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Autosomal recessive hyper-IgE syndrome caused by DOCK8 gene mutation is an immunodeficiency. However, the presentation of a tumour-like lesion of the lip in autosomal recessive hyper-IgE syndrome has not yet been reported. This article reports the case of a 20-year-old man with autosomal recessive hyper-IgE syndrome who presented with a tumour-like lesion of the lip, and hyperplasia and erosion of the gingiva. The clinical manifestations included coarse face and neck skin, a diffuse tumour-like lesion on the upper lip showing a reddish erosive nodular surface with yellowish-white exudation, erosive buccal mucosa, and severe periodontitis. The swollen gingival and palatal mucosa indicated nodular hyperplasia and redness with pseudomembrane. The patient had a significantly increased peripheral blood eosinophil count and serum IgE level and an abnormal T lymphocyte count. His oral lesions improved markedly after prednisolone acetate use and local symptomatic treatment for 2 years. However, the patient unfortunately died of a cerebral infection 6 months after the oral lesions had resolved. The novel features of the labial tumour-like lesion described here extend our understanding of the manifestations of autosomal recessive hyper-IgE syndrome.

In the salivary glands, fibrosis occurs in many pathological conditions. Endothelial tight junction (TJ)–based barrier function plays a vital role in maintaining the homeostasis of the salivary glands. However, whether endothelial barrier function is changed and involved in the pathogenesis of glandular fibrosis is unknown. Here, by using a mouse model in which the main excretory duct of the submandibular gland (SMG) was ligated to induce inflammation and fibrosis, endothelial barrier function and TJ protein expression and distribution were examined. Both 4-kDa and 70-kDa fluorescence-labeled dextrans permeated more in the 1-, 3-, and 7-d ligated SMGs. Meanwhile, the mRNA level of claudin-5 was increased with an obvious redistribution from apicolateral membranes to lateral membranes and cytoplasm in the fibrotic glands. Notably, the TJ sealer AT1001 significantly attenuated the disrupted endothelial barrier function and thereby ameliorated the glandular fibrosis. Cytokine array detection showed that monocyte chemoattractant protein–1 (MCP-1) was highly enriched in the 3-d ligated SMGs, and MCP-1 directly impaired barrier function, increased claudin-5 expression, induced the relocalization of claudin-5, and activated p-ERK1/2 in cultured human endothelial cells. Furthermore, the upregulation and disorganization of claudin-5 as well as the elevation of MCP-1 and p-ERK1/2 signaling were also confirmed in fibrotic SMGs from patients with chronic sialadenitis and immunoglobulin G4–related sialadenitis. Altogether, our findings revealed that disrupted endothelial barrier function contributed to the progression of glandular fibrosis, and targeting endothelial TJs might be a promising approach to alleviate salivary gland fibrosis-related diseases.

The saliva secreted from submandibular gland (SMG) accounts for 60%-65%. It plays an important role in maintaining the human function of swallow, digestion, testing, speech, protection of oral mucosa, and prevention from dental carries. The SMG is frequently resected during the treatment for various kinds of oral and maxillofacial diseases, resulting in xerostomia and decreased quality of life. During the past 15 years, Research Center of Salivary Gland Diseases in Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology conducted a series of studies on new techniques for preservation of SMG and achieved remarkable results. The clinicopathologic and imaging characteristics of IgG4-related sialadenitis (IgG4-RS) were clarified based on systematic studies. The results of studies on the pathogenesis of IgG4-RS showed that unbalance of inflammatory factors mediated the abnormality of secretion of SMG. IL-4 participates in occurring and development of glandular fibrosis of SMG. Regulation of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and cleaning of senescent cells might be taken as the targets for treatment of IgG4-RS. The combination of glucocorticoid and steroid-sparing agents showed effective results for treating IgG4-RS, clinical remission was achieved in all the patients, serum IgG4 levels decreased, and salivary gland secretion significantly increased. Sialoendoscopy-assisted sialolithectomy was applied in the treatment of about 1 000 cases with submandibular hilar calculi with a success rate of more than 90%. Transfer of SMG was used for prevention from radiation-induced xerostomia in the patients with head and neck carcinoma. SMG was transferred to the submental region before radiotherapy and was kept away from the ra-diation field. The results of prospective clinical controlled study showed this technique could effectively preserve the function of SMG and prevent from xerostomia. Based on the micro-anatomical study on the blood vessels and ducts of SMG, partial sialoadenectomy was applied for treatment of benign tumors in the SMG. A clinical controlled study confirmed its safety for control of the tumors and its advantage of preservation of SMG function. The studies on the involvement of SMG in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) provided the anatomical and histopathological basis for preservation of SMG during neck dissection for early cases with OSCC. A innovated surgical modality "four preservations including SMG" was used during the neck dissection for the early cases with OSCC. A prospective randomized clinical controlled study confirmed its safety, feasibility, effectiveness for control of the carcinoma, and advantages of preservation of SMG function.

A synthetic electron cyclotron emission (ECE) diagnostic is used to interpret ECE signals from preset plasma equilibrium profiles, including magnetic field, electron density, and electron temperature. According to the simulation results, the electron temperature ( T e) profile covering the harmonic overlap region can be obtained by receiving ECE signals at the high field side (HFS) of the HL-2M plasma. The third harmonic ECE at the low field side (LFS) cannot pass through the second harmonic resonance layer at the HFS unless the optical thickness ( τ) of the second harmonic becomes gray ( τ ≤ 2). In addition, the impact of the relativistic frequency down-shift has been evaluated and corrected. The measurable range of the HFS ECE has been calculated by scanning different parameters (electron density, temperature, and magnetic field). Higher plasma parameters allow a wider radial range of electron temperature measurements. The minimum inner measurable position can reach R = 120 cm (r/a = −0.89) when the product of core temperature ( T e0) and density ( n e0) is greater than 35 × 1019 keV m−3, which is extended by more than 30 cm inward compared with that of the LFS measurement. The HFS ECE will greatly improve the diagnostic ability of ECE systems on the HL-2M tokamak.

Background Conformal sphincter preservation operation (CSPO) is a new surgical procedure for very low rectal cancers (within 4–5 cm from the anal verge). CSPO preserves more of the dentate line and distal rectal wall and also avoids injuring nerves in the intersphincteric space, resulting in satisfactory anal function after resection. The aim of this study was to analyze the short-term surgical results and long-term oncological and functional outcomes of CSPO. Methods Consecutive patients with very low rectal cancer, who had CSPO between January 2011 and October 2018 at Changhai Hospital, Shanghai were included. Patient demographics, clinicopathological features, oncological outcomes and anal function were analyzed. Results A total of 102 patients (67 men) with a mean age of 56.9 ± 10.8 years were included. The median distance of the tumor from the anal verge was 3 (IQR, 3–4) cm. Thirty-five patients received neoadjuvant chemoradiation (nCRT). The median distal resection margin (DRM) was 0.5 (IQR, 0.3–0.8) cm. One patient had a positive DRM. All circumferential margins were negative. There was no perioperative mortality. The postoperative complication rate was 19.6%. The median duration of follow-up was 28 (IQR, 12–45.5) months. The local recurrence rate was 2% and distant metastasis rate was 10.8%. The 3-year overall survival and disease-free survival rates were 100% and 83.9%, respectively. The mean Wexner incontinence and low anterior resection syndrome scores 12 months after ileostomy reversal were 5.9 ± 4.3, and 29.2 ± 6.9, respectively. Conclusions For patients with very low rectal cancers, fecal continence can be preserved with CSPO without compromising oncological results.

The aim of this study was to comparatively evaluate the indications and treatment outcomes of two transcutaneous approaches for the removal of impacted parotid stones. Sixty-eight consecutive patients with impacted parotid stones underwent endoscopy-assisted lithotomy via a direct mini-incision or a peri-auricular flap. Clinical safety and outcomes were evaluated. Complete stone extraction was achieved in all patients. In the mini-incision group (52 patients), the stones were in the middle third of the main duct in 31 patients, at the hilum in 16, and in the intraglandular duct in five. In the flap group (16 patients), they were in the middle third of the main duct in one patient, at the hilum in seven, and in the intraglandular duct in eight. Salivary fistula occurred in five mini-incision group patients (9.6%) and four flap group patients (25%). The clinical outcome in the mini-incision group (47 patients, median 25 months of follow-up) was good in 28 patients, fair in 13, and poor in six (12.8%). The clinical outcome in the flap group (16 patients, median 84 months of follow-up) was good in nine patients, fair in five, and poor in two (12.5%). The direct mini-incision approach was found to be safe and effective for impacted stones in the middle third, hilum, and proximal third of the main duct, while the peri-auricular approach would be best reserved for deeper intraglandular stones.

OBJECTIVE: To discover the factors that may affect the use of selective tracheostomy among patients who have undergone head and neck surgeries with free flap reconstruction, so that the patients will not need tracheostomy nor receive the unnecessary treatment. METHODS: Five hundred and thirty-three patients who had undergone head and neck surgery with free flap reconstruction operated by the same team of surgery at Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Peking University School of Stomatology from 2015 to 2016 were reviewed. Three hundred and twenty-one (60.2%) of these patients underwent selective tracheostomy. All the patients' demographic information, operation-related information, prior treatments, comorbidities and complications were recorded and analyzed. RESULTS: The patients with defects of the tongue, mouth floor, oropharynx and bilateral mandible, who underwent neck dissection and with previous radiotherapy and smoking habit were more likely to get selective tracheostomy. Usage of bulky soft tissue flap might also add to the risk of airway obstruction and the need of selective tracheostomy, while other factors were not significantly related to the risk of postoperative airway obstruction and the patients could be kept safe without selective tracheostomy. Most cases without tracheostomy were kept safe except one case, while 8.39% of the patients with tracheostomy suffered from tracheostomy related complications, mainly pneumonia and hemorrhage of the tracheostomy wound, yet none led to serious consequences or even death. CONCLUSION: Selective tracheostomy is not necessary for patients who have undergone head and neck surgeries with free flap reconstruction except that there are defects at the tongue, oropharynx and mandible. Neck dissection, bulky soft tissue flap reconstruction, previous radiotherapy and smoking habit may also add to the risk of postoperative airway obstruction, while a favorable decision would involve a combination of all the above factors to assure the safety of the postoperative airway for the patients undergone head and neck surgeries with free flap reconstruction.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinicopathological characteristics of micro and mini parotid gland tumors and to provide reference for their clinical diagnosis and treatment. METHODS: Patients with parotid gland tumors treated in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology from December 2012 to April 2020 were selected. Relevant clinical data of the patients with tumor diameter ≤20 mm detected by preoperative CT were collected to analyze the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of micro and mini parotid gland tumors. And the collected data were divided into two groups with diameter 11-20 mm and diameter ≤10 mm according to tumor diameter measured by preoperative CT. The clinicopathological differences between the two groups were statistically analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 2 067 patients with primary epithelial parotid gland tumors were collected, and 685 patients with tumor diameter ≤20 mm were examined by CT, accounting for 33.1%. The ratio of male to female patients with micro and mini parotid gland tumors was 1 ∶1.93, the average age was (45.3±13.8) years (12-83 years), and the median course of disease was 12 months (1 week to 30 years). Among them, 635 cases (92.7%) were benign tumors, 50 cases (7.3%) were malignant tumors, and the ratio of benign to malignant was 12.7 ∶1. The most common benign tumor was pleomorphic adenoma, and the most common malignant tumor was mucoepidermoid carcinoma. The micro and mini parotid gland tumors were divided into 11-20 mm group (n=611) and ≤10 mm group (n=74), the clinical characteristics comparison of the two groups of gender ratio, average age, course of di-sease had no statistical difference (P>0.05). In the 11-20 mm diameter group, the percentage of benign and malignant tumor was 92.8% (567/611) and 7.2% (44/611) respectively, and the ratio of benign to malignant tumors was 12.9 ∶1. In the ≤10 mm diameter group, the percentage of benign and malignant tumor was 91.9% (68/74) and 8.1% (6/74) respectively, and the ratio of benign to malignant tumors was 11.3 ∶1. There was no significant difference between the two groups (P>0.05). Fifty patients with malignant tumor were followed up for the median follow-up period of 39.5 months (1-91 months). Local recurrence occurred in 2 patients with one death. The overall 2-year survival rate was 93.7% and the 5-year survival rate was 89.3%. CONCLUSION: The majority of micro and mini parotid gland tumors was benign lesion. There was a good prognosis for micro and mini parotid gland carcinoma. Early surgical treatment was recommended for micro and mini parotid gland tumors.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of acid stimulation on salivary flow rate and compositions of human parotid and submandibular glands, so as to provide basis for comprehensive evaluation of salivary gland function in both health and disease status. METHODS: In the study, 210 healthy participants' whole saliva samples were collected under passive drooling, and their parotid gland and submandibular gland secretions were collected by negative pressure suction. 2% citric acid was dropped on the tip of tongue every 1 min for acid stimulation for a total of 5 times to collect stimulated whole saliva, parotid and submandibular gland saliva. The collected saliva was weighed and saliva flow rate was calculated. The K(+), Na(+), Cl(-), Ca(2+), total protein, total phosphorus and α-amylase in saliva samples were detected by biochemical analyzer, and the changing features of flow rate and compositions of different kinds of saliva were compared and analyzed. RESULTS: After acid stimulation, saliva flow rate significantly increased. The increase proportion of parotid gland saliva (10.7 folds) was much higher than that of submandibular gland saliva (2.9 folds). The concentrations of Na(+), Cl(-), Ca(2+), total protein and α-amylase in parotid gland saliva increased significantly (P < 0.05), but there was no significant difference in total phosphorus and K(+) (P=0.89, P=0.34). The concentration of Na(+) and Ca(2+) in saliva of submandibular gland increased significantly(P < 0.05), the concentration of total phosphorus decreased significantly(P < 0.05), and the concentration of Cl(-) increased, but the difference was not significant(P=0.068). There was no significant difference in total protein, K(+) and α-amylase (P=0.85, P=0.07, P=0.95). The compound secretion rate of total phosphorus in saliva of submandibular gland remained unchanged(P=0.066), while the secretion rate of K(+), Na(+), Cl(-), Ca(2+), total protein and α-amylase significantly increased(P < 0.01). The compound secretion rate of K(+), Na(+), Cl(-), Ca(2+), total protein and total phosphorus and α-amylase in parotid gland saliva increased(P < 0.01). The concentrations of Na(+), Cl(-), K(+), total phosphorus, total protein and α-amylase in parotid were higher than those in submandibular gland (P < 0.01), and the concentration of Ca(2+) in submandibular gland saliva was significantly higher than that in parotid (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The response of parotid to acid stimulation is stronger, and the secretion of submandibular gland is more stable. Acid stimulation significantly influences the concentrations of electrolytes in saliva, and the composited secretion rate is an evaluation index to reflect both flow rate and composition concentration of saliva. The parotid gland plays an important role in the secretion of total protein, total phosphorus and α-amylase in saliva, and the submandibular gland is the main source of Ca(2+) in saliva.

Some kinds of chronic sialadenitis were recognized during the recent years. They have specific pathogenesis, clinical and histopathologic appearances, and require specific treatment. IgG4-related sialadenitis (IgG4-RS) is one of the immune-mediated diseases, characterized by tumefactive lesions. The incidence of IgG4-RS obviously increased during the past 30 years. The study on the potential relationship between occupational exposure to chemical substances and the incidence of IgG4-RS showed that subjects with occupational exposure to agents known to cause IgG4-RD had an increased risk for IgG4-RS. Surgical excision of involved SMG could not control the disease progression, which is not recommended for treatment of IgG4-RS. The combination of glucocorticoid and steroid-sparing agents is effective for treating IgG4-RS, and restores salivary gland function. Radioiodine induced sialadenitis (RAIS) is one of the common complications of postoperative adjuvant treatment of differentiated thyroid cancer by (131)I. The incidence of the disease is related to radiation dosage. Clinically, the patients suffered from swelling and tenderness in the buccal or submandibular regions, especially during the mealtime. Imaging appearances are similar to those of chronic obstructive sialadenitis. Conservative managements, such as gland massage, sialagogues, are the mainstream methods in the treatment of RAIS. Sialendoscopy is feasible for RAIS, but not as effective as conventional obstructive sialadenitis (COS). Therefore the prevention of RAIS is crucial. Eosinophilic sialodochitis (ES) is a new type of chronic inflammatory disease of the salivary gland related to allergy. It has characteristics of swelling of multiple major salivary glands, strip-like gelatinous plugs discharged from the duct orifice of the gland, elevated level of serum IgE and eosinophils in peripheral blood, infiltration of eosinophils and IgE positive plasma cells in the tissues, allergic history, increased expression of allergy-related cytokines, such as IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, and eotaxin, which suggest allergic reactions as a potential pathogenesis of the disease. The clinical, laboratory, histological, and immunohistochemical characteristics of ES are significantly different from conventional obstructive sialadenitis (COS). Therefore, it is suitable to separate ES from COS. Conservative managements, such as self-maintenance therapy and anti- allergic modality are the choices of treatment for ES. Based on the results of our comprehensive studies a new classification of chronic sialadenitis is suggested.

The edge-harmonic oscillations (EHOs) in standard quiescent H-mode (QH-mode) plasmas in DIII-D are consistent with edge-localized neoclassical tearing modes (NTMs) based on nonlinear two-fluid MHD simulations. Using kinetic equilibria constrained by edge profile measurements, the MHD simulations show that the n = 1 NTM and its harmonics can be destabilized at the pedestal top of QH-mode plasma by the edge bootstrap current. The simulations further show that the unstable NTMs can saturate either at small (N) or large (>4% ψN) island width depending on the magnitude of the edge bootstrap current, where ψN is the normalized radius in poloidal flux. The onset of the EHO also results in a prompt decrease in the pedestal width and height, consistent with simulation results for the onset of the NTM at the top of the QH-mode pedestal. This suggests that the avoidance of edge-localized modes (ELMs) in QH-mode can be attributed to the enhanced local transport induced by the NTM that is sufficient to prevent the expansion of the pedestal to an unstable width, analogous to the mechanism explored for ELM suppression by resonant magnetic perturbations. Nonlinear MHD simulations scanning the E × B frequency and the ratio of parallel and perpendicular thermal diffusivity ( χǁ/ χ⊥) at the pedestal top show that edge-localized NTMs are destabilized for conditions of high E × B frequency, high pedestal temperature, and low pedestal density, qualitatively consistent with experimental conditions required for observing the EHO.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the inflammation grading of(131)I radioiodine-induced sialadenitis based upon sialoendoscopic and sialographic appearances, and to evaluate the results of sialoendoscopic intervention. METHODS: The patients diagnosed with(131)I radioiodine-induced sialadenitis and underwent sialoendoscopic exploration and intervention procedures in Peking University Hospital of Stomatology from Nov. 2012 to Oct. 2018 were included in this study. The appearances of sialogaphy and sialoendoscopy were analyzed and classified. The treatment options included irrigation with saline and dexamethasone and mechanical dilatation by sialoendoscope. The patients were followed up after treatment. RESULTS: Forty-two patients with(131)I radioiodine-induced sialadenitis were included. There were 5 males and 37 females, with a male-to-female ratio of 1 ∶7.4. Symptoms included recurrent swelling and pain in the parotid glands, and dry mouth. Sialography showed stenosis in the main duct,and in some cases nonvisua-lization of the branches. Sialoendoscopy showed narrowing of the main duct, and the branch duct atresia was seen. The appearances of sialogaphy and sialoendoscopy were analyzed and classified into 3 groups: (1) Mild inflammation: stenosis and ectasia occurred in the main duct, whereas the 0.9 mm sialoendoscope could pass through easily. (2) Moderate inflammation: one point of severe stricture could be seen in the main duct where 0.9 mm sialoendoscope could not be passed through. (3) Severe inflammation: two points or more of severe strictures or diffused strictures occurred in the main duct. Thirty-three patients with 65 affected glands were examined by both sialography and sialoendoscopy. Eight glands were classified as mild inflammation, 23 glands moderate inflammation, and 34 glands severe inflammation. The duration of follow-up ranged from 3-72 months. The clinical results were evaluated as good in 22 glands, fair in 22 glands, and poor in 19 glands, with an overall effective rate of 69.8% (44/63). CONCLUSION: The clinical, sialographic and sialoendoscopic appearances of(131)I radioiodine-induced sialadenitis showed their characteristics. We proposed an inflammation grading standard for the(131)I radioiodine-induced sialadenitis based on the appearances of sialography and sialoendoscopy. Sialoendoscopy can significantly alleviate the clinical symptoms, which is an effective therapy, and better for early lesions.

Pneumonia caused by 2019-nCoV infection has been reported in Wuhan since December 2019, and spread rapidly across the country. The radical operation of colorectal cancer is semi-elective operation. Patients with colorectal cancer should receive operation as soon as possible after elective operation is resumed in each hospital. 2019-nCoV virus can be transmitted by asymptomatic infectors, and it has been confirmed to be transmitted by droplets and contact. However, fecal-oral transmission and aerosol transmission have not been excluded. Based on our experience with laparoscopic colorectal operation, we propose some surgery strategies for colorectal cancer patients under the corona virus disease 2019(COVID-19) situation: the screening process should be strictly carried out before surgery to reduce the risk of nosocomial infection in the later stage; laparoscopic-assisted surgery is recommended for radical surgery for patients with colorectal cancer; strict aerosol management must be made during the operation; natural orifice specimen extraction surgery and transanal total mesorectal excision are should be performed prudently; scientific and reasonable prophylactic stoma should be done; personnel protection in surgical ward and operation room must be strengthened.自2019年12月以来，新型冠状病毒肺炎（新冠肺炎）在武汉暴发，并迅速向全国蔓延。新冠肺炎病毒可经由无症状感染者传播，并已被证实可经飞沫传播与接触传播，但粪口传播和气溶胶传播尚未除外。结直肠癌患者根治性手术属限期性手术，笔者根据本中心近期开展腹腔镜结直肠癌手术的经验，提出在新冠肺炎疫情条件下结直肠癌患者的手术策略。包括术前严格执行筛选流程、以减少后期院内传染风险；推荐对结直肠癌患者根治性手术采用腹腔镜辅助手术的方式进行治疗；严格进行术中气溶胶管理；慎重开展经自然腔道取标本手术和经肛全直肠系膜切除术；科学、合理进行预防性造口和严格切实加强病房及手术室人员防护。.

Pneumonia caused by SARS-Cov-2 infection has been reported in Wuhan since December 2019, and spread rapidly across the country. The radical operation of colorectal cancer is confine operation. Patients with colorectal cancer should receive operation as soon as possible after elective operation is resumed in each hospital. SARS-Cov-2 virus can be transmitted by asymptomatic infectors, and it has been confirmed to be transmitted by droplets and contact. However, fecal-oral transmission and aerosol transmission have not been excluded. Based onLaparoscopic colorectal operation experiences, the author suggests that the surgery strategy for colorectal cancer patients under the COVID-19 situation. Recommending laparoscopy-assisted radical surgery for colorectal cancer patients. The aerosols need to be strictly managed during operation. NOSES and TaTME should be carried out with cautious during the epidemic period. Protective stoma should be carried out scientifically and reasonably, and the protection of operating room personnel should be strengthened.自2019年12月以来，新型冠状病毒肺炎（新冠肺炎，novel coronavirus pneumonia，NCP）在武汉爆发，并迅速向全国蔓延。新冠肺炎病毒可经由无症状感染者传播，并已被证实可经飞沫传播与接触传播，但粪口传播和气溶胶传播尚未除外。结直肠癌患者根治性手术属限期性手术，笔者根据本中心近期开展腹腔镜结直肠癌手术的经验，提出在新冠肺炎疫情条件下结直肠癌患者的手术策略。包括术前严格执行筛选流程、以减少后期院内传染风险；推荐对结直肠癌患者根治性手术采用腹腔镜辅助手术的方式进行治疗；严格进行术中气溶胶管理；慎重开展经自然腔道取标本手术和经肛全直肠系膜切除术；科学、合理进行预防性造口和严格切实加强病房及手术室人员防护。.

SUMMARY Muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAChRs), including M1-M5 subtypes, are classic receptors in regulating water, ion, and solute transport in salivary gland. Our work focuses on the studies on the expression pattern and function of mAChR in the submandibular gland (SMG), and the under-lying mechanism involved in the mAChR-regulated secretion, together with the effect of parasympathectomy on the salivary secretion. Microvascular autotransplantation of SMG into the temporal fossa provides a continuous and endogenous source of fluids, and is currently an effective method for treating severe keratoconjunctivitis sicca. By using RT-PCR, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence, our data demonstrated that the expression of M1 and M3 subtypes were decreased in latent period in rabbit SMG autotransplantation model, whereas carbachol stimulation promoted the salivary secretion, as well as M1 and M3 expressions. By contrast, mAChRs were hypersensitive in epiphora SMGs, whereas atropine gel and botulinum toxin A application significantly inhibited the hypersecretion in both animal models and patients. Furthermore, the possible intracellular signal molecules involved in the mAChR-modulated saliva-ry secretion were explored. Activation of mAChR upregulated the expression of aquaporin 5 (AQP5), the main transporter that mediated water secretion through transcellular pathway, and led to AQP5 trafficking from lipid rafts to non-lipid microdomain. Extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) was involved in the mAChR-regulated AQP5 content. mAChR activation also modulated the expression, distribution, and function of tight junction proteins, and increased paracellular permeability. ERK1/2/β-arrestin2/clathrin/ubiquitin signaling pathway was responsible for the mAChR-regulated downregulation of tight junction molecule claudin-4. Cytoskeleton filamentous actin (F-actin) was also involved in the distribution and barrier function of epithelial tight junctions. Besides, endothelial tight junctions were opened by mAChR agonist-evoked salivation in the mice. Furthermore, parasympathetic denervation increased resting salivary secretion in the long terminrats and minipigs. Taken together, our work demonstrated that mAChR regulated saliva secretion via transcellular and paracellular pathways in SMG epithe-lium as well as tight junction opening in SMG endothelium. Modulation of mAChR might be a promising strategy to ameliorate SMG dysfunction.

SUMMARY Immunoglobulin G4-related sialadenitis (IgG4-RS) is a newly recognized immune-mediated disease and one of immunoglobulin G4-related diseases (IgG4-RD). Our multidisciplinary research group investigated the clinicopathological characteristics and diagnosis of IgG4-RS during the past 10 years. Clinically, it showed multiple bilateral enlargement of major salivary glands (including sublingual and accessory parotid glands) and lacrimal glands. The comorbid diseases of head and neck region including rhinosinusitis, allergic rhinitis, and lymphadenopathy were commonly seen, which could occur more early than enlargement of major salivary glands. Internal organ involvements, such as autoimmune pancreatitis, sclerosing cholangitis, and interstitial pneumonia could also be seen. Thirty-five (38.5%)patients had the symptom of xerostomia. Saliva flow at rest was lower than normal. Secretory function was reduced more severely in the submandibular glands than in the parotid glands. Serum levels of IgG4 were elevated in almost all the cases and the majority of the patients had increased IgE levels. CT, ultrasonography, and sialography showed their imaging characteristics. Histologically it showed marked lymphoplasmacytic inflammation, large irregular lymphoid follicles with expanded germinal centers, prominent cellular interlobular fibrosis, eosinophil infiltration, and obliterative phlebitis. Their immunohistological examination showed marked IgG-positive and IgG4-positive plasma cell infiltration and high IgG4/IgG ratio. The disease could be divided into three stages according to severity of glandular fibrosis. The serum IgG4 level was higher and the saliva secretion lower as glandular fibrosis increased. IgG4-RS should be differentiated from other diseases with enlargement of major salivary gland and lacrimal gland, such as primary Sjögren syndrome, chronic obstructive submandibular sialadenitis, and eosinophilic hyperplastic lymphogranuloma.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinicopathological features and prognostic factors in lymphoma of parotid origin. METHODS: Clinicopathological data of the patients with parotid lymphoma who were initially diagnosed in Peking University Hospital of Stomatology from 2006 to 2016 were collected and analyzed retrospectively. The patients were followed-up for 5 to 149 months with a median period of 45 months, and the factors influencing the prognosis were evaluated. RESULTS: A total of 41 patients with primary parotid lymphoma were included in this retrospective study. The rate of male to female was 1 ∶2.15. The median age was 57 years (ranging from 8 months to 91 years). According to WHO classification, 40 cases (97.1%) were diagnosed as non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), including 15 cases of extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT), 14 cases of diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) as well as 4 cases of follicular lymphoma, while other subtypes of NHL were rare. Only one case was diagnosed as Hodgkin lymphoma. Regarding the clinical staging at the initial diagnosis, 37 patients (90.2%) were diagnosed as stage ⅠE or ⅡE of the disease, while 4 patients (9.8%) as stage ⅢE or stage ⅣE. Seven patients (17.1%) had a history of Sjögren syndrome (SS), all of whom were MALT lymphoma. The mean ill duration of the 41 patients were 20.7 months. Thirty-two patients (78%) presented a slowly growing painless mass in the parotid gland. Treatment options included localized therapy and systemic therapy, all of whom had good curative effect. Nine patients (21.9%) died during the follow-up period. The overall survival rates of 2-year and 5-year were 84.5% and 81.3% respectively. The univariate analysis demonstrated statistically significant differences for accelerated growth of tumor (P=0.005), and presence of tumor capsule (P=0.011). The multi-univariate analysis demonstrated statistically significant differences for presence of tumor capsule (P=0.041). CONCLUSION: A large majority of primary parotid lymphoma were NHL, among which MALT lymphoma and DLBCL were common subtypes. Most patients presented an indolent mass in parotid gland, which should be distinguished from the parotid benign tumors. SS is closely related to the pathogenesis of MALT lymphoma. The prognosis is better than that of other malignant parotid tumors. Absence of tumor capsule may predict a poor prognosis in patients with parotid lymphoma.

To investigate the effect of microRNA-210 on the spinal cord injury (SCI) and its underlying mechanism.The mouse SCI model was established. Mice were randomly assigned into 4 groups, namely the sham operation group (sham group), surgery group (SCI group), surgery+NC group (SCI+NC group) and surgery+microRNA-210 overexpression group (SCI+microRNA-210 mimics group). The mRNA levels of microRNA-210 and the key genes in the JAK-STAT pathway of the four groups were detected by Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) at different time points. Protein levels of JAK2 and STAT3 in mice of the four groups were detected by Western blot. To investigate the role of microRNA-210 in SCI recovery, changes in the motor function of mice were detected.Grip strengths of right and left forelimbs in mice from the sham group were temporarily decreased at the early stage after surgery, which were gradually recovered to the preoperative levels on the 3rd postoperative day. However, mice in SCI group were unable to complete the grip strength determination at the early stage after surgery. Mice in SCI group were capable of grasping on the 7th postoperative day. Besides, grip strengths of mice in SCI group were remarkably lower than those of sham group until the end-point (on the 50th day). Furthermore, mRNA levels of microRNA-210 in mice of SCI group were decreased in a time-dependent manner (p0.05). Higher grip strengths were observed in mice of SCI+microRNA-210 mimics group in comparison with those of SCI group and SCI+NC group (p0.05). In addition, Western blot showed that protein levels of JAK2 and STAT3 in mice of SCI group were increased in a time-dependent manner (p0.05). Moreover, protein levels of JAK2, STAT3, and MCP-1 in mice of SCI+NC group were remarkably higher than those in the sham group and SCI+microRNA-210 mimics group (p0.05).MicroRNA-210 is down-regulated in SCI mice. Grip strengths of SCI mice can be recovered after microRNA-210 overexpression via inhibiting inflammatory response by the JAK-STAT pathway.

AIM Patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) have an unexplained higher incidence of pouchitis and a greater amount of peripouch fat compared with patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). The aims of this study were to compare the peripouch fat areas between patients with UC and patients with FAP, and to explore relationship between peripouch fat and pouchitis or chronic antibiotic-refractory pouchitis (CARP). METHOD Patients with an abdominal CT image from our prospectively maintained Pouch Database were included. Abdominal fat and peripouch fat were measured on CT images at different levels or planes. Comparisons of peripouch fat and CARP were performed before and after propensity score matching. RESULTS A total of 277 patients with UC and 40 patients with FAP were included. Compared with patients with FAP, patients with UC were found to have a higher incidence of pouchitis (58.5% vs 15.0%, P

To evaluate the effects of endoscopy-assisted sialodochoplasty for the treatment of severe sialoduct stenosis with concurrent megaducts.From Jul.2010 to Dec. 2016, 8 patients presenting with severe parotid duct stenosis and 3 patients with occlusion of the Wharton's duct underwent endoscopy-assisted sialodochoplasty.All these patients had concurrent severe ductal ectasiaand manifested a painful swelling of the involved salivary glands.The diameter of ectasia and length of stenosis of the sialoducts were measured preoperatively by sialography, computed tomography, or ultrasonography. The megaducts were opened transorally and sutured to the buccal or oral floor mucosa, therefore creating a neo-ostium. All the patients were followed up periodically after operation. The treatment effects were evaluated by clinical signs, sialogram and sialometry.The length of the Stensen's duct stenosis was 5-12 mm, and the diameter of the concurrent ectasia was 8-16 mm. The length of the Wharton's duct stenosis was 10-20 mm, and the diameter of the concurrent ectasia was 6-8 mm.The neo-ostiums healed uneventfully 2 weeks after operation. The duration of the follow-up varied from 6 to 78 months (median: 24 months). Among the 8 patients with Stensen's duct stenosis, two experienced re-obliteration of the neo-ostium, but the buccal bulge and clinical symptoms disappeared; one reported recurrent clinical symptoms after initial alleviation, which could be controlled with self-massaging; the remaining 5 patients had satisfactory clinical results, i.e., disappearance of the obstruction symptoms and buccal bulge, patent ostium,clean saliva and improvement of the ductal ectasia on sialogram. Three patients with Wharton's duct occlusion were asymptomatic with clear saliva and patent ostium;two exhibited approximately normal appearance and one showed improvement of the sialogram.Sialometry was performed in 9 patients with patent neo-ostium of the involved glands,the resting saliva flow rate of the affected glands showed no differences compared with the normal side, and stimulated flow rate showed a significant increase, though less than the control side.The clinical results included good in 5 patients, fair in 4 patients, and poor in 2 patients, with a total effective rate of 82% (9/11).Endoscopy-assisted sialodochoplasty appears to be effective and can be a viable option for patients presenting with severe sialoducts tenosis and concurrent ectasia.

Severe dry eye is a refractory ophthalmologic disease. Our multidisciplinary research group treated severe dry eye by microvascular autologous transplantation of submandibular gland (SMG) during the past 20 years. The SMG, with its blood vessels and Wharton's duct, was harvested from the submandibular triangle and transferred to the temporal area. The blood vessels in the SMG were anastomosed with the temporal blood vessels using a microsurgical technique. Then, the distal end of Wharton's duct was sutured to form an opening in the upper lateral conjunctival fold. The tear was replaced by the secretion of the transplanted SMG to lubricate the ocular surface. In our study, the surgical techniques of blood vessel management were continuously modified to increase the survival rate of the transplanted SMG. A novel surgical modality of partial transplantation of SMG was established to prevent postoperative epiphora. A clinical study with the largest case number in the world was conducted and the effectiveness of transplantation of SMG for severe dry eye was fully confirmed. In order to resolve two main clinical problems including ductal obstruction resulted from low secretion rate during the latent period, and epiphora due to over secretion of the transplanted SMG in the later term of transplantation, the regulation of the secretion mechanism of the normal and transplanted SMG were investigated. New opinions on mechanisms of saliva secretion were provided. Based on the priniciple of translational medicine, the results of related basic research were applied in the clinic. The clinical guidelines for secretion regulation of transplanted SMG were established. A concept of chronic obstructive sialadenitis of transplanted SMG was provided and its diagnostic criteria, diagnostic technique of sialography, and therapeutic regimen were established. As a result, the surgical success rate was obviously elevated, the surgical complications were decreased, and life quality of the patients was greatly improved.

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a severe trauma to the central nervous system. Long non-coding RNAs have been reported to play essential roles in spinal cord injury. This study mainly explored the role of micro-125 in the regulation of spinal cord injury by regulating STAT3.The stable mouse model of cervical spinal cord contusion was established by Infinite Horizon spinal cord striker, and the model mice' motor function was analyzed. Bioinformatics databases were used to screen the target mRNAs of micro-125b. qRT-PCR was performed to detect the expression of micro-125b and its target genes in injury area of mice' spinal cord. Western Blot and ELISA were introduced to detect the expression of inflammation and apoptosis-related proteins in each group. The recovery status of spinal cord after SCI was assessed by motor function scores and axon counts of mice in each group.Micro-125b appeared to be significantly down-regulated over-time after SCI. JAK1 and STAT1, two important neuregulin proteins, were predicted to be the target genes of micro-125b, and overexpression of micro-125b induced the decrease of phosphorylated JAK1 and STAT1. Enhanced micro-125b expression also allowed axons from the injury area of spinal cord to extend into the outer periphery of the damaged area, thus improving the motor function of the injured rats. Besides, overexpression of micro-125b demonstrated significant neuronal protective effects by reducing apoptosis and inflammatory responses in neurons.Our data revealed that micro-125b was down-regulated in injured spinal cord, and overexpression of micro-125b promoted the repair and regeneration following spinal cord injury through the regulation of the JAK/STAT pathway.

To investigate the cervical lymphatic metastasis rates of clinically negative neck lymph node (cN0) maxillary malignant tumors, to compare the cervical lymphatic metastasis rates of the various pathological types, and to provide the reference for the treatment of the neck of the patients with cN0 maxillary malignant tumor.The clinical data of 277 cases with cN0 maxillary malignant tumor, treated in the department of oral and maxillofacial surgery of Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology from 1990 to 2010, were reviewed. The cervical lymph node metastasis and the related clinical information were recorded. The clinical information including histopathology type of the tumors, tumor grade, primary site and TNM staging, as well as other demographic and clinical data, were retrieved from the electronic medical record system (EMRS) of the hospital. The pathogenesis of cervical lymph node metastasis in maxillary malignant tumors of different histopathological types, and the factors related to lymph node metastasis of upper cervical malignancy were analyzed by SPSS 19.0 statistical software.The overall cervical lymph node metastasis rate of the 277 patients with cN0 maxillary malignant tumor was 15.5% (43/277). Maxillary squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) had a strong cervical lymph node metastasis tendency and the rate was 33.0%. The overall metastatic rate of adenocarcinoma was 7.6% lower than that of SCC, and the occurrence of cervical lymph node metastasis time was relatively late, but the metastasis rate of highly malignant grade salivary gland carcinoma was significantly higher than that of intermediate and low grade carcinoma (P=0.037). The metastatic rates of some highly malignant cN0 salivary gland carcinomas including adenocarcinoma, not other specified, high-grade mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC), and salivary duct carcinoma were exceeded 15%, while the metastasis rates of adenoid cystic carcinoma and myoepithelial carcinoma were lower. The metastasis rate of the sarcomas was very low with the rate of 4.9%.Selective neck dissection (SND) is recommended for cN0 maxillary SCC and feasible for some highly malignant cN0 salivary gland carcinomas including adenocarcinoma, not other specified, high-grade MEC, salivary duct carcinoma. The neck can be closely observed for the patients with maxillary sarcoma.

Three-dimensional reconstruction of the enhanced CT is increasingly becoming a valuable tool in head and neck neoplasms. The aim of this study is to reconstruct three-dimensional imaging of tumor and its surrounding important anatomical structure using iPlan CMF software, and to investigate the application of three-dimensional tumor mapping technique for the diagnosis and treatment of the head and neck neoplasms.In the study, 13 cases with head and neck tumors in Department of Oral and Maxilloficial Surgery, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology from June 2014 to June 2015 were studied using spiral CT scanning technology based on the same scanning condition. iPlan CMF software was used to read the original CT data, and surface shaded technology was applied to reconstruct the spatial relationship of the tumor, vessel and skull. The distance between the tumor and its surrounding important anatomical structure could be measured. iPlan CMF software was also used to accomplish the virtual osteotomy to expose the tumor, vessel and skull. The preoperative preparation, operative situation and postoperative complication were reviewed.In this study 6 patients were male and 7 female. The age range was from 23 to 65 years, and the median patient age was 50 years. The three-dimensional reconstruction image clearly demonstrated the extent of the tumor size, location, and the relation to its surrounding important anatomical structure. According to the three-dimensional image, the surgical risk of the patients was evaluated. The preoperative preparation and surgeries were successfully performed for 10 patients. Blood transfusion for 3 patients was considered before the surgery and actually accomplished during the operation. The operations for 2 patients were performed with the help of doctors from other departments. Only one patient had hoarseness because the tumor resulted from the pneumogastric nerves. For 10 patients, the average operation time was (202±135) min, and the average operation bleeding was (235±252) mL. The other 3 patients were not suitable cases for surgery.The three-dimensional reconstruction of enhanced CT image with iPlan CMF software is very helpful to make the treatment plan to avoid damaging important anatomical structures and postoperative complications.

To compare the clinical effects of direct anterior approach (DAA) and posterolateral piriformis-sparing approach (Mis-PLA) for minimally invasive surgery of total hip arthroplasty.The patients who had total hip arthroplasty from March 2015 to February 2016 were randomly divided into 2 groups: DAA group and Mis-PLA group. In the study, 43 patients (45 hips) were performed with total hip replacement via the direct anterior approach (DAA group). As comparison, 39 patients (42 hips) were performed with total hip replacement via the posterolateral piriformis-sparing approach (Mis-PLA group) at the same period. DAA group: 27 male patients (27 hips), and 16 female patients (18 hips), with an average age of (57.4±7.3) years, preoperative Harris score (41.4±8.7), body mass index (BMI) (24.3±2.2) kg/m(1) All the incisions healed by first intention. No complications were found in both groups. The length of incision:DAA group: (9.2±0.7) cm and Mis-PLA group: (9.5±0.6) cm. No statistical significant differences were found (P=0.053). The operation time:DAA group (74.3±10.1) min and Mis-PLA group (37.5±4.3) min, which showed statistically significant differences (P0.01). Blood loss: DAA group (229.6±79.2) mL and Mis-PLA group (215.7±56.0) mL. No statistical significant differences were found (P=0.366). (2) The patients in both groups were followed up for 6-12 months. The Harris hip scores for 6 weeks' follow-up: (85.5±4.1) in DAA group and (79.0±4.4) in Mis-PLA group, which indicated statistically significant differences (P0.01). The Harris scores for the 6-month follow-up: (94.3±2.7) in DAA group and (95.2±1.9) in Mis-PLA group. No statistically significant differences were found (P=0.125). The basic daily hip function analysis for the 6-week follow-up: walking speed: no statistically significant differences were found between the two groups (P=0.298); Climbing stairs: Mis-PLA group' outcome was better than DAA group's with statistical differences (P=0.047); Circling, sitting and wearing shoes and socks: outcomes in DAA group exceeded Mis-PLA group's with statistically significant differences (P0.01, P=0.016, P0.01).Total hip arthroplasty through either DAA or Mis-PLA approaches could result in very satisfactory clinical effect. Comparing with DAA, Mis-PLA requires less operation time, shorter learning curve,which indicates that it is a relatively safer approach. The advantages of total hip arthroplasty through direct anterior approach lie in less positional limitation in the early stage of postoperative period, as well as a faster recovery of hip function.

Submandibular gland is an important human function organ. With the wide application of sialoendoscope and new understanding of IgG4 related sialadenitis, a lot of submandibular glands which were previously considered to be removed are preserved. However, some submandibular glands which might be preserved are still unfortunately sacrificed. Therefore, we advocate the popularization and promotion of new knowledge and techniques and should pay more attention to the protection of the function organ of submandibular gland.下颌下腺是人体的重要功能器官，随着唾液腺内镜的广泛应用以及对IgG4相关唾液腺炎等炎性疾病的新认识，大量原本需要摘除的下颌下腺可得以保留。然而，仍有一些本可以保留的下颌下腺被切除。本文倡导新知识、新技术的普及和推广，重视下颌下腺功能器官的保护。.

The maxilla is the most important bony support of the mid-face skeleton and is critical for both esthetics and function. Maxillary defects, resulting from tumor resection, can cause severe functional and cosmetic deformities. Furthermore, maxillary reconstruction presents a great challenge for oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Nowadays, vascularized composite bone flap transfer has been widely used for functional maxillary reconstruction. In the last decade, we have performed a comprehensive research on functional maxillary reconstruction with free fibula flap and reported excellent functional and acceptable esthetic results. However, this experience based clinical procedure still remainssome problems in accuracy and efficiency. In recent years, computer assisted techniques are now widely used in oral and maxillofacial surgery. We have performed a series of study on maxillary reconstruction with computer assisted techniques. The computer assisted techniques used for maxillary reconstruction mainly include: (1) Three dimensional (3D) reconstruction and tumor mapping: providing a 3D view of maxillary tumor and adjacent structures and helping to make the diagnosis of maxillary tumor accurate and objective; (2) Virtual planning: simulating tumor resection and maxillectomy as well as fibula reconstruction on the computer, so that to make an ideal surgical plan; (3) 3D printing: producing a 3D stereo model for prebending individualized titanium mesh and also providing template or cutting guide for the surgery; (4) Surgical navigation: the bridge between virtual plan and real surgery, confirming the virtual plan during the surgery and guarantee the accuracy; (5) Computer assisted analyzing and evaluating: making a quantitative and objective of the final result and evaluating the outcome. We also performed a series of studies to evaluate the application of computer assisted techniques used for maxillary reconstruction, including: (1) 3D tumor mapping technique for accurate diagnosis and treatment of maxillary tumor; (2) Maxillary reconstruction with free fibula flap used computer assisted techniques; (3) Computer assisted orbital floor reconstruction after maxillectomy. The results suggested that computer assisted techniques could significantly improve the clinical outcome of maxillary reconstruction.

Submandibular gland is innervated by sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves, both of which work synergistically to promote the salivation of the glands. However, denervation does not always produce an inhibitive effect. Regeneration secretion was put forward to describe the situation in which the glands after denervation were found to be supersensitive to the stimulation of several agonists of saliva secretion-related receptors. It is of clinical significance to get a good understanding of the secretory mechanism changes in the autonomically denervated submandibular gland. The present paper aims to review the studies on the denervation effects on the submandibular gland.

We report a new measurement of electron antineutrino disappearance using the fully-constructed Daya Bay Reactor Neutrino Experiment. The final two of eight antineutrino detectors were installed in the summer of 2012. Including the 404 days of data collected from October 2012 to November 2013 resulted in a total exposure of 6.9$\times$10$^5$ GW$_{\rm th}$-ton-days, a 3.6 times increase over our previous results. Improvements in energy calibration limited variations between detectors to 0.2%. Removal of six $^{241}$Am-$^{13}$C radioactive calibration sources reduced the background by a factor of two for the detectors in the experimental hall furthest from the reactors. Direct prediction of the antineutrino signal in the far detectors based on the measurements in the near detectors explicitly minimized the dependence of the measurement on models of reactor antineutrino emission. The uncertainties in our estimates of $\sin^{2}2\theta_{13}$ and $|\Delta m^2_{ee}|$ were halved as a result of these improvements. Analysis of the relative antineutrino rates and energy spectra between detectors gave $\sin^{2}2\theta_{13} = 0.084\pm0.005$ and $|\Delta m^{2}_{ee}|= (2.42\pm0.11) \times 10^{-3}$ eV$^2$ in the three-neutrino framework., Comment: Updated to match final published version

In this paper, the boundary finite element method (BFEM) is applied to dynamic fluid-structure interaction problems. The BFEM is employed to model the infinite fluid medium, while the structure is modeled by the finite element method (FEM). The relationship between the fluid pressure and the fluid velocity corresponding to the scattered wave is derived from the acoustic modeling. The BFEM is suitable for both finite and infinite domains, and it has advantages over other numerical methods. The resulting system of equations is symmetric and has no singularity problems. Two numerical examples are presented to validate the accuracy and efficiency of BFEM-FEM coupling for fluid-structure interaction problems.

Based on the assumption that solutions from different methods should be the same, the relationship among weakly singular, strongly singular and hypersingular matrices associated with symmetric Galerkin boundary element method (SGBEM) is derived in this paper. Hypersingularity is avoided through matrix manipulations so that only weakly and strongly singularities need to be solved. Compared with the advantages brought about by symmetry, the additional computation caused by matrix manipulations is not so important in many cases, especially for time-domain problems or when one wants to couple BEM with other symmetric schemes. Simplicity is the advantage of the current method over the traditional SGBEM. Both steady-state and time-domain potential problems have been studied, and two numerical examples are included to show the effectiveness and accuracy of the present formulation.

Based on the assumption that solutions from different methods are the same, the relationship amongst weakly singular, strongly singular and hypersingular matrices associated with symmetric Galerkin BEM is derived for 2D elastic problems. Hypersingularity is avoided through matrix manipulations so that only weakly and strongly singularities need to be solved. Compared with the advantages brought about by symmetry, the additional computation caused by matrix manipulations is not so important in many cases, especially for time domain dynamic problems or when one wants to couple BEM with other symmetric schemes. Both static and dynamic problems have been studied, and three numerical examples are included to show the effectiveness and accuracy of the present formulation.

In this paper, a symmetric collocation boundary element method (SCBEM)/finite element method (FEM) coupling procedure is given and applied to a two-dimensional elastodynamic problem. The use of symmetry for the boundary element method not only saves memory storage but also enables the employment of efficient symmetric equation solvers. This is especially important for BEM/FEM coupling procedure. Compared with the symmetric Galerkin boundary element method (SGBEM) where double-space integration should be carried out, SCBEM is easier and faster.

The Daya Bay experiment consists of functionally identical antineutrino detectors immersed in pools of ultrapure water in three well-separated underground experimental halls near two nuclear reactor complexes. These pools serve both as shields against natural, low-energy radiation, and as water Cherenkov detectors that efficiently detect cosmic muons using arrays of photomultiplier tubes. Each pool is covered by a plane of resistive plate chambers as an additional means of detecting muons. Design, construction, operation, and performance of these muon detectors are described., Comment: 13 pages, 22 figures, to appear as NIM-A 773 (2015) 8-20

The aim of this study was to observe the effects of total glucosides of peony (TGP) on pathological change, Aquaporin-5 (AQP-5) and its mRNA expression in submandibular glands of non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice with Sjogren's Syndrome, to investigate its regulation on secretion of salivary glands.40 NOD mice were randomly divided into model group, TGP group, hydroxychloroquine group, combination group (n = 10). For TGP group, the mice were intragastrically administrated with 0.4 ml TGP dilution per day in accordance with 300 g/kg dose; for hydroxychloroquine group, the mice were intragastrically administrated with 0.4 ml hydroxychloroquine per day in accordance with 60 mg/kg dose; for the combination group, the mice were intragastrically administrated with 0.4 ml TGP dilution and 0.4 ml hydroxychloroquine. 8 weeks later, the mice were sacrificed, and submandibular glands were collected by anatomy. Pathological changes of submandibular gland were observed under a light microscope; AQP-5 protein in submandibular glands was detected by immunohistochemical staining; and AQP-5 mRNA expression in submandibular glands was detected by RT-PCR.The lymphocytic infiltration score of model mice was significantly higher than that of other groups. The pathological morphology and score of NOD mice were significantly improved after administration, and the combination group was superior to the hydroxychloroquine group and TGP group (p0.05). AQP-5 mRNA expression level of the model group was lower than other groups (p0.05); the expression levels in the TGP group and the combination group were higher than the hydroxychloroquine group (p0.05).TGP may improve pathological damage of submandibular glands of NOD mouse with Sjogren's syndrome by upregulating AQP-5 and its mRNA expression in submandibular glands.

This paper presents a symmetric collocation BEM (SCBEM)/FEM coupling procedure applicable to 2-D time domain structural–acoustic interaction problems. The use of symmetry for BEM not only saves memory storage but also enables the employment of efficient symmetric equation solvers, especially for BEM/FEM coupling procedure. Compared with symmetric Galerkin BEM (SGBEM) where double boundary integration should be carried out, SCBEM can reduce significantly the computing cost. Two numerical examples are included to illustrate the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed method.

Tip characteristics play an important role in the resolution and sensitivity of scanning probe microscopy. Extensive efforts have been devoted to tip fabrication. Most of the research is focused on scanning tunneling microscopy applications, which require sharp and short tips. Long tips that can be bent into cantilevered tips have great potential in atomic force microscopy/apertureless near-field scanning optical microscopy applications. However, the fabrication of such tips has been rarely reported. The present work is carried out with the aim of optimizing the conditions suitable for fabricating long and sharp tungsten tips. Besides topography, optical, and spectroscopic information, electrical and magnetic measurements can also be carried out with such tips obtained with the recipe reported in this article. The long tips also make it possible to measure deep grooves/trenches.

Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain B94 was used as a biocontrol agent to suppress Rhizoctonia solani and other fungal plant pathogens. Three major antifungal compounds were purified from its culture broth, each has an amino acid composition consisting of Asn, Gln, Ser, Pro, and Tyr in a molar ratio of 3:1:1:1:1. Fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (FAB MS/MS) collision induced dissociation (CID) analysis showed that the antifungal compounds were three isomers of iturin A, a cyclic lipopeptide antibiotic produced by Bacillus subtilis . One of the major compounds with a molecular weight of 1042.5533 was identified as iturin A 2 . The peptide backbone of this compound was opened chemically, and the resulting linear peptide partially sequenced using the Edman degradation method. The results confirmed those obtained using FAB MS/MS CID analysis. A new reliable method for isolation and purification of iturin A and related compounds from bacterial broth culture was developed. The CID spectrum of iturin A could be used as a ‘fingerprint’ to identify iturin A in a variety of mixtures.