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Grain size is important for yield in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Although many genes involved in grain size have been isolated, few can be used in breeding due to their interactions and phenotypic effects. Here, we describe natural variation in the granule-type quantitative trait locus GRAIN SIZE AND WEIGHT 3 (GSW3) located on chromosome 3 in wild rice (Oryza rufipogon Griff.) that encodes a GTPase-regulated protein and negatively regulates grain length, grain width, and 1,000-grain weight. The insertion of a 232-bp fragment of the genomic sequence in the wild rice, a natural allelic variant gene (GSW3), increased the expression levels and reduced the grain length and width and 1,000-grain weight. Knockout of GSW3 in the wild rice inbred line Huaye 3 increased the grain length and width and 1,000-grain weight. Introducing GSW3Huaye3 into cultivated rice line KJ01 and overexpressing GSW3Huaye3 in Huaye 3 resulted in reduced grain length and width and 1,000-grain weight, and grain size and 1,000-grain weight changes were closely related to GSW3 expression levels. GSW3 regulated the grain length and width simultaneously by promoting grain glume cell division and longitudinal and transverse cell growth. GSW3 was also involved in regulating the gibberellic acid signaling pathway and negatively regulated plant growth. Furthermore, a critical SNP in the GSW3 coding region was obviously correlated with grain size variation in a core collection of cultivated rice. This SNP resulted in an amino acid substitution from Gln to Arg at position 161 in GSW3, which reduced the grain size. Our study shows that GSW3 negatively regulates the grain shape, which could explain different grain shapes in modern cultivars and wild rice. GSW3 may also be used for breeding rice varieties with improved grain shapes and higher yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sugarcane smut is a serious disease caused by Sporisorium scitamineum, which causes significant losses to the sugar industry. It is critical to reveal the molecular pathogenic mechanism of S. scitamineum to explore a new control strategy for sugarcane smut. On the basis of transcriptome sequencing data of two S. scitamineum strains with different pathogenicity, we identified the gene, SsCI51640, which was predicted to encode kynurenine 3-monooxygenase. In this study, we obtained knockout mutants and complementary mutants of this gene and identified gene function. The results showed that the sporidial growth rate and acid production ability of knockout mutants were significantly higher and stronger than those of the wild-type and complementary mutants. The growth of knockout mutants under abiotic stress (osmotic stress and cell wall stress) was significantly inhibited. In addition, the sexual mating ability and pathogenicity of knockout mutants were significantly reduced, while this phenomenon could be restored by adding exogenous cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). It is thus speculated that the SsCI51640 gene may regulate sexual mating and pathogenicity of S. scitamineum by the cAMP signaling pathway. Moreover, the SsCI51640 gene enhanced the sporidial environmental adaptability, which promoted sexual mating and development of pathogenicity. This study provides a theoretical basis for the molecular pathogenesis of S. scitamineum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Muscle trauma frequently occurs in daily life. However, the molecular mechanisms of muscle healing, which partly depend on the extent of the damage, are not well understood. The present study aimed to investigate gene expression profiles following mild and severe muscle contusion, and to provide more information about the molecular mechanisms underlying the repair process. A total of 33 rats were divided randomly into control (n=3), mild contusion (n=15), and severe contusion (n=15) groups; the contusion groups were further divided into five subgroups (1, 3, 24, 48, and 168 h post-injury; n=3 per subgroup). A total of 2844 and 2298 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified using microarray analyses in the mild and severe contusions, respectively. From the analysis of the 1620 coexpressed genes in mildly and severely contused muscle, we discovered that the gene profiles in functional modules and temporal clusters were similar between the mild and severe contusion groups; moreover, the genes showed time-dependent patterns of expression, which allowed us to identify useful markers of wound age. The functional analyses of genes in the functional modules and temporal clusters were performed, and the hub genes in each module-cluster pair were identified. Interestingly, we found that genes down-regulated at 24-48 h were largely associated with metabolic processes, especially of the oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), which has been rarely reported. These results improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying muscle repair, and provide a basis for further studies of wound age estimation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the perioperative nursing of pterygium excision and autograft of corneal stem cell transplantation under microscope, and to formulate and analyze the nursing intervention methods. From June 2018 to June 2019, 120 patients with pterygium excision and autograft of corneal stem cell transplantation were selected as the study object. According to the sequence of admission, they were divided into observation group and control group, 60 cases each. The control group received routine nursing; the observation group received quality nursing. According to the self-agitation schedule (SAS) and the self-depression schedule (SDS), evaluate the difference of psychological state between the two groups before and after the operation; compare the changes of various physiological indexes during the operation between the two groups; compare the duration of discomfort, the time of corneal epithelial repair, the time of suture removal; compare the nursing satisfaction of the two groups. According to the results, the effect of different nursing methods on pterygium resection and corneal stem cell transplantation was analyzed. The self-agitation schedule (SAS) and the self-depression schedule (SDS) was used to evaluate the perioperative nursing of pterygium excision with autograft corneal stem cell transplantation under microscope. Before nursing intervention, the difference of SAS and SDS between the two groups has no statistically significant (P > 0.05); After nursing intervention, the levels of SAS and SDS in the two groups were significantly lower than those before nursing intervention, the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05), but the level in the observation group was lower than that in the control group, the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05); Compared with the control group, the diastolic pressure, systolic pressure, epinephrine, plasma norepinephrine level, respiration, heart rate and other indicators in the observation group were significantly lower, difference was statistically significant (P<0.05); compared with the postoperative recovery of the two groups, the duration of discomfort, corneal epithelial repair time and suture removal time in the observation group were significantly shorter than those in the control group (P<0.05); Compared with the control group, the operation satisfaction, doctor satisfaction and nurse satisfaction of the observation group were significantly improved, the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05), which can be used to evaluate and analyze the effect of nursing intervention. Microsurgical excision of pterygium corneal stem cell transplantation patients in the perioperative period received high-quality care, effectively reducing the recurrence rate of pterygium, no immune response, no rejection, safe and successful operation, the results are satisfactory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Survivin is an anti-apoptosis protein that may be associated with the development of eosinophilia; the latter is associated with the pathogenesis of many immune disorders. Here we report that less apoptotic eosinophils (Eos) were induced in those isolated from mice suffering from food allergy (FA) than those from naive mice after treating with cisplatin in vitro. Exposure to cisplatin induced more Fas ligand (FasL) expression in Eos isolated from naive mice than in those of FA mouse. Survivin was detected in the intestinal tissue extracts in much higher amounts in the FA group than in the naive group. Immunohistochemistry showed that epithelial cells were the major source of survivin in the intestine. Exposure to IL-4 or IL-13 up-regulated the expression of survivin in intestinal epithelial cells. Survivin interfered with the expression of FasL in Eos. Inhibition of survivin attenuated the eosinophilia-related inflammation in the intestine. In conclusion, intestinal epithelial cell-produced survivin induced defects in apoptosis in Eos to contribute to eosinophilia in the intestine. Inhibition of survivin can suppress the eosinophilia-related intestinal inflammation. The data suggest that survivin may be a novel target for the treatment of FA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The immune dysregulation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC). Bcl2 like protein-12 (Bcl2L12) and mast cells are involved in immune dysregulation of UC. This study aims to elucidate the role of Bcl2L12 in the contribution to the pathogenesis of T helper (Th)2-biased inflammation in UC patients. The results showed that Bcl2L12 was expressed by peripheral CD4+ T cells that was associated with Th2 polarization in UC patients. Bcl2L12 mediated the protease-activated receptor-2 (PAR2)-induced IL-4 expression in CD4+ cells. Activation of PAR2 increased expression of Bcl2L12 in CD4+ T cells. Bcl2L12 mRNA decayed spontaneously in CD4+ T cells after separated from UC patients which was prevented by activating PAR2. Bcl2L12 mediated the binding between GATA3 and the Il4 promoter in CD4+ T cells. Mice with Bcl2L12 deficiency failed to induce Th2-biased inflammation in the colon mucosa. We conclude that CD4+ T cells from UC patients expressed high levels of Bcl2L12; the latter plays an important role in the development of Th2-biased inflammation in the intestine. Bcl2L12 may be a novel therapeutic target in the treatment of Th2-biased inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • The expression of Bcl2L12 is higher in CD4 + T cells of patients with food allergy. • The CD4 + T cells with higher Bcl2L12 expression are prone to differentiate into Th2 cells. • Bcl2L12 played a crucial role in the induction of food allergy in mice. Abstract The skewed T helper (Th) 2 response plays a central role in the pathogenesis of allergic diseases, while its initiating factors remain elusive. Recent studies indicate that Bcl2 like protein-12 (Bcl2L12) is associated with the Th2-biased inflammation. This study is designed to test a hypothesis that Bcl2L12 plays a critical role in the initiation of allergic response. In this study, peripheral CD4+ T cells were isolated from food allergy (FA) patients and healthy subjects; A mouse FA model was developed to test the role of Bcl2L12 in induction of allergic response in the intestine. The results showed that expression of Bcl2L12 by CD4+ T cells was higher in FA patients and FA mice and positively correlated with expression of Th2 cytokines. CD4+ T cells from FA patients showed a Bcl2L12-dependent tendency to differentiate into Th2 cells. Bcl2L12 played a crucial role in induction of allergic response in the intestine. Physical contact between Bcl2L12 and GATA3 facilitated GATA3 to bind Il4 promoter to promote expression of IL-4. Adoptive transfer with Bcl2L12-deficient CD4+ T cells to Rag2¯/¯ mice did not reconstitute the efficient CD4+ T cell response as the mice could not be induced FA, while Rag2¯/¯ mice received WT CD4+ T cell transfer were induced FA. In conclusion, Bcl2L12 plays a crucial role in the induction of Th2 polarization and allergic response in the intestine. The Bcl2L12 in CD4+ T cells may be a potential target for the treatment of FA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An optimization design method is presented to reduce the undesirable vibrations caused by clearance for planar linkage mechanism. A clearance joint is defined and considered a contact/impact force constraint. Contact and impact force models for the clearance joint are established using a normal contact force model based on Hertz model with energy loss and a tangential friction model based on modified Coulomb model with dynamic friction coefficient, respectively. In view of the clearance joint, dynamic equations and optimization method for a planar four-bar mechanism are then presented as an application example. The optimization aims to minimize the maximum absolute acceleration peaks of the mechanism by determining the link lengths of the planar linkage mechanism. Finally, the optimization design is solved by a generalized reduced gradient algorithm. Results show evident decrease in vibration peaks of the mechanism and obvious reduction in the contact forces in the clearance joint, which contribute to a good performance of planar linkage mechanism systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It was found that 1,2-trifluoromethylation reactions of ketones, enones, and aldehydes were easily accomplished using the Prakash reagent in the presence of catalytic amounts of cesium carbonate, which represents an experimentally convenient, atom-economic process for this anionic trifluoromethylation of non-enolisable aldehydes and ketones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dynamics of an initially ellipsoidal compound capsule in a simple shear flow is investigated numerically using a three-dimensional front-tracking finite-difference model. Membrane bending resistance is included based on Helfrich's energy function besides the resistances against shear deformation and area dilatation governed by the constitutive law of Skalak et al. In this paper, we focus specifically on how the presence of a spherical inner capsule and its size affects the characteristics and transition of various dynamical states of nonspherical compound capsules (i.e., the outer capsule). Significant differences in the dynamical characteristics are observed between compound capsules and homogeneous capsules in both qualitative and quantitative terms. We find the transition from swinging to tumbling can occur at vanishing viscosity mismatch through increasing the inner capsule size alone to a critical value regardless of the initial shape of the nonspherical compound capsule (i.e., prolate or oblate). Besides, for compound capsules with viscosity mismatch, the critical viscosity ratio for the swinging-to-tumbling transition remarkably decreases by increasing the inner capsule size. It is thus concluded that the inner capsule size is a key governing parameter of compound capsule dynamics apart from the capillary number, aspect ratio, and viscosity ratio that have been long identified for homogeneous capsules. Further, we discuss the mechanisms underlying the effects of the inner capsule on the compound capsule dynamics from the viewpoint of the effective viscosity of internal fluid and find that the effects of the inner capsule on compound capsule dynamics are qualitatively similar to that of increasing the internal viscosity on homogeneous capsule dynamics. However, in quantitative terms, the compound capsule cannot be viewed as a homogeneous capsule with higher viscosity as obvious inhomogeneity in fluid stress distribution is induced by the inner membrane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Considerable evidence has been reported for the comorbidity between late-life depression (LLD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD), both of which are very common in the general elderly population and represent a large burden on the health of the elderly. The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the link between LLD and AD are poorly understood. Because both LLD and AD can be heritable and are influenced by multiple risk genes, shared genetic risk factors between LLD and AD may exist.Objective: The objective is to review the existing evidence for genetic risk factors that are common to LLD and AD and to outline the biological substrates proposed to mediate this association.Methods: A literature review was performed.Results: Genetic polymorphisms of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, apolipoprotein E, interleukin 1-beta, and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase have been demonstrated to confer increased risk to both LLD and AD by studies examining either LLD or AD patients. These results contribute to the understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms that are common to both of these disorders, including deficits in nerve growth factors, inflammatory changes, and dysregulation mechanisms involving lipoprotein and folate. Other conflicting results have also been reviewed, and few studies have investigated the effects of the described polymorphisms on both LLD and AD.Conclusion: The findings suggest that common genetic pathways may underlie LLD and AD comorbidity. Studies to evaluate the genetic relationship between LLD and AD may provide insights into the molecular mechanisms that trigger disease progression as the population ages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiming at poor precision of the visible foreign body visual inspection in oral liquid, This paper adopt improved image processing algorithm to achieve the accurate detection of foreign body. Using joint difference way to separate the background at the same time improve the energy value of target. Using slope correlation determine whether filling possible fracture and hole in the target. Using self-adaption search algorithm independent choice expansion direction to realize the virtual Foreign body target accurate search. Through the change of form and movement direction difference to eliminate the interference of bubbles, eventually identify the real foreign body target. Experimental results show that the improved foreign body target visual detection steps enhance the detection accuracy of tiny hair and fiber target, the average error rate is less than 2%. It has important guiding significance for foreign body in oral liquid monitoring on the actual production and ensure the safety use of related products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiming at poor precision of the visible foreign body visual inspection in oral liquid, This paper adopt improved image processing algorithm to achieve the accurate detection of foreign body. Using joint difference way to separate the background at the same time improve the energy value of target. Using slope correlation determine whether filling possible fracture and hole in the target. Using self-adaption search algorithm independent choice expansion direction to realize the virtual Foreign body target accurate search. Through the change of form and movement direction difference to eliminate the interference of bubbles, eventually identify the real foreign body target. Experimental results show that the improved foreign body target visual detection steps enhance the detection accuracy of tiny hair and fiber target, the average error rate is less than 2%. It has important guiding significance for foreign body in oral liquid monitoring on the actual production and ensure the safety use of related products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Five species of Ooctonus Haliday (Hymenoptera, Mymaridae) from Heilongjiang Province, China, are reviewed. One species, O. huberi sp. n., is described as new, and four species, O. orientalis Doutt, O. saturn Triapitsyn, O. sublaevis Forster and O. vulgatus Haliday are reported as new to China. A key to the females of the 10 described Chinese species is given. All the specimens are deposited in the insect collections of Northeast Forestry University, China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BRCA1 mutation carriers are predisposed to developing basal-like breast cancers with high metastasis and poor prognosis. Yet, how BRCA1 suppresses formation of basal-like breast cancers is still obscure. Deletion of p18Ink4c (p18), an inhibitor of CDK4 and CDK6, functionally inactivates the RB pathway, stimulates mammary luminal stem cell (LSC) proliferation, and leads to spontaneous luminal tumor development. Alternately, germline mutation of Brca1 shifts the fate of luminal cells to cause luminal-to-basal mammary tumor transformation. Here, we report that disrupting Brca1 by either germline or epithelium-specific mutation in p18-deficient mice activates epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and induces dedifferentiation of LSCs, which associate closely with expansion of basal and cancer stem cells and formation of basal-like tumors. Mechanistically, BRCA1 bound to the TWIST promoter, suppressing its activity and inhibiting EMT in mammary tumor cells. In human luminal cancer cells, BRCA1 silencing was sufficient to activate TWIST and EMT and increase tumor formation. In parallel, TWIST expression and EMT features correlated inversely with BRCA1 expression in human breast cancers. Together, our findings showed that BRCA1 suppressed TWIST and EMT, inhibited LSC dedifferentiation, and repressed expansion of basal stem cells and basal-like tumors. Thus, our work offers the first genetic evidence that Brca1 directly suppresses EMT and LSC dedifferentiation during breast tumorigenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The V-Cone throttle device has been paid more and more attentions on the measurement of the wet gas flow in recent years. However, it tends to over-read the gas flow rate when directly used to measure the wet gas. How to correct this over-reading and obtain an accurate yet simple wet gas correlation is still one of the challenges in the investigation on the V-Cone throttle device. In this paper, the two-phase mass flow coefficient of the V-Cone throttle device was proposed to correct the deviation of the readings produced by the device. The parameters affecting the coefficient were determined and discussed experimentally. Two V-Cone throttle devices with the respective equivalent diameter ratios of 0.65 and 0.75 were investigated under the condition of the wet gas flow. The test fluid was air and tap water. The gas-to-liquid density ratio ranged from 0.002445 to 0.006083, and the gas densiometric Froude number ranged from 0.3 to 2.0. The influencing parameters including the Lockhart-Martinelli parameter, the gas-to-liquid density ratio, the gas densiometric Froude number and the equivalent diameter ratio were studied. Then the correlations of the two-phase mass flow coefficient and the influencing parameters were proposed for the two V-Cone throttle devices and evaluated experimentally. The results show that the relative deviations of the correlations are less than ±5.0% and the average deviations of the correlations are 2.06% and 2.22% for the V-Cone throttle devices with the equivalent diameter ratio of 0.65 and 0.75, respectively. It can be concluded that the two-phase mass flow coefficient of the V-Cone throttle device is crucial for the development of the wet gas correlation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pituitary tumors develop in about one-quarter of the population, and most arise from the anterior lobe (AL). The pituitary gland is particularly sensitive to genetic alteration of genes involved in the cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitor (CKI)-CDK-retinoblastoma protein (Rb) pathway. Mice heterozygous for the Rb mutation develop pituitary tumors, with about 20% arising from the AL. Perplexingly, none of the CKI-deficient mice reported thus far develop pituitary AL tumors. In this study, we show that deletion of p19Ink4d (p19), a CKI gene, in mice results in spontaneous development of tumors in multiple organs and tissues. Specifically, more than one-half of the mutant mice developed pituitary hyperplasia or tumors predominantly in the AL. Tumor development is associated with increased cell proliferation and enhanced activity of Cdk4 and Cdk6 and phosphorylation of Rb protein. Though Cdk4 is indispensable for postnatal pituitary cell proliferation, it is not required for the hyperproliferative pituitary phenotype caused by p19 loss. Loss of p19 phosphorylates Rb in Cdk4-/- pituitary AL cells and mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) and rescues their proliferation defects, at least partially, through the activation of Cdk6. These results provide the first genetic evidence that p19 is a tumor suppressor and the major CKI gene that controls pituitary AL cell proliferation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A planar boron-doped diamond (BDD) electrode was treated with KOH and functionalized with 3-aminopropyltriethoxysiIane (APTES) to serve as a biosensing platform for biomolecule immobilization with glucose oxidase (GOx) as a test model. The free amino groups of GOx and APTES were cross-linked by glutaraldehyde (X), a bifunctional chemical to form a stable enzyme layer (GOx-X- APTES) on BDD. Micrographs obtained by scanning electron microscopy revealed that a mesoporous structure uniformly covered the BDD surface. Cyclic voltammetry of GOx immobilized showed a pair of well-defined redox peaks in neutral phosphate buffer solution, corresponding to the direct electron transfer of GOx. The apparent heterogeneous electron transfer rate constant of the immobilized GOx was estimated to be 8.85 ± 0.47 s-1 considerably higher than the literature reported values. The determination of glucose was carried out by amperometry at -0.40 V, and the developed biosensor showed good reproducibility and stability with a detection limit of 20 μM. Both ascorbic and uric acids at normal physiological conditions did not provoke any signals. The dynamic range of glucose detection was further extended by covering the enzyme electrode with a thin Nafion layer. The Nafion/GOx-X-APTES/BDD biosensor showed excellent stability, a detection limit of 30 μM, a linear range between 35 μM and 8 mM, and a dynamic range up to 14 mM. Such analytical performances were compared favorably with other complicated sensing schemes using nanomaterials, redox polymers, and nanowires. The APTES-functionalized BDD could be easily extended to immobilize other redox enzymes or proteins of interests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The catalytic activity of an in situ forming palladium catalyst system generated from PdCl2(PPh3)2 and hydrosilane [(EtO)3SiH] was revealed in the one-carbon migration and isomerization of 4,4-biaryl-substituted 1-butenes, in which the (EtO)3SiH plays a key role in the palladium-catalyzed one-carbon migration and subsequent isomerization of terminal alkenes. This catalytic protocol is applied in the synthesis of a key building block of cassumunin C in high yield and promising selectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inkpad seals are often placed on important documents, and determining the date when a seal was affixed can be important to assess the authenticity of a document. In this study, three different brands of inkpads and four different types of paper were used to make diachronic samples of the seals. A double-solvent extraction method was employed to date the inkpad seals by comparing extraction rates with inks of known age. Cyclohexane was selected as a weak solvent, and chlorobenzene was selected as a strong solvent. After testing, curves were created to show the relationship between the extraction percentage of ink and the date of the seals. The experimental results showed that the extraction rate method was applicable for the relative dating of inkpad seals in some cases where the seal was placed on the document within 6 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC) is unclear. House dust mite (HDM) is associated with immune inflammation in the body. This study is designed to identify the association between HDM and UC clinical symptoms. UC patients (n = 86) and non-UC control (NC) subjects (n = 64) were recruited. Colon lavage fluids (CLF) were collected from HDM skin prick test positive patients during colonoscopy, and analyzed by immunological approaches. HDM was detected in fecal samples, which was positively correlated with UC clinical symptoms. HDM-specific eosinophils and Th2 cells were detected in CLF, which could be specifically activated by exposing to HDM in the culture. Direct exposure to HDM induced eosinophil activation in the colon of UC patients. UC patients displayed elevated levels of Th2 cytokines in the serum. UC clinical symptom scores were positively correlated with serum levels of Th2 cytokines. HDM was detected in UC patients' stools, which was positively correlated with UC clinical symptoms. Direct exposure to HDM could trigger eosinophilic activation of the colon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Reducing the allergenicity of food allergens can suppress the clinical symptoms of food allergy. The objective of the present study was to investigate the effects of processing on the allergenic properties of hen's egg white proteins. Methods: Eggs were processed by traditional Chinese cooking, including steaming, water boiling, frying, spicing and tea boiling. The contents of processed egg protein were assessed by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis; the allergenicity was evaluated by Western blotting, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and enzyme allergosorbent test inhibition. Circular dichroism spectrum analysis of four major egg allergens from various egg products was performed as well. A mouse model of food allergy was developed to test the allergenicity of processed egg protein in vivo. Results: Protein degradation was significant following tea boiling and spiced-tea boiling. The total allergenic potential of water-boiled egg and fried egg was relatively higher than that of steamed egg, spiced egg and tea-boiled egg. Challenge with proteins from raw egg, water-boiled egg and fried egg induced skewed T-helper 2 pattern responses (Th2 responses) in the intestine of mice sensitized to egg proteins; however, when the mice sensitized to egg proteins were challenged with proteins from steamed egg, spiced egg and tea-boiled egg, respectively, only weak Th2 responses were induced in their intestine. Conclusion: Processing by steaming, spicing, or tea boiling can weaken the allergenicity of egg proteins. Copyright © 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies on the alterations of liver and kidney function parameters in patients with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and diabetic ketosis (DK) were limited. Participants with DKA, DK, non-DK, and healthy controls were enrolled in the current study. Parameters of liver and kidney function were measured and evaluated. The patients with DKA had higher levels of plasma glucose, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), uric acid, and creatinine but lower levels of transferases and protein compared with the other three groups (p < 0.05 for all). The patients with DK had higher levels of plasma glucose and HbA1c but lower levels of glutamyl transpeptidase and protein compared with the non-DK and control groups (p < 0.05). Prealbumin levels were significantly reduced in the severe DKA patients compared with the mild/moderate DKA patients. Serumprealbumin levels were correlated with albumin levels (r = 0.401, p= 0.010),HCO3 (r = 0.350, p = 0.027), and arterial pH (p = 0.597, p < 0.001) in the DKA patients. Adiagnostic analysis showed that lower prealbumin levels significantly reflected the presence of hyperglycemic emergencies (p < 0.001). Liver and kidney function parameters deteriorated, especially in DKA. Prealbumin levels can be of value in detecting the presence of hyperglycemic crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymer-supported quaternary phosphonium salt (PS-QPS) was explored as effective catalyst for the coupling reaction of carbon dioxide with epoxides. The results indicated that cyclic carbonates with high yields (98.6%) and excellent selectivity (100%) could be prepared at the conditions of 5 MPa CO2,150°C, and 6 h without the addition of organic solvents or cocatalysts. The effects of various reaction conditions on the catalytic performance were investigated in detail. The catalyst is applicable to a variety of epoxides, producing the corresponding cyclic carbonates in good yields. Furthermore, the catalyst could be recovered easily and reused for five times without loss of catalytic activity obviously. A proposed mechanism for synthesis of cyclic carbonate in the presence of PS-QPS was discussed. The catalyst was characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectrum. It is believed that PS-QPS is of great potential for CO2 fixation applications due to its unusual advantages, such as easy preparation, high activity and selectivity, stability, low cost, and reusability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease (AD) can be conceptualized as a disconnection syndrome. Both remitted geriatric depression (RGD) and amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) are associated with a high risk for developingAD.However, little isknownabout the similaritiesanddifferences in the topological patterns of white matter (WM) structural networks between RGD and aMCI. In this study, diffusion tensor imaging and deterministic tractography were used to map the humanWMnetworks of 35RGDpatients, 38 aMCI patients, and 30 healthy subjects. Furthermore, graph theoretical methods were applied to investigate the alterations in the global and regional properties of theWMnetwork in these patients. First, both theRGDand aMCI patients showed abnormal global topology in theirWMnetworks (i.e., reduced network strength, reduced global efficiency, and increased absolute path length) compared with the controls, and there were no significant differences in these global network properties between the patient groups. Second, similar deficits of the regional and connectivity characteristics in the WM networks were primarily found in the frontal brain regions of RGD and aMCI patients compared with the controls, while a different nodal efficiency of the posterior cingulate cortex and several prefrontal brain regions were also observed between the patient groups. Together, our study provides direct evidence for the association of a great majority of convergentanda minority of divergent connectivity ofWMstructural networks between RGD and aMCI patients, which may lead to increasing attention in defining a population at risk of AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is important to clarify the variational rules between dynamic characteristics and gust response factors (GRFs) of an ultra highvoltage (UHV) transmission tower for the structural design. In this paper, the synchronous multisensors on-site monitoring has been carried out under field wind conditions, which includes field fluctuating wind velocity, acceleration responses, and base bending strains on parts of the just-built transmission tower. The dynamic characteristics of tested transmission tower were investigated by a modal identification method (MIM) and validated those results with a finite-element method (FEM). Similarly, the GRFs based on the top displacement or base dynamic bending stains are calculated and compared by means of a measurement data statistical method and some different quasistatic methods, respectively. The results have shown that the dynamic characteristics obtained fromthe measurement data analysis with the MIM agree with those from the FEM, which confirms that the FEM and the MIM for dynamic characteristics are consistent and correct. In turn, the GRFs form the measurement displacement analyses have some differences from those calculated with the quasistatic method, and it is necessary to further identify and verify their causations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this letter, an example of interesting metal-free relay air oxidation of α-hydroxysilanes, promoted by the hydroperoxidated carbonyl compounds derived from the Michael reaction of 5,5- dimethylcyclohexane-1,3-dione and chalcone, is reported. A series of aromatic acylsilanes with TBDPS were obtained in promising isolated yields. In addition, as an extension of the relay oxidation under aerobic conditions, this catalyst-free relay oxidation induced by diketone can be applied to the oxidation of general aromatic alcohols (up to 75% yield). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Altered hippocampal structure and function is a valuable indicator of possible conversion from amnestic type mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) to Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, little is known about the disrupted functional connectivity of hippocampus subregional networks in aMCI subjects. Methodology/Principal Findings: aMCI group-1 (n = 26) and controls group-1 (n = 18) underwent baseline and after approximately 20 months follow up resting-state fMRI scans. Integrity of distributed functional connectivity networks incorporating six hippocampal subregions (i.e. cornu ammonis, dentate gyrus and subicular complex, bilaterally) was then explored over time and comparisons made between groups. The ability of these extent longitudinal changes to separate unrelated groups of 30 subjects (aMCI-converters, n = 6; aMCI group-2, n = 12; controls group-2, n = 12) were further assessed. Six longitudinal hippocampus subregional functional connectivity networks showed similar changes in aMCI subjects over time, which were mainly associated with medial frontal gyrus, lateral temporal cortex, insula, posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) and cerebellum. However, the disconnection of hippocampal subregions and PCC may be a key factor of impaired episodic memory in aMCI, and the functional index of these longitudinal changes allowed well classifying independent samples of aMCI converters from non-converters (sensitivity was 83.3%, specificity was 83.3%) and controls (sensitivity was 83.3%, specificity was 91.7%). Conclusions/Significance: It demonstrated that the functional changes in resting-state hippocampus subregional networks could be an important and early indicator for dysfunction that may be particularly relevant to early stage changes and progression of aMCI subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hollow metallic nanostructures exhibit important applications in catalysis, sensing, and phototherapy due to their increased surface areas, reduced densities, and unique optical and electronic features. Here we report a facile photocatalytic process to synthesize and tune hollow platinum (Pt) nanostructures. Through hierarchically structured templates, well-defined hollow Pt nanostructures are achieved. These nanostructures possess interconnected nanoporous framework as shell with high surface area for enhanced catalytic performance/mass transport for methanol oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Deficits of the default mode network (DMN) have been demonstrated in subjects with amnestic type mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) who have a high risk of developing Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, no longitudinal study of this network has been reported in aMCI. Identifying links between development of DMN and aMCI progression would be of considerable value in understanding brain changes underpinning aMCI and determining risk of conversion to AD. Methodology/Principal Findings: Resting-state fMRI was acquired in aMCI subjects (n = 26) and controls (n = 18) at baseline and after approximately 20 months follow up. Independent component analysis was used to isolate the DMN in each participant. Differences in DMN between aMCI and controls were examined at baseline, and subsequent changes between baseline and follow-up were also assessed in the groups. Posterior cingulate cortex/precuneus (PCC/PCu) hyper-functional connectivity was observed at baseline in aMCI subjects, while a substantial decrement of these connections was evident at follow-up in aMCI subjects, compared to matched controls. Specifically, PCC/PCu dysfunction was positively related to the impairments of episodic memory from baseline to follow up in aMCI group. Conclusions/Significance: The patterns of longitudinal deficits of DMN may assist investigators to identify and monitor the development of aMCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cerebellum is known to be a relatively well preserved structure, but subtle alterations may occur early in the evolution of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) patients appear to be particularly vulnerable to AD. However, little is currently known whether altered patterns of cerebellar function occur in aMCI patients. 26 aMCI patients and 18 well-matched healthy controls underwent a baseline resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scan. After a mean follow-up period of 20 months, the subjects who successfully completed baseline fMRI scans underwent a further follow-up scan, while spontaneous activation and functional connectivity of the cerebellum were explored by using resting-state fMRI. Compared to controls, increased amplitude of low frequency fluctuation of the posterior cerebellar lobe may contribute to the underlying mechanisms affected, while greater decreased functional connections to the posterior cerebellar lobe were identified in the longitudinal study of aMCI patients. This suggests that abnormal functional connectivity of the cerebellum may offer a more sensitive and possibly preferred index of functional disturbance than regional activity measures in aMCI patients. The cerebellum may be partly related to the underlying mechanisms of aMCI, and it could help guide subsequent investigations designed to specify the precise functional role of cerebellum in aMCI patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The goal of the present study was to investigate the effect of macropore size on the compressive strength and in vitro degradation of porous calcium phosphate cements (CPCs). For this purpose, a series of porous CPCs with three different macropore sizes (200–300μm, 300–450μm and 450–600μm) and comparable porosity were prepared by salting-out method, and the study of in vitro degradation behavior was carried out under a constant fluid flow environment. The results showed that the increase in macropore size of CPCs with invariant porosity resulted in a decrease in the compressive strength but an increase in the degradation rate of CPCs significantly, suggesting the possibility that the degradation rate and compressive strength of biomaterials can be regulated by varying the macropore size while maintaining the porosity unchanged. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract  The complex [Tb0.1Gd0.9(TPTZ)(H2O)6]Cl3·3H2O was prepared through the reaction of 2,4,6-tris-(2-pyridyl)-1,3,5-triazine (TPTZ) with TbCl3:GdCl3 (0.1:0.9) in absolute ethanol at room temperature. Single crystal X-ray diffraction revealed that the metal atom is nine-coordinated with three nitrogen atoms from one TPTZ ligand and six oxygen atoms from six water molecules. The complex emits intense green fluorescence under ultraviolet light. The luminescence peaks correspond to the characteristic emission 5D4→7FJ (J = 3–6) transitions of the Tb3+ ion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skewed Th2 polarization and tissue mastocytosis are the main features of allergy; but how the antigen-specific Th2 polarization initiated remains unclear. The present study shows that cholera toxin (CT) activates mouse bone marrow mast cells (BMMC) to release interleukin (IL)-4. The activation process involved in Toll-like receptor 4, nucleotide oligomerisation domain 1, activate signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6), and IL-4. Activated mast cell-derived IL-4 in synergy with co-existing antigen information provided by dendritic cells drives naive CD4+ T cells to differentiate into antigen-specific Th2 cells. The finding demonstrates that concurrent exposure to microbial products, such as CT, and antigen-loaded dendritic cells plays a critical role in the initiation of antigen-specific Th2 response in the body; this notion is supported by the concurrent adoptive transfer with CT-pulsed BMMCs and antigen-loaded BMDCs that induced antigen-specific Th2 response and hypersensitivity reaction in the intestine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hull form optimization is a typical complex engineering problem. The complex design performance space often results in a low optimization efficiency as an optimal solution cannot be ensured. Presently, several methods, such as efficient optimization algorithms, approximate model technology, and high-performance computing are primarily used to reduce the calculation time. However, these methods cannot satisfy practical application requirements in terms of efficiency and solution accuracy. Thus, we investigated a dynamic space reduction optimization framework (DSROF), in this study, wherein data mining is continuously performed during the optimization process to dynamically reduce the range and number of variables. DSROF enables subsequent optimization only in the range that exhibits a high performance, thereby reducing redundant calculations, improving optimization efficiency, and ensuring a higher degree of accuracy. Furthermore, we applied DSROF to function examples and hull form optimization. The results indicate that the use of the DSROF can reduce the calculation cost in hull form optimization by 23% in comparison with that of the particle swarm optimization algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single-phase hollow poly(o-anisidine) colloidal spheres with uniform sizes were directly synthesized in dilute aqueous solution of o-anisidine in the presence of a small amount of an initiator, cupric acetate or basic cupric bromide, Cu2(OH)3Br, under hydrothermal conditions. The void volume and size of hollow poly(o-anisidine) colloidal spheres can be readily tuned by varying the hydrothermal reaction time and adjusting the ratios between the starting reactants. The formation of voided poly(o-anisidine) results from a diffusion-related process driven by the relatively large concentration change between polymer core and solution as well as the high pressure and temperature under hydrothermal conditions. At the same time, the mesostructures of poly(o-anisidine) are dependent on reaction time, temperature, and monomer concentration. An extension of this one-pot synthetic method yields hollow polyaniline colloidal spheres. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A leaf-shaped monopole antenna with an extremely wide bandwidth is introduced. The antenna is composed of a leaf-shaped metal sheet with three circular holes vertically mounted on the ground plate covered by a dielectric layer. Its measured -10-dB return-loss frequency range is from 1.3 to 29.7 GHz with ratio bandwidth of about 22:1. This antenna provides bandwidth covering the L, C, X, and Ku bands and exhibits a nearly omnidirectional radiation pattern with a simple structure, which is suitable for various military and commercial ultra-wideband applications. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 48: 1247–1250, 2006; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.21668 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The INK4 family of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitors negatively regulates cyclin D-dependent CDK4 and CDK6 and induces the growth-suppressive function of Rb family proteins. Mutations in the Cdk4 gene conferring INK4 resistance are associated with familial and sporadic melanoma in humans and result in a wide spectrum of tumors in mice, suggesting that INK4 is a major regulator of CDK4. Mice lacking the Cdk4 gene exhibit various defects in many organs associated with hypocellularity, whereas loss of the p18Ink4c gene results in widespread hyperplasia and organomegaly. To genetically test the notion that the function of INK4 is dependent on CDK4, we generated p18; Cdk4 double-mutant mice and examined the organs and tissues which developed abnormalities when either gene is deleted. We show here that, in all organs we have examined, including pituitary, testis, pancreas, kidney, and adrenal gland, hyperproliferative phenotypes associated with p18 loss were canceled. The double-mutant mice exhibited phenotypes very close to or indistinguishable from that of Cdk4 single-mutant mice. Mice lacking p27Kip1 develop widespread hyperplasia and organomegaly similar to those developed by p18-deficient mice. The p27; Cdk4 double-mutant mice, however, displayed phenotypes intermediate between those of p27 and Cdk4 single-mutant mice. These results provide genetic evidence that in mice p18Ink4c and p27Kip1 mediate the transduction of different cell growth and proliferation signals to CDK4 and that p18Ink4c is functionally dependent on CDK4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is established that mutations in viral antigenic epitopes, or antigenic drifts, allow viruses to escape recognition by both Ab's and T lymphocytes. It is unclear, however, whether tumor cells can escape immune recognition via antigenic drift. Here we show that adoptive therapy with both monoclonal and polyclonal transgenic CTLs, specific for a natural tumor antigen, P1A, selects for multiple mutations in the P1A antigenic epitope. These mutations severely diminish T cell recognition of the tumor antigen by a variety of mechanisms, including modulation of MHC:peptide interaction and TCR binding to MHC:peptide complex. These results provide the first evidence for tumor evasion oft cell recognition by antigenic drift, and thus have important implications for the strategy of tumor immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The INK4 family of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitors negatively regulates cyclin D-dependent CDK4 and CDK6 and thereby retains the growth-suppressive function of Rb family proteins. Mutations in the CDK4 gene conferring INK4 resistance are associated with familial and sporadic melanoma in humans and result in a wide spectrum of tumors in mice. Whereas loss of function of other INK4 genes in mice leads to little or no tumor development, targeted deletion of p18[sup INK4c] causes spontaneous pituitary tumors and lymphoma late in life. Here we show that treatment of p18 null and heterozygous mice with a chemical carcinogen resulted in tumor development at an accelerated rate. The remaining wild-type allele of p18 was neither mutated nor silenced in tumors derived from heterozygotes. Hence, p18 is a haploinsufficient tumor suppressor in mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A 2 K cryogenic system was developed for superconducting cavity testing of CiADS and HIAF projects. • The major equipment were described in detail, new structures are used in the design. • Measuring methods and instruments at 2 K temperature level were studied. • The first cooling down experiment of the cryogenic system was carried out successfully. Cryogenic system working at 2 K is crucial for superconducting accelerator. A 70 W@2 K cryogenic system was developed for the testing of superconducting cavities used in the China Initiative Accelerator Driven System (CiADS). There will be more than 257 superconducting radio frequency (SRF) cavities to be vertically tested in the next three years. The system is designed with 2 testing dewars and the cool down/warm up processes of two dewars can be conducted simultaneously, so that the interval between each test can be reduced to minimum. The system process was designed and heat loads were analyzed under practical conditions. The parameters' calculation and design of the core equipment, such as sub-atmospheric heat exchanger, valve box, vertical testing dewar, and vacuum pump set, are described in detail. First cooling down experiment was carried out successfully, realizing a continuous cooling down process from 300 K to 4.5 K in 30 h, and then reaching 2 K in another 2.5 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of the anode potential on the electrochemical performance and protective ability of the passive film formed on the brass alloy in the soil solution of the Zhouyuan site was investigated by electrochemical measurements, atomic force microscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The corrosion resistance of brass alloy in a corrosion soil environment decreases with the increase of applied anodic potential. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy results indicate that the passive film is mainly composed of metal oxide. Mott–Schottky results revealed that the passive films behave as p‐type semiconductors at passive potentials and the acceptor density is in the range of 1021 cm−3 and increased with an increase in the film‐forming potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pair of isomeric Py-BT-COFs with the same composition, but slightly different atomic arrangements, were designed and synthesized. The minute structural variations of the Py-BT-COF isomers generated significantly different redox and photophysical properties and correspondingly led to different photocatalytic manifestations in H2 evolution and rhodamine B degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have demonstrated pressure-directed assembly for preparation of a new class of chemically and mechanically stable gold nanostructures through high pressure-driven sintering of nanoparticle assemblies at room temperature. We show that under a hydrostatic pressure field, the unit cell dimension of a 3D ordered nanoparticle array can be reversibly manipulated allowing fine-tuning of the interparticle separation distance. In addition, 3D nanostructured gold architecture can be formed through high pressure-induced nanoparticle sintering. This work opens a new pathway for engineering and fabrication of different metal nanostructured architectures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of the Mg/Si ratio of Al-2.5Li-1Cu-0.8Mg-0.8Si, Al-2.5Li-1Cu-1.6Mg-0.8Si, and Al-2.5Li-1Cu-2.4Mg-0.8Si alloys on the microstructure evolution and mechanical properties was investigated. The results show that the primary phases and their morphologies in the as-cast alloys are found to vary with the Mg/Si ratio. The improvement of Mg/Si ratio of as-cast alloys promotes the formation of Mg2Si primary phase at the expense of the AlLiSi primary phase. Moreover, a tiny amount of TB-Al7.5Cu4Li phase transforms into S-Al2CuMg phase with the increase of Mg content. In addition, the increase of Mg/Si ratio also causes the Cu-rich intergranular phase distributed along crystal boundary to Si-rich intergranular phase. After ageing treatment, the precipitation sequence as a function of Mg/Si ratio is as follows: δ/δ′+AlLiSi (Mg/Si is ∼1) → δ/δ′+β′-Mg2Si+AlLiSi (Mg/Si is ∼2) → δ/δ′+β′-Mg2Si (Mg/Si is ∼3). A good combination of strength and ductility can be obtained in Al-2.5Li-1Cu-2.4Mg-0.8Si alloy after solution and ageing. The rod-like β′-Mg2Si precipitate has a positive influence on the comprehensive mechanical properties of the alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discusses the synthesis of transition metal complex (Bu4N)2{tto[Ni(dmit)2]} from (Bu4N)2[Ni(dmit)2]. Determination of the crytal structure of the complex; Completion of the reaction under a dinitrogen atmosphere.

The vibration is one of the important factors affecting imaging quality of conventional remote sensing imaging because the relative motion between the imaging system and the target can result in the degradation of imaging quality. The influence of the vibration of the detector in the test path on reflective ghost imaging (RGI) is investigated theoretically and experimentally. We analyze the effects of the vibrating amplitude and velocity. The results demonstrate that the microvibrations of the bucket detector have almost no impact on the imaging resolution and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of RGI, i.e., the degradation of imaging quality caused by the vibration of the detector can be overcome to some extent. Our results can be helpful for remote sensing imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the nursing effect of Mohs microsurgery on basal cell carcinoma of skin, and to establish the nursing intervention methods and analyze them. From June 2015 to June 2019, 120 patients with basal cell carcinoma of the skin undergoing Mohs micrography were selected as the study objects. According to the sequence of admission, they were divided into observation group and control group, 60 cases in each group. The control group received routine nursing; the observation group received comprehensive nursing intervention. According to the self-evaluation of depression and anxiety (SDS, SAS), the difference of psychological state between the two groups before and after operation was evaluated; the wound infection, survival of transfer flap, wound healing and other indicators after operation were compared; the patients' satisfaction was compared. Before the nursing intervention, there was no significant difference between the two groups in SAS and SDS scores (P > 0.05) The difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05), but the level of the observation group was lower than that of the control group (P < 0.05); compared with the control group, the wound infection, the survival of the transfer flap and the wound healing of the observation group were significantly improved (P < 0.05); compared with the control group, the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05); compared with the control group, the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05) The difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The nursing intervention of Mohs micrograph operation on skin basal cell carcinoma can effectively relieve the patients' tension and anxiety, improve the treatment effect, reduce the occurrence of adverse reactions, enhance the effect of prognosis and rehabilitation, and improve the patients' satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports on the methods of synthesizing nanoparticles. Nanoparticles were proven significant in many applications which include catalysis, nanoreactors, optic, sensing and controlled release. Researchers also dedicate their effort and time in developing strategies that could help improve the applicability of nanoparticles in different sectors of chemistry and physics.