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The northern South China Sea (SCS) margin evolved from the Mesozoic convergent to Cenozoic divergent continental margin, and thus, it developed on a heterogeneous crystalline basement with inherited Mesozoic structures. Pre-existing structures and their interactions with rift faults have historically not been described or interpreted in the intensely stretched Baiyun sub-basin. Large-scale 3D seismic reflection data allow us to identify four types of Mesozoic tectonic fabrics within the basement and explain their genesis: (1) Thin, isolated and north-dipping seismic reflections 1, interpreted as thrust faults representing orogenic processes. Tilted thick seismic reflections 2 are formed by reactivation of seismic reflections 1 during post-orogenic extension, which are all related to the NW-ward subduction of the palaeo-Pacific plate. (2) Thin, isolated and shallowly dipping seismic reflections 3 and low-amplitude, semi-transparent and chaotic seismic reflections 4 represent the low-angle thrust system and the associated nappe units, which are related to the shift from NW-to NNW-ward subduction of the paleo-Pacific plate. Subsequently, we investigate the structural interaction between Mesozoic intra-basement and Cenozoic rift structures. Syn-rift, post-rift and long-term faults are developed in Cenozoic strata, and quantitative statistical and qualitative analyses revealed two main types of structural interactions between them and underlying intra-basement structures: (1) Rift faults develop with inheritance of intra-basement structures, including fully and partially inherited faults. (2) Rift faults modify intra-basement structures, although they are controlled by intra-basement structures at an earlier stage. Finally, our results reveal the control of pre-existing structures on the geometry of the Baiyun sub-basin, especially the selective reactivation of NE-trending shear zones (SR2), which are influenced by the regional stress field and the width and dip of the shear zones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a rare case of spontaneous resolution of a symptomatic cerebellopontine angle (CPA) arachnoid cyst in an adult patient. Arachnoid cysts are typically asymptomatic, but when symptoms do occur, surgical intervention is often necessary. However, in this case, the patient opted for conservative management and experienced a sudden resolution of the cyst, leading to the disappearance of neurological symptoms. While spontaneous resolution of arachnoid cysts is rare, this case suggests that a watch-and-wait strategy may be applicable for patients with mild neurological deficits. [Extracted from the article]

1. Mycorrhizal fungi play a central role in plant nutrition and nutrient cycling, yet our understanding on their effects on free-living microbes, soil carbon (C) decomposition and soil CO2 fluxes remains limited. 2. Here we used trenches lined with mesh screens of varying sizes to isolate mycorrhizal hyphal effects on soil C dynamics in subtropical successional forests. 3. We found that the presence of mycorrhizal hyphae suppressed soil CO2 fluxes by 17% in early-successional forests, but enhanced CO2 losses by 20% and 32% in mid- and late-successional forests respectively. The inhibitory effects of mycorrhizal fungi on soil CO2 fluxes in the young stands were associated with changes in soil nitrogen (N) mineralization and microbial activities, suggesting that competition between mycorrhizae and saprotrophs for N likely suppressed soil C decomposition. In the mid- and late-successional stands, mycorrhizal enhancement of CO2 release from soil likely resulted from both hyphal respiration and mycorrhizal-induced acceleration of organic matter decay. 4. Synthesis. Our results highlight the sensitivity of mycorrhizal fungi-saprotroph interactions to shifts in nutrient availability and demand, with important consequences for soil carbon dynamics particularly in ecosystems with low nutrient conditions. Incorporating such interactions into models should improve the simulations of forest biogeochemical cycles under global change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is known to occur in three main forms, namely autosomal dominant PKD (ADPKD), autosomal recessive PKD (ARPKD) and syndromic PKD (SPKD), based on the clinical manifestations and genetic causes, which are diagnosable from the embryo stage to the later stages of life. Selection of the genetic test for the individuals with diagnostic imaging reports of cystic kidneys without a family history of the disease continues to be a challenge in clinical practice. With the objective of maintaining a limit on the time and medical cost of the procedure, a practical strategy for genotyping and targeted validation to resolve cystogene variations was developed in our clinical laboratory, which combined the techniques of whole-exome sequencing (WES), Long-range PCR (LR-PCR), Sanger sequencing and multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) to work in a stepwise approach. In this context, twenty-six families with renal polycystic disorders were enrolled in the present study. Thirty-two variants involving four ciliary genes (PKD1, PKHD1, TMEM67 and TMEM107) were identified and verified in 23 families (88.5%, 23/26), which expanded the variant spectrum by 16 novel variants. Pathogenic variations in five foetuses of six families diagnosed with PKD were identified using prenatal ultrasound imaging. Constitutional biallelic and digenic variations constituted the pathogenic patterns in these foetuses. The preliminary clinical data highlighted that the WES + LR PCR-based workflow followed in the present study is efficient in detecting divergent variations in PKD. The biallelic and digenic mutations were revealed as the main pathogenic patterns in the foetuses with PKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A three‐phase three‐level VIENNA rectifier has been widely used in the data center DC power supply and AC/DC hybrid power supply system with the advantages of without dead‐time, low switch voltage stress and small grid‐current harmonic. However, the performance of grid current strongly depends on the controller parameter, and the unreasonable controller parameter may deteriorate the grid current. To effectively improve the static and dynamic performance of grid current, a new kind of carrier‐based pulse width modulation scheme based on the double closed‐loop discrete sliding mode strategy is put forward. Further, a modified exponential reaching law is presented to effectively improve the shaking shock effect caused by the traditional sliding mode surface and the neutral voltage dc wave suppression strategy is then presented. To verify the correctness and effectiveness of the proposed sliding mode control strategy, a complete simulation model and experimental prototype platform under the digital control is established, the detailed theoretical analysis and design method of the proposed control strategy are presented. The simulation and experimental results show that the steady and the transient performance of the grid current with the proposed control strategy are effectively improved, and the neutral voltage in dc side is kept balanced at the same time. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oriental armyworm Mythimna separata is an agricultural insect pest in Eastern Asia. Mythimna separata moths have a high phototactic response to green (520 nm) light. The biological characteristics of insects living under light of a specific wavelength at night can change and, accordingly, Juvenile hormone (JH) levels may be influenced by this light. The present study evaluates changes in the total JH levels at different developmental stages (larvae, pupae and adults) of M. separata reared under green light with different exposure periods at night (or dark period). The results show that, when the exposure time per day of the green light at night is extended, the JH levels in the final‐instar larvae (22 days) and older age pupae (8 days) are significantly reduced, and the JH levels in earlier age pupae (4 days) and adults (3, 6 and 9 days) are significantly increased, compared with groups not exposed to green light. Additionally, the JH level of male moths significantly differs from that of the female moths. We suggest that the JH level of M. separata insects could be regulated by the green light at night (or dark period). The findings of the present study will help to explain the relationship between the light environment and biological characteristics in nocturnal moths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many insects, especially nocturnal insects, exhibit positive phototaxis to artificial lights. Light traps are currently used to monitor and manage insect pest populations, and play a crucial role in physical pest control. Efficient use of light traps to attract target insect pests is an important topic in the application of integrated pest management (IPM). Phototactic responses of insects vary among species, light characteristics and the physiological status of the insects. In addition, light can cause several biological responses, including biochemical, physiological, molecular and fitness changes in insects. In this review, we discuss several hypotheses on insect phototaxis, factors affecting insect phototaxis, insect‐sensitive wavelengths, biological responses of insects to light, and countermeasures for conserving beneficial insects and increasing the effect of trapping. In addition, we provide information on the different sensitivities to wavelengths causing positive phototactic behavior in > 70 insect pest and beneficial insect species. The use of advanced light traps equipped with superior light sources, such as light‐emitting diodes (LEDs), will make physical pest control in IPM more efficient. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prothymosin‐α (PTMA) is a small, acidic protein that is usually transported into the nucleus and involves many cellular and immunological functions. Previous studies demonstrated that aberrant location of PTMA expression exists in human bladder cancer, but the role of PTMA protein expression remains elusive. In this study, we created ectopic nuclear or cytoplasmic PTMA expression in human bladder cancer cells by infecting lentiviruses carrying wild type or deleted nuclear localization signal of the PTMA gene. The in vivo tumorigenesis assay showed PTMA protein with deleted nuclear localization signal promotes J82 xenograft tumor growth in mice and shortens their survival more so than the wild type. Chromatin immunoprecipitation showed that wild‐type PTMA protein binds to the PTEN promoter and enhances phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) expression. Through immunoblot proteomics and in vivo ubiquitination studies, PTMA protein can bind with tripartite motif‐containing protein 21 (TRIM21) and block its ubiquitination. Also, TRIM21 can downregulate both forms of PTMA protein. In human bladder tumors, loss of nuclear PTMA expression was an unfavorable prognostic indicator for shorter disease‐free survival (hazard ratio, 1.54; P = 0.009). Our data support that nuclear PTMA protein serves as a tumor suppressor in bladder cancer through upregulating PTEN and orchestrating TRIM21 for the regulation of Nrf2 signaling. Prothymosin‐α can enhance PTEN expression through binding to the PTEN promoter and be downregulated by TRIM21. Both of these proteins can orchestrate to regulate Keap1/Nrf2 signaling in human bladder cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Thiamethoxam (TMX) is one of the most effective neonicotinoid insecticides for the control of green peach aphid, Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Hemiptera: Aphididae), and various side effects can be expected in its natural enemies. The multicolored Asian lady beetle or harlequin ladybird, Harmonia axyridis (Pallas) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), is an important predator against M. persicae in greenhouses and fields. In this study, we evaluated the toxicity of TMX to H. axyridis and the effect on the functional response of this predator to M. persicae through three routes of exposure. Acute toxicity bioassays indicated that LC50 values of TMX on H. axyridis through direct residual contact (‘contact’), systemic application (‘systemic’), and leaf‐dip treatment (‘leaf‐dip’) were 18.99, 21.26, and 15.39 mg a.i. l−1, respectively. The hazard quotient indicated a potential hazard of this agrochemical regardless of the exposure routes. The mortality caused by the lowest rate, 2 mg a.i. l−1, was not significantly different compared with the control group. For the three routes of sublethal TMX exposure, the type‐II functional response was a good fit to the prey consumption of H. axyridis. Predation was most affected by leaf‐dip treatment, followed by contact and systemic treatments, which had similar effect. For all exposure routes, the predation capacity of the predator recovered quickly after transfer to untreated cabbage leaves. Thiamethoxam applied systemically was the least toxic to H. axyridis and did not affect the functional response of the predator. However, the sublethal effects of TMX through both contact and leaf‐dip application may reduce the population growth of H. axyridis and consequently impair the biological control of M. persicae by this predator. These results illustrate that the assessment of potential effects of TMX on H. axyridis is crucial to develop effective integrated pest management programs for M. persicae in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The liquid is usually driven by capillary force to flow forward in a channel network of a point-of-care testing device. However, it is not enough to drive the liquid flow forward that only relies on the surface tension of the chip material itself. While the liquid drops into the chip, the unstable liquid front shape may produce bubbles or the liquid flowing will even stop which will resist the signal detection. Here, a novel method, hydrophilic coating, is demonstrated. This method used an automatic device to dip the chips from the self-prepared TiO2 sol forming the gel film on the surface of chips' channel. Results have shown that the coating film will enhance the liquid flow performance and improve the detection precision and accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrasonic bonding was widely used to seal polymer microfludic chips due to its high strength, low cost and good biocompatibility. However, in the process of ultrasonic bonding, the easy clogging of microchannels and the difficulty of controlling microchannel heights limit the use of ultrasonic bonding in mass fabrication. In this study, energy director's structure including director protrusion, bonding limited platform and bonding pool is designed and used. A self-balancing jig is designed to automatically adjust with the horn and produce an even bonding energy distribution. Ultrasonic bonding parameters including bonding pressure and bonding time are optimised. The tensile destruction test, leakage test and serum driving test are employed to measure the performance of the ultrasonic bonding chips. Results have shown that the energy director's structure and the self-balancing jig can obviously reduce the clogging of microchannels and improve the uniformity of microchannel heights. By using the optimised bonding parameters, the bonding strength has reached >2.5 Mpa, and channel leakage has not been observed under 0.7 MPa air pressure. The energy director's structure and the self-balancing jig presented here can provide an effective alternative for the mass ultrasonic bonding of microfluidic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some issues, such as the removing of air bubbles from bonding interface, microchannel clogging by adhesive, the methods to increase bonding efficiency, as well as the adhesive bonding of a multilayer chip, still limit the use of adhesive bonding in the mass fabrication of microfluidic devices. In this work, an automatic adhesive bonding machine is developed which can obviously increase bonding efficiency and quality as compared with the traditional manually methods. A bonding method which uses a soft pressing head to extrude the air bubbles from bonding interface is presented. The relationship between the adhesive film thickness and the channel clogging is investigated. The adhesive bonding of three types of two-layer microfluidic devices and a five-layer microfluidic device are studied. Results have shown that the uses of the soft pressing head can effectively removing the air bubbles from the bonding interface. The bonding ratios of all devices are above 95%. The channel residual depth, which is the channel depth excluding the protrusion height of the adhesive film within the channel, will increase to follow the increase in microchannel width and adhesive film thickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In many insect species, the differentiation of development between diapause and reproduction first becomes obvious during the diapause preparation (pre-diapause) and pre-oviposition phases. However, the differentiation of nutrient accumulation between these two phases remains unclear. We compared the weights of pre-diapause and reproductive adult female Colaphellus bowringi Baly ( Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), and measured their triacylglycerol ( TAG), protein, and carbohydrate content from emergence until they had fed for 4 days post-eclosion. We also compared the ovarian development and accumulation of lipid droplets between pre-diapause and reproductive adult females in order to determine whether we could visually detect differences in nutrient allocation. The weights of both pre-diapause and reproductive females increased with duration of feeding. The fresh weight and water content of pre-diapause females was significantly lower than that of reproductive females after feeding for 3 days post-eclosion. Pre-diapause females channeled their reserves into TAG in the fat body, whereas reproductive females converted nutrients into proteins and carbohydrates for egg development. These results quantify differences in nutrient accumulation between pre-diapause and reproductive adult female C. bowringi, and provide clues for understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying differences in the allocation of nutrients between diapause and reproduction in insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The development of host races, genetically distinct populations of the same species with different hosts, is considered to be the initial stage of ecological speciation. Ecological and biological differences consistent with host race formation have been reported between water‐oat and rice‐associated populations of Chilo suppressalis. In order to confirm whether these differences have a genetic basis, we conducted experiments to determine the extent to which various life‐history traits and the time of peak mating activity of these populations were influenced by the species of host plant larvae were raised on. Individuals from each population were reared for three consecutive generations on either water‐oat fruit pulp or rice seedlings. Descendants of both populations had higher larval survival rates, shorter larval developmental periods, higher pupal weight, and longer adult forewings, when reared on water‐oats than when reared on rice. The time of peak of mating activity differed between the descendants of each population, irrespective of whether they were raised on water‐oats or rice. These results indicate that although some life‐history traits of host‐associated populations of C. suppressalis are influenced by the host plant larvae are raised on, time of peak mating activity is not. Because it is a stable, objective, phenotypic trait, further research on difference in the time of peak mating activity between host‐associated populations of C. suppressalis should be conducted to clarify the mechanism responsible for host race formation in this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emphysema, a major consequence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD), is characterized by the permanent airflow restriction resulting from enlargement of alveolar airspace and loss of lung elasticity. Transforming growth factor-β ( TGFβ) signalling regulates the balance of matrix metalloproteinase ( MMP)/tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase ( TIMP) to control matrix homeostasis. Patients with COPD have dysregulated TGFβ signalling and reduced histone deacetylase ( HDAC) activity through epigenetic up-regulation of histone acetylation in the promoters of pro-inflammatory genes. However, the potential link between decreased HDAC activity and dysregulated TGFβ signalling in emphysema pathogenesis remains to be determined. Prothymosin α ( ProT), a highly conserved acidic nuclear protein, plays a role in the acetylation of histone and non-histone proteins. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that ProT inhibits TGFβ-Smad signalling through Smad7, thereby contributing to emphysema pathogenesis. We show that ProT enhances Smad7 acetylation by decreasing its association with HDAC and thereby down-regulates TGFβ-Smad signalling. ProT caused an imbalance between MMP and TIMP through acetylated Smad7 in favour of MMP expression. In addition to interfering with R-Smad activation and targeting receptors for degradation in the cytoplasm, acetylated Smad7 potentiated by ProT competitively antagonized binding of the pSmad2/3-Smad4 complex to the TIMP-3 promoter, resulting in reduced TIMP-3 expression. These effects were detected in ProT-over-expressing cells, lungs of ProT transgenic mice displaying an emphysema phenotype and in emphysema patients. Importantly, increased Smad7 and reduced TIMP-3 were found in the lungs of emphysema patients and mice with cigarette smoke extract ( CSE)-induced emphysema. Such effects could be abrogated by silencing endogenous ProT expression. Collectively, our results uncover acetylated Smad7 regulated by ProT as an important determinant in dysregulated TGFβ signalling that contributes to emphysema pathogenesis. Copyright © 2015 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Synovial fibroblasts (SFs) with aberrant expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) are critical pathogenic regulators in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and studies analyzing the effect of overexpressing or silencing miRNA expression in arthritis models can contribute to the development of miRNA-based therapeutic strategies. This study was undertaken to examine the hypothesis that miRNAs 140-3p and 140-5p are involved in the pathogenesis of RA, and to determine whether targeting SFs through the intraarticular (IA) delivery of these molecules could ameliorate autoimmune arthritis in mice. Methods Synovial tissue samples were obtained from patients with RA. In addition, 2 experimental models in mice were used, collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) and collagen antibody-induced arthritis (CAIA). Overexpression of miRNAs 140-3p and 140-5p in SFs and synovial tissue was induced using lentivirus (LV)-mediated transfer of pre-miR-140 precursor molecules. Results Lower expression levels of miR-140-3p and miR-140-5p were detected in synovial tissue and SFs from patients with RA and from mice in both arthritis models. In mice with CIA and mice with CAIA, the LV-mediated IA transfer of miR-140-3p and miR-140-5p ameliorated arthritis, as determined by clinical examination and histopathologic evaluations showing a decrease in SF densities. Overexpression of miRNAs 140-3p and 140-5p caused a reduction in expression, with correlated kinetic patterns, of their corresponding target molecules sirtuin 1 and stromal cell-derived factor 1 in the SFs and joints of mice. Transfection of miR-140-3p and miR-140-5p into SFs increased cell apoptosis, reduced proliferation responses and migration abilities, and verified the concept that miR-140 expression is regulated by proinflammatory cytokines. Conclusion These results demonstrate that targeting SFs by IA delivery of miRNAs 140-3p and 140-5p can ameliorate autoimmune arthritis. These findings might facilitate the pharmacologic development of molecular-based therapies in RA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the omnipresent risk of predation, termites have evolved many antipredatory behaviors. The two related species Reticulitermes speratus and R. chinensis have been demonstrated to use homosexual tandem running to decrease individual predation risk after shedding their wings. In this study, we tested risk of predation in the termite R. flaviceps, which is distantly related to the above two species. We determined that homosexual tandem running also led to low individual predation risk in dealates of R. flaviceps. Moreover, by combining a predation model with a competition model, we observed a typical trade-off phenomenon between antipredatory behavior and pairing competition produced by male-male tandem running in the above three Reticulitermes species. Our results indicated that male-male tandem running could effectively protect disadvantaged individuals from being caught, but disadvantaged individuals would be easily eliminated in pairing competition after male-male tandem running, suggesting that male-male tandem running can promote population evolution in termites by repeatedly removing the relatively inferior male individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patterns of latitudinal variation in the phenotype or genotype of an organism may provide evidence for natural selection. In this study, we investigated seven populations of swallowtail Sericinus montelus Gray, 1798 ( Lepidoptera: Papilionidae), a non-migratory species, to explore the latitudinal variation of morphological characteristics in adults. The results showed that body size and the development of dark pigmentation on wings in this species responded strongly to latitude. The body size of both male and female adult of S. montelus was negatively correlated with latitude. These findings provided solid evidence to support the converse Bergmann's rule. We considered that the observed variation in morphological characteristics was most likely mediated by the seasonal length and thermoperiod to adapt to different latitudinal environment (e.g. shortened developmental time of immature stages for smaller body size at higher latitude). Moreover, the tendency towards progressively darker colour patterns (only in adult males) at increasingly low latitudes was consistent with Gloger's rule. We suggested that the observed colour variation was most likely associated with thermoregulation. Slight variation in the morphology of the W-shaped stripe on the forewing of adult females was also found, and we presumed that the functions of sexual preferences, mimicry and thermoregulation might be involved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In many moths, male attraction to the blend of synthetic sex pheromone releasing continuously in the field shows an apparent circadian rhythm similar to that of locomotion activity. In this study, the daily rhythms of electroantennography ( EAG) and behavioral responses to sex pheromone, and the daily rhythms of locomotion activity were measured in male beet armyworm, Spodoptera exigua ( Hübner) ( Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). The peaks of males trapped by light and sex pheromone were all during the latter part of the night in the field. However, there was no significant variation among time intervals in the EAG responses of male antennae to sex pheromone stimuli. The principal period of locomotion activity under L15:D9 ( LD) continued to occur during the scotophase and the subjective scotophase in the day of constant darkness ( DD1) and the second of two consecutive days of constant darkness ( DD2). The majority of males contacted the sex pheromone source in a wind tunnel during the latter part of the scotophase under LD and the subjective scotophase for DD1 and DD2. There were significant associations between the rhythm of the behavioral response to sex pheromone and locomotion activity. These results suggested that the male's behavioral response to sex pheromone in the beet armyworm could be observed only until locomotion activity of the male occurred at the end of the dark period, despite sex pheromone being released continuously from synthetic pheromone-baited traps in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT A smad nuclear interacting protein 1 (SNIP1) homolog was identified in the crayfish Procambarus clarkii and this gene encoded a polypeptide of 288 amino acids. Phylogenic analysis showed that P. clarkii SNIP1 was highly homologous to that of invertebrates and shared a highly conserved FHA domain of SNIP proteins at the C-terminus. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis showed that Pc-SNIP1 expression was higher in heart than that in other examined tissues. In addition, prokaryotic expression and purification of the recombinant SNIP1 protein were performed. SDS-PAGE and western blot analysis demonstrated that a 35 KDa recombinant protein was successfully expressed in Escherichia coli cells. The expression of Pc-SNIP1 was significantly up-regulated in hepatopancreas after 20-hydroxyecdysone induction. Knockdown of Pc-SNIP1 gene by small interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection had significant influence on the expression of some ecdysteroid-responsive genes in hepatopancreas, which were confirmed by qRT-PCR and western blot. All together, these results suggest that SNIP1 is involved in the physiological process regulated by ecdysteroid in P. clarkii. J. Exp. Zool. 323A: 128-136, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

User identification plays an important role for access control in networks. Recently, Hsu and Chuang proposed a user identification scheme for distributed computer networks, which can also provide key agreement and user anonymity. However, Tsai pointed out the weakness of Hsu-Chuang's scheme and proposed an improved scheme. In this paper, we present two attacks to examine that some user identification schemes have a serious security loophole. Finally, we propose a new user identification scheme, which is more secure than the existing schemes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The morphology distribution of a model polymer blend, polystyrene (PS)/polyethylene (PE), molded by multimelt multi-injection molding (MMMIM) process was studied by scanning electronic microscopy and polarizing light microscopy. An unusual double skin/core morphology was observed. The minor phase, PS, showed highly deformed morphology in both the skin layer near the mold wall and the core layer near the skin/core layer's interface. Meanwhile, in the regions that highly deformed PS phase showed, highly ordered cylindritic crystal structures of PE are also formed. As we all know the driving force and the basic prerequisite to deform the dispersed droplet and form the oriented crystal structure is the shear field. So an attempt was made to correlate the dispersed phase morphology, crystalline morphologies, and shear rate. The shear rate, estimated via the capillary number, across the thickness of the parts molded by MMMIM was bimodal. Even if the coalescence and relaxation of the dispersed phase during and after mold filling cannot be ignored, both the highly dispersed PS domains and the highly ordered crystal structure of PE showed in the regions with the maximum calculated shear rate, which is consistent with the generally accepted theories that strong shear flow is favorable to the formation of the oriented structures. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 54:2345-2353, 2014. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In many herbivorous insects, the attraction to suitable host plants is in partmediated by similar olfactory cues from different host plants. This study investigated the electrophysiological and behavioral responses of female Maruca vitrata Fabricius (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) to floral volatiles from two host plants, Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walpers and Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet (both Fabaceae). Qualitative and quantitative differences were found between the odor profiles of two host plants by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Nine electroantennography-active compounds were detected in the headspace collections of the two host plants by means of coupled GC-electroantennographic detection. In a wind tunnel, female behaviors (upwind flight and source approach) were not affected by stimuli or their interaction with host plants, but the behaviors were influenced by host plants. A mixture of the nine bioactive compounds, including limonene, 1,3-diethylbenzene, benzaldehyde, acetophenone, 4-ethylbenzaldehyde, 1-(4-ethylphenyl)-ethanone, 2-methyl-3-phenylpropanal, 1H-indol-4-ol, and 1,10-(1,4-phenylene)bis-ethanone mimicking L. purpureus (in a ratio of 0.4:9.7:2.4:5.7:78.1:4.8:100:0.6:30.3) attracted significantly more females approaching the sources compared with the mixture of compounds mimicking V. unguiculata (in a ratio of 0.3:1.4:1.6:3.7:50.8:3.2:100:4.2:16.7). Further bioassays revealed that a subtractive 4-component blend [limonene, 1,3-diethylbenzene, 4-ethylbenzaldehyde, and 1-(4-ethylphenyl)-ethanone in a ratio of 0.4:9.7:78.1:4.8] was essential formaximal attraction. Our study suggested that female M. vitrata might use similar odors from V. unguiculata and L. purpureus to locate suitable hosts and that an artificial lure, containing the major floral volatiles released by the two host plants, might be useful in exploring efficiency monitoring and/or control strategies of this moth in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Graphene oxide (GO) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and their compound were introduced into semicrystalline poly( l-lactide) (PLLA) to prepare the corresponding binary and/or ternary nanocomposites, respectively. The dispersion states of nanofillers in different nanocomposites were investigated using UV-Vis spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and rheological measurement. The results showed that when GO and CNTs were simultaneously present in the PLLA matrix, good dispersion states of both GO and CNTs could be achieved and the ternary nanocomposites exhibited percolated network structure. The effects of different nanofillers on the crystallization behavior of PLLA matrix were comparatively investigated under the different crystallization conditions including melt crystallization process (nonisothermal and isothermal crystallization from the melt) and cold crystallization (crystallization occurring from an amorphous state during the annealing process). The results showed that GO and CNTs exhibited apparent synergistic effects in improving crystallization ability and enhancing crystallinity of PLLA matrix. Study on the thermal stability of nanocomposites showed that the presence of nanofillers greatly improved the thermal stability of PLLA matrix. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40143. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypoxia, a hallmark of many solid tumors, is associated with angiogenesis and tumor progression. Hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) plays a significant role in tumor angiogenesis. In this study, the authors constructed a selective platform to screen the traditional Chinese medicine as anti-angiogenic agent. The authors examined the molecular mechanism by which Scutellaria barbata regulates HIF-1-dependent expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which is an important angiogenic factor. Hypoxia promotes angiogenesis by increasing VEGF expression and secretion. Herein, the expression of VEGF was decreased by treatment with S. barbata in tumor cells. Meanwhile, S. barbata reduced the migration and proliferation of endothelial cells under hypoxic condition. S. barbata inhibited the expression of HIF-1α, as well as phosphorylated their upstream signal mediators AKT. S. barbata significantly inhibited the tumor growth in vivo and immunohistochemical studies in the tumors revealed decreased intratumoral microvessel density. These results suggest that the traditional Chinese medicine therapy using S. barbata, which exerts anti-angiogenic activities, represents a promising strategy for the treatment of tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Neonicotinoids are widely used as seed treatments in wheat fields against the grain aphid ( Sitobion avenae F.) in China. Due to the degradation of neonicotinoids in wheat plants, wheat aphids are more likely to be exposed to low concentrations of neonicotinoids over long periods. It is therefore expected that neonicotinoids, aside from acute (lethal) effects, may also cause a range of sub-lethal effects on this pest. RESULTS The growth and fertility of S. avenae feeding on wheat plants treated with a sub-lethal concentration ( LC10) of imidacloprid, dinotefuran, thiacloprid and thiamethoxam were not greatly affected. However, the population growth parameters of S. avenae were significantly reduced at median lethal concentration ( LC50). Electronic penetration graph recordings showed a higher percentage of no probing phase and shorter phloem sap ingestion phase on the wheat plants treated with LC10 and LC50 concentrations. CONCLUSION The results indicate that even low concentrations of neonicotinoid treatments on wheat seeds have long-term, adverse effects on wheat aphid. As such, neonicotinoid seed treatments have far greater effects on wheat aphids than estimated by acute toxicity tests. These results benefit our understanding on the subtle effects of the four tested neonicotinoids when applied as seed treatments. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the authors consider certificateless signature (CLS) schemes for strong non‐repudiation. They show that previous security models which ensure that any user can have a unique key pair cannot guarantee a CLS scheme to achieve strong non‐repudiation. The authors then fix the security model and propose a new CLS scheme which provides strong non‐repudiation under the new model, assuming the computational Diffie–Hellman problem is intractable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low molecular weight polyaniline nanotubes were prepared by fast emulsion polymerization in the presence of both n-dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid (DBSA) and HCl(aq). The anilinium monomers associated with DBSA emulsifiers were found to self-arrange into strands of associated cylindrical micelles before polymerization, as monitored by their optical activity and optical image. In the presence of some HCl(aq), the monomer-associated cylindrical micelles expanded and the polymerization rate could be speeded up. It was found that the low molecular weight (viscosity-averaged molecular weight) polyaniline obtained can easily lead to the formation of highly conductive, one-dimensional nanotubes or nanofibers monitored by the variation of optical activities and λmax of the UV-visible-near IR spectra during polymerization. The DBSA/HCl ratio played an important role in the eventual properties and morphologies of the one-dimensional polyanilines, which can be illustrated by conductivity, SEM and transmission electron microscopy measurements. The resultant one-dimensional polyaniline nanotubes can be arranged into a layered structure by orientation, illustrated by AFM and wide-angle X-ray diffraction. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

para-Phenylenediamines (pPDAs) were mixed with aniline to synthesize a low molecular weight, nanowired polyaniline via emulsion polymerization, which demonstrated smaller intrinsic viscosity. Fourier transform infrared-spectra illustrated the presence of phenazines in the polymers in the presence of pPDA. Free carrier-tails in UV-Vis-NIR spectra are still present but their numbers decreased with pPDAs. Scanning electronic microscopy and transmission electronic microscopy (TEM) images showed the neat PANINTs shrank significantly and became randomly distributed after dedoping but the diameters of the PANINT-pPDAs decreased slightly. TEM micrographs demonstrated the hollow morphology for the neat PANINTs but that of PANINT-pPDA was shorter, solid nanowires. X-ray diffractions patterns illustrated a layered structure for neat PANINTs which own a long c-axis, not found for PANINT-pPDAs. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective MicroRNA (miRNA) plays a role in autoimmune diseases. MiRNA-223 (miR-223) is up-regulated in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and is involved in osteoclastogenesis, which contributes to erosive disease. The aim of this study was to test the feasibility of using lentiviral vectors expressing the miR-223 target sequence (miR-223T) to suppress miR-223 activity as a therapeutic strategy in a mouse model of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). Methods Levels of miR-223 in the synovial tissue of patients with RA or osteoarthritis (OA), as well as in the ankle joints of mice with CIA, were determined by quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Lentiviral vectors expressing miR-223T (LVmiR-223T) or luciferase short hairpin RNA (LVshLuc) as a control vector were injected intraperitoneally into mice with CIA. Treatment responses and disease-related bone mineral density were monitored. Levels of nuclear factor 1A (NF-1A), a direct target of miR-223, and macrophage colony-stimulating factor receptor (M-CSFR), which is critical for osteoclastogenesis, were measured by immunohistochemistry and quantitative RT-PCR. Osteoclasts were assessed by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining. Results MiR-223 expression was significantly higher in the synovium of RA patients and in the ankle joints of mice with CIA as compared to OA patients and normal mice. LVmiR-223T treatment reduced the arthritis score, histologic score, miR-223 expression, osteoclastogenesis, and bone erosion in mice with CIA. Down-regulation of miR-223 with concomitant increases in NF-1A levels and decreases in M-CSFR levels was detected in the synovium of LVmiR-223T-treated mice. Conclusion This study is the first to demonstrate that lentivirus-mediated silencing of miR-223 can reduce disease severity of experimental arthritis. Furthermore, our results indicate that inhibition of miR-223 activity should be further explored as a therapeutic strategy in RA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were carboxylated after refluxing with sulfuric and nitric acids. These attached carboxylic acid groups were further condensated with o-phenylene diamine into amide catalyzed by dicyclohexyl carbodiimide (DCC). The obtained amidized MWCNTs were in situ-polymerized with aniline monomers to graft a conducting polyaniline (PANI) onto MWCNT (ES- g-MWCNTs) through the polymerization occurring in the ortho- and meta-positions. The reduced conductivity of the MWCNT after carboxylation can be recovered after grafting with PANI, which owns a strong λmax at the near infrared region due to the extended conjugation from MWCNTs to PANI. Transmission electronic microscopic pictures show a gradual broadening of the MWCNT diameter after carboxylation, amidization, and polymerization. The weight loss from the thermogravimetric thermograms due to the carboxylations of MWCNTs, amidized MWCNTs, and the PANI grafted MWCNTs into CO2 can be used to estimate the degree of carboxylation, amidization, and grafting of PANI. The degree of carboxylation of MWCNT calculated from ESCA spectrum is around 23% close to that estimated from TGA thermogram. The doping level of redoped PANI-grafted MWCNT is found to be 27.78% much less than the maximum 50% of neat PANI. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the risk of extinction and ornamental value of the swallowtail butterfly, Sericinus montelus Gray (Lepidoptera: Papilionidae) in China, knowledge about local adaptations is important for the conservation and economical utilization of the species. In the present study, photoperiodic diapause induction and diapause intensity of S. montelus populations from Jiamusi (46°37′N), Beijing (40°15′N), Zibo (36°48′N), Fangxian (32°36′N), Wuhan (30°33′N) and Huaihua (27°33′N) were characterized at 25°C. Logistic regression analysis revealed a significant population × hours of light interaction, confirming that photoperiodic responses varied among populations. The critical photoperiod was positively correlated with latitude and increased toward the north at a rate of about 1 h for each 6.67 degrees of latitude. Survival analyses indicated that survival time of diapausing pupae before adult eclosion differed significantly among populations at 25°C and 16 : 8 L : D h. The mean duration of pupal diapause was also positively correlated with latitude. Our study reveals geographic variation in the critical photoperiod for diapause induction and in diapause intensity of S. montelus. These results provide useful information for our general understanding about seasonal adaptation in insects and may also be used to predict how geographic populations respond to climate warming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The angoumois grain moth, Sitotroga cerealella (Olivier), is one of the most serious stored grain pests around the world. In attempts to reduce the losses caused by the moth and to suppress its populations, the fumigant activities, behavioral influence and ovipositional inhibition of garlic ( Allium sativum) essential oil and its two major components, diallyl disulfide and diallyl trisulfide, were investigated against the adult grain moth. Their effects on reduction in survival of first instar larvae to adult emergence were also evaluated. Results showed that these three materials (garlic essential oil, diallyl disulfide and diallyl trisulfide) had significant fumigant activity with 50% lethal concentration values at 1.33, 0.99, and 1.02 μL/L air space, respectively; meanwhile, the three materials possessed high behavioral deterrent activities against adults in the Y-tube olfactometer. When applied to rice grains, these materials reduced adult longevity and inhibited oviposition, with ovipositional inhibition above 70% at a concentration of 1.5 μL/25 g in either no-choice or two-choice tests. In short, the study showed that both diallyl disulfide and diallyl trisulfide, like garlic essential oil, acted as fumigants, produced behavioral deterrence and inhibited oviposition against angoumois grain moth. Our work here indicates that diallyl disulfide and diallyl trisulfide may serve as potential alternatives for grain protectants since both of them can be prepared easily from readily available chemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Helicoverpa armigera adults display a conspicuous positive phototactic behavior to light stimuli, and are especially sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) light. The effects of UV-A (longwave) exposures on adult longevity and reproduction in H. armigera were investigated, as well as the development of the F1 generation. Paired adults were exposed to UV-A for various time periods (0, 1, 5 and 9 h/day), until the end of adult life. The results showed that adult longevity decreased with increasing exposure time for both sexes, and a significant decrease was observed after exposure for 5 and 9 h/day. Fecundity increased when adults were exposed for 1 and 5 h/day, and a significant difference was observed in the 5 h/day group. Oviposition rates of females in all treatments were significantly higher than in the control. Exposure to UV-A for longer periods (5 and 9 h/day) caused a decline in cumulative survival of F1 immature stages, but no significant differences were found in egg hatch, pupation and eclosion. The developmental periods of F1 larvae were significantly prolonged after exposure to UV-A for 5 and 9 h/day. UV-A radiation had no significant effects on F1 pupal period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In osteoarthritis, angiogenesis, which occurs in the osteochondral junction and synovium, may accelerate inflammation and contribute to the severity of the disease. We used anterior cruciate ligament-transection (ACLT) to investigate the therapeutic effect of an angiogenesis inhibitor, thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1), in a rat model of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis was induced in Wistar rats in the knee of one hind leg. After ACLT, AdTSP-1 (adenoviral vector encoding mouse TSP-1) was intraarticularly injected into the knee joints. Transgene expression, angiogenesis, and inflammatory responses in the knee joints were examined. They were also assessed morphologically, radiographically, and histologically for manifestations of disease. The levels of TSP-1 peaked on day 3 and were substantially maintained for at least 9 days after AdTSP-1 infection. Adenovirus-mediated gene expression was detected in the synovial membrane and chondrocytes. TSP-1 gene transfer induced transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) production, but it reduced microvessel density, macrophage infiltration, and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) levels. Gross morphological and histopathological examinations revealed that rats treated with AdTSP-1 had less severe osteoarthritis than controls. In vivo adenovirus-mediated TSP-1 gene transfer significantly reduced microvessel density, inflammation, and suppressed the progression of osteoarthritis. This study provides potential applications of TSP-1 gene delivery for treating osteoarthritis. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 28:1300-1306, 2010 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sprouty2 (Spry2) is known to increase the expression of epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFR) by conjugating with c-Casitas B-lineage lymphoma (C-Cbl) to decrease protein degradation. The effect of Spry2 on the treatment of gefitinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor of EGFR, with regards to colon cancer is still unclear. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of gefitinib in six colon cancer cell lines were assessed. HCT116 and C2BBel cells expressed lower levels of Spry2 protein and were less sensitive to gefitinib, whereas HT29 cells that expressed high levels of Spry2 protein were more sensitive to gefitinib. The sensitivity to gefitinib was increased after overexpression of Spry2 in HCT116 cells, whereas it was decreased after Spry2 knockdown in HT29 cells. The levels of both phosphorylated and total EGFR were increased when HCT116 cells ectopically overexpressed Spry2, with concomitant increase in phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) expression. Inhibition of EGFR by cetuximab reduced sensitivity to gefitinib in HCT116 cells overexpressing Spry2. However, knockdown of PTEN or K-ras failed to diminish the effect of Spry2 on gefitinib sensitivity. Of note, Spry2 enhanced the antitumor effect of gefitinib in a xenograft model of HCT116 tumors, which harbored K-ras codon 13 mutation. In conclusion, Spry2 can enhance the response of colon cancer cells to gefitinib by increasing the expression of phosphorylated and total EGFR. These results suggest that Spry2 may be a potential biomarker in predicting the response to anti-EGFR treatment in colon cancer and that it is necessary to conduct clinical studies to incorporate Spry2 into the network of cancer treatment. ( Cancer Sci 2010) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nodulation is the predominant cellular defense reaction to bacterial challenges in insects. In this study, third instar larvae of Chrysomya megacephala were injected with bacteria, Escherichia coli K 12 (106 CFU/mL, 2 μL), immediately prior to injection of inhibitors of eicosanoid biosynthesis, which sharply reduced nodulation response. Test larvae were treated with specific inhibitors of phospholipase A2 (dexamethasone), cyclo-oxygenase (indomethacin, ibuprofen and piroxicam), dual cyclo-oxygenase/lipoxygenase (phenidone) and lipoxygenase (esculetin) and these reduced nodulation except esculetin. The influence of bacteria was obvious within 2 h of injection (5 nodules/larva), and increased to a maximum after 8 h (with 15 nodules/larva), and then significantly reduced over 24 h (9 nodules/larva). The inhibitory influence of dexamethasone was apparent within 2 h of injection (4 vs. 5 nodules/larva), and nodulation was significantly reduced, compared to control, over 24 h (5 vs. 8 nodules/larva). Increased dosages of ibuprofen, indomethacin, piroxicam and phenidone led to decreased numbers of nodules. Nodules continued to exist during the pupal stage. However, the effects of dexamethasone were reversed by treating bacteria-injected insects with an eicosanoid-precursor polyunsaturated fatty acid, arachidonic acid. These findings approved our view that eicosanoid can mediate cellular defense mechanisms in response to bacterial infections in another Dipteran insect C. megacephala. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Cellular mechanisms involving the enhancement of interferon (IFN) signaling by ribavirin remain poorly understood. Here, we identified a novel role of ribavirin in the communication between p53 and the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling. Ribavirin activates p53 by stimulating mTOR and promoting the interaction between mTOR and p53. Activated p53 stimulates the transcription of IFN regulatory factor 9 and subsequently enhances IFN signaling. Furthermore, ribavirin-induced activation of mTOR and p53 enhances IFN-dependent signaling for the IFN-α/ribavirin combined treatment. We conclude that ribavirin enhances activities of mTOR and p53, which may account for its antiviral and antitumor effects. Structured summary:: MINT-7222801: mTOR (uniprotkb:P42345) physically interacts (MI:0914) with raptor (uniprotkb:Q8N122) by anti bait coimmunoprecipitation (MI:0006) MINT-7222793: mTOR (uniprotkb:P42345) physically interacts (MI:0914) with RICTOR (uniprotkb:Q8N6M7) by anti bait coimmunoprecipitation (MI:0006) MINT-7222784: mTOR (uniprotkb:P42345) physically interacts (MI:0914) with P53 (uniprotkb:P04637) by anti bait coimmunoprecipitation (MI:0006) [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We report the first description of the biology of non-bioluminescent Keroplatidae from China. The life cycle of Chetoneura shennonggongensis is documented from laboratory culture and from field observations. The larval stage usually lasts 8–10 months. Large amounts of pupae are observed in late June, where they remain suspended horizontally or vertically from silk threads. The pupal suspending postures differ from other Keroplatidae species. Sexual differentiation is evident from the pupal stage. July is the peak time of adult emergence. Mating usually takes place immediately upon female emergence if adult males are available. The adult life span is short. Females live a maximum of 5 days and males 7 days. Egg development time varies from 20–30 days depending on environmental temperature. Larvae hang long sticky silk threads with a series of mucous droplets to capture prey. Some behaviors associated with snare construction and prey capture are also described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic exercise has been reported to improve cognitive function. However, whether and how different types of exercise affect various learning and memory tasks remain uncertain. To address this issue, male BALB/c mice were trained for 4 weeks under two different exercise protocols: moderate treadmill running or voluntary wheel running. After exercise training, their spatial memory and aversive memory were evaluated by a Morris water maze and by one-trial passive avoidance (PA), respectively. Levels of neural plasticity-related proteins, i.e. brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB) and synaptotagmin I (Syt I), in hippocampus and amygdala were determined by ELISA or immunoblotting. Finally, the functional roles of these proteins in the basolateral amygdala were verified by locally blocking them with K252a (a TrkB kinase inhibitor), or lentivirus expressing Syt I shRNA. We found that (1) although both moderate treadmill running and wheel running improved the Morris water maze performance, only the former improved PA performance; (2) likewise, both exercise protocols upregulated the BDNF–TrkB pathway and Syt I in the hippocampus, whereas only treadmill exercise upregulated their expression levels in the amygdala; (3) local injection of K252a abolished the treadmill exercise-facilitated PA performance and upregulation of amygdalar TrkB and Syt I; and (4) local administration of Syt I shRNA abolished the treadmill exercise-facilitated PA performance and upregulation of amygdalar Syt I. Therefore, our results support the notion that different forms of exercise induce neuroplasticity changes in different brain regions, and thus exert diverse effects on various forms of learning and memory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]