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At present, the teaching method of mathematics basic course is still the one to many teaching mode of multimedia and blackboard writing, but for the probability data analysis, the application of computer technology in practice is not popular. It is necessary to combine the probability research of data with the data processing of computer technology, so as to improve the progress of the course and the learning efficiency of students. Starting from the new characteristics of probability system frequency problem, this paper systematically expounds the basic principles of computer technology learning and the characteristics of applicable problems, summarizes the typical structure and training methods of computer technology learning, constructs the overall framework of computer technology learning based on artificial intelligence, analyzes and summarizes its application in frequency dynamic trend perception, frequency security and stability evaluation, frequency control and modulation application progress in the field of energy saving. This paper reviews the existing research from the aspects of problem characteristics, application demand changes, application necessity, application adaptability, etc. The results show that compared with the experimental class of grade 17, grade 18 has achieved better teaching effect and academic performance. It can be seen from the average score comparison that the proportion of grade 18 students in 80–90 and 90–100 is higher, and the average score is significantly higher than that of grade 17 students without teaching reform practice.

Background. As a traditional Chinese medicine tonic, Buzhong Yiqi decoction has the effects of invigorating Qi and lifting Yang. In this study, the effects of Buzhong Yiqi Shenge decoction combined with THP bladder perfusion on postoperative efficacy in bladder cancer were investigated. Methods. A total of 70 cases of bladder cancer patients were divided into the experimental group and control group according to the random number table method, with 35 cases in each group. The control group was treated with THP bladder perfusion. The experimental group was treated with Buzhong Yiqi Shenge decoction on the basis of the control group. The number of urine white blood cells, VEGF level, the incidence of adverse reactions, and KPS score were compared between the two groups before and after treatment. Results. After 3 and 6 months of therapy, the KPS score of the experimental group increased significantly compared with the control group. However, after 12 months of treatment, there was no difference in KPS scores between the two groups. Moreover, there was no significant variation in serum VEGF between two groups after 3 months of treatment. However, Buzhong Yiqi decoction notably reduced the level of VEGF after 6 months and 12 months. After 3 months, the urine white blood cell count was lower in the experimental group than in the control group. After 6 and 12 months, there was no difference in urine white blood cell count between the two groups. Furthermore, a total of 14 patients in two groups had reoccurrence after one year. Our results showed that there was no significant difference in postoperative recurrence rate between the experimental group and the control group. The occurrence rates of frequent and urgent urination, nausea/loss, and abnormal urine routine of appetite in the experimental group were significantly lower than those in the control group. But there was no difference in the occurrence rate of low heat, hematuria between the experimental group and the control group. Conclusion. Buzhong Yiqi decoction combined with THP bladder perfusion has no advantage in the short-term recurrence rate of bladder cancer patients. However, Buzhong Yiqi decoction can alleviate the symptoms of adverse reactions and improve the quality of life of patients.

Additional file 4: Figure S2. IHC was performed to investigate the expression of TMBIM6 in 122 pairs of LSCC samples.

Objective. To study the clinical efficacy of integrated traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Western medicine (WM) in treating endometrial cancer and the influence on ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), tumor markers, human epididymis protein 4 (HE4) and carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125). Method. A total of 152 cases of patients with endometrial carcinoma were randomly divided into two groups: the TCM + WM group and the WM group. The WM group was treated with megestrol acetate tablets, and the TCM + WM group was treated with Radix Astragali injection on the basis of the control group. The levels of inflammatory factors, HE4 and CA125 in serum, were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or radioimmunoassay. The characteristics of ultrasound images and MRI images were observed and recorded. Toxicity, side effects, and the 3-year cumulative survival rate after treatment were assessed. Results. After treatment, the levels of interleukin-4 (IL-4), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in both groups decreased, and the decrease in the TCM + WM group was more obvious than that in the WM group. There were statistically significant differences between the two groups in lesion shape, boundary, blood flow signal, lesion diameter, resistance index (RI), echo, intima thickness, and muscle layer infiltration from transvaginal ultrasound images after treatment. The diameter, echo, boundary, shape, composition, and enhancement degree of lesions between the two groups have a significant difference. Moreover, the levels of serum HE4 and CA125 in both groups decreased after treatment, and the decrease in the TCM + WM group was more obvious than that in the WM group. There were statistically significant differences between the two groups in the occurrence of myelosuppression, abnormal liver function, decreased platelet number, gastrointestinal reactions, leukopenia, and cardiotoxicity. After three years of follow-up, the cumulative survival rate of the TCM + WM group was 76.32%, and the cumulative survival rate of the WM group was 57.89%. Conclusion. Radix Astragali injection combined with megestrol acetate tablets has obvious therapeutic effects against endometrial cancer. Through vaginal ultrasonography and MRI, it can significantly improve the size, shape, and blood flow signals of patients’ lesions, reduce the level of serum inflammatory factors and tumor markers HE4 and CA125, reduce the incidence of toxic and side reactions, improve the patient’s immunity, improve the patient’s condition significantly, and prolong the survival time of patients.

Additional file 6: Figure S4. a The expression efficiency of IGF2BP2 after knocked down the IGF2BP2 in LSCC cells. b The efficiency of IGF2BP2 expression after IGF2BP2 overexpressed in LSCC cells.

The effects of different concentrations of gallic acid (0 mg/g, 1 mg/g, 2 mg/g, 4 mg/g, and 6 mg/g) on the physicochemical properties of Lateolabrax japonicas myofibrillar protein were studied with 400 W ultrasound. The results showed that gallic acid decreased the particle size, total sulfhydryl group, carbonyl and dimer tyrosine content and Ca2+-ATPase activity (P

Additional file 8: Figure S6. a-c The relationship between the expression level of IGF2BP3 and clinicopathological characteristics in LSCC patients.

Additional file 2: Figure S1. Volcano plot showing significantly differentially expressed proteins in 5 pairs of LSCC tissues and adjacent nontumor tissue. The pink circles on both sides represent 1826 significantly differentially proteins, the absolute fold change is ≥1.2, and the p-value is

Additional file 9: Figure S7. CCK-8 assays were conducted to examine the cell proliferation ability in LSCC cells after transfection with shCtrl and/or shRBM15 and/or RBM15 vectors.

Additional file 7: Figure S5. a and b qRT-PCR results of TMBIM6 expression after ablation or overexpression of IGF2BP2 in LSCC cells.

Additional file 3: Table S2. The top 6 mRNAs based on fold change and p-value.

Additional file 5: Figure S3. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis suggested that patients with high TMBIM6 expression in LSCC had a worse prognosis.

Background: Laryngeal cancer has the highest mortality rate among head and neck tumours. RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most plentiful and variable in mammalian mRNA. Yet, the m6A regulatory mechanism underlying the carcinogenesis or progression of LSCC remains poorly understood. Methods: The m6A RNA methylation quantification kit was used to detect tissue methylation levels. m6A microarray analysis, mRNA transcriptomic sequencing (mRNA-seq), and proteomics were used to determine RBM15, TMBIM6, and IGF2BP3. Immunohistochemical (IHC), quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blot were used to investigate RBM15, TMBIM6, and IGF2BP3 expression in tissue samples and cell lines. The biological effects of RBM15 were detected both in vitro and in vivo. The combination relationship between RBM15/IGF2BP3 and TMBIM6 was verified by RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay, Methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq), RNase Mazf, and luciferase report assay. RNase Mazf was used to determine the methylation site on TMBIM6 mRNA. Hoechst staining assay was used to confirm the apoptotic changes. The actinomycin D verified TMBIM6 stability. Results: The global mRNA m6A methylation level significantly increased in LSCC patients. RBM15, as a “writer” of methyltransferase, was significantly increased in LSCC and was associated with unfavorable prognosis. The knockdown of RBM15 reduced the invasion, migration, and apoptosis of LSCC both in vitro and in vivo. The results were reversed after overexpressing RBM15. Mechanically, TMBIM6 acted as a downstream target of RBM15-mediated m6A modification. Furthermore, RBM15-mediated m6A modification of TMBIM6 mRNA enhanced TMBIM6 stability through IGF2BP3-dependent. Conclusion: Our results revealed the essential roles of RBM15 and IGF2BP3 in m6A methylation modification in LSCC, thus identifying a novel RNA regulatory mechanism.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine gynecological disorder. Insulin resistance (IR) is a major cause of PCOS. Melatonin, a critical endogenous hormone, has beneficial effects on the female reproductive system. This study aims to investigate the molecular effect of melatonin on IR in human ovarian granulosa cells (GCs). Hormone levels of the subjects were determined through clinical examination. The expression levels of insulin receptor substrate (IRS)-1 and glucose transporter (GLUT4) in GCs from PCOS patients and a human granulosa cell line (SVOG) were examined using qRT-PCR and western blot. The IR cell model was established by inducing SVOG cells with palmitic acid (PA). IR was detected in GCs of PCOS patients and SVOG by measuring glucose content and glucose uptake. Cell viability and apoptosis levels were detected by CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry. PI3K/Akt pathway expression in SVOG was assessed by western blot. PCOS patients had higher levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, and LH/follicle-stimulating hormone. PA decreased cell viability, promoted apoptosis, and reduced glucose uptake in SVOG cells. IRS-1 and GLUT4 mRNA and protein expression was downregulated, and glucose uptake capacity was reduced in PCOS GCs and SVOG cells. Melatonin significantly upregulated IRS-1 and GLUT4 expression, downregulated p-IRS-1 (Ser307), and improved glucose uptake in PCOS patients' GCs and SVOG cells. PA decreased PI3K and Akt phosphorylation, whereas melatonin increased p-PI3K and p-Akt levels. Melatonin can reduce IR in GCs and PA-induced SVOG cells via the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, providing more evidence for treating polycystic ovary syndrome.

In this work, a hybrid coating (TSMA) was produced using tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS)/KH550/Styrene maleic anhydride copolymer (SMA) as raw materials. The coating was afterwards applied to modify recycled coir (r-coir) fibers via dip-coating. R-coir fibers reinforced ABS composites were then prepared and the reinforcing effect of fibers on the composite structure was investigated, as well. The r-coir fibers coated with TSMA were hydrolyzed in air for 3 days. The SiO2 particles produced by sol-gel reaction of TEOS were used to connect KH550 and SMA to the surface of the fibers and form an organic-inorganic ‘armor’ structure. The successful surface modification of the r-coir fibers was proved via FTIR spectroscopic study and the improvement of their decomposition temperature was evidenced by TGA. Furthermore, the homogeneous dispersion of TSMA on the surface of r-coir fibers was observed via SEM. In addition, the tensile strength of single fibers was found to increase by 36.1%. According to the results, TSMA can be successfully homogenized on the fiber surface, enabling one to repair the damaged areas and improve the tensile strength of single fibers. Besides, good compatibility between r-coir fibers and ABS was revealed by contact angle measurements. Furthermore, the bending strength and elastic modulus of TSMA-modified r-coir fibers/ABS composites were improved by 6% and 27%, respectively. Therefore, the method of plant fiber modification proposed in present work provides a reliable way for effective reuse of r-coir fibers.

Background To evaluate the bioequivalence between test and reference formulations of perindopril tert-butylamine under fasting and fed conditions and to assess their pharmacokinetic (PK) and safety profiles. Method A randomized, open-label, single-dose, crossover trial was conducted in healthy Chinese subjects. Test or reference perindopril tert-butylamine tablets (4 mg) were randomly given to subjects under fasting (2-period crossover, with an administration sequence of test tablet (T), reference tablet (R) or RT) and fed (4-period crossover, with an administration sequence of TRTR or RTRT) conditions, while each single administration was followed by a 14-day washout period. The plasma concentrations and corresponding non-compartmental PK parameters of perindopril and perindoprilat were determined. The two formulations were considered to be bioequivalent if the 90 % confidence intervals (CIs) of the geometric mean (GM) ratio (test/reference) for Cmax, AUC0-t, and AUC0-∞ (perindopril) was both within the range of 80–125 %. Safety assessments including vital signs, physical examination, laboratory examination, 12-lead ECG and reports of treatment emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were carefully documented. Results A total of 64 subjects (32 in each trial) were randomized and all completed the trials. Regardless of fasting or fed trials, the PK characteristics of perindopril and perindoprilat for the test formulation were similar to those of the reference formulation (all P > 0.05). The 90 % CIs of the geometric mean (GM) ratio for Cmax, AUC0-t, and AUC0-∞, respectively, were 92.86–106.81 %, 98.44–102.88 % and 98.48–103.02 % under the fasting condition and 90.64–110.04 %, 96.95–101.90 % and 96.83–101.78 % under the fed condition, which were both within the pre-specified range of 80–125 %. A total of 10 (31.3 %) fasted subjects and 11 (34.4 %) fed subjects experienced 11 and 24 TEAEs, respectively, all of which were within the severity of grade 1. The incidence of TEAEs and drug-related TEAEs were similar between test and reference formulations (all P > 0.05) and no serious TEAEs or deaths occurred during the trials. Conclusions The test and reference formulations of perindopril tert-butylamine tablets (4 mg) were bioequivalent and well tolerated in healthy Chinese subjects under fasting and fed conditions.

Accumulating evidence suggests that circular RNAs (circRNAs) may be a key contributor to oncogenesis. Yet, the function of circRNAs in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is still not clear. In this study, we examined the function of circRNA_103862 in LSCC progression by analyzing the tissue specimens collected from a patient with LSCC by using different LSCC cell models in vitro and an LSCC xenograft model in nude mice. We found that circRNA_103862 was frequently upregulated in the tissues of LSCC and was correlated with metastasis and prognosis of LSCC patients. Furthermore, circRNA_103862 downregulation could reduce proliferation, migration, and invasion ability of LSCC cells. In terms of mechanism exploration, miR-493-5p was sponged by circRNA_103862. Rescue experiments also showed that circRNA_103862 could achieve a carcinogenic effect by regulating miR-493-5p. Moreover, a luciferase reporter analysis showed that Golgi membrane protein 1 (GOLM1) is a downstream effector of miR-493-5p. In conclusion, our data suggested that circRNA_103862 promotes the proliferation of LSCC through targeting the miR-493-5p/GOLM1 axis, and it might serve as a potential prognosis marker and therapy target for LSCC.

Background Anthraquinone glycosides extracted from rhubarb have been proven to have significant therapeutic effects on ischaemic stroke. It is well known that anthraquinone glycosides are not easily absorb. Thus, how can rhubarb anthraquinone glycosides (RAGs) exert protective effects on the brain? Is this protective effect related to interactions between RAGs and intestinal flora? Methods The model used in this study was established by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) and reperfusion. Twenty-seven adult male Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: the normal group (A) (non-MCAO + 0.5% sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC-Na)), model group (B) (MCAO + 0.5% CMC-Na) and medicine group (C) (MCAO + RAGs (15 mg/(kg day)). The rats were fed by gavage once a day for 7 days. Fresh faeces were collected from the normal group to prepare the intestinal flora incubation liquid. Add RAGs, detect the RAGs and the corresponding anthraquinone aglycones by HPLC–UV at different time points. On the 8th day, the rats were euthanized, and the colonic contents were collected and analysed by high-throughput sequencing. In addition, 12 adult male SD rats were randomly divided into 2 groups: the normal group (D) (non-MCAO + RAGs (15 mg/(kg day)) and model group (E) (MCAO + RAGs (15 mg/(kg day)). The rats were fed by gavage immediately after reperfusion. Blood was collected from the orbital venous plexus, and the RAGs and anthraquinone aglycones were detected by HPLC–UV. Results The abundance and diversity of the intestinal flora in rats decreased after cerebral ischaemia–reperfusion injury (CIRI). RAGs could effectively improve the abundance of the intestinal flora. In addition, in vitro metabolism studies showed that RAGs were converted into anthraquinone aglycones by intestinal flora. In the in vivo metabolism studies, RAGs could not be detected in the plasma; in contrast, the corresponding anthraquinone aglycones could be detected. Absorption of RAGs may be inhibited in rats with CIRI. Conclusions CIRI may lead to intestinal flora disorder in rats, and after the administration of RAGs, the abundance of intestinal flora can be improved. RAGs can be metabolized into their corresponding anthraquinone aglycones by intestinal flora so that they can be absorbed into the blood.

Jahanyne, a lipopeptide with a unique terminal alkynyl and OEP (2-(1-oxo-ethyl)-pyrrolidine) moiety, exhibits anticancer activity. We synthesized jahanyne and analogs modified at the OEP moiety, employing an α-fluoromethyl ketone (FMK) strategy. Preliminary bioassays indicated that compound 1b (FMK−jahanyne) exhibited decreased activities to varying degrees against most of the cancer cells tested, whereas the introduction of a fluorine atom to the α-position of a hydroxyl group (2b) enhanced activities against all lung cancer cells. Moreover, jahanyne and 2b could induce G0/G1 cell cycle arrest in a concentration-dependent manner.

Low-purine food is not only the focus of gout patients, but also the focus of contemporary green diet development. Fish are usually considered as high-purine foodstuff because of the high nutritional value and high purine content. Therefore, it is necessary to reduce purine content in fish to ensure that they are suitable for patients with hyperuricemia or gout. In this study, the effect of allicin on purine reduction in turbot during cooking was investigated using high-performance liquid chromatography, and the change of xanthine oxidase (XO) activity was also studied. Molecular docking analysis was further performed to elucidate the mechanism of purine reduction by allicin. The results revealed that in the step of soaking, allicin could reduce purine content in fish by slightly enhancing XO activity, promoting hypoxanthine transformation into xanthine. The removal of total purines in experimental and control group reached 70.45% and 57.20%, respectively. Moreover, allicin could change the thermal stability of xanthine by providing an acidic environment, resulting in the rapid decrease of xanthine and hypoxanthine levels by boiling. Thus, this study provides a simple method to decrease purine levels, suggesting a possibility that allicin can function as a purine remover in food.

Background To improve the physicochemical and antibacterial properties of coatings, the chitosan (CS) coatings were respectively prepared by a casting method with zinc oxide (ZnO) and silver (Ag)/ZnO microspheres as modifiers. The chemical structures and micromorphology of ZnO, Ag/ZnO microspheres and CS coatings were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Furthermore, using the dominant spoilage bacteria of aquatic products, Shewanella putrefaciens and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, as objects, the antibacterial activities and mechanism of the CS coatings were investigated. Results The results show that ZnO and Ag/ZnO microspheres are dispersed homogeneously in the CS coatings. After modified by ZnO and Ag/ZnO microspheres, the mechanical properties and antibacterial abilities of the CS coatings are improved, and that of 0.5% Ag/ZnO-CS coating is the optimal. For pure CS coating, the bacterial cell membrane is damaged slightly because of the electrostatic interaction between NH3+ of CS and the negative charge on bacterial surface. After treated by ZnO-CS composite coating, the bacterial cell membrane is destroyed badly on account of the earlier-mentioned ion interaction and disturbing the synthesis of high molecular weight total protein. Conclusion With regard to Ag/ZnO-CS composite coating, the bacterial cell membrane is damaged seriously and cell contents are completely released due to ion interaction, disturbing the synthesis of high molecular weight total protein and low molecular weight membrane protein. Hence, Ag/ZnO-CS composite coatings are antimicrobial materials and food preservative materials with great potential application. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.

The combined effects of cinnamaldehyde (CA) and ultrahigh pressure (UP) treatment on the flavor of olive flounder (

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/carboxyl methyl cellulose sodium (CMC)/Na2CO3 composite films with different contents of Na2CO3 were prepared by blending and solution-casting. The effect of Na2CO3 on the microstructure of PVA/CMC composite film was analyzed by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Its macroscopic properties were analyzed by water sorption, solubility, and dielectric constant tests. The results show that the microstructure of PVA/CMC/Na2CO3 composite films was different from that of PVA and PVA/CMC composite films. In addition, compared to PVA and PVA/CMC composite films, the water sorption of PVA/CMC/Na2CO3 composite films relatively increased, the solubility in water significantly decreased, and the dielectric properties significantly improved. All these results indicate that the hydrogen bonding interaction between PVA and CMC increased and the crystallinity of PVA decreased after the addition of Na2CO3. This was also a direct factor leading to increased water sorption, decreased solubility, and enhanced dielectric properties. The reaction mechanism of PVA, CMC, and Na2CO3 is proposed to further evaluate the effect of Na2CO3 on the microstructure and macroscopic properties of PVA/CMC/Na2CO3 composite films.

Emerging evidence has shown that epigenetic changes in DNA methylation, an important regulator of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) expression, can disturb the expression patterns of lncRNAs and contribute to carcinogenesis. However, knowledge about crosstalk effects between DNA methylation and lncRNA regulation in thyroid cancer (THCA) remain largely unknown. In this study, we performed an integrated analysis of methylation and the transcriptome and identified 483 epigenetically regulated lncRNAs (EpilncRNAs) associated with the development and progression of THCA. These EpilncRNAs can be divided into two categories based on their methylation and expression patterns: 228 HyperLncRNAs and 255 HypoLncRNAs. Then, we identified a methylation-driven 5-lncRNA-based signature (EpiLncPM) to improve prognosis prediction using the random survival forest and multivariate Cox analysis, which were then validated using the training dataset [Hazard ratio (HR) = 50.097, 95% confidence interval (CI): 10.231-245.312, p < 0.001] and testing dataset (HR = 4.395, 95% CI: 0.981-19.686, p = 0.053). Multivariate analysis suggested that the EpiLncPM is an independent prognostic factor. By performing a functional enrichment analysis of GO and KEGG for mRNAs co-expressed with the EpiLncPM, we found that the EpiLncPM was involved in immune and inflammatory-related biological processes. Finally, in situ hybridization analysis in 119 papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) tissues and paired adjacent normal tissues revealed that selected candidate lncRNA AC110011 has significantly higher expression of PTC compared to adjacent non-neoplastic tissues, and was closely related to the tumor size, lymph node metastasis, and extrathyroidal extension. In summary, our study characterized the crosstalk between DNA methylation and lncRNA, and provided novel biomarkers for the prognosis of THCA.

In this article, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) microporous membranes with excellent tensile strength and good wear durability were successfully fabricated by the addition of nano-alumina (Al2O3). The friction and mechanical behavior of PTFE microporous membranes with different nano-Al2O3 contents were investigated by Martindale abrasion tester, dynamic mechanical analysis, and universal testing machine. Scanning electron microscopy was applied to analyze the surface, longitudinal section, and worn surface of the microporous membranes. Results demonstrated that nano-Al2O3 particles were dispersed into the “node” structures of PTFE microporous membranes and acted as the skeleton, leading to the increasing of the tensile strength remarkably. The wear rate reduced significantly with the addition of nano-Al2O3 and was affected by nano-Al2O3 content. Additionally, the wear mechanism of the microporous membranes was also discussed based on the study results.

Saccharina japonica is one of the most important marine crops in China, Japan and Korea. Candidate genes associated with blade length and blade width have not yet been reported. Here, based on SLAF-seq, the 7627 resulting SNP loci were selected for genetic linkage mapping to 31 linkage groups with an average spacing of 0.69 cM, and QTL analyses were performed to map the blade length and blade width phenotypes of S. japonica. In total, 12 QTLs contributing to blade length and 10 to width were detected. Some QTL intervals were detected for both blade length and width. Additive alleles for increasing blade length and width in S. japonica came from both parents. After the QTL interval regions were comparatively mapped to the current reference genome of S. japonica (MEHQ00000000), 14 Tic20 (translocon on the inner envelope membrane of chloroplast) genes and three peptidase genes were identified. RT-qPCR analysis showed that the transcription levels of four Tic20 genes were different not only in the two parent sporophytes but also at different cultivation times within one parent. The SNP markers closely associated with blade length and width could be used to improve the selection efficiency of S. japonica breeding.

Objective: To investigate the effects of raw rhubarb (RR) on the intestinal barrier dysfunction and endotoxemia in rat models with obstructive jaundice (OJ). Methods: Twenty-seven Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly allocated to four groups: control ([Formula: see text]), sham operation ([Formula: see text]), model ([Formula: see text]), and treatment ([Formula: see text]). Rat models with OJ were used in the model and treatment groups. In the treatment group, rats were intragastrically administered with RR granular solution. After treatment, serum endotoxin (ET), serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and total bilirubin (TB) levels were determined. The liver tissue, bile duct tissue above the obstruction bile duct site, and parts of the ileum and colon tissues were stained with hematoxylin and eosin and observed by light microscopy, and the histopathological changes in the ileum were observed by electron microscopy. Results: Fourteen days after the rats in the treatment group were intragastrically administered with RR granular solution, the ALT, AST, and TB levels showed no significant difference between the control and sham operation groups ([Formula: see text]). Serum ET level was significantly lower in the treatment group than in the model group ([Formula: see text]). Histopathology of the liver and bile duct revealed that RR might alleviate OJ-associated hepatocyte degeneration/necrosis, infiltration of inflammatory cells, and hepatic fibrosis, and reduce the damage to parietal cells and bile duct mucosa. In OJ rats, RR might also have a protective effect against colonic wall edema and necrosis and infiltration of inflammatory cells. Conclusions: RR may improve the structural changes in the intestinal mucosa caused by OJ and decrease serum ET level in OJ rats.

Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs), which are longer than 200 nt, have been proved to play a role in promoting or inhibiting cancer progression. The following study investigated the role and underlying mechanisms of lncRNA RP11‐159K7.2 in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) progression. Briefly, in situ hybridization (ISH) and real‐time quantitative PCR (RT‐qPCR) showed higher expression of RP11‐159K7.2 in LSCC tissues and cell lines. Patients with low expression level of RP11‐159K7.2 lived longer compared to those with high expression of RP11‐159K7.2 (χ 2 = 39.111, ***P

Some bacteria can modulate their spoilage potential by responding to environmental signaling molecules via the quorum sensing (QS) system. However, the ability of Pseudomonas fluorescens, the specific spoilage organism (SSO) of turbot, to response to environmental signaling molecules remains unclear. This study investigated the effects of six synthetic N-acyl homoserine lactones (AHLs) on typical behaviors mediated by QS in P. fluorescens, such as biofilm formation and extracellular protease activity. Total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) was used as a spoilage indicator to evaluate quality changes in AHL-treated turbot filets during storage. The results confirm the enhancing effect of environmental AHLs on QS-dependent factors of P. fluorescens and quality deterioration of turbot filets, with C4-HSL and C14-HSL being the most effective. Moreover, the content decrease of exogenous AHLs was also validated by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis. Further, changes in rhlR transcription levels in P. fluorescens suggest that this bacterium can sense environmental AHLs. Finally, molecular docking analysis demonstrates the potential interactions of RhlR protein with various exogenous AHLs. These findings strongly implicate environmental AHLs in turbot spoilage caused by P. fluorescens, suggesting preservation of turbot should not exclusively consider the elimination of SSO-secreted AHLs.

Acrylonitrile–butadiene rubber (NBR)/anhydrous copper sulfate (CuSO4) composites were prepared by coordination cross-linking. CuSO4 particles of different sizes are obtained by ball milling in acetone. During heat pressing at 190 °C, a strong cross-linking reaction occurred, which resulted from coordination between cupric ions and nitrile groups. Results showed that the mean size of CuSO4 particles decreased from 7.1 to 0.4 μm after ball milling. Accordingly, the number of coordination cross-linking points increased remarkably, which resulted in an increase in the glass transition temperature and equilibrium torque of the composites. Two models were employed to discuss the cross-link density and demonstrated that both CuSO4 particles and cupric ions contributed to the improvement of cross-linking points. It was noteworthy that this composite exhibited high strength and toughness, with 73.5 MPa tensile strength and 423.7% elongation at break. Moreover, a unique stretching phenomenon, including the features of both rubber and plastic, was observed and explained in detail.

Circulating tumour cells isolated from the peripheral blood of patients have the advantage of being non-invasive. The aim of this study was to develop an effective method for detecting pancreatic cancer micrometastasis from peripheral blood and explore the clinical application value of the separation of circulating pancreatic cancer cells using epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) lipid magnetic spheres (ELMS) and plastin monoclonal antibody for identification. The pancreatic cancer PANC-1 cells were respectively added to phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and fresh blood provided by healthy volunteers to detect cell recovery using ELMS. Moreover, trials were conducted using nude mice with tumour and samples from patients with pancreatic cancer to evaluate the effect of CTC isolation and identification. The prepared ELMS captured PANC-1 cells from blood with high efficiency, which was similar to the efficiency obtained with nude mice with tumour and the samples from patients with pancreatic cancer, in agreement with the clinical test results. This study is based on the high efficiency of the EpCAM magnetic nanolipid sphere separation system capturing CTC of pancreatic cancer, which provides a strong support for investigating pancreatic cancer, in terms of its early diagnosis, preoperative and post-operative analysis and analysing the treatment effects.

Metabolic reprogramming of cancer cells is essential for tumorigenesis in which pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2), the low activity isoform of pyruvate kinase, plays a critical role. Herein, we describe the identification of a nature-product-derived micheliolide (MCL) that selectively activates PKM2 through the covalent binding at residue cysteine424 (C424), which is not contained in PKM1. This interaction promotes more tetramer formation, inhibits the lysine433 (K433) acetylation, and influences the translocation of PKM2 into the nucleus. In addition, the pro-drug dimethylaminomicheliolide (DMAMCL) with similar properties as MCL significantly suppresses the growth of leukemia cells and tumorigenesis in a zebrafish xenograft model. Cell-based assay with knock down PKM2 expression verifies that the effects of MCL are dependent on PKM2 expression. DMAMCL is currently in clinical trials in Australia. Our discovery may provide a valuable pharmacological mechanism for clinical treatment and benefit the development of new anticancer agents.

Particle swarm optimizations (PSOs) are drawing extensive attention from both research and engineering fields due to their simplicity and powerful global search ability. However, there are two issues needing to be improved: one is that the classical PSO converges slowly; the other is that classical PSO tends to result in premature convergence, especially for multi-modal problems. This paper attempts to address these two issues. Firstly, to improve the convergent efficiency, this paper proposes an asymptotic predicting model of the globally-optimal solution, which is used to predict the global optimum based on extracting the features reflecting the evolutionary trend. The predicted global optimum is then taken as the third exemplar, in a way similar to the individual historical best solution and the swarm historical best solution in guiding the evolutionary process of other particles. To reduce the probability that the population is trapped into a local optimum due to the premature phenomenon, this paper proposes an adaptive mutation strategy, which is used to help the trapped particles to escape away from the local optimum by using the extended non-uniform mutation operator. Finally, we combine the two entities to develop a globally-optimal prediction-based adaptive mutation particle swarm optimization (GPAM-PSO). In numerical experimental parts, we compare the proposed GPAM-PSO with 11 existing PSO variants by using 22 benchmark problems of 30-dimensions and 100-dimensions, respectively. Numerical experiments demonstrate that the proposed GPAM-PSO could improve the accuracy and efficiency remarkably, which means that the combination of the globally-optimal prediction-based search and the adaptive mutation strategy could accelerate the convergence and reduce premature phenomenon effectively. Generally speaking, GPAM-PSO performs most efficiently and robustly. Moreover, the performance on an engineering problem demonstrates the practical application of the proposed GPAM-PSO algorithm.

In this paper, we propose a testing-coverage software reliability model that considers not only the imperfect debugging (ID) but also the uncertainty of operating environments based on a non-homogeneous Poisson process (NHPP). Software is usually tested in a given control environment, but it may be used in different operating environments by different users, which are unknown to the developers. Many NHPP software reliability growth models (SRGMs) have been developed to estimate the software reliability measures, but most of the underlying common assumptions of these models are that the operating environment is the same as the developing environment. But in fact, due to the unpredictability of the uncertainty in the operating environments for the software, environments may considerably influence the reliability and software's performance in an unpredictable way. So when a software system works in a field environment, its reliability is usually different from the theory reliability, and also from all its similar applications in other fields. In this paper, a new model is proposed with the consideration of the fault detection rate based on the testing coverage and examined to cover ID subject to the uncertainty of operating environments. We compare the performance of the proposed model with several existing NHPP SRGMs using three sets of real software failure data based on seven criteria. Improved normalized criteria distance (NCD) method is also used to rank and select the best model in the context of a set of goodness-of-fit criteria taken all together. All results demonstrate that the new model can give a significant improved goodness-of-fit and predictive performance. Finally, the optimal software release time based on cost and reliability requirement and its sensitivity analysis are discussed.

In this paper, ‘one-step’ molding process was used to prepare r-PET fiber-reinforced PE composites. Effects of compatibilizer HY-3308 and fiber content on interfacial properties, thermal properties, mechanical properties, and the fiber dispersion of the composites were studied. FTIR, contact angle test, and SEM results indicated that the compatibilizer improved the interfacial combination between the PET fiber and PE matrix. DMA, DSC, mechanical properties, density, and SEM results indicated that with an increase of HY-3308 content, bonding between the fiber and matrix became tight; the phase interface became blurred, and the mechanical properties were gradually improved. Such a ‘one-step method’ preparation of the r-PET fiber-reinforced PE composites is simple, which is beneficial for the industrialization of recycling processes for r-PET fiber.

This paper focuses on the combinatorial enumeration of the truncated hollow standard Young tableaux of approximate C shape. The enumeration formula of approximately C-shaped SYT, namely the convolution of Catalan numbers, is derived by using the multi-integral method based on the sequence statistical model. Meanwhile, it is found that the first and last rows differ in the number of boxes. In the case where the number of boxes in the last row n is large enough, the number of SYT does not change, especially if m = 1, whether it is closely related to the Catalan number. In addition, we present two main closed formulas for SYTs of angular and “T” shapes.

Preservation properties of chitosan (CS) and sodium alginate (ALG) coatings are widely investigated, but their bilayer composite coating application to fish preservation is limited. The aim of present study was to evaluate the quality changes in 4°C turbot fillets treated with a bilayer coating based on lysozyme-CS (LZ-CS) coating layer and ALG coating layer. Changes in total viable counts (TVC), texture profiles, and physiochemical indexes including pH, total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N), and K value were examined. The results indicated that bilayer coating was more effective than LZ-CS and ALG monolayer coatings in preservation of turbot fillets. The bilayer coating significant inhibited the increase of TVC, pH, TVB-N, and K value, and maintained better texture characteristics of turbot fillets during storage. Therefore, the bilayer coating on the turbot is more superior to monolayer coatings, which would have potential applications on fish preservation.

The recycling and self-healing functions of commercial rubber are of great significance in the field of sustainable materials. So far, manufacturing such rubber with excellent strength and toughness was still a huge challenge. Herein, the multi-coordination crosslink networks were designed to achieve this goal. First, the nitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR) was modified through 3,6-di(2-pyridyl)-1,2,4,5-tetrazine (DPT) click reaction to introduce the second ligand group. Next, the blend of modified NBR and metal salt (including ZnCl2 and CoCl2) was hot-pressed to form the metal-nitrile and metal-pyridine (nitrogen-containing heterocyclic groups) coordination bonds. The designed composite had ultra-high mechanical strength and toughness at the same time. Compared with the NBR/ZnCl2 composite, the tensile strength of NBR-DPT4-Zn10 composite with multi- coordination bonds was improved by 7.5-fold (from 5.5 MPa to 46.82 MPa), and the corresponding fracture energy was improved by 142% (from 26.2 MJ m−3 to 63.5 MJ m−3). At the same time, the high recyclable and heat-healing efficiency were obtained. These achievements are expected to develop commercial rubber’s recyclability and high mechanical properties.

Damping rubber, which is a blend of chlorinated isobutylene isoprene rubber (CIIR) and micromolecule resins (petroleum resins or rosin resins), was impregnated onto Wrap Knitted Spacer Fabric (WKSF) through solution method in order to produce damping rubber/WKSF composites. CIIR-grafted–(maleic anhydride) (abbreviated as CIIR-g-MAH) was synthesized and used as a novel compatibilizer for damping rubber/WKSF composites. The loss tangent factor (tan δ) values decreased and the tan δ peak moved to a lower temperature after WKSF was added. The tensile strength of the damping rubber was improved significantly with the skeleton structure of WKSF. The addition of CIIR-g-MAH increased the tensile strength further. Interfacial shear strength showed strong interactive interface between the matrix and the polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fiber of WKSF after the addition of CIIR-g-MAH. Scanning electron microscopy showed the morphology of the fracture surface and the interfacial compatibilization mechanism was investigated. POLYM. COMPOS., 2017. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers

Crosslinked ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) with excellent shape memory properties was prepared from the silane-grafted UHMWPE mixed with water-carrying agent by compression molding. The alkoxysilane hydrolyzation and condensation reaction of the silane-grafted UHMWPE allowed for the generation of Si–O–Si chemical crosslinking points between the polymeric chains. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy results confirmed that silane has been grafted on UHMWPE chains successfully. The resulting crosslinked products were characterized using dynamic mechanical analysis, gel measurement, impact test, tensile test, thermogravimetric analysis and shape memory bending test to obtain insight into the relationship between the structure and the properties. By controlling the content of water-carrying agent, the average molecular weights between crosslinking points (M c) reduced from 29,530 to 9540 g/mol. The decomposition temperature (T d) value increases from 467.7 for virgin resin to 491.5 °C for the crosslinked product with 91.64% gel ratio. The crosslinked materials showed much better shape memory effect than pure UHMWPE; the shape recovery ratio (R ν ) value of silane-induced crosslinked UHMWPE with 1.0 phr water-carrying agent reaches above 98.0% under multiple deformation recovery cycle. Therefore, the silane-induced crosslinking UHMWPE has a great potential in the shape memory material applications.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between social psychological factors and the occurrence of laryngeal cancer. A 1:1 matched case-control study was conducted. The participants completed questionnaires that included general information, such as the Life Event Scale, the Social Support Rating Scale, and the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ). Scores were compared between the groups using paired t-tests and Wilcoxon's signed-rank tests. No significant difference in the psychoticism scale of the EPQ was observed between the two groups (P>0.05). However, significant differences were observed in scores on the life events and social support scales and in the remaining dimensions of the EPQ (all P-values