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Determining the precise course of bacterial infection requires abundant in vivo real‐time data. Synchronous monitoring of the bacterial load, temperature, and immune response can satisfy the shortage of real‐time in vivo data. Here, we conducted a study in the joint‐infected mouse model to synchronously monitor the bacterial load, temperature, and immune response using the second near‐infrared (NIR‐II) fluorescence imaging, infrared thermography, and immune response analysis for 2 weeks. Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) was proved successfully labeled with glucose‐conjugated quantum dots in vitro and in subcutaneous‐infected model. The bacterial load indicated by NIR‐II fluorescence imaging underwent a sharp drop at 1 day postinfection. At the same time, the temperature gap detected through infrared thermography synchronously brought by infection reached lowest value. Meanwhile, the flow cytometry analysis demonstrated that immune response including macrophage, neutrophil, B lymphocyte, and T lymphocyte increased to the peak at 1 day postinfection. Moreover, both M1 macrophage and M2 macrophage in the blood have an obvious change at ~ 1 day postinfection, and the change was opposite. In summary, this study not only obtained real‐time and long‐time in vivo data on the bacterial load, temperature gap, and immune response in the mice model of S. aureus infection, but also found that 1 day postinfection was the key time point during immune response against S. aureus infection. Our study will contribute to synchronously and precisely studying the complicated complex dynamic relationship after bacterial infection at the animal level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Our team designed a long‐lasting, well‐sealed microphone, which uses laser welding and vacuum packaging technology. This study examined the sensitivity and effectiveness of this new floating piezoelectric microphone (NFPM) designed for totally implantable cochlear implants (TICIs) in animal experiments and intraoperative testing. Methods: Different NFPM frequency responses from 0.25 to 10 kHz at 90 dB SPL were analyzed using in vivo testing of cats and human patients. The NFPM was tested in different positions that were clamped to the ossicular chains or placed in the tympanic cavity of cats and human patients. Two volunteers' long incus foot and four cats' malleus neck of the ossicular chain were clamped with the NSFM. The output electrical signals from different locations were recorded, analyzed, and compared. The NFPM was removed after the test without causing any damage to the middle‐ear structure of the cats. Intraoperative tests of the NFPM were performed during the cochlear implant surgery and the cochlear implant surgery was completed after all tests. Results: Compared with the results in the tympanic cavity, the NFPM could detect the vibration from the ossicular chain more sensitively in cat experiments and intraoperative testing. We also found that the signal output level of the NFPM decreased as the acoustic stimulation strength decreased in the intraoperative testing. Conclusion: The NFPM is effective in the intraoperative testing, making it feasible as an implantable middle‐ear microphone for TICIs. Level of Evidence: 4 Laryngoscope, 134:937–944, 2024 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates whether the expertise levels of real estate agents impact the fundamental market outcomes of transaction prices and marketing durations. A primary contribution of this article is joint examination of three knowledge categories for both listing and selling agents. Instead of the length of agents' license periods or recent transaction volumes, the results demonstrate that the important expertise category is agents' local market knowledge. We consistently find that the economically important determinant of transaction prices is the separation distances between the subject homes being traded and agents' micromarkets where they have conducted recent transactions. The results further demonstrate that agents who have tighter market concentrations increase prices and vice versa for unfocused micromarkets. We find that agents' expertise levels do not materially alter marketing durations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allisartan isoproxil (AI) is an angiotensin II type 1 receptor blocker and be converted into the active substance EXP3174 in vivo. We evaluated the drug–drug interactions of AI and an indapamide sustained‐release (Ind SR) preparation, as well as the pharmacokinetic characteristics and safety of AI and Ind SR in healthy subjects. The trial was set up in 6 sequences and 3 cycles, and each cycle contained a 7‐day washout period. Subjects received 3 different trial drugs (A, AI; B, Ind SR; C, AI + Ind SR) during 3 different cycles. Twenty‐four subjects were enrolled in the clinical trial. Of these, 22 completed the study, 2 subjects dropped out due to adverse events (AEs). For subjects given AI alone or combined with Ind SR, the pharmacogenetic parameters Cmax and the geometric mean ratio of steady state (combined/single) of EXP3174 was 130%. The geometric mean ratio of area under the concentration–time curve over the dosing interval at steady state (combined/single use) was 144.5%. Therefore, the combination of Ind SR had an impact on the pharmacokinetics of AI. Then, the results indicated that the AI combination had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of Ind SR. Serious AEs did not occur. The AEs in this clinical trial were the same as those for AI and Ind SR. Combined administration resulted in 2 cases (2 subjects) of Grade 3 hypotension and 1 case of Grade 3 hypotension with AI alone. Considering that this trial included healthy volunteers, the risk of hypotension was expected to be manageable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve the development efficiency of ultradeep fault‐controlled carbonate reservoirs, the deformation and connectivity mechanism of fractures was revealed through large‐scale rock mechanical experiments. The in situ stress field and fracture activity distribution law of fault‐control carbonate reservoirs were clarified through geomechanical modeling. It is revealed that the fracture activity in different directions and the connectivity of the fracture and cavity in different parts are significantly different, the development effect of different well trajectories is analyzed, and the integrated working method of geological engineering is proposed to scientifically guide the well trajectory design and water injection scheme optimization. The results show that: (1) Large‐scale fractures and high‐angle fracture systems in the deformation of strike–slip faults are the key factors affecting reservoir quality. High‐pressure water injection can activate preexisting fractures, and it can extend on the basis of preexisting fractures, and even generate new fractures, which promote the interconnection of fault‐controlled fracture‐cave bodies in the vertical and horizontal directions. (2) During the process of high‐pressure water injection, the coupling change between mechanics and flow occurs inside the fracture body, the seepage environment is improved, and the oil and gas recovery factor is improved through cyclic lifting. (3) According to the shape and occurrence of the fault body and the dynamic shear deformation connectivity of the fault surface, the best well point and well trajectory of the directional well can be optimized, and the water injection scheme can be optimized. (4) The single‐well production increased by 1.45 × 104 t through high‐pressure water injection, the cumulative oil increase of the same fracture‐cavity body increased by 4.63 × 104 t. This method is highly efficient for ultradeep fault‐controlled oil reservoirs. The development provides a good theoretical basis and technical support, and plays a leading and exemplary role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate the effect of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS)‐optimized management system with nurse‐led multidisciplinary cooperation. Design: A quasi‐experimental design. Methods: Nursing department cooperated with medical and clinical department to establish an ERAS‐optimized management system. After the system was developed, it was applied in surgical departments of the hospital. Using convenience sampling, 220 selective surgical patients, 82 nurses and 98 doctors from January 1st, 2021 to July 31st, 2021 were selected as the trial group. 220 selective surgical patients, 82 nurses and 98 doctors were selected as the control group from January 1st, 2020 to July 31st, 2020. ERAS observation indicators were compared between the two groups before and 6 months after implementation. The nurse professional identity scores and satisfaction of medical cooperation scores of the two groups at different time points were analysed by repeated analysis of variance. Results: After the implementation, ERAS observation indicators in the trial group were better than the control group (p < 0.05). There were significant differences in the group main effect, time main effect and interaction effect of nurse professional identity scores, satisfaction of medical cooperation scores and scores in all dimensions between the two groups (p < 0.05). The scores of the experimental group at 3 months and 6 months after implementation were better than those of the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Enhanced recovery after surgery‐optimized management system with nurse‐led multidisciplinary cooperation was an effective working method. It could promote patients recovery and enhance nurse professional identity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Facing the problem of increased production of deep tight gas reservoirs, this study takes the Dibei gas reservoir in Tarim Basin as an example, carries out geomechanical research, and reveals the rock mechanical properties, in situ stress, and fracture characteristics of the tight reservoir. From the perspective of the in situ stress field and the effectiveness of fractures, the study reveals their impacts on reservoir quality, wellbore stability, and fracturing networks. The results show that the in situ stress and the effectiveness of fracture mechanics under its control have obvious control over the production capacity in the Dibei gas reservoir. The positions and intervals with low in situ stress, high fracture density, and fracture effectiveness are often favorable parts. A directional well has the dual advantages of overcoming reservoir heterogeneity and safety and stability. Understanding the geomechanical characteristics can quantitatively optimize the best wellbore trajectory, reduce the difficulty of fracturing from the source of well location deployment, improve the efficiency of hydraulic fracturing, and then realize the stimulation of gas reservoirs. In addition, the favorable borehole trajectory considers both the sweet spot penetration and borehole wall stability, which will reduce the difficulty of fracturing and is conducive to the efficient stimulation of tight gas reservoirs. Geomechanics research has built an integrated bridge between geology and engineering, which plays a significant role in increasing gas production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let Ln8,4 represent a linear octagonal‐quadrilateral network, consisting of n eight‐member rings and n four‐member rings. Such a graph contains a unique pair of opposite edges. The Möbius graph Qn(8, 4) is constructed by reverse identifying these opposite edges, whereas the cylinder graph Qn′(8, 4) identifies the opposite edges in the natural manner. In this paper, the explicit formulas for the Kirchhoff index and complexity of Qn(8, 4) and Qn′(8, 4) are deduced from Laplacian characteristic polynomials using to decomposition theorem and Vieta's theorem. A consequence is the surprising fact that the Kirchhoff index of Qn(8, 4) (resp. Qn′(8, 4)) is approximately a third (resp. half) of its Wiener index as n→∞. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives/Hypothesis: To translate and cross‐culturally adapt vestibular disorders activities of daily living (VADL) scale to Chinese population, and verify its psychometric characteristics. Study Design: A methodology study to translate, validate, and verify the reliability of the VADL scale. Methods: The translation of the VADL from English to Chinese was carried out in accordance with the recommendations proposed by the Process of Cross‐Cultural Adaptation guideline. All 185 Subjects with chief complaints of dizziness or vertigo were continuously invited to the study from January 2021 to June 2021. Investigation using the Chinese version of VADL (VADL‐C) was completed by all the participants. Complete data from all 124 participants were used for reliability and internal consistency analysis by using SPSS 22.0. Results: Through careful and complete translation and adaptation, the VADL‐C was successfully created. The content validity of the VADL‐C was 0.887, the internal consistency was 0.951, and the test–retest reliability was 0.989. Conclusions: The VADL‐C has an excellent internal consistency, test–retest reliability, and content validity. It will be a new tool to be used in China and for overseas Chinese speakers to explore the functional capacity of individuals with vestibular diseases and guide therapy planning, particularly in vestibular rehabilitation training program. Laryngoscope, 132:1446–1451, 2022 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sudden public health and medical education events have tested the stability of society to a great extent. The government need to strengthen capacity building, make use of system dynamic supervision, warn public health events in advance, and minimize the impact scope and related harmfulness of events. This not only facilitates the rapid mobilization of resources by the later government but also facilitates the comprehensive and detailed deployment and arrangement of decision-makers. As we all know, the Internet of Things is used by all walks of life because of its outstanding advantages of low power consumption, low cost, and wide range. Therefore, this article takes the Internet of Things as the technical basis of the system. According to the actual demand and resource design, it includes two system functions: detection and early warning. The results show that: (1) considering the practical principle, the evaluation system interface found that the scores of font size and color style are all below 80%, which need to be optimized and adjusted; the overall interface basically meets the needs of users. (2) The throughput of the three methods is different. The CoAP-E has superior throughput. (3) With the increase in packet loss rate, the request success rate of the CoAP method decreases in a "drop" manner. The CoAP-E method in this article has the best performance. (4) When the packet loss rate is 25%, the network adaptability of this method is the strongest, and the retransmission rate is less than 18%; the CoAP method is as high as 35%. (5) When the number of concurrent requests is less than 2500, there is no obvious difference between the three methods; the optimal performance of the dynamic load balancing method is 10.1 s. (6) The system comprehensively considers various factors of five site selections. The highest comprehensive score of Final Site, 5 is 8.7, which can be used as the resettlement place of emergency rescue facilities. This article starts from the characteristics and needs of public emergencies, and the final set of the system runs well. It can quickly reflect public health emergencies and medical education events. Use the most effective system functions for risk control, and maximize the analysis, organization, and coordination of events. The follow-up optimization of system details needs to be studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Historic climate changes drive geographical populations of coastal plants to contract and recover dynamically, even die out completely. Species suffering from such bottlenecks usually lose intraspecific genetic diversity, but how do these events influence population subdivision patterns of coastal plants? Here, we investigated this question in the typical coastal plant: mangrove species Aegiceras corniculatum. Inhabiting the intertidal zone of the tropical and subtropical coast of the Indo‐West Pacific oceans, its populations are deemed to be greatly shaped by historic sea‐level fluctuations. Using dual methods of Sanger and Illumina sequencing, we found that the 18 sampled populations were structured into two groups, namely, the "Indo‐Malayan" group, comprising three subgroups (the northern South China Sea, Gulf of Bengal, and Bali), and the "Pan‐Australasia" group, comprising the subgroups of the southern South China Sea and Australasia. Based on the approximate Bayesian computations and Stairway Plot, we inferred that the southern South China Sea subgroup, which penetrates the interior of the "Indo‐Malayan" group, originated from the Australasia subgroup, accompanied by a severe bottleneck event, with a spot of gene flow from both the Australasia and "Indo‐Malayan" groups. Geographical barriers such as the Sundaland underlie the genetic break between Indian and Pacific Oceans, but the discontinuity between southern and northern South China Sea was originated from genetic drift in the bottleneck event. Hence, we revealed a case evidencing that the bottleneck event promoted population subdivision. This conclusion may be applicable in other taxa beyond coastal plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allisartan isoproxil (AI) is a blocker of the angiotensin II type 1 receptor. We evaluated the safety and pharmacokinetics of single‐ and multiple‐dose AI in healthy Chinese individuals. Participants were assigned to receive AI or placebo. Plasma concentration of EXP3174 (carboxylic acid derivative) was measured using liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry. Pharmacokinetic parameters were determined by noncompartmental methods. Twelve subjects were enrolled, and the ratio of men to women was 5:1. Main pharmacokinetic parameters of EXP3174 after single and multiple doses of AI were a mean maximum concentration in plasma (Cmax) of 2242 ± 1037 ng/mL and median time to reach Cmax (Tmax) of 3.5 hours (2.5‐8 hours). The median Tmax, at steady state was 4.0 hours (1.5‐8 hours). The mean Cmax at steady state (Cmax, SS) was 2047 ± 1050 ng/mL. In terms of EXP3174, there was no significant difference in the Cmax, SS, area under the curve from time zero to 24 hours of quantifiable concentration at steady state (AUC0–24 SS), and AUC0‐72 after multiple doses of AI. Serious adverse events did not occur. These data suggest that AI is safe and well tolerated in healthy Chinese individuals at a single dose of 480 or 480 mg once daily for 7 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meloxicam is an enolate nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory agent. This trial investigated the pharmacokinetics, safety, and bioequivalence of single oral doses of Aomei meloxicam (15 mg) and Mobic meloxicam (15 mg) in healthy volunteers under fasting and fed conditions. A single‐site, single‐dose, randomized, open, 2‐period, 2‐sequence, crossover bioequivalence study was performed: 24 healthy volunteers were enrolled in each of the fasting and fed arms. Each HV was randomly assigned to receive the Aomei drug (test) in one period and the Mobic drug (reference) in the other period. The concentration of meloxicam in plasma was detected using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. The primary pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated using a noncompartmental model. In the fasting arm, the 90% confidence interval of the geometric mean ratios of maximum plasma concentration, area under the concentration‐time curve from time 0 to the last measurable plasma concentration, and area under the concentration‐time curve from time 0 to infinity between the test and reference products were 99.5% to 111.7%, 101.2% to 106.8%, and 101.8% to 108.3%, respectively. In the fed arm, the 3 parameters were 94.1% to 102.4%, 97.6% to 103.0%, and 97.5% to 103.7%, respectively. These parameters were in the range of 80% to 125%, and the 2 products were considered bioequivalent in both the fasting and fed states and were well tolerated. The severity of all adverse events was mild. Aomei meloxicam tablets and Mobic meloxicam tablets were bioequivalent in healthy Chinese volunteers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since discovered in 2011, transition metal carbides or nitrides (MXenes) have attracted enormous attention due to their unique properties. Morphology regulation strategies assembling 2D MXene sheets into 3D architecture have endowed the as‐formed porous MXene with a better performance in various fields. However, the direct patterning strategy for the porous MXene into integration with multifunctional and multichannel electronic devices still needs to be investigated. The metal‐assisted electro‐gelation method the authors propose can directly generate porous‐structured MXene hydrogel with a tunable feature. By electrolyzing the sacrificial metal, the released metal cations initiate the electro‐gelation process during which electrostatic interactions occur between cations and the MXene sheets. A high spatial resolution down to micro‐meter level is achieved utilizing the method, enabling high‐performance hydrogels with more complex architectures. Electronics prepared through this metal‐assisted electro‐gelation process have shown promising applications of the porous MXene in energy and biochemical sensing fields. Energy storage devices with a capacitance at 33.3 mF cm−2 and biochemical sensors show prominent current responses towards metabolites (sensitivity of H2O2: 165.6 µA mm−1 cm−2; sensitivity of DA: 212 nA µm−1 cm−2), suggesting that the metal‐assisted electro‐gelation method will become a prospective technique for advanced fabrication of MXene‐based devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fosaprepitant dimeglumine (FD) is a precursor of aprepitant. FD can be metabolized into aprepitant. This randomized, single‐center, open, 2‐cycle, single‐dose, crossover bioequivalence study compared the pharmacokinetics (PK) and safety of intravenously FD of test and reference products in healthy volunteers (HVs). HVs were assigned to the test group or reference group randomly and given FD intravenously. The plasma concentration of FD and aprepitant was measured using liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry. PK parameters were ascertained based on a noncompartmental model. Data for 29 HVs were obtained. The geometric mean and 90% confidence intervals of maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), area under the concentration‐time curve from time 0 to time of last measurable plasma concentration (AUC0‐t), and area from the last datum point to time infinity (AUC0‐∞) of test and reference groups were 101.69% (95.06%, 108.77%), 103.52% (99.15%, 108.09%), and 105.58% (99.51%, 112.01%), respectively. These 3 parameters were within the acceptance range of 80.0% to 125.00%, and the test product was bioequivalent to the reference product. The coefficient of variation (CV) of Cmax, AUC0‐t, and AUC0‐∞ was 15.14%, 9.67%, and 11.89%, respectively. Intravenously administered FD provided by 2 sponsors achieved bioequivalence. FD values from test and reference products were bioequivalent. All adverse events were mild and serious adverse events absent in HVs. This study indicated that FD may provide a safer alternative to aprepitant for chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To identify genes that are related to delayed endolymphatic hydrops (DEH) in patients by RNA‐Seq analysis. Design: Observational study. Setting: Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University (Shanghai, China). Participants: We collected the entire vestibular system from four patients with DEH who underwent labyrinthectomy. Three control samples were collected from patients with acoustic neuroma or facial neuroma treated via the translabyrinthine approach. High‐throughput RNA‐Seq analysis was performed to investigate gene expression in the pathological vestibular system. Main outcome measures: Our bioinformatic analysis identified 17 genes that were upregulated and eight genes that were downregulated in patients with DEH compared with the controls. Results: The altered gene expression profile suggested that DEH is closely related to neuropathy and autoimmune disease. In addition, many of the differentially regulated genes were involved in cell adhesion, suggesting a role of cell adhesion in DEH. Immunofluorescence analysis confirmed the expression of PMP2 and CLDN19 in the cytoplasm of hair cells and scattered expression of MPZ at cell junctions. The protein expression levels were higher in specimens from patients with Ménière's disease and DEH compared with controls. Conclusions: The protein expression profile of vestibular organs in patients with endolymphatic hydrops exhibited a degree of similarity to that of Ménière's disease. Endolymphatic hydrops is characterised by autoimmune abnormalities. DEH and Ménière's disease are likely to be different manifestations of the same disease, with disparate clinical symptoms. RNA‐Seq is a useful analytical tool to characterise the vestibular pathology based on its transcriptome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High‐performance composites reinforced with natural fibers are next‐generation structural materials due to their recyclability and light weight. Manufacturing composites with high strength has been a challenge. Here, we describe the manufacture of novel composites reinforced with wood fibers using densification by hot‐pressing and fixing by curing reaction with phenolic resin. This composite with 1.4 g/cm3 had high mechanical properties, high water stability, and aging‐resistance, and exhibited a flexural strength and internal bonding strength of 102.4 and 7.5 MPa, respectively. The strength and modulus are 1.5–6.0 and 1.3–28.1 times higher than those of most of the wood fibers reinforced composites. After immersing in water for 24 h, the water absorption and thickness swelling are only 1.3% and 0.8%, respectively. Scanning electron microscope characterization indicates that the cell wall is totally collapsed and became complete densification. And the collapsed cells are fixed by phenolic resin. This production strategy for the composites was shown to be universally effective for various species of natural fibers. These novel wood fiber‐reinforced composites were suitable for commercial manufacture in the current production line, making them a low cost and high‐performance alternative to automotive and aerospace industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Homocysteine (Hcy) is a sulfur‐containing amino acid that originated in methionine metabolism and the elevated level of Hcy in plasma is considered to be an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Endothelial dysfunction plays a major role in the development of CVD, while the potential mechanism of Hcy‐induced endothelial dysfunction is still unclear. Here, in Hcy‐treated endothelial cells, we observed the destruction of mitochondrial morphology and the decline of mitochondrial membrane potential. Meanwhile, the level of ATP was reduced and the reactive oxygen species was increased. The expressions of dynamin‐related protein 1 (Drp1) and phosphate‐Drp1 (Ser616) were upregulated, whereas the expression of mitofusin 2 was inhibited by Hcy treatment. These findings suggested that Hcy not only triggered mitochondrial dysfunction but also incurred an imbalance of mitochondrial dynamics in endothelial cells. The expression of mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU) was activated by Hcy, contributing to calcium transferring into mitochondria. Interestingly, the formation of mitochondria‐associated membranes (MAMs) was increased in endothelial cells after Hcy administration. The inositol 1,4,5‐triphosphate receptor (IP3R)–glucose‐regulated protein 75 (Grp75)–voltage‐dependent anion channel (VDAC) complex, which was enriched in MAMs, was also increased. The accumulation of mitochondrial calcium could be blocked by inhibiting with the IP3R inhibitor Xestospongin C (XeC) in Hcy‐treated cells. Then, we confirmed that the mitochondrial dysfunction and the increased mitochondrial fission induced by Hcy could be attenuated after Hcy and XeC co‐treatment. In conclusion, Hcy‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction and dynamics disorder in endothelial cells were mainly related to the increase of calcium as a result of the upregulated expressions of the MCU and the IP3R–Grp75–VDAC complex in MAMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, a smartwatch for sweat monitoring was presented for perspiration analysis. The smartwatch played the part of analyzing, computing, and displaying the real‐time data with the feature of comfortable wearing and lightweight ergonomic design. Moreover, the paper‐based microfluidic patch with a three‐dimensional structure was proposed to realize the sweat collection and solve the issue of sweat accumulation. To further realizing the sweat monitoring, the potassium and sodium ion‐selective electrodes were developed by the screen‐printing technique. The experiment of on‐body monitoring the K+ and Na+ in sweat had been carried out to further demonstrate the feasibility of the smartwatch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Planar cell polarity (PCP) signalling specifies the orientation of epithelial cells and regulates directional beating of motile cilia of multiciliated epithelial cells. Clinically, defects in cilia function are associated with nasopharyngeal symptoms. The polarity of the nasopharyngeal epithelium is poorly understood. Here, we demonstrated PCP in the nasopharyngeal epithelium. Multiciliated cells (MCCs) were uniformly aligned with their long axis parallel to the tissue axis of the nasopharynx (NP). In addition, PCP proteins exhibited an asymmetrical localisation between adjacent cells. Motile cilia were uniformly aligned in the same direction within both individual cells and neighbouring cells, which manifested as cilial polarity in MCCs. Mutation of Vangl2, a mammalian homologue of the Drosophila PCP gene, resulted in significant disruption of the orientation of epithelial cells. Finally, keratin‐5‐positive basal cells constantly replenished the luminal ciliated cells; the new dynamic ciliated cells were also oriented parallel to the tissue axis. These results indicate a role for the PCP pathway in the uniform orientation of dynamically replenished epithelial cells in the NP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using a sample of 30‐year fixed‐rate subprime mortgage loans, this article empirically examines whether gender inequality exists in the mortgage market, specifically whether a borrower's gender affects the loan contract rate charged, beyond the impact of the borrower's probability of default and prepayment. The results, based on a competing‐risks loan hazard model, reveal that borrowers of different genders have different loan termination patterns. After controlling for the probability of a borrower defaulting or prepaying, female borrowers pay higher contract rates in the subprime mortgage market over the study period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. In patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), the expression of PDK1 is remarkably improved in NPC tissue and correlated with the clinicopathological severity of NPC. We expressed miR-375 in NPC cells to study the effects on PDK1 gene expression. We also investigated the mechanism by which miR-375 affects the biological behavior of NPC cells through effects on PDK1. Methods. qRT-PCR was carried out to analyze miR-375 and PDK1 levels in NPC cells. NPC cells were transfected with miR-375 inhibitor or miR-375 mimic. CCK-8 testing, colony formation testing, transwell testing, and flow cytometry analysis were carried out to quantify the cells' biological behavior. Rescue experiments demonstrated that the recovery of PDK1 expression was able to reverse the influence of miR-375 inhibition on NPC diffusion and intrusion. The interaction between miR-375 and PDK1 was verified by dual-luciferase reporter gene testing. Results. The results revealed that miR-375 has a negative regulatory effect on PDK1 expression in NPC cells. Furthermore, PDK1 is a target gene for miR-375. The empirical results obtained demonstrated a negative correlation between tumor development and the level of miR-375 expression in NPC tissues. The excessive expression of miR-375 and the downregulation of PDK1 facilitated the diffusion and invasion of NPC cells. Conclusion. The diffusion and incursion of NPC cells may be inhibited by direct targeting of PDK1 and decreasing the expression of miR-375. Our study highlights efforts to target PDK1 and miR-375 as potential therapeutic strategies for use in the treatment of NPC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The magnitude of the immune response is closely associated with clinical outcome in patients with cancer. However, finding potential therapeutic targets for lung cancer in the immune system remains challenging. Here, we constructed a vital immune‐prognosis genes (VIPGs) based cluster of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) from IMMPORT databases and The Cancer Genome Atlas. A transcription factor regulatory network for the VIPGs was also established. The tumor microenvironment of LUAD was analyzed using the ESTIMATE (Estimation of STromal and Immune cells in MAlignant Tumor tissues using Expression data) algorithm and single‐sample Gene Set Enrichment Analysis. The immune checkpoints and genomic alterations were explored in the different immune clusters. We identified 15 VIPGs for patients with LUAD and clustered the patients into low‐immunity and high‐immunity subtypes. The immune score, stromal score and ESTIMATE score were significantly higher in the high‐immunity subtype, whereas tumor purity was higher in the low‐immunity subtype. In addition, the immune checkpoints cytotoxic T lymphocyte associate protein‐4(CTLA4), programmed cell death protein‐1 and programmed death‐ligand were elevated in the low‐immunity subtype. The genomic results also showed that the tumor mutation burden was higher in the high‐immunity subtype. Finally, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis showed that several immune‐related gene sets, including interleukin‐2/STAT5 signaling, inflammatory response, interleukin‐6/Janus kinase(JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling, interferon‐gamma response and allograft rejection, were elevated in the high‐immunity subtype. Finally, high‐immunity patients exhibited greater overall and disease‐specific survival outcome compared with low‐immunity patients (log rank P = 0.013 and P = 0.0097). Altogether, here we have identified 15 immune‐prognosis genes and a potential immune subtype for patients with LUAD, which may provide new insights into the prognosis and treatment of LUAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reliability of face recognition system has the characteristics of fuzziness, randomness, and continuity. In order to measure it in unconstrained scenes, we find out and quantify key broad-sense and narrow-sense influencing factors of reliability on the basis of analyzing operation states for six dynamic face recognition systems in the practical use of six public security bureaus. In this article, we propose a novel evaluation method with True Positive Identification Rate in dynamic and M:N mode and create a novel evaluation model of system reliability with the improved Fuzzy Dynamic Bayesian Network. Subsequently, we infer to solve the fuzzy reliability state probabilities of the six systems with Netica and get two most important factors with the improved fuzzy C-means algorithm. We verify the model by comparing the evaluation results with actual achievements of these systems. Finally, we find several vulnerabilities in the system with the least reliability and put forward a few optimization strategies. The proposed method combines advantages of the improved fuzzy C-means model with those of the dynamic Bayesian network to evaluate the reliability of the dynamic face recognition systems, making the evaluation results more reasonable and realistic. It starts a new research of face recognition systems in unconstrained scenes and contributes to the research on face recognition performance evaluation and system reliability analysis. Besides, the proposed method is of practical significance in improving the reliability of the systems in use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macrophage activation plays a central role in neoatherosclerosis and in-stent restenosis after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Galectin-3, mainly expressed on macrophages, is an important regulator of inflammation. This study aimed to investigate the effects of berberine (BBR) on oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-induced macrophage activation and galectin-3 expression and their underlying mechanisms. THP-1-derived macrophages were pretreated with BBR prior to stimulation with ox-LDL. Galectin-3 expression was measured by real-time PCR, Western blotting, and confocal microscopy. Macrophage activation was assessed by lipid accumulation, expression of inflammatory cytokines, and CD11b and CD86. Plasma galectin-3 levels were measured in patients undergoing PCI at baseline and after BBR treatment for 3 months. BBR suppressed ox-LDL-induced upregulation of galectin-3 and macrophage activation. Overexpression of galectin-3 intervened the inhibitory effect of BBR on macrophage activation. BBR activated phospho-AMPK and inhibited phospho-NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation. AMPK inhibition and NF-κB activation abolished the inhibitory effects of BBR on galectin-3 expression and macrophage activation. Combination of BBR and rosuvastatin exerted greater effects than BBR or rosuvastatin alone. However, BBR treatment did not further reduce plasma galectin-3 after PCI in patients receiving standard therapy. In conclusion, BBR alleviates ox-LDL-induced macrophage activation by downregulating galectin-3 via the NF-κB and AMPK signaling pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A chiral bifunctional ferrocenylphosphine catalyzed asymmetric allylic alkylation of Morita−Baylis−Hillman (MBH) carbonates with pyrazolin‐5‐ones was developed. The reaction afforded the desired pyrazolone derivatives in moderate to good yields (up to 80%), and with high enantioselectivities (up to 98% ee). Enantioselective ironing: A chiral bifunctional ferrocenylphosphine‐catalyzed asymmetric allylic alkylation of Morita−Baylis−Hillman (MBH) carbonates with pyrazolin‐5‐ones was developed. It afforded the desired pyrazolone derivatives in satisfactory yields with high enantioselectivities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Revealing the host specificity of the predators/parasitoids of invasive species is a prerequisite when assessing the suitability of biocontrol agents, while the host ranges of top predators are likely to vary among communities comprising different species. Ficus microcarpa is a native plant in Asia and Australasia and has invaded in sometropical and subtropical areas. Besides its species‐specific pollinator, its figs also support many ovule‐galling and parasitoid non‐pollinating fig wasps. Here, based on a global collection of fig wasps associated with F. microcarpa figs, we used path analysis, supplemented by within‐fig spatial distributions and natal gall sizes to reveal food web structure of its associated fig wasps and the factors forming host ranges of parasitoids. The fig wasp community was species‐rich, and parasitoids were far rarer in the plant's introduced range. Parasitoids exhibited some host specificity, and four specific natural enemies of the plant's pollinator were identified with various intensities of effects on pollinator abundance. Parasitoid host ranges were consistent in both ranges of the plant, and mainly restricted by the size and the locations of host galls. No parasitoids were found associated with a unique seed predator. Our results showed how a large number of fig wasp species partition one host fig tree's figs and identified the species that have potential to control the sexual reproduction of F. microcarpa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Defective acoustic transmission in the cochlea is closely related with various auditory and vestibular symptoms. Among them, semicircular canal dehiscence (SCD) with a defective semicircular bone is typical. Currently, the pathogenesis of SCD is usually explained by the third window hypothesis; however, this hypothesis fails to explain the variability in the symptoms and signs experienced by superior SCD (SSCD) patients. We evaluated the mechanism of hearing loss in a guinea pig model of bony dehiscence with various sizes and locations along the superior semicircular canal. Auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) and laser Doppler velocimetry were used to measure hearing loss and vibration changes before and after fenestration, as well as after restorative patching. ABR thresholds at low frequencies (e.g., 1000 Hz) increased after fenestration and decreased back to the normal range after we repaired the defect. Energy leakage from the surgically introduced third window was detected in the range of 300–1500 Hz, accompanied by increased vibration at the umbo, stapes head, and the dehiscence site, while decreased vibration was observed at the round window membrane in the same frequency range. After the patching procedure, the deviant vibrations were recovered. The degree of postfenestration energy leakage was proportional to the size of fenestration and the proximity of the fenestration site to the oval window. These results suggest that the bony fenestration of the superior semicircular canal mimics the hearing loss pattern of patients with SSCD. The decrease in perilymph wave impedance likely accounts for the auditory changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The first example of a Cu‐catalyzed and 4‐OH‐TEMPO mediated intermolecular [3+3] annulation of saturated ketones with β‐enamino esters is reported herein, which was successfully used for the synthesis of versatile nicotinates through sequential β‐C(sp3)‐H bond alkenylation, enamine‐carbonyl condensation and aromatization. This protocol tolerates a variety of functional groups, thereby providing a practical and efficient method for the fabrication of 5H‐chromeno[4,3‐b]pyridin‐5‐one skeletons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. This study aimed at describing the mechanism of hearing loss in low frequency and the different dynamic behavior of the umbo, the stapes head, and the round window membrane (RWM) between normal guinea pigs and those with endolymphatic hydrops (EH), using a laser Doppler vibrometer (LDV). Methods. Cochlear sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (HE) to evaluate the hydropic ratio (HR). Auditory brainstem responses (ABR) and whole-mount immunostaining were measured. Displacement of the umbo, stapes head, and RWM in response to ear-canal sound was evaluated using a LDV. Results. Mean HR values in EH model of all the turns are larger than the control group. The ABR threshold of the EH group was significantly higher than that of the control. Strong positive correlation was found between HR at apical turn and ABR threshold elevation at 1000 Hz and at subapical turn and ABR threshold elevation at 2000 Hz. FITC-phalloidin immunostaining of the cochlear basilar membrane in the apical, subapical, and suprabasal turns showed missing and derangement stereocilia of third-row outer hair cells. The umbo, stapes head, and RWM displacement in ears with EH was generally lower than that of normal ears. The EH-induced differences in stapes head and RWM motion were significant at 0.5 kHz. Conclusion. The LDV results suggested that the higher inner ear impedance in EH affected the dynamic behavior of the two opening windows of the cochlea and then reduced the vibration of the ossicular chain by increasing the afterload, resulting in acoustic dysfunction. The vibration reduction mainly occurred at low frequencies, which has related with the morphology changes of the apical and subapical turns in EH model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different types of lasers have been used in inner ear surgery. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance to avoid damage to the inner ear (e.g., hyperthermia and acoustic effects) caused by the use of such lasers. The aim of this study was to use a high powered fibre-enabled CO2 laser (10 W, 606 J/cm2) to perform cochleostomies on guinea pig cochlea and to investigate the possible laser-induced damage mechanisms. The temperature changes in the round window membrane, auditory evoked brainstem response, and morphological of the hair cells were measured and recorded before and after laser application. All of the outcomes differed in comparison with the control group. A rise in temperature and subsequent increased hearing loss were observed in animals that underwent surgery with a 10 W CO2 laser. These findings correlated with increased injury to the cochlear ultrastructure and a higher positive expression of E-cadherin and β-catenin in the damaged organ of Corti. We assume that enhanced cell-cell adhesion and the activated β-catenin-related canonical Wnt-signalling pathway may play a role in the protection of the cochlea to prevent further damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a cascade synthetic route to directly obtain diethyl terephthalate, a replacement for terephthalic acid, from biomass-derived muconic acid, ethanol, and ethylene. The process involves two steps: First, a substituted cyclohexene system is built through esterification and Diels-Alder reaction; then, a dehydrogenation reaction provides diethyl terephthalate. The key esterification reaction leads to improved solubility and modulates the electronic properties of muconic acid, thus promoting the Diels-Alder reaction with ethylene. With silicotungstic acid as the catalyst, nearly 100% conversion of muconic acid was achieved, and the cycloadducts were formed with more than 99.0% selectivity. The palladium-catalyzed dehydrogenation reaction preferentially occurs under neutral or mildly basic conditions. The total yield of diethyl terephthalate reached 80.6 % based on the amount of muconic acid used in the two-step synthetic process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared with single gene analysis, multi-locus sequence data usually perform better in resolving phylogenetic relationships of closely related species. Sonneratia (Lythraceae s.l.), a genus of mangroves, is widely distributed in the Indo-West Pacific region. Sonneratia griffithii Kurz is one of the rarest species of this genus and morphological analyses have produced conflicting results regarding its affinity to other species of Sonneratia. In this study, we aimed to resolve the phylogenetic position of S. griffithii by using sequence data of the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (nrITS) and 13 nuclear genes. We first reconstructed the phylogeny of five Sonneratia species using nrITS and the nuclear gene rpl9, which showed that S. caseolaris (L.) Engl. diverged first from the other species and that S. griffithii was closer to S. apetala Buch.-Ham. and S. ovata Backer; however, the relationships among S. griffithii, S. apetala, and S. ovata could not be resolved. Further phylogenetic analysis based on sequences of nrITS and 13 nuclear genes and using S. caseolaris as an outgroup showed that S. griffithii and S. apetala were sister species with high bootstrap support. We conclude that S. griffithii and S. apetala have the closest relationships. Furthermore, our phylogenetic analyses do not support previous intrageneric classifications of Sonneratia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dysfunction of endothelial progenitor cells ( EPC) contribute to diabetic vascular disease. Micro RNAs (mi RNAs) are key regulators of diverse cellular processes, including angiogenesis. We recently reported that downregulated miR-130a in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus ( DM) results in EPC dysfunction, including increased apoptosis, likely via its target runt-related transcription factor 3 (Runx3). However, whether miR-130a affects the autophagy of EPC is unknown. The aim of the present study was to explore the effects of miR-130a on the autophagy and cell death of EPC, as well as their expression of Beclin 1 ( BECN1; an initiator of autophagosome formation) and the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl2 (which binds to and inactivates BECN1), and the role of Runx3 in mediating these effects. The EPC were cultured from peripheral blood mononuclear cells of diabetic patients and non-diabetic controls. Cells were transfected with an miR-130a inhibitor, or mimic- miR-130a or mimic- miR-130a plus lentiviral vector expressing Runx3 to manipulate miR-130a and/or Runx3 levels. The number of autophagosomes was counted under transmission electron microscopy and cell death was examined by flow cytometry. The mRNA expression of Beclin1 was measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction and the protein expression of Beclin1 and Bcl2 was determined by western blotting. Both the number of autophagosomes and Beclin1 expression were increased in EPC from patients with DM. Inhibition of miR-130a increased the number of autophagosomes and Beclin1 expression, but attenuated Bcl2 expression. Overexpression of miR-130a decreased the number of autophagosomes, cell death and Beclin1 expression, but promoted Bcl2 expression; these effects were mediated by Runx3. In conclusion, miR-130a is important for maintaining normal autophagy levels and promoting the survival of EPC via regulation of Bcl-2 and Beclin1 expression, via Runx3. MiR-130a may be a regulator linking apoptosis and the autophagy of EPC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A formalism is described which enables the simulation or fitting of small-angle scattering data (X-ray or neutron) for periodic heterogeneous lattices of arbitrary nano-objects. Generality is maximized by allowing for particle mixtures, anisotropic nano-objects and definable orientations of nano-objects within the unit cell. The model is elaborated by including a variety of kinds of disorder relevant to self-assembling systems: finite grain size, polydispersity in particle properties, positional and orientation disorder of particles, and substitutional or vacancy defects within the lattice. The applicability of the approach is demonstrated by fitting experimental X-ray scattering data. In particular, the article provides examples of superlattices self-assembled from isotropic and anisotropic nanoparticles which interact through complementary DNA coronas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nephrolithiasis is a multifactorial disease caused by environmental, hormonal, and genetic factors. Genetic polymorphisms of ORAI1, which codes for the main subunit of the store-operated calcium (SOC) channel, were reported to be associated with the risk and recurrence of calcium nephrolithiasis. Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) 3-kinase C (ITPKC) is a negative regulator of the SOC channel-mediated signaling pathway. We investigated the association between calcium containing nephrolithiasis and genetic variants of ITPKC gene in Taiwanese patients. 365 patients were recruited in this study. Eight tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms of ITPKC were selected for genotyping. ITPKC genotypes were determined by TaqMan assay. ITPKC plasmids were transfected into cells to evaluate the intracellular calcium mobilization. Our results indicated that rs2607420 CC genotype in the intron region of the ITPKC gene is associated with a lower eGFR by both Modification of Diet in Renal Diseases (P = 0.0405) and Cockcroft-Gault (P = 0.0215) equations in patients with calcium nephrolithiasis. Our results identify a novel polymorphism for renal function and highlight the importance of ITPKC as a key molecule to regulate calcium signaling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various kinds of nonlinear scalarization functions play important roles in vector optimization. Among them, the one commonly known as the Gerstewitz function is good at scalarizing. In linear normed spaces, the globally Lipschitz property of such function is deduced via primal and dual spaces approaches, respectively. The equivalence of both expressions for globally Lipschitz constants obtained by primal and dual spaces approaches is established. In particular, when the ordering cone is polyhedral, the expression for calculating Lipschitz constant is given. As direct applications of the Lipschitz property, several sufficient conditions for Hölder continuity of both single-valued and set-valued solution mappings to parametric vector equilibrium problems are obtained using the nonlinear scalarization approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Planar cell polarity (PCP) signaling regulates the coordinated polarization of cells and is required for the normal development and function of many tissues. Previous studies have identified conserved PCP genes, such as Van Gogh-like 2 (Vangl2) and Prickle (Pk), in the regulation of coordinated orientation of inner ear hair cells and female reproductive tract development. Testin shares a PET-LIM homology with Pk. It is not clear whether Testin acts in PCP processes in mammals. Results: We identified Testin as a Vangl2-interacting protein through a 2-hybrid screen with a cochlea cDNA library. Testin is enriched to cell-cell boundaries in the presence of Vangl2 in cultured cells. Genetic inactivation of Testin leads to abnormal hair cell orientation in the vestibule and cellular patterning defects in the cochlea. In addition, Testin genetically interacts with Vangl2 to regulate hair cell orientation in the cochlea and the opening of the vaginal tract. Conclusions: Our findings suggested Testin as a gene involved in coordinated hair cell orientation in the inner ear and in female reproductive tract development. Furthermore, its genetic interaction with Vangl2 implicated it as a potential molecular link, responsible for mediating the role of Vangl2-containing membranous PCP complexes in directing morphologic polarization. Developmental Dynamics 242:1454-1465, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives/Hypothesis A piezoelectric sensor, floating piezoelectric microphone, driven by acoustic vibration of the ossicles, is one possible design for a microphone for a totally implantable cochlear implant. The purpose of the article was to study the frequency response of the floating piezoelectric microphone and to identify the ideal feasible position in the ossicular chain. Study Design Basic Research. Methods The frequency response of the floating piezoelectric microphone was analyzed by finite-element modeling and in vitro testing of fresh cadaveric heads. The floating piezoelectric microphone, 5.0 mm in length and 1.5 mm by 1.2 mm in rectangular cross section, as a piezoelectric microphone, was placed at various locations on the ossicular chain and stimulated by pure tones of different frequencies. Results The floating piezoelectric microphone can pick up the vibration of the ossicular chain and effectively convert it into the electronic signals effectively both in the long process of incus and in the malleus. The average sensitivity of the FPM is −44.22 dB rms ref 1V at 1000Hz in the long process of incus, −53.33 dB rms ref 1V at 1000Hz in the malleus, and −108.59 dB rms ref 1V at 1000Hz in the tympanic cavity. Conclusions The floating piezoelectric microphone is expected to be used as an implantable middle ear microphone for the totally implantable cochlear implant. Level of Evidence N/A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives/Hypothesis To explore the innervation areas of the medial vestibular nucleus (MVN) afferent neurons onto vestibular efferent neurons in the brain stem of rats. Study Design A morphology study in the central vestibular system. Methods Two neuronal tracers were used. Lectin PHA-L Conjugates (PHA-L, Invitrogen L - 11270,) was injected into the MVN as an anterograde tracer, and 5% FluoSpheres carboxylate-modified microspheres (MFS, Molecular Probe F-8793) was injected into the contralateral peripheral vestibule using as a retrograde tracer. All animals were allowed to recover for 12 days to facilitate sufficient transportation of the tracers. Then brain stems were sliced coronally on a freezing microtome and observed under a fluorescence microscope and laser confocal microscopy. Results Neurons in the MVN labeled with PHA-L exhibited green fluorescence, and their axons were distributed near the genu of the facial nerve (g7) and in the reticulation structure, as well as in the cerebellum or oculomotor-related nuclei. Neurons labeled with red fluorescence of MFS were mainly located dorsomedial and dorsolateral to g7 and in the caudal pontine reticular nucleus (PnC) bilaterally and presented different morphologies at different locations. The synaptic junctions would display color overlap (fluoresced yellow). Under three-dimensional reconstruction of the confocal laser microscopy, the synaptic junctions were visualized dorsomedial and dorsolateral to g7 bilaterally, predominantly ipsilateral to the MVN injection site. Conclusions Morphologic evidence of the distribution of vestibular efferent neurons synapsed by afferent nerves from MVN was demonstrated. These efferent neurons constitute short closed-loop circuits with neurons in the MVN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives/Hypothesis: To evaluate mechanisms of discrepant responses to the nondepolarizing muscle relaxant rocuronium among normal and injured facial nerve-innervated orbicularis oris and tibial nerve-innervated gastrocnemius, and to provide information for the proper use of muscle relaxants to balance evoked electromyography (EEMG) monitoring and immobility in general anesthesia. Study Design: Randomized controlled study. Methods: Right-sided facial nerve injury was induced by crush axotomy in 18 Sprague-Dawley rats. At different rocuronium concentrations, muscular tension amplitude (MTA) was determined in vitro for normal and injured facial nerve-innervated orbicularis oris and gastrocnemius; the number of unsaturated acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) at end plates was determined by 125I-α-bungarotoxin staining followed with gamma spectroscopy. The morphological composition of muscle fibers was determined by histological examination. Results: Following rocuronium incubation, the percentage of MTA inhibition (MTAI%) of gastrocnemius was significantly higher than the corresponding values of orbicularis oris ( P < .05), and the degree of saturation of AChR in gastrocnemius was significantly greater than that in orbicularis oris ( P < .05). The baseline MTA and AChR density of injured-side orbicularis oris was significantly smaller than those of the normal side, whereas no significant difference was found regarding MTAI% and the degree of AChR saturation between the normal and injured side. Conclusions: The affinity of AChR at end plates and different number of AChR per unit fiber cross-sectional area may be the mechanisms for differential sensitivities to neuromuscular blockers between facial nerve-innervated muscles and somatic nerve-innervated muscles. The lower EEMG responses in the impaired facial nerve-innervated muscles may result from the lower AChR density at end plates compared with the normal facial nerve-innervated muscles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma (cNEC) is rarely seen in the external ear. In this paper, we newly describe a patient with cNEC in his right external auditory canal, followed by a further discussion on the clinical features, diagnosis, and treatments of cNEC of the external ear. A review of the literature showed that cNEC of the external auditory canal generally presents as asymptomatic and that pathology yields themost confirmative diagnosis. A wide resection with adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy is recommended. The overall prognosis of this condition is poor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) paste was prepared by sol-gel and hydrothermal method with various precursors. Nanostructured mesoporous TiO2 thin-film back electrode was fabricated from the nanoparticle colloidal paste, and its performance was compared with that made of commercial P25 TiO2. The best performance was demonstrated by the DSSC having a 16 µm-thick TTIP-TiO2 back electrode, which gave a solar energy conversion efficiency of 6.03%. The ability of stong adhesion on ITO conducting glass substrate and the high surface area are considered important characteristics of TiO2 thin film. The results show that a thin film with good adhesion can be made from the prepared colloidal paste as a result of alleviating the possibility of electron transfer loss. One can control the colloidal particle size from sol-gel method. Therefore, by optimizing the preparation conditions, TiO2 paste with nanoparticle and narrow diameter distribution was obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was mainly to determine anticoagulant activity of a chemically sulfated polysaccharide (S-GFB), which was derived from water-insoluble polysaccharide of Grifola frondosa mycelia. Through 14-day seed culture, maximum mycelial biomass and polysaccharides, which appeared at about the 90th hour fermentation, were 7.9 and 1.3 g/L, respectively. The sulfur content in S-GFB was 17.7% (w/w). The molecular structure images of S-GFB and GFB were seen with atomic force microscopy. S-GFB showed particle lumps at 1 µg/mL, which was different from the long polysaccharide chain of GFB at 1 µg/mL. Anticoagulant activities of the S-GFB were investigated by studying the activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), thrombin time (TT) and prothrombin time (PT) using human plasma. APTT and TT were effectively prolonged, but no clotting inhibition was observed in PT assay at different concentrations. It proved that S-GFB had an important effect on decompounding fibrin polymerization through the fibrinolytic assay. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS The potential practical applications of this paper exhibited two points as follows: First, it took less than 4 days to obtain the maximum mycelial biomass in Grifola frondosa mycelial fermentation. So this method, which shortened the period of fermentation, may be utilized on industrial production of G. frondosa mycelia. Second, the water-insoluble polysaccharide accounted for a considerable proportion of polysaccharide obtained from G. frondosa. In order to make full use of the water-insoluble polysaccharide, we transferred it to water-soluble polysaccharide with high biological activity by chlorosulfonic acid-hydrochloride method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]