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We prove the existence of a triple , where is a class of finite groups consisting of groups of odd order which is complete (i.e., closed under subgroups, homomorphic images, and extensions), is a finite simple group, is an -maximal subgroup in , and is not pronormal in . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance of a 9-kW class magnetically shielded Hall thruster operating on xenon and krypton propellants is experimentally characterized. Thrust and efficiency measurements performed at discharge powers ranging from 4.5 to 9 kW indicate that the anode efficiency of krypton is 9%–18% lower than that of xenon. This difference is comparable to previous measurements reported for unshielded Hall thrusters, although it is found that unlike in previous studies, the efficiency ratio widens with increasing discharge voltage. Far-field probes are employed to measure the contributions to anode efficiency at conditions of 4.5 and 6 kW. These results indicate that mass utilization has the largest impact on the difference in performance between xenon and krypton. Assuming this mass utilization remains the dominant driver at higher voltages, it is proposed that the higher electron temperature of shielded thrusters along channel centerline coupled with the nonlinearity of the ionization cross section may explain why the efficiency gap widens with increasing voltage for shielded thrusters. The results are discussed in the context of optimizing magnetically shielded Hall thrusters for improved performance on krypton propellant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(a) Specific impulse, (b) anode efficiency, (c) ratio of measured to theoretical limit of specific impulse, and (d) difference in anode efficiency for xenon and krypton as a function of operating condition. Erratum: "Performance comparison of a 9-kW magnetically-shielded Hall thruster operating on xenon and krypton" [J. Appl. Phys. 8], and experimental ratio of xenon to krypton anode efficiency (Fig. [Extracted from the article]

Exams constitute the predominant form of summative assessment in undergraduate biology education, with the assumption that exam performance should reflect student conceptual understanding. Previous work highlights multiple examples in which students can answer exam problems correctly without the corresponding conceptual understanding. This disconnect can significantly undermine instructors' ability to interpret exam performance in relation to student learning. Here, we investigate problem-solving strategies used by undergraduate students in biological sciences. Participants were interviewed using a semi-structured protocol: They were asked to solve genetics problems, in multiple-choice and short-answer formats, and were prompted to explain their strategies. Data analysis took a grounded-theory approach and involved iterative close reading of the interview transcripts to examine students problem-solving strategies. Three case studies of participants with similar overall exam performance are presented to explore the variety of strategies. We identified two non-conceptual strategies based on algorithms or patterns within the exam problems. In contrast, the third case-study participant used mostly conceptual strategies grounded in an understanding of biology. We also observed participants switching between conceptual and non-conceptual strategies. These results identify different strategies that undergraduate students use to solve problems in biological sciences, and potential implications on the design of exams and assessments are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we consider the initial-boundary value problem of determining the stationary right-hand side function in the anomalous diffusion equation with a Caputo fractional derivative with respect to time. The value of the solution of the problem at the final time moment is set as the overdetermination condition. In order to carry out the numerical solution, the iterative conjugate gradient method is used, while at each iteration a direct problem is solved by the finite-difference method using a purely implicit difference scheme. The computational experiment results for the model problem are presented to confirm the efficiency of this new method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) techniques can provide noninvasive in vivo hemoglobin oxygenation information but suffer from relatively low resolution in biological tissue imaging. Microwave-induced thermoacoustic tomography (TAT) can produce high-resolution images of the biological tissue anatomy but offer limited physiological information of samples because of the single species of the chromophore it maps. To overcome these drawbacks and take advantage of the merits of the two independent techniques, we built a dual-modality system by combining a NIRS system and a TAT system to image biological tissues. A series of phantom trials were carried out to demonstrate the performance of the new system. The spatial resolution is about 1 mm, with a penetration depth of at least 17.5 mm in the human subject. A cohort of five healthy subjects was recruited to conduct real-time forearm venous and arterial cuff occlusion experiments. Numerous results showed that this dual-modality system could measure oxygen metabolism and simultaneously provide anatomical structure changes of biological tissues. We also found that although the hemoglobin concentration varied consistently with many other published papers, the TAT signal intensity of veins showed an opposite variation tendency in the venous occlusion stage compared with other existing work. A detailed explanation is given to account for the discrepancy, thus, providing another possibility for the forearm experiments using TAT. Furthermore, based on the multiple types of information afforded by this dual-modality system, a pilot clinical application for the diagnosis of anemia is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A transfemoral angiogram showed right maxilla AVM and left mandible AVM (Fig. (e-f) A transfemoral angiogram showed right maxilla AVM and left mandible AVM with the feeding artery of the arteriae alveolaris mandibulatis and arteriae palatina descendens. gl Following patient consent, we performed tissue biopsy of both j-AVM (Fig. [Extracted from the article]

The concept of "immunity debt" has gained attention in the public sphere, and some have argued that the recent out-of-season resurgence of respiratory syncytial virus demonstrates the presence of immunity debt. This study investigates the existence of immunity debt in the context of influenza. Interrupted time series analysis. The positivity rate of influenza in the USA and England was gathered from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the UK Health Security Agency. A time series model with an autoregressive approach was used to model the dynamics of positivity rate. Binary indicator variables were included in the model to account for the impact of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) and immunity debt. The impact of NPIs and immunity debt on the positivity rate of influenza was found to be statistically significant. This present work provides evidence supporting the existence of immunity debt in influenza in both the USA and England in the immediate month following the removal of NPIs such as lockdowns and facemask mandates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Avian bornaviral ganglioneuritis, often referred to as parrot wasting disease, is associated with a newly discovered avian virus from the taxonomic family Bornaviridae. Research regarding the pathogenesis and treatment for this disease is ongoing, with implications for understanding other emerging human and nonhuman diseases, as well as the health and ecology of wildlife. At this time, numerous questions remain unanswered regarding the transmission of the disease, best practices for diagnostic sampling and testing, and whether currently used drug therapies are effective or harmful for afflicted birds. The pathogenesis of the disease also remains unclear with many birds showing resistance to the effects of the virus and being able to remain clinically unaffected for years, while other birds succumb to its effects. New research findings regarding avian bornaviral ganglioneuritis are discussed and important as yet unanswered questions are identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The photoluminescence phenomena of Ce3+-doped Y3Al5O12 nanophosphors synthesized by the chemical gelation were investigated and compared with bulk phosphors. The oxidation state of the cerium ions in the nanophosphors was determined to be trivalent. This is an essential characteristic of phosphor’s emission. The Stokes shift for the nanophosphors was less than the bulk phosphors, which indicates that the nanophosphors had restricted surroundings. The photoionization effect was observed for the nanophosphors where the 5d electrons were lost to the conduction band and trapped at the surface-defective sites. Another observation was the high concentration of surface defects on the nanophosphors. These surface defects were investigated using the high resolution transmission electron microscope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To mitigate tumor displacement caused by respiratory movement and to enhance positioning accuracy in liver cancer patients during radiotherapy, abdominal compression fixation devices are commonly employed. However, the efficacy of using surface guided radiotherapy (SGRT) to further improve patient setup accuracy in combination with abdominal compression has not been fully established. Hence, we aimed to investigate this in our study. In this study, we analyzed data from 11 patients with liver cancer. The patients were positioned using isocentric skin markers and the abdominal compression fixture was placed on an accurate scale reading based on the records from CT simulation. A cone-beam CT (CBCT) scan was performed to assess setup errors. These setup errors represent data for the control group – Skin marker group. The patients were then adjusted to the correct treatment position based on CBCT correction and the SGRT system was activated for monitoring. Care was taken for the region of interest drawn to avoid the abdominal compression device for all patients. The reference surface used for monitoring was the captured VRT surface rather than DICOM. The six degrees of freedom values detected by the SGRT system were recorded, representing data for the test group – SGRT group. Both sets of data were analyzed using statistical software. The errors were presented as median (interquartile range) and the differences between the two groups were tested using paired Wilcoxon rank sum test, with P < 0.05 considered as significant. A total of 60 CBCT images were analyzed, the median values and interquartile ranges are presented in the Table. The results showed that the accuracy of the SGRT group in the x and y directions was significantly better than the skin marker group (P < 0.05). The median values for the x (transverse) direction were 0.25(0.09-0.43) cm and 0.09(0.05-0.19) cm for the skin marker and SGRT groups, respectively. The median values for the y (longitudinal) direction were 0.54 (0.29-0.79) cm and 0.14 (0.07-0.24) cm for the skin marker and SGRT groups, respectively. The results for the z (vertical) direction, Rz (rotation), Ry (roll) and Rx (pitch) rotation directions were also analyzed similarly. The findings of this study suggest that compared to skin markers, SGRT can improve the accuracy of patient positioning in liver cancer radiotherapy with abdominal compression, potentially reducing unnecessary radiation exposure from CBCT imaging due to inaccurate positioning. Further multicenter prospective clinical trials are required to confirm these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: A simple analytical solution of a one‐dimensional transient and nonlinear Richards equation is of great importance for estimating the hydraulic properties of soil and for precision irrigation. We developed simple approximate solutions in explicit and implicit forms for equations describing one‐dimensional, constant‐water‐head horizontal absorption and vertical infiltration for a special case of an exponential water‐retention curve and power‐law hydraulic conductivity, respectively, based on least‐action and variational principles. The profile of the soil water content (SWC) depended on the soil hydraulic parameter n associated with the pore‐size distribution, and the new solutions could be applied to most soils for 3.5 ≤ n ≤ 24.5. A comparison with numerical solutions calculated by an implicit‐difference scheme indicated that the approximate solution in explicit form accurately estimated the special hydraulic‐function parameters for calculating the SWC profile, cumulative infiltration, infiltration rate and wetting‐front distance in horizontal‐absorption experiments. An approximate solution in implicit form was also obtained with Nth order Taylor‐series expansions for an equation describing one‐dimensional, constant‐water‐head vertical infiltration. A large N was used to simulate SWC for soils with a large n, but this did not influence estimates of cumulative infiltration. The relation between infiltration rate and the inverse wetting‐front depth was not strictly linear for vertical infiltration, and the implicit method could be used to describe this nonlinear relation. Highlights: A simple solution of the Richards equation is important to research soil water infiltration.Least‐action and variational principles were used to analyse soil water content distribution.Analytical solutions of a nonlinear Richards equation by special hydraulic functions were proposed.A method was proposed to predict the infiltration and estimate soil hydraulic parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A biomarker test based on a combination of urine tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 2 (TIMP-2) and insulin-like growth factor binding protein 7 (IGFBP7) has been used as a potential biomarker of acute kidney injury (AKI). This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the predictive value of this biomarker for cardiac surgery-associated acute kidney injury (CSA-AKI).Methods: We searched MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane, and EMBASE for studies. We evaluated the methodological quality of each included study using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 criteria. Meta-DiSc and STATA were used for statistical analyses.Results: A total of 10 studies (747 patients) were included in this meta-analysis. Pooled sensitivity and specificity with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were 0.77 (95% CI: 0.70-0.83, I2=40.7%) and 0.76 (95% CI: 0.72-0.79, I2=69.1%), respectively. Pooled positive likelihood ratio (LR), negative LR, and diagnostic odds ratio were 3.26 (95% CI: 2.51-4.23, I2=50.7%), 0.32 (95% CI: 0.24-0.41, I2=6.7%), and 10.08 (95% CI: 6.85-14.84, I2=6.7%), respectively. The area under the curve estimated by summary receiver operating characteristics was 0.83 [standard error (SE) 0.023] with a Q* value of 0.759 (se 0.021). There was no heterogeneity amongst the 10 studies from both threshold and non-threshold effects. Subgroup analysis showed that the diagnostic value was related to the severity of AKI and time measurement.Conclusions: Urinary [TIMP-2]·[IGFBP7] is an effective predictive test for cardiac surgery associated acute kidney injury with good diagnostic accuracy within 24 h. Studies examining use of biomarker-guided care bundles are indicated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a study that investigated the effect of growth rate on step structure and ordering in gallium indium phosphide. Method of the study; Results and discussion; Conclusion.

Deals with a study which aimed to verify the importance of the annealing effect during organometallic vapor-phase-epitaxial growth to obtain information on the effects of growth rate and the degree of substrate misorientation on the kinetics of ordering for Ga[sub0.52]In[sub0.48]P grown on nominally (001)-oriented gallium arsenide substrates. Experimental details; Results of the study.

Investigates the effects of both growth rate and the angle of substrate misorientation on ordering, particularly the domain size, shape and the degree of order. Information on the atomic-scale ordering; Description of an experiment in which the GaInP epitaxial layers were grown by organometallic vapor-phase epitaxy on semi-insulating GaAs substrates; Analysis of the surface morphologies and thicknesses of the GaInP epilayers.

The prevalence of BRCA1/2 large genomic rearrangements (LGRs) and their underlying mechanisms have not been fully evaluated in Chinese women with breast cancer. In this study, we determined the prevalence of BRCA1/2 LGRs in 834 patients with familial breast cancer (FBC) and 660 patients with sporadic triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) who were negative for BRCA1/2 small‐range mutations using the multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification method. We found that 20 index patients (2.4%) in the FBC group carried a BRCA1 or BRCA2 LGR, and the frequencies of BRCA1 and BRCA2 LGRs were 1.6% and 0.8%, respectively. Seven index patients (1.1%) carried a BRCA1 LGR in 660 sporadic TNBC patients, whereas no BRCA2 LGRs were found in these patients. Among the BRCA1/2 LGRs, 48.1% (13/27) were novel, and the breakpoints of the majority of the LGRs were identified. ΨBRCA1‐mediated homologous recombination (HR) and Alu‐mediated HR/non‐homologous end‐joining (NHEJ) accounted for 40% and 30% of the BRCA1 LGRs, respectively. Alu‐mediated HR accounted for 71.4% of the BRCA2 LGRs, and the remaining one‐third was generated through Long interspersed nuclear elements (LINE)‐mediated NHEJ. Our findings suggest that both FBC patients and sporadic TNBC patients should be tested for BRCA1/2 LGRs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Niobates as multifunctional materials were of vital importance in the industry production and daily life. In present work, niobates YNbO4 and YNbTiO6 are investigated as luminescence materials. The compounds have self-activated luminescence, and it is discussed how nitrogen doping affects their electronic structure and optical properties. Various analytical techniques, including x-ray diffraction, nitrogen-content analysis, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, UV-vis absorption spectroscopy and vacuum ultraviolet emission spectroscopy at variable temperature, were used to characterize the structure, composition, crystallinity and optical performance of these niobates. By considering the luminescence mechanisms in YNbO4 and YNbTiO6, the enhanced luminescence obtained upon nitrogen doping is attributed to the presence of oxygen vacancies and nitrogen levels, which changes the band gaps of the materials. Present work demonstrates the use of nitrogen doping for improving the photoluminescence properties of self-activated niobates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A variety of mutations in the androgen receptor ( AR) gene are linked to androgen insensitivity syndrome ( AIS) or sexual development disorder. Here, we studied 15 patients with various degrees of disorders of genital hypoplasia from South China. Clinical data including basal hormone level, phenotype, karyotyping and SRY gene identification were documented. Exons with flanking intronic region of the AR gene were sequenced and analysed for mutations, and a total of eight mutations were identified in the AR gene. Of eight mutations, two novel mutations c.2518G>T (p.Asp840Tyr) and c.1186G>C (p.Gly396Arg) were predicted to be damaging by SIFT and Polyphen2 online software. Previously reported mutations: c.528C>A (p.Ser176Arg), c.1789G>A (p.Ala597Thr), c.2612C>T (p.Ala871Val), c.1752C>A (p.Phe584Leu), c.171_172ins CTG (p.57_58insLeu) and c.2659A>G (p.Met887Val) were also detected in our subjects. Most of them are involved in hypospadias, penis dysplasia or other disorders of sexual development. A complete AIS case (p.Phe584Leu) with female phenotype and high serum concentrations of dihydrotestosterone ( DHT) was also found. This study presented a wide range of spectrum of AIS (from partial AIS to complete AIS) caused by AR mutations in South China population. It suggests that further study with larger data set need to be performed to elucidate the differences of the phenotypes in our study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of sound speed profile (SSP) mismatch on source localization in shallow-water waveguides with a typical negative gradient (or thermocline) is studied numerically and experimentally. The results are interpreted using a normal mode model and a ray model. It is found that a matched-field processor is insensitive to SSP mismatch for sources above the thermocline. In addition, the sensitivity of the processor to SSP mismatch increases with the depth of sources above the thermocline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper stablishes the model of the integrated batch planning process, and proposes an improved algorithm for this problem. The simulation results of a computerized scheduling system are given to prove the fitness of the model. The steel making casting production process scheduling problem is very difficult to get a good performance solution in practice. The scheduling of steelmaking casting production is a complicated problem of combinational optimization in the hybrid flow shop, which is an NP-Hard problem, and determining the polynomial time algorithm to arrive at the accurate optimal solution has proved to be a difficult task. An improved fuzzy genetic optimization and improved algorithm strategy are proposed. The results show that the method is very efficient in solving the steel casting production scheduling problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The study aims to analyze the trends of posterior uveitis and panuveitis patients seen by a tertiary eye center in Singapore between 2004 and 2012.Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 363 consecutive new cases of posterior uveitis and panuveitis. The cases were segregated into idiopathic, infectious, or noninfectious.Results: We found statistically significant differences between etiologies and ethnicity (p = 0.014). We noticed a statistically significant downward trend (Spearman's rho (ρ) = -0.812, p = 0.008) for dengue uveitis, and an upward trend for the idiopathic category (Spearman's rho (ρ) = 0.753, p = 0.019).Conclusions: We observed differences between etiologies and ethnicity, pointing toward potential susceptibility variations. There was an upward trend of idiopathic causes, possibly due to better control of systemic and infectious etiologies. The dengue uveitis incidence correlates well with our national statistics. The downward trend of dengue uveitis could be due to the introduction of Singapore's dengue surveillance in 2005, emphasizing the importance of controlling the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is focused on the analysis of transmission lines loaded with pairs of magnetically coupled resonators. We have considered two different structures: (i) a microstrip line loaded with pairs of stepped impedance resonators (SIRs), and (ii) a coplanar waveguide (CPW) transmission line loaded with pairs of split ring resonators (SRRs). In both cases, the line exhibits a single resonance frequency (transmission zero) if the resonators are identical (symmetric structure with regard to the line axis), and this resonance is different to the one of the line loaded with a single resonator due to inter-resonator coupling. If the structures are asymmetric, inter-resonator coupling enhances the distance between the two split resonance frequencies that arise. In spite that the considered lines and loading resonators are very different and are described by different lumped element equivalent circuit models, the phenomenology associated to the effects of coupling is exactly the same, and the resonance frequencies are given by identical expressions. The reported lumped element circuit models of both structures are validated by comparing the circuit simulations with extracted parameters with both electromagnetic simulations and experimental data. These structures can be useful for the implementation of microwave sensors based on symmetry properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proton acceleration from 4 im thick aluminum foils irradiated by 30-TW Ti:sapphire laser pulses is investigated using an angle-resolved proton energy spectrometer. We find that a modulated spectral peak at ~0.82 MeV is presented at 2.5° off the target normal direction. The divergence angle of the modulated zone is 3.8°. Two-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations reveal that self-generated toroidal magnetic field at the rear surface of the target foil is responsible for the modulated spectral feature. The field deflects the low energy protons, resulting in the modulated energy spectrum with certain peaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives:Observational studies relating 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and pregnancy outcomes have reported conflicting results. The aim was to assess maternal 25(OH)D status and its association with pregnancy outcomes. A prospective observational study was carried out in Guangzhou city (23 ºN), China.Subjects/Methods:Pregnant women (n=2960) and healthy controls (n=100) were recruited at a teaching hospital. Maternal 25(OH)D levels were measured at 16-20-week gestation. The pregnant women, if met inclusion and exclusion criteria, were enrolled in further analysis for pregnancy outcomes (n=1953).Results:Mean serum 25(OH)D in pregnant women was 27.03±7.92 ng/ml. In total, 18.9 and 48.6% of pregnant women had low (25(OH)D less than or equal to 20 ng/ml) and medium level (25(OH)D 21-29 ng/ml) of vitamin D, respectively. 25(OH)D was highest in summer and lowest in winter, which showed a positive correlation with temperature (R=0.942) and calcium (R=0.074). Most maternal outcomes (premature rupture of membranes break, polyhydramnios, oligohydramnios, pre-eclampsia, cesarean section), fetal outcomes (spontaneous abortions, medically induced labor, fetal death, fetal distress, fetal growth restriction) and neonatal outcomes (malformations, birth weight and height, low birth weight, macrosomia, small-for-gestational age, score of Apgar 1′,5′, asphyxia of newborn) were not significantly different between groups, but prevalence of gestational diabetes (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 1.017; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.002-1.033) and preterm delivery (adjusted OR 1.038; 95% CI 1.018-1.059) in high level group (25(OH)D ⩾30 ng/ml) was higher than that in low and medium level groups.Conclusions:The prevalence of low level of vitamin D (serum 25OHD ⩽20 ng/ml) was 18.9% among pregnant women in southern China. There were no significant differences in most adverse pregnancy outcomes among pregnant women with different levels of vitamin D at 16-20-week gestation except for higher prevalence of gestational diabetes and preterm delivery in women with high level of vitamin D, possibly related to the older age and higher body mass index of this group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In situ observation of heat- and pressure-induced gelation of methylcellulose (MC) aqueous solution has been studied by using dynamic viscoelastic and fluorescence measurements. The storage modulus G′ decreased gradually first on heating, and then leveled off in the temperature range from 25°C to 75°C. Methylcellulose solutions were subjected to pressures up to 450MPa by using a high pressure cell. It was indicated that the microviscosity showed a dramatic change in the vicinity of the phase transition point. The T vs. P phase diagram of methylcellulose aqueous solution was constructed, and it indicated that the melting point was an increasing function of pressure. In situ microscopic observation of pressure-induced gelation of methylcellulose aqueous solution was also performed with a microscope, and it could be seen that gel phase of the sample disappeared and sol formed gradually. Pressure-released study by fluorescence measurement also showed that the phase transition of MC solution was reversible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The study aims to describe the characteristics and etiologic causes of intermediate uveitis (IU) patients seen by a tertiary eye center in Singapore over 8 years. Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of the clinical records of consecutive new cases of IU that presented to the uveitis subspecialty clinic from 2004–2011 at Tan Tock Seng Hospital. Data collected included demographics, clinical and laboratory findings. Diagnoses were based on standardized clinical history, ophthalmological examination and investigations. Results: There were 66 new cases of IU, comprising 5.7% of 1168 new uveitis patients. The median age of diagnosis was 40 years (mean 39.4±15.9), with largest subgroup of the patients in the age group of 41–60 years (36.4%). The majority was Chinese (57.6%), followed by Asian Indians (18.2%) and Malays (16.7%). The ethnicity distribution was dissimilar to our ethnic distribution in Singapore (p<0.001) with an increased incidence of IU in the Asian Indian population. Most were idiopathic (59.1%) in etiology, followed by tuberculosis (TB) (15.2%). Ocular complications developed in 21 patients (31.8%), with cystoid macular edema (CME) being the commonest (28.8%). Severe vitritis occurred in 9.1% of patients, and was significantly associated with TB-associated IU (p<0.001). There was a downward trend for the incidence of the proportion of IU patients over the total uveitis patients (p = 0.021), with Spearman’s rho of −0.786. Conclusions: Despite the downward trend, TB-associated IU was still of higher prevalence compared to less endemic areas, emphasizing the need for increased TB surveillance. A high index of suspicion for TB-associated IU is required in patients with severe vitritis. Comparisons with other countries revealed disparities in the IU etiologies, indicating possible geographical differences. Prevalence of known immune-mediated etiologies of IU is less compared to the western population. Our study also suggests a probable predisposition of the Singapore local Indian population for IU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breast cancer resistance protein ( BCRP, ABCG2) is a member of ABC ( ATP-binding cassette) transporter superfamily that occurs in a variety of tissues including liver and small intestine of animals. As BCRP is involved in drug absorption, distribution, and elimination, modulation of its expression may affect the clinical efficacy of drugs. However, little is known about the effects of coccidiosis or colibacillosis infection on the levels of BCRP expression in chickens. Here, we studied the effect of infection with Escherichia coli ( E. coli) or Eimeriida mixture ( E. necatrix and E. tenella) on the expression levels of ABCG2 mRNA and BCRP in the different segments of small intestine and liver in chickens. Expression of ABCG2 mRNA or BCRP was detected in the entire small intestine and liver of healthy chickens, and the expression levels in liver and ileum were significantly higher than duodenum and jejunum. Infection with E. coli or Eimeriida mixture resulted in significant decrease in ABCG2 mRNA and BCRP expression in liver, ileum, and jejunum, but not in duodenum, in comparison with noninfection control. The results indicate that coccidiosis or colibacillosis infection inhibits BCRP expression in chickens, which may consequently influence drug distribution and therapeutic efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emission and fate of reactive volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is of inherent interest to those studying chemical biosphere-atmosphere interactions. In-canopy VOC observations are obtainable using tower-based samplers, but the lack of suitable sampling systems for the full boundary layer has limited the availability of data characterizing the vertical structure of such gases above the canopy height and still in the boundary layer. This is an important region where many reactive VOCs are oxidized or otherwise removed. Here we describe an airborne sampling system designed to collect a vertical profile of air into a 3/8 in. OD (outer diameter) tube 150m in length. The inlet ram air pressure is used to flow sampled air through the tube, which results in a varying flow rate based on aircraft speed and altitude. Since aircraft velocity decreases during ascent, it is necessary to account for the variable flow rate into the tube. This is accomplished using a reference gas that is pulsed into the air stream so that the precise altitude of the collected air can be reconstructed post-collection. The pulsed injections are also used to determine any significant effect from diffusion/ mixing within the sampling tube, either during collection or subsequent extraction for gas analysis. This system has been successfully deployed, and we show some measured vertical profiles of isoprene and its oxidation products methacrolein and methyl vinyl ketone from a mixed canopy near Columbia, Missouri. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of racism andracial microaggressionson college campuses is discussed, as well as the negative effects of these occurrences for students of color. An important teaching tool for changing white students' attitudes about racism is presented with an empirical evaluation of its effectiveness. Students read McIntosh's list of White Privileges rating their agreement that each item is a White Privilege in modern US society. Pre-test and post-test questionnaires revealed that white students became more sensitive to issues of racism after this experience. Specifically, these students became more likely to agree that: racism occurs today, racism affects their behavior, they personally benefit from White Privilege, whites in modern society can be viewed as racist, and that they reported that they would be more likely to join student organizations or attend campus events focusing on reducing racism. Regression analyses identified examples of White Privileges with the greatest effect. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

STUDY QUESTION Do spermatogonia, including spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), undergo metabolic changes during prepubertal development? SUMMARY ANSWER Here, we show that the metabolic phenotype of prepubertal human spermatogonia is distinct from that of adult spermatogonia and that SSC development is characterized by distinct metabolic transitions from oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) to anaerobic metabolism. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Maintenance of both mouse and human adult SSCs relies on glycolysis, while embryonic SSC precursors, primordial germ cells (PGCs), exhibit an elevated dependence on OXPHOS. Neonatal porcine SSC precursors reportedly initiate a transition to an adult SSC metabolic phenotype at 2 months of development. However, when and if such a metabolic transition occurs in humans is ambiguous. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION To address our research questions: (i) we performed a meta-analysis of publicly available and newly generated (current study) single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq) datasets in order to establish a roadmap of SSC metabolic development from embryonic stages (embryonic week 6) to adulthood in humans (25 years of age) with a total of ten groups; (ii) in parallel, we analyzed single-cell RNA sequencing datasets of isolated pup (n = 3) and adult (n = 2) murine spermatogonia to determine whether a similar metabolic switch occurs; and (iii) we characterized the mechanisms that regulate these metabolic transitions during SSC maturation by conducting quantitative proteomic analysis using two different ages of prepubertal pig spermatogonia as a model, each with four independently collected cell populations. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Single testicular cells collected from 1-year, 2-year and 7-year-old human males and sorted spermatogonia isolated from 6- to 8-day (n = 3) and 4-month (n = 2) old mice were subjected to scRNA-Seq. The human sequences were individually processed and then merged with the publicly available datasets for a meta-analysis using Seurat V4 package. We then performed a pairwise differential gene expression analysis between groups of age, followed by pathways enrichment analysis using gene set enrichment analysis (cutoff of false discovery rate < 0.05). The sequences from mice were subjected to a similar workflow as described for humans. Early (1-week-old) and late (8-week-old) prepubertal pig spermatogonia were analyzed to reveal underlying cellular mechanisms of the metabolic shift using immunohistochemistry, western blot, qRT-PCR, quantitative proteomics, and culture experiments. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Human PGCs and prepubertal human spermatogonia show an enrichment of OXPHOS-associated genes, which is downregulated at the onset of puberty (P  < 0.0001). Furthermore, we demonstrate that similar metabolic changes between pup and adult spermatogonia are detectable in the mouse (P  < 0.0001). In humans, the metabolic transition at puberty is also preceded by a drastic change in SSC shape at 11 years of age (P  < 0.0001). Using a pig model, we reveal that this metabolic shift could be regulated by an insulin growth factor-1 dependent signaling pathway via mammalian target of rapamycin and proteasome inhibition. LARGE SCALE DATA New single-cell RNA sequencing datasets obtained from this study are freely available through NCBI GEO with accession number GSE196819. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Human prepubertal tissue samples are scarce, which led to the investigation of a low number of samples per age. Gene enrichment analysis gives only an indication about the functional state of the cells. Due to limited numbers of prepubertal human spermatogonia, porcine spermatogonia were used for further proteomic and in vitro analyses. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS We show that prepubertal human spermatogonia exhibit high OXHPOS and switch to an adult-like metabolism only after 11 years of age. Prepubescent cancer survivors often suffer from infertility in adulthood. SSC transplantation could provide a powerful tool for the treatment of infertility; however, it requires high cell numbers. This work provides key insight into the dynamic metabolic requirements of human SSCs across development that would be critical in establishing ex vivo systems to support expansion and sustained function of SSCs toward clinical use. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was funded by the NIH/NICHD R01 HD091068 and NIH/ORIP R01 OD016575 to I.D. K.E.O. was supported by R01 HD100197. S.K.M. was supported by T32 HD087194 and F31 HD101323. The authors declare no conflict of interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Question: Do spermatogonia, including spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), undergo metabolic changes during prepubertal development?Summary Answer: Here, we show that the metabolic phenotype of prepubertal human spermatogonia is distinct from that of adult spermatogonia and that SSC development is characterized by distinct metabolic transitions from oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) to anaerobic metabolism.What Is Known Already: Maintenance of both mouse and human adult SSCs relies on glycolysis, while embryonic SSC precursors, primordial germ cells (PGCs), exhibit an elevated dependence on OXPHOS. Neonatal porcine SSC precursors reportedly initiate a transition to an adult SSC metabolic phenotype at 2 months of development. However, when and if such a metabolic transition occurs in humans is ambiguous.Study Design, Size, Duration: To address our research questions: (i) we performed a meta-analysis of publicly available and newly generated (current study) single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq) datasets in order to establish a roadmap of SSC metabolic development from embryonic stages (embryonic week 6) to adulthood in humans (25 years of age) with a total of ten groups; (ii) in parallel, we analyzed single-cell RNA sequencing datasets of isolated pup (n = 3) and adult (n = 2) murine spermatogonia to determine whether a similar metabolic switch occurs; and (iii) we characterized the mechanisms that regulate these metabolic transitions during SSC maturation by conducting quantitative proteomic analysis using two different ages of prepubertal pig spermatogonia as a model, each with four independently collected cell populations.Participants/materials, Setting, Methods: Single testicular cells collected from 1-year, 2-year and 7-year-old human males and sorted spermatogonia isolated from 6- to 8-day (n = 3) and 4-month (n = 2) old mice were subjected to scRNA-Seq. The human sequences were individually processed and then merged with the publicly available datasets for a meta-analysis using Seurat V4 package. We then performed a pairwise differential gene expression analysis between groups of age, followed by pathways enrichment analysis using gene set enrichment analysis (cutoff of false discovery rate < 0.05). The sequences from mice were subjected to a similar workflow as described for humans. Early (1-week-old) and late (8-week-old) prepubertal pig spermatogonia were analyzed to reveal underlying cellular mechanisms of the metabolic shift using immunohistochemistry, western blot, qRT-PCR, quantitative proteomics, and culture experiments.Main Results and the Role Of Chance: Human PGCs and prepubertal human spermatogonia show an enrichment of OXPHOS-associated genes, which is downregulated at the onset of puberty (P < 0.0001). Furthermore, we demonstrate that similar metabolic changes between pup and adult spermatogonia are detectable in the mouse (P < 0.0001). In humans, the metabolic transition at puberty is also preceded by a drastic change in SSC shape at 11 years of age (P < 0.0001). Using a pig model, we reveal that this metabolic shift could be regulated by an insulin growth factor-1 dependent signaling pathway via mammalian target of rapamycin and proteasome inhibition.Large Scale Data: New single-cell RNA sequencing datasets obtained from this study are freely available through NCBI GEO with accession number GSE196819.Limitations, Reasons For Caution: Human prepubertal tissue samples are scarce, which led to the investigation of a low number of samples per age. Gene enrichment analysis gives only an indication about the functional state of the cells. Due to limited numbers of prepubertal human spermatogonia, porcine spermatogonia were used for further proteomic and in vitro analyses.Wider Implications Of the Findings: We show that prepubertal human spermatogonia exhibit high OXHPOS and switch to an adult-like metabolism only after 11 years of age. Prepubescent cancer survivors often suffer from infertility in adulthood. SSC transplantation could provide a powerful tool for the treatment of infertility; however, it requires high cell numbers. This work provides key insight into the dynamic metabolic requirements of human SSCs across development that would be critical in establishing ex vivo systems to support expansion and sustained function of SSCs toward clinical use.Study Funding/competing Interest(s): This work was funded by the NIH/NICHD R01 HD091068 and NIH/ORIP R01 OD016575 to I.D. K.E.O. was supported by R01 HD100197. S.K.M. was supported by T32 HD087194 and F31 HD101323. The authors declare no conflict of interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synovial sarcoma is a deadly malignancy with limited sensitivity to traditional cytotoxic chemotherapy. SS18-SSX fusion oncogene expression characterizes human synovial sarcomas and drives oncogenesis in a mouse model. Elevated expression of BCL2 is considered a consistent feature of the synovial sarcoma expression profile. Our objective was to evaluate the expression of apoptotic pathway members in synovial sarcomas and interrogate the impact of modulating SS18-SSX expression on this pathway. We show in human and murine synovial sarcoma cells that SS18-SSX increases BCL2 expression, but represses other anti-apoptotic genes, including MCL1 and BCL2A1. This repression is achieved by directly suppressing expression via binding through activating transcription factor 2 (ATF2) to the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (AMP) response element (CRE) in the promoters of these genes and recruiting TLE1/Groucho. The suppression of these two anti-apoptotic pathways silences the typical routes by which other tumors evade BH3-domain peptidomimetic pharmacotherapy. We show that mouse and human synovial sarcoma cells are sensitive in vitro to ABT-263, a BH3-peptidomimetic, much more than the other tested cancer cell lines. ABT-263 also enhances the sensitivity of these cells to doxorubicin, a traditional cytotoxic chemotherapy used for synovial sarcoma. We also demonstrate the capacity of ABT-263 to stunt synovial sarcomagenesis in vivo in a genetic mouse model. These data recommend pursuit of BH3-peptidomimetic pharmacotherapy in human synovial sarcomas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The objective of this study was to investigate the timing of therapy initiation and other clinical factors as potential predictors for relapse and prognosis of epilepsy, based on hospital-based prospective observational data in China. Methods One hundred and seventy-one newly diagnosed patients with one or more seizures were recruited and followed for at least 2 years. Kaplan- Meier survival analysis was used for calculating recurrence and remission rates. Univariate and multivariate analyses for risk factors were performed using Cox proportional hazards model. Results Among the 171 patients analyzed, more patients had partial (54.4%) than generalized seizures (45.6%). The range of patients' age was 6-70 years, but 70% were under 16 years of age. Multiple seizure types (HR = 2.01; 95% CI, 1.31-3.10), epileptiform electroencephalogram ( EEG) abnormality ( HR = 1.95; 95% CI, 1.09-3.49), and >1 seizure monthly before treatment ( HR = 2.74; 95% CI, 1.69-4.51) were predictors of seizure recurrence. The best negative predictors of remission were as follows: relapse ( HR = 0.13; 95% CI, 0.07-0.23) and epileptiform EEG within 1 year of treatment ( HR = 0.61; 95% CI, 0.39-0.97). Delayed treatment after three or more seizures did not significantly increase the risk of recurrence ( P = 0.70) or remission ( P = 0.31) compared with early treatment after one or two seizures. Conclusions Multiple seizure types, epileptiform EEG abnormality, and >1 seizure monthly before treatment predict seizure recurrence. Relapse and epileptiform EEG within 1 year of treatment predict adverse seizure outcome. Early treatment does not affect relapse or prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Class discussions of White privilege can increase sociocultural and international awareness in our students. Therefore, instructors should be encouraged to teach this topic in introductory college survey courses (e.g., psychology and sociology), although negative reactions by White students can affect student evaluations of an instructor’s teaching skills. We decided to further explore college students’ cognitive and emotional reactions to this topic. Principal components analysis revealed four factors. Agreement with items related to the factor Societal (e.g., American society is not a meritocracy) was associated with understanding White privilege. Agreement with items associated with the factor Personal (e.g., feeling personally attacked) was associated with failure to understand this concept. The remaining two factors, Denial and The Bad Guys (feeling like one of “the bad guys” in society), were not significantly associated with understanding White privilege. These findings are discussed in the context of successfully teaching antiracism. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

1. An F2 resource population of Gushi chickens crossed with Anka broilers was used to investigate the genetic effects of the chicken PNPLA3 gene on growth and adipose accumulation. 2. Associations between three SNPs (g.40006G > T, g.42344T > C and g.42404A > T) and broiler traits were determined using linkage disequilibrium, haplotype construction and association analysis. 3. The g.40006G > T mutation was associated with body weights at 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 weeks of age, carcass weight, evisceration weight and semi-evisceration weight (P < 0.05). 4. Haplotypes of the g.42344T > C and g.42404A > T mutations were associated with body weight at 12 weeks, carcass weight, evisceration weight, and semi-evisceration weight (P < 0·05) and were associated with significant dominance effects. 5. The results suggest that the PNPLA3 gene may be in linkage with the causative mutation or a QTL controlling growth traits in chickens. In contrast to human studies, the polymorphisms were not associated with fat related traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Previous studies indicate that leptin regulates placental angiogenesis and fetal growth in mammals and that in ovo leptin administration affects embryonic development and hatch weight in the chicken. To test the hypothesis that leptin affects embryonic growth through modifying chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) angiogenesis, we injected 0.5 μg of recombinant murine leptin into the albumen of fertilized eggs before incubation. On embryonic day 12 (E12), the number and the total area of blood vessels on CAM were measured, and expression of genes involved in angiogenesis was quantitated to show the possible mechanisms. Leptin in ovo administration decreased (P < 0.05) both the total area of blood vessels and the number of small-sized capillaries on CAM of E12 female chicken embryos, which coincided with significantly decreased (P < 0.05) embryo weight on E12 and BW at hatching. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and inducible and endothelial nitric oxide synthases (iNOS and eNOS) were all downregulated (P < 0.05) in CAM both at the mRNA and protein/activity levels with reduced (P < 0.05) nitric oxide (NO) concentration in chorioallantoic fluid of female embryos. Furthermore, signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (STAT3) was found to be diminished (P < 0.05) both at the mRNA and protein levels and associated with decreased (P < 0.05) binding of STAT3 to VEGF promotor in the CAM of leptin-treated E12 female embryos. These data suggest that in ovo leptin administration affects CAM angiogenesis and embryo growth in female chicken embryos, probably through STAT3-mediated VEGF/NO pathways. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A toxicity data set containing the toxicities of 970 hydrophobic, polar and ionizable, nitro substituted and α,β-unsaturated compounds to Tetrahymena pyriformis was classified into different groups based on the structure and substituted functional groups. Polar, ionizable and reactive compounds exhibit greater toxicity as compared with the non-polar hydrophobic compounds. Step-by-step analysis was carried out between the toxicity and descriptors representing hydrophobicity, polarity/polarizability, ionization and reactivity of compounds. Significant relationships were developed between the toxicity and these descriptors for the compounds. The models developed are simple, interpretable and transparent, using a small number of descriptors that may reflect the interactions of chemicals with the biological macromolecules at the target sites. Hydrophobic parameter log P reflects bio-uptake process compounds. Polarity/polarizability descriptor S reflects the interaction of hydrophilic residues of polar chemicals with biological macromolecules. The fractions of ionized (F i) and neutral (F 0) forms calculated from pK a reflect the interactions of ionizable compounds with the macromolecules and effect of ionization of ionizable compounds on the bio-uptake process, respectively. A successful single model was developed by using the descriptors log P, S, F i and log F 0 for non-polar, polar and ionizable compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shortly after its development, the white light supercontinuum laser was applied to confocal scanning microscopy as a more versatile substitute for the multiple monochromatic lasers normally used for the excitation of fluorescence. This light source is now available coupled to commercial confocal fluorescence microscopes. We have evaluated a supercontinuum laser as a source for a different purpose: confocal interferometric imaging of living cells and artificial models by interference reflection. We used light in the range 460-700 nm where this source provides a reasonably flat spectrum, and obtained images free from fringe artefacts caused by the longer coherence length of conventional lasers. We have also obtained images of cytoskeletal detail that is difficult to see with a monochromatic laser. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clin Microbiol Infect 2012; 18: E91-E94 Abstract Multidrug-resistant Salmonella infection is a global problem, and carbapenems may represent the last therapeutic choice. We report a case of infection caused by ceftriaxone-resistant and ciprofloxacin-resistant Salmonella enterica serotype Typhimurium. A blaCMY-2-containing Tn 6092, located on a self-transferable IncI1 plasmid, was found in all isolates derived from the patient. During ertapenem treatment, the strain developed carbapenem resistance. Apart from the OmpD deficiency found in all isolates, the strain further developed OmpC deficiency through a single gene mutation, and became carbapenem-resistant. Salmonella appears to be very plastic in developing antimicrobial resistance. Care must be taken by physicians when treating multidrug-resistant Salmonella infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contents To study the effect of donor age on oocyte developmental competence and steroid profiles, the crossbred cow (Murray Grey × Brahman) in Yunnan province of China were selected and divided into three groups according to its age. The three groups were young cows (n = 12; 12 months old), middle-aged cows (n = 15; parity: ≤3 calvings; age: 7-8 years old) and old cows (n = 10; parity: ≥8 calvings; age: ≥15 years old). Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were collected by 10 consecutive ovum pick up (OPU) sessions with a 4-day interval between each session, followed by in vitro maturation, fertilization and embryo development. Results showed that cleavage rates (CR) and blastocyst rates (BR) were higher in the young cows than those in the middle-aged and old cows (p < 0.05). CR and BR from COCs of the first and the fourth OPU sessions were lower than those from other sessions in the young cows and the middle-aged cows (p < 0.05), whereas the similar phenomenon was not observed in the old cows. Plasma concentrations of oestradiol were higher, and plasma concentrations of progesterone were lower before and during OPU sessions in the young cows compared with those in the same period in the middle-aged cows or the old cows (p < 0.01). In conclusion, donor age of oocytes could affect developmental competence of oocytes recovered by OPU through the action of steroid hormonal balance on follicle development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To uncover the potential antioxidative role of anthocyanins in vivo in protecting photosynthetic tissues from photoinhibition, the effects of high irradiance [HI, 1300 μmol(photon) m s] were studied using detached leaves derived from Arabidopsis wild-type (WT) and the mutant deficient in anthocyanin biosynthesis ( tt3tt4). HI stress caused decreased chlorophyll content and photochemical efficiency, but increased cell-membrane leakage and contents of hydrogen peroxide and superoxide radical in the leaves of both Arabidopsis phenotypes, but the WT plants showed better HI tolerance than tt3tt4 mutant. HI caused a significant increase in the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl scavenging capacity in WT but not in the tt3tt4 mutant. The anthocyanins could not contribute substantially to light-shielding during the periods of HI stress, because the anthocyanin content in WT was very low and the colour of leaves was the same as in the tt3tt4 mutant. Thus, it was assumed that the better HI tolerance in WT was mostly related to the potential antioxidative role of anthocyanins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium has been hypothesized to be a pancreatic carcinogen. We test the hypothesis that cadmium exposure is a risk factor for pancreatic cancer with a population-based case-control study sampled from a population with persistently high rates of pancreatic cancer (south Louisiana). We tested potential dietary and nondietary sources of cadmium for their association with urinary cadmium concentrations which reflect long-termexposure to cadmium due to the accumulation of cadmium in the kidney cortex. Increasing urinary cadmium concentrations were significantly associated with an increasing risk of pancreatic cancer (2nd quartile OR = 3.34, 3rd = 5.58, 4th = 7.70; test for trend P ⩽ 0.0001). Potential sources of cadmium exposure, as documented in the scientific literature, found to be statistically significantly associated with increased risk of pancreatic cancer included working as a plumber, pipefitter or welder (OR = 5.88) and high consumption levels of red meat (4th quartile OR = 6.18) and grains (4th quartile OR = 3.38). Current cigarette smoking, at least 80 pack years of smoking, occupational exposure to cadmium and paints, working in a shipyard, and high consumption of grains were found to be statistically significantly associated with increased concentrations of urinary cadmium. This study provides epidemiologic evidence that cadmium is a potential human pancreatic carcinogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study which investigates the main reasons for not HIV testing intentions, HIV testing, and possible use of an over-the-counter rapid HIV test (OTCRT) among men who have sex with men who have not tested for HIV (NTMSM). The study evaluates the correlates of the reasons among 946 NTMSM from six cities in the U.S. who joined in an online survey in 2007. Findings show that the reasons for not testing were less remarked risk with 32.2% and fear of testing positive with 18.1%.

Abstract: We investigated changes in behavior and brain glucose metabolism in a rat chronic mild stress (CMS) model of depression. The CMS model has been used to mimic depression in humans by using various chronic mild stressors in a 4 weeks period. In the present study, we have developed a combination of tests examining behavior (open field test) and hedonic measure (sucrose preference test) after exposure to CMS, and compared this to control non-stressed rats. We found that CMS induced behavioral changes, including decreased central and rearing activity, increased grooming and defecation, reduced body weight, and reduced relative sucrose intake. Moreover, our study suggests that CMS administered for 4 weeks activated left auditory cortex, while left piriform cortex, left inferior colliculus, septal nuclei and periaqueductal gray were deactivated. These changes in region of interest are left–right asymmetrical and lateralized in the left hemisphere. And activity deficits of depression are related with changes of brain activity in all brain regions showing significant changes by CMS in glucose metabolism. There are significant correlations for relative sucrose intake in left piriform cortex, left inferior colliculus and left auditory cortex, and for anxiety-related behavioral measures in septal nuclei and periaqueductal gray. There are lack of significant effects in the mean glucose metabolism of both hemispheres in hippocampus and amygdala induced by CMS possibly because of various reasons. Changes in glucose metabolism support the view that these significant brain regions are involved in chronic stress and depressive mood regulation. The results of this study might contribute to the awareness of changes in behavior and brain activity of depression induced by CMS. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background Several previous studies have investigated the association between factors related to metabolic syndrome, which is known to increase the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease, and androgenetic alopecia (AGA). However, the results of these studies have been inconsistent. Objectives To determine if there is an association between metabolic syndrome and AGA after adjustment for potential confounders. Methods A population-based cross-sectional survey was conducted in Tainan, Taiwan. A total of 740 subjects aged 40–91 years participated in the survey between April and June 2005. The Norwood classification was used to assess the degree of hair loss. Information on components of metabolic syndrome together with other possible risk factors was collected. Results A statistically significant association was found between AGA and the presence of metabolic syndrome [odds ratio (OR) 1·67, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1·01–2·74] as well as between AGA and the number of fulfilled metabolic syndrome components (OR 1·21, 95% CI 1·03–1·42) after controlling for age, family history of AGA and smoking status. Among metabolic syndrome components, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (OR 2·36, 95% CI 1·41–3·95; P = 0·001) was revealed as the most important factor associated with AGA. Conclusions Our population-based study found a significant association between AGA and metabolic syndrome; among the components of metabolic syndrome, HDL-C was found to be of particular importance. This finding may have significant implications for the identification of metabolic syndrome in patients with moderate or severe AGA. Early intervention for metabolic syndrome is critical to reduce the risk and complications of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus later in life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]