primary patency rates were 65% at 6 months and 40% at 12 months. Two minor vascular complications were noted, one caused by guidewire-induced contrast extravasation and the other by balloon-induced contrast extravasation. No patient developed clinical signs of pulmonary embolism. In conclusion, the radial approach with adjunctive urokinase is an effective and safe approach to treat occluded autogenous radial-cephalic fistulas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endocervical adenocarcinomas (ECA) and endometrial adenocarcinomas (EMA) are uterine malignancies that have differing biological behavior. The choice of appropriate therapeutic plan depends indeed on the tumor’s site of origin. In this study, we not only compare the individual expression status of five immunomarkers (ER, PR, Vim, CEA, and p16INK4a), but also evaluate whether p16INK4a adds value to the ER/PR/Vim/CEA panel characteristics in distinguishing between primary ECA and EMA. A tissue microarray (TMA) was constructed using paraffin-embedded, formalin-fixed tissues from 35 hysterectomy specimens, including 14 ECA and 21 EMA. TMA sections were immunostained with five anti-bodies, by avidin–biotin complex (ABC) method for antigen visualization. The staining intensity and area extent of the immunohistochemical (IHC) reactions were appraised by using the semi-quantitative scoring system. The four respective markers (ER, PR, Vim, CEA) and their combined panel expressions showed significant ( p < 0.05) frequency differences between ECA and EMA tumors. The p16INK4a marker also revealed a significant frequency difference ( p < 0.05) between the two sites of origin, but did not demonstrate to have any supplementary value to the 4-marker panel. According to our data, when there is histomorphological and clinical doubt as to the primary site of origin, we recommend that the conventional 4-marker (ER/PR/Vim/CEA) panel is appropriate. Ancillary p16INK4a-marker testing does not add value to the 4-marker panel in distinguishing between primary ECA and EMA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caridina gracilipes, an atyid shrimp of Taiwan, inhabits the fresh and brackish waters. Its life history can be classified into amphidromous and landlocked types. Recent human's transportation has caused concerns of genetic contamination between these long evolved lineages and ecological instabilities. Molecular markers with high sensitivities are required for detecting the possible introgression due to human disturbance. In the study, we described the development of 15 polymorphic microsatellite loci in C. gracilipes for genetic and ecological studies. These new markers were tested in 20 individuals of three populations. The number of alleles ranged from 6 to 17. Expected (HE) and observed (HO) heterozygosities ranged from 0.653 to 0.954, averaged at 0.865, and from 0.000 to 0.4, averaged at 0.146, respectively. All loci are significantly deviated from Hardy-Weinberg expectations due to the heterozygote deficiency. Significant genetic differentiation among populations was detected based on FST values, which were estimated from 0.82 to 0.88. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have previously reported that a single-chain T cell receptor/IL-2 fusion protein (scTCR-IL2) exhibits potent targeted antitumor activity in nude mice bearing human tumor xenografts that display cognate peptide/HLA complexes. In this study, we further explore the mechanism of action of this molecule. We compared the biological activities of c264scTCR-IL2, a scTCR-IL2 protein recognizing the aa264–272 peptide of human p53, with that of MART-1scTCR-IL2, which recognizes the MART-1 melanoma antigen (aa27–35). In vitro studies showed that c264scTCR-IL2 and MART-1scTCR-IL2 were equivalent in their ability to bind cell-surface IL-2 receptors and stimulate NK cell responses. In mice, MART-1scTCR-IL2 was found to have a twofold longer serum half-life than c264scTCR-IL2. However, despite its shorter serum half-life, c264scTCR-IL2 showed significantly better antitumor activity than MART-1scTCR-IL2 against p53+/HLA-A2+ tumor xenografts. The more potent antitumor activity of c264scTCR-IL2 correlated with an enhanced capacity to promote NK cell infiltration into tumors. Similar differences in antigen-dependent tumor infiltration were observed with activated splenocytes pre-treated in vitro with c264scTCR-IL2 or MART-1scTCR-IL2 and then transferred into p53+/HLA-A2+ tumor bearing recipients. The data support a model where c264scTCR-IL2 activates immune cells to express IL-2 receptors. Following stable interactions with cell-surface IL-2 receptors, c264scTCR-IL2 fusion molecule enhances the trafficking of immune cells to tumors displaying target peptide/HLA complexes where the immune cells mediate antitumor effects. Thus, this type of fusion molecule could be used directly as a targeted immunotherapeutic or in adoptive cell transfer approaches to activate and improve the anti-cancer activities of immune cells by providing them with pre-selected antigen recognition capability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To correlate matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) expression with cervical carcinogenesis, the authors use reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction to detect MMP-2 mRNA expression in 10 cervical squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), 10 high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), and 10 normal tissues. They further detect MMP-2 immunoreactivity of 24 tissue cores in each SCC, high- and low-grade CINs, and a healthy subgroup on a tissue array using integrated optical density (IOD) for number and intensity of stained cells in 345 x 345 pixels. They found the mRNA expression of MMP-2 to be higher in most SSCs (9/10 samples) and high-grade CINs (7/10 samples) but lower in normal tissues. The IOD of MMP-2 was significantly higher in high-grade CIN than in normal and low-grade CIN tissue cores (P < .001 for both) and significantly higher in SCC than in high-grade CIN tissue cores (P < .001). The results show that MMP-2 upregulation confers on tumor cells the ability to degrade the subepithelial basement membrane and subsequently invade the cervix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors investigate the effects of human nonmetastatic clone 23 type 1 (nm223-H1) gene and fungal immunomodulatory protein--Ganoderma tsugae (FIP-gts) on the metastatic potential of cervical cancer cells and assess whether nm23-H1 can influence the action of FIP-gts using cell migration and invasion assays and gelatin zymography. The nm23-H1 gene was stably transfected into Caski cells, which lacked nm23-H1 expression. The results show that nm23-H1 stably transfected Caski cells exhibit reduced cell migration but no change of cell invasion and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)--2 and --9 activities. FIP-gts reduced cell migration in SiHa and nm23-H1 transfected Caski cells more significantly compared with Caski cells and reduced invasion in Caski and nm23-H1--transfected Caski cells, but it exerted no influence on MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities in them. Conclusively, the nm23-H1 gene suppresses cervical cancer cell migration but not invasion and activities of MMP-2 and MMP-9 and enhances the inhibition of FIP-gts upon migration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 1 (CIN 1) will regress and 12% to 40% of high-grade CIN may progress to squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the uterine cervix. However, the differentiation of CIN 1 and high-grade CIN is sometimes controversial among pathologists. Human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) is therefore applied to detect the differences among normal, CIN 1, high-grade CIN, and SCC tissues of uterine cervix. One hundred six cervical specimens were collected for immunohistochemical study of hTERT. These data were compared with the human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA status. Expression of hTERT in high-grade CIN increased significantly compared to that in CIN 1 (P < .001). A positive relationship was found between high hTERT expression and degree of malignant transformation (P < .001). Most of the cases with high hTERT expression tested positive for the high-risk HPV groups. High hTERT expression was detected in 88.73% of the samples with cervical high-grade CIN or SCC. Low hTERT expression was found in 94.29% of low-grade CIN or normal tissues. Furthermore, 96.92% of the cervical tissues with high hTERT expression were high-grade CIN or SCC. A total of 80.49% of samples with low hTERT expression were low-grade CIN or normal tissues. A significantly increased hTERT expression between CIN 1 and high-grade CIN exhibits a critical progression in cervical carcinogenesis, hTERT can be offered as additional molecular information correlated with more severe dysplasia and SCC. Furthermore, this increased hTERT expression is correlated with high-risk HPVs infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]