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Key message: Unreduced megagametophytes via second-division restitution were confirmed through heterozygosity analysis, and four candidate physical centromeres of rubber were located for the first time. The evaluation of maternal heterozygosity restitution (MHR) is vital in identifying the mechanism of 2n gametogenesis and assessing the utilization value of 2n gametes. In this study, three full-sib triploid populations were employed to evaluate the MHR of 2n female gametes of rubber tree clone GT1 and to confirm their genetic derivation. The 2n female gametes of GT1 were derived from second-division restitution (SDR) and transmitted more than half of the parental heterozygosity. In addition, low recombination frequency markers were developed, and four candidate physical centromeres of rubber tree were located for the first time. The confirmation that 2n female gametes of rubber tree clone GT1 are derived from SDR provides insights into the molecular mechanisms of 2n gametogenesis. In addition, the identified centromere location will aid in the development of centromeric markers for the rapid identification of the 2n gametogenesis mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to the recommendations of literature and standards, the minimum sample size for the friction test of thermoplastics is usually 3–5. While this size is valid for the friction test of neat polymer resins with homogeneous structures, its applicability to short fiber reinforced polymer composites with inhomogeneous structures remains unclear because the uneven distribution of discontinuous fibers or fillers in the matrix leads to the performance of the composites being dispersed. In this work, as a typical example, 100 friction samples made of short carbon fiber reinforced polyetherimide (SCF/PEI) composite with a typical content of 10 vol% SCFs are prepared, and their friction coefficients are measured. The maximum likelihood estimation and goodness of fit methods are employed to assess the fitting degree between the overall friction coefficient results and five mathematical distributions. The results show that the overall friction coefficient data distribution is in good agreement with the Lognormal, Generalized extreme value (GEV), and Burr distributions, respectively. Based on the fitting result, the minimum sample size is analyzed by Monte Carlo Simulation. It shows that the minimum sample size strongly depends on the property dispersion parameter (COV: coefficient of variation). Based on this parameter, the minimum sample size is given. In a practical test, the performance dispersion degree of a composite cannot be known in advance, hence a sample size determination method is proposed to yield a reasonable performance description parameter by applying the results of this work, and this method is validated by the overall test data. Highlights: Proposed a sample size determination method for practical friction tests.The minimum sample size for the friction test is yielded statistically.The minimum sample size strongly depends on a property dispersion parameter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Wild apple (Malus sieversii) is under second-class national protection in China and one of the lineal ancestors of cultivated apples worldwide. In recent decades, the natural habitation area of wild apple trees has been seriously declining, resulting in a lack of saplings and difficulty in population regeneration. Artificial near-natural breeding is crucial for protecting and restoring wild apple populations, and adding nitrogen (N) and phosphorous (P) is one of the important measures to improve the growth performance of saplings. In this study, field experiments using N (CK, N1, N2, and N3: 0, 10, 20, and 40 g m− 2 yr− 1, respectively), P (CK, P1, P2, and P3: 0, 2, 4, and 8 g m− 2 yr− 1, respectively), N20Px (CK, N2P1, N2P2, and N2P3: N20P2, N20P4 and N20P8 g m− 2 yr− 1, respectively), and NxP4 (CK, N1P2, N2P2, and N3P2: N10P4, N20P4, and N40P4 g m− 2 yr− 1, respectively) treatments (totaling 12 levels, including one CK) were conducted in four consecutive years. The twig traits (including four current-year stem, 10 leaf, and three ratio traits) and comprehensive growth performance of wild apple saplings were analyzed under different nutrient treatments. Results: N addition had a significantly positive effect on stem length, basal diameter, leaf area, and leaf dry mass, whereas P addition had a significantly positive effect on stem length and basal diameter only. The combination of N and P (NxP4 and N20Px) treatments evidently promoted stem growth at moderate concentrations; however, the N20Px treatment showed a markedly negative effect at low concentrations and a positive effect at moderate and high concentrations. The ratio traits (leaf intensity, leaf area ratio, and leaf to stem mass ratio) decreased with the increase in nutrient concentration under each treatment. In the plant trait network, basal diameter, stem mass, and twig mass were tightly connected to other traits after nutrient treatments, indicating that stem traits play an important role in twig growth. The membership function revealed that the greatest comprehensive growth performance of saplings was achieved after N addition alone, followed by that under the NxP4 treatment (except for N40P4). Conclusions: Consequently, artificial nutrient treatments for four years significantly but differentially altered the growth status of wild apple saplings, and the use of appropriate N fertilizer promoted sapling growth. These results can provide scientific basis for the conservation and management of wild apple populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pain is a contributing factor to the low compliance rate for performing a colonoscopy on screening for colorectal cancer. Purpose: This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effect of visual distraction on adults undergoing colonoscopy. Methods: We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library Database from their inception to February 2022. Randomized controlled trials comparing visual distraction with non-visual distraction were considered for inclusion. The fixed-effects and random-effects models were used to pool the data from individual studies and the Cochrane risk of bias assessment tool was used to determine the methodology quality. Results: This meta-analysis included four studies (N = 301) for pain level and total procedure time, three studies (N = 181) for satisfaction score, three studies (N = 196) for anxiety level, and four studie (N = 402) for willingness to repeat the procedure. The pooled analysis shown that significantly lower pain levels (SMD, − 0.25; 95% CI − 0.47 to − 0.02; P = 0.03), higher satisfaction score with the procedure (SMD, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.33 to 0.93; P < 0.0001), and higher willingness to repeat the procedure (OR, 2.66; 95% CI 1.70 to 4.17; P < 0.0001) in the visual distraction group than those in the non-visual distraction group, with no significant differences in total procedure time (SMD,− 0.07; 95% CI − 0.30 to 0.15; P = 0.53) or anxiety level (SMD,− 0.27; 95% CI − 0.55 to 0.01; P = 0.06). Conclusions: Visual distraction improved the patient's pain, satisfaction, and willingness to repeat the procedure. Thus, visual stimulation is an effective way to reduce pain during colonoscopy and should be recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Octopamine (OA) is structurally and functionally similar to adrenaline/noradrenaline in vertebrates, and OA modulates diverse physiological and behavioral processes in invertebrates. OA exerts its actions by binding to specific octopamine receptors (OARs). Functional and pharmacological characterization of OARs have been investigated in several insects. However, the literature on OARs is scarce for parasitoids. Here we cloned three β-adrenergic-like OARs (CcOctβRs) from Cotesia chilonis. CcOctβRs share high similarity with their own orthologous receptors. The transcript levels of CcOctβRs were varied in different tissues. When heterologously expressed in CHO-K1 cells, CcOctβRs induced cAMP production, and were dose-dependently activated by OA, TA and putative octopaminergic agonists. Their activities were inhibited by potential antagonists and were most efficiently blocked by epinastine. Our study offers important information about the molecular and pharmacological properties of β-adrenergic-like OARs from C. chilonis that will provide the basis to reveal the contribution of individual receptors to the physiological processes and behaviors in parasitoids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the effects of home‐based telerehabilitation based on the Internet‐based rehabilitation management system on hip function, activities of daily living and somatic integrative ability of elderly postoperative hip fracture patients. Methods: From June 2020 to November 2020, we recruited 58 elderly postoperative hip fracture patients and randomly assigned them to the telephone group (n = 29) and the telerehabilitation group (n = 29). Both groups received routine discharge instructions, and the former received telephone follow‐up after discharge, while the latter received remote rehabilitation based on the Internet‐based rehabilitation management system. The Harris hip score (HHS), functional independence measure (FIM), timed up‐and‐go test (TUG), and short physical performance battery (SPPB) were used to evaluate the patients' hip function, activities of daily living, and overall somatic ability. Results: There was no significant difference between the baseline data of the two groups before the intervention (P > 0.05); no matter after hip replacement or internal fixation, the HHS score and FIM score of both groups increased gradually with the postoperative time, and the scores in the telerehabilitation group were higher than those in the telephone group at 1 and 3 months after the intervention, and the difference was significant (P < 0.05); for patients after hip replacement, the TUG and SPPB scores in the telerehabilitation group were better than those in the telephone group at 3 months after the intervention, and the difference was significant (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The Internet‐based rehabilitation management system applied to postoperative home rehabilitation of elderly hip fracture patients can improve the functional recovery of the hip joint and enhance the ability to perform activities of daily living and somatic integration to a certain extent. This seems to provide an effective option for conducting home rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

HLA‐DPB1*05:01:21 differs from HLA‐DPB1*05:01:01:01 by one nucleotide in exon 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supercapacitors have attracted extensive research attention in the fields of materials science, new devices, and new energy due to their better temperature characteristics, rapid charge-discharge rates, environmental friendliness, and ultra-long cycle life. NiFe 2 O 4 , as a pseudocapacitive electrode material with a spinel structure, has shown enormous potential as an electrode material for supercapacitors due to its low cost, high abundance, and better electrochemical performance. This paper systematically reviews various preparation methods of NiFe 2 O 4 electrode materials, including but not limited to hydrothermal method, solvothermal method, electrospinning technique, sol-gel method, chemical bath deposition (CBD), co-precipitation method, and continuous ion layer adsorption reaction. Strategies for carbon material modification of NiFe 2 O 4 electrodes using graphene and its derivatives, carbon nanotubes, porous carbon, and activated carbon are thoroughly discussed. Furthermore, the paper elaborates on structural regulation methods of NiFe 2 O 4 and its composite materials, comprehensively analyzing different structural design strategies such as heterojunction structure, core-shell structure, hollow structure, dendritic structure, and layered structure, and their effects on material performance. In particular, a detailed analysis of the pore size distribution and specific surface area (SSA) characteristics of porous materials is conducted, and the specific impact mechanisms of pore size and SSA on electrochemical performance are summarized. The paper also focuses on the latest research progress in preparing asymmetric supercapacitors (ASCs) using NiFe 2 O 4 electrode materials and comprehensively discusses the challenges faced by NiFe 2 O 4 electrode materials and possible future development directions. Through this series of comprehensive analyses, the aim is to provide a solid theoretical foundation and practical guidance for the application of NiFe 2 O 4 electrode materials in the field of supercapacitors. [Display omitted] • Working principle of supercapacitors (SCs) is introduced. • Recent advances on NiFe 2 O 4 electrode materials for SCs are reviewed. • Various ways to enhance the performance of NiFe 2 O 4 electrode materials are discussed • Current challenges and future prospect of NiFe 2 O 4 electrode materials are suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Forty critical compounds were identified through MS2 based GNPS matching. • SSF-LGPT significantly lowered lipid content of C.elegans. • SSF-LGPT prolonged the lifespan and healthspan of C. elegans , • SSF-LGPT fermented on the 10th day was the optimum product. Microbial tea products are widely welcomed for their unique quality and characteristics. In this study, Cordyceps militaris (C. militaris), a medicinal and edible fungus, was used to ferment Lu'an GuaPian tea (LGPT) by solid-state fermentation (SSF) and thus developed a new deeply processed tea product (SSF-LGPT) with less bitterness and a distinct herbal aroma. SSF-LGPT (100 μg/mL) showed α -glucosidase inhibitory activity and significantly lowered fat content (34 % inhibition rate) in Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). SSF-LGPT also exhibited antioxidant activity in vitro , prolonged the lifespan, delayed the age-related decline of phenotype, and enhanced stress resistance to heat, oxidative stress, and UV irradiation in C. elegans. Together, C. militaris fermentation of LGPT improves the flavor, hypoglycemic and fat-lowering activities. This study provides a new alternative approach to comprehensively utilize resourceful green tea via C. militaris fermentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Successful development and validation the method to monitor the whole blood concentration of cyclosporine A in pediatric patients with minimum time and small-volume plasma consumption. • The analysis method minimized medical costs by optimizing extraction processing and allowed the analysis with a simple one-step protein precipitation method. • 657 cases of CsA concentrations were determined from 197 pediatric patients by a routine EMIT assay and by a validated in-house LC-MS/MS method. • The correlation between the EMIT and LC-MS/MS in different ranges was analyzed, including < 40 ng/mL, > 500 ng/mL, excluding < 40 ng/mL and > 500 ng/mL, 40–––200 ng/mL, and 200–––500 ng/mL, respectively. • This is the first study reporting the comparison of the EMIT and LC-MS/MS for the measurement of whole blood CsA concentration in children. Cyclosporine A (CsA) is a widely used immunosuppressive drug with a narrow therapeutic index and large individual differences. Its therapeutic and toxic effects are closely related to blood drug concentrations, requiring routine therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM). The current main methods for TDM of CsA are enzyme multiplied immunoassay technique (EMIT) and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). However, few study on the method comparison of the EMIT and LC-MS/MS for the measurement of whole blood CsA concentration in children has been reported. In this study, we developed a simple and sensitive LC-MS/MS assay for the determination of CsA, and 657 cases of CsA concentrations were determined from 197 pediatric patients by a routine EMIT assay and by the validated in-house LC-MS/MS method on the same batch of samples, aimed to address the aforementioned concern. Consistency between the two assays was evaluated using linear regression and Bland-Altman analysis. The linear range of LC-MS/MS was 0.500–2000 ng/mL and that of the EMIT was 40–500 ng/mL, respectively. Overall, the correlation between the two methods was significant (r-value ranging from 0.8842 to 0.9441). Unsatisfactory consistency was observed in the concentrations < 40 ng/mL (r = 0.7325) and 200–500 ng/mL (r = 0.6851). Bland-Altman plot showed a mean bias of −18.0 % (±1.96 SD, −73.8 to 37.8 %) between EMIT and LC-MS/MS. For Passing-Bablok regression between EMIT and LC-MS/MS did not differ significantly (p > 0.05). In conclusion, the two methods were closely correlated, but the CsA concentration by LC-MS/MS assay was slightly higher than that by EMIT method. Switching from the EMIT assay to the LC-MS/MS method was acceptable, and the LC-MS/MS method will receive broader application in clinical settings due to its better analytical capabilities, but the results need to be further verified in different laboratories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review is an update of two previous ones focusing on the limit of detection of electrochemical nucleic acid biosensors allowing direct detection of nucleic acid target (miRNA, mRNA, DNA) after hybridization event. A classification founded on the nature of the electrochemical transduction pathway is established. It provides an overall picture of the detection limit evolution of the various sensor architectures developed during the last three decades and a critical report of recent strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key message: MiR394 plays a negative role in tomato resistance to late blight. The lncRNA40787 severing as an eTM for miR394 to regulate LCR and exerting functions in tomato resistance. Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), which was used as model species for studying the mechanism of plant disease defense, is susceptible to multiple pathogens. Non-coding RNA (ncRNA) has a pivotal role in plants response to biological stresses. It has previously been observed that the expression level of miR394 changed significantly after the infection of various pathogens. However, there has been no detailed investigation of the accumulated or suppressed mechanism of miR394. Our previous study predicted three lncRNAs (lncRNA40787, lncRNA27177, and lncRNA42566) that contain miR394 endogenous target mimics (eTM), which may exist as the competitive endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) of miR394. In our study, the transcription levels of these three lncRNAs were strongly up-regulated in tomato upon infection with P. infestans. In contrast with the three lncRNAs, the accumulation of miR394 was significantly suppressed. Based on the expression pattern, and value of minimum free energy (mfes) that represents the binding ability between lncRNA and miRNA, lncRNA40787 was chosen for further investigation. Results showed that overexpression of lncRNA40787 reduced the expression of miR394 along with decreased lesion area and enhanced disease resistance. Overexpression of miR394, however, decreased the expression of its target gene Leaf Curling Responsiveness (LCR), and suppressed the synthesis components genes of jasmonic acid (JA), depressing the resistance of tomato to P. infestans infection. Taken together, our findings indicated that miR394 can be decoyed by lncRNA40787, and negatively regulated the expression of LCR to enhance tomato susceptibility under P. infestans infection. Our study provided detailed information on the lncRNA40787-miR394-LCR regulatory network and serves as a reference for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tribological performances of short carbon fiber reinforced polyetherimide (SCF/PEI) composites in an oil lubricant environment are of significance for relevant applications but have not been reported yet. In the present work, the friction and wear behavior of the SCF/PEI composite in oil-lubricated conditions is investigated systematically with a pin-on-disc test rig (a polymer pin sliding against a steel disc). Experimental results indicate that the incorporation of oil lubricant improves the anti-wear and anti-friction performances of the SCF/PEI composite, especially under heavy-duty conditions. In the range of working conditions explored here, the friction coefficient of the SCF/PEI composites varies around 0.1, the specific wear rate is lower than 3 × 10−6 mm3/N·m, and the composite still operates under a boundary lubrication regime. Meanwhile, it should be pointed out that the dominant wear mode of the SCF/PEI composite in the oil lubrication condition is abrasive wear, and no transfer film is observed on the counterpart surface. • Tribological performances of the SCF/PEI composites in an oil lubricant environment are experimentally investigated. • Test load has a greater effect on the wear rate of the SCF/PEI composite in the oil lubricated environment. • The dominant wear mode of the SCF/PEI composite in the oil lubrication environment is abrasive wear. • Friction coefficient of the SCF/PEI composite is proportional to a "PV" parameter of P0.26V-0.09 with oil lubricants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Central nervous system leukemia (CNSL) remains a serious complication in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and an ambiguous prognostic factor for those receiving allo‐geneic hematopoiesis stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT). It is unknown whether using more sensitive tools, such as multiparameter flow cytometry (MFC), to detect blasts in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) would have an impact on outcome. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical outcomes of 1472 AML patients with or without cytology or MFC positivity in the CSF before transplantation. Abnormal CSF (CSF+) was detected via conventional cytology and MFC in 44 patients at any time after diagnosis. A control group of 175 CSF‐normal (CSF−) patients was generated via propensity score matching (PSM) analyses according to sex, age at transplant, and white blood cell count at diagnosis. Results: Compared to those in the CSF‐negative group, the conventional cytology positive and MFC+ groups had comparable 8‐year nonrelapse mortality (NRM) (4%, 4%, and 6%, p = 0.82), higher cumulative incidence of relapse (CIR) (14%, 31%, and 32%, p = 0.007), lower leukemia‐free survival (LFS) (79%, 63%, and 64%, p = 0.024), and overall survival (OS) (83%, 63%, and 68%, p = 0.021), with no significant differences between the conventional cytology positive and MFC+ groups. Furthermore, multivariate analysis confirmed that CSF involvement was an independent factor affecting OS and LFS. Conclusion: Our results indicate that pretransplant CSF abnormalities are adverse factors independently affecting OS and LFS after allotransplantation in AML patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is regarded as a curative therapy for majority of hematologic malignancies and some non-malignant hematologic diseases. Venous thromboembolism (VTE) has become increasingly recognized as a severe complication following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). To show the characteristics of VTE after haploidentical donor hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HID-HSCT) and make comparisons with matched related donor HSCT (MRD-HSCT). A retrospective nested case-control study design was used, cases with VTE and matched controls were selected, with 3534 patients underwent HID-HSCT and 1289 underwent MRD-HSCT. During follow-up, 114 patients with VTE were identified. The incidence of VTE in HID-HSCT group was similar to that of MRD-HSCT group (2.4% versus 2.3%, P = 0.92). In HID-HSCT group, VTE occurred at a median time of 92.5 days, which was earlier than MRD-HSCT group (243.5 days). For HID-HSCT, advanced disease status, cardiovascular risk factors, acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD), and relapse were the independent risk factors for VTE. For MRD-HSCT, cardiovascular risk factors, aGVHD, and relapse were associated with VTE. Overall survival (OS) of patients following HID-HSCT and MRD-HSCT were similar, but the OS in patients with VTE was significantly lower than patients without VTE. There was no statistical difference in the incidence of VTE after HID-HSCT compared with MRD-HSCT. The development of VTE adversely impacted the OS after allo-HSCT. • The incidence of VTE in HID-HSCT is similar to that in MRD-HSCT. • Prior VTE, cardiovascular risk factors, GVHD and relapse are associated with VTE after allo-HSCT. • The development of VTE adversely impacts overall survival after allo-HSCT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The frequency of active tuberculosis (TB) following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) was 0.5%. • TB infection history was an independent risk factor for active TB after allo-HSCT. • The prognosis was similar between patients with or without post-transplant active TB. • This study includes the largest cohort of recipients with active TB after allo-HSCT. • The impact of the anti-TB regimen for prophylaxis and treatment is described. We aimed to investigate the frequency, risk factors, and outcome of active tuberculosis (TB) after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). This retrospective, nested, case-control study reviewed data from 6236 patients who received allo-HSCT from January 2008 to December 2018 at a single center; thirty-three patients (0.5%) with active TB and 99 controls without active TB after allo-HSCT were identified. We performed propensity score matching by randomly selecting 3 controls for each identified active TB patient according to the time of transplantation and follow-up period. History of pretransplant active TB previously treated and inactive at time of transplantation (P <.001) was an independent risk factor. No significant differences in overall survival (P =.342), nonrelapse mortality (P =.497), or incidence of relapse (P =.807) were found. Thirty (90.9%) patients were treated with 4-drug (isoniazid, rifampicin/three rifapentine, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol) or 3-drug combination first-line therapy, with a response rate of 76.7%. Twenty-six (78.8%) patients were treated with first-line and second-line combined therapy, and the response rate was 76.9%. Five (15.2%) patients developed hepatotoxicity. In conclusion, history of pretransplant active TB previously treated and inactive at time of transplantation was an independent risk factor of active TB after allo-HSCT. No significant differences in prognosis between the TB and control groups were found. More studies are needed to help develop standardized therapeutic strategies for patients with post-transplant TB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our patient presented with severe hyperkeratosis and palmoplantar hyperhidrosis, with no perioral or perianal skin symptoms, no elbows or knees involvement, whose clinical characteristics differ from other reported patients with mutation of c.256G>A. A patient from Korea[10] was reported with compound heterozygous mutation in I SLURP-1 i : a missense mutation of c.256G>A (p.G86R) and a nonsense mutation of c.286C>T (p.R86X). As MDM patients with mutation of c.256G>A (p.G86R) presented various clinical manifestations, the association between the mutation of c.256G>A in I SLURP-1 i and phenotype severity of MDM is not significant. [Extracted from the article]

This retrospective multicenter cohort study aimed to compare the outcome of haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HID‐HSCT) with matched sibling donor (MSD) and unrelated donor (URD) transplantation in severe aplastic anemia (SAA) patients 40 years of age and older. With a median follow‐up time of 17.6 months, 85 consecutive patients were enrolled in the study, and the median patient age was 45 years (40, 58). The cumulative engraftment rates of neutrophil and platelet were 98.8 ± 0.0% and 92.9 ± 0.1%. The cumulative incidences of Grade 2‐4 acute graft‐versus‐host disease (aGvHD) and chronic graft‐versus‐host disease (cGvHD) at 3 years were 14.1 ± 0.1% and 17.3 ± 0.2%. The 3‐year estimated overall survival (OS) and failure‐free survival (FFS) were 91.2 ± 3.2% and 89.7 ± 3.5%. In multivariate analysis, the only factor associated with inferior survival was an ECOG score ≥2. HID‐HSCT was associated with a higher incidence of GvHD, but the difference of 3‐year estimated OS between HID group and the other two cohorts was not significant (86.7 ± 6.4% for HID vs 92.1% ± 4.4% for MSD and 100% for URD, P =.481). HID‐HSCT might be a feasible alternative option for selected SAA patients aged 40 years and older without a matched donor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The mesoporous silica with large pore diameter were successfully prepared and applied as nano-containers for loading corrosion inhibitors (AMT@MSN-PAA), which significantly increased the loading amount of the corrosion inhibitors. • The prepared nanoparticles AMT@MSN-PAA had acid-responsive release ability. • AMT@MSN-PAA was used as the EP coating additive and exhibited better corrosion resistance performance and self-healing function. Anti-corrosion coating containing smart nano-containers loaded with inhibitors played an increasingly important role in extending the coating lifetime and slowing down metal corrosion. Whereas, the low loading capacity of the inhibitors in the nano-container limits its applications. In this work, mesoporous silica (SiO 2) nano-materials with large pore diameter were prepared and designed as the nano-containers loaded by 2-amino-5-mercapto-1,3,4-thiadiazole (AMT) inhibitors. The prepared nano-containers not only achieved acid-responsive release ability but also greatly increased the loading capacity of the inhibitors. The results showed that the loading capacity of the AMT inhibitors reached 36% and the release amount of them from the SiO 2 -based nano-containers increased as the gradually decreased pH value of the system. When the pH was 3, 5 and 7, the release amount of the AMT inhibitors was 92.3%, 73.6% and 50.2%, respectively, indicating that the strong acidic system could exacerbate the metal damage, whereas the increasing release amount of the inhibitors could effectively slow down the metal corrosion. The experiments about the release process of the inhibitors from the nano-container ensured that the epoxy composite coating doped by the above-mentioned nano-containers could exhibit self-healing function under different acidic conditions. In addition, the prepared epoxy composite coating (EP/AMT@MSN-PAA) showed an increasing R ct value with the immersion time (that varied from 3105 Ω·cm2 to 4509 Ω·cm2 when the immersion time lasted from 0 h to 48 h). Compared to the blank epoxy coating (EP), the R ct value significantly decreased from 2876 Ω·cm2 to 658 Ω·cm2 with the time, which indicated that the epoxy composite coating had wonderful anti-corrosion performance and excellent self-healing function in harsh environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proper preparation processes of short fiber reinforced thermoplastics are critical to achieving high residual fiber lengths in final composites, which in turn greatly influences the mechanical properties of short fiber reinforced polymers. In this work, the injection molding process was respectively combined with conventional extrusion compounding and a newly developed solution mixing process to fabricate short carbon fiber (SCF) reinforced polyetherimide (PEI) composites. Carbon fiber-filled PEI master batches were prepared for injection molding respectively by conventional extrusion compounding (denoted by CE-MB) and solution mixing process (denoted by SM-MB) diluted with PEI powders. Afterwards, the corresponding two types of composites (SCF/PEI E and SCF/PEI S + D) were prepared by injection molding. Compared with the SCF/PEI E composites, the SCF/PEI S + D composites exhibit significantly enhanced mechanical performances due to greatly higher residual fiber lengths in final composites. As a result, the 20 vol fraction (vol%) SCF/PEI S + D composite obtained shows a record high tensile strength of 239.6 MPa for injection molded PEI composites. Moreover, it is worth mentioning that the tensile strength of the SCF/PEI S + D composite with only 5 vol% SCFs is even higher than that of the SCF/PEI E composite with 25 vol% SCFs. Consequently, the injection molding process combined with the newly proposed solution mixing process is promising to replace the conventional extrusion process for developing high mechanical performance short fiber reinforced high-performance thermoplastic composites, particularly for the cases with low to medium fiber contents (≤25 vol%). [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypochlorous acid (HOCl)/hypochlorite (OCl−), important reactive oxygen species, play essential roles in many physiological and pathological progresses. Accordingly, we developed a novel dicyanomethylene-4 H -pyran (DCM)-based probe DCM-OCl for colorimetric and near-infrared fluorescent turn-on detection of OCl−. The probe exhibited excellent selectivity and sensitivity for OCl− over other bio-related analytes with a detection limit of 80 nM. The excellent selectivity of DCM-OCl for OCl− was ascribed to specific oxidative cleavage of the dimethylthiocarbamate (DMTC) recognition unit by OCl−. Moreover, DCM-OCl exhibited an ultrafast turn-on response (<3 s) to OCl−, potentially allowing real-time detection of OCl−. Furthermore, DCM-OCl was successfully used to image endogenous/exogenous OCl− in living cells. Image 1 • A new near-infrared fluorescent turn-on and colorimetric probe for OCl-was developed. • Rapid (<3 s) and selective detection of OCl-was realized with good sensitivity. • The response mechanism was based on oxidative cleavage of the probe by OCl-. • Successful monitoring of endogenous/exogenous OCl-in living cells was achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the 'quadruple combination detection' automatic calibration method to solve the traditional passive nuclear ash hopper material level meter calibration problem. The method adopts the 'contour multistage measurement' mode, fitted the ratio of absorbed dose rate detected by adjacent cascade probe with corresponding actual material level after measurement, then use the fitting parameters to calibrate automatically which do not need ash hopper stop working, And this can effectively save the calibration time and cost. The method can effectively eliminate the material level measuring error brought by the changes of radioactive activity in the coal ash, which improve the measuring precision and material level positioning accuracy. There are many factors affecting the radioactive activity of coal ash which vary in Different feeding period, or after refueling. And this may cause measurement error and misinformation. Using quadruple combination detection and contour multistage measurement mode, when the radioactive activity in the coal ash changes, the passive nuclear meter level gauge can be revised according to the calibration curve or calibrated automatically. Which eliminated the effects brought by the changing of coal ash radioactive activity, saved onerous repeatedly calibration procedure, also improve the accuracy of the calibration, avoid misjudgment, and can improve the accuracy of measurement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consumption of mulberry leaves has been associated with better metabolic health in humans due to the presence of a biologically active plant metabolite, 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ). Although levels of DNJ is low in mulberry leaves, easy availability of DNJ through microbial production has greatly facilitated research examining its mechanism of actions. The present review sheds light on the recent trends in various routes of DNJ biosynthesis, its extraction methods, and its vital role in the management of non-communicable metabolic diseases. In the light of the previous research on DNJ and its health benefits, it is apposite to bring together the updated information and re-evaluate the important aspects of this important health molecule. This review summarizes and critically analyzes merits of various methods for DNJ extraction and purification as well as different routes of DNJ biosynthesis. Also, this review looks into its role in the management of different non-communicable metabolic diseases. Finally, the possible role of DNJ as a potential candidate for functional foods is explored. • DNJ biosynthesis and its functional association with various health disorders were emphasized. • Consumption of DNJ as a functional food regulates metabolic homeostasis. • Detailed possible mechanisms by which DNJ exerts beneficial properties are discussed. • Future studies are warranted to re-evaluate the potential role of DNJ to support human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Aims: The G‐protein‐coupled estrogen receptor GPR30 (also referred to as GPER) has been implicated in the estrogenic regulation of hippocampal plasticity and spatial memory; however, the molecular mechanisms are largely unclear. Methods: In this study, we initially examined the levels of GPR30 in the hippocampus of postnatal, ovariectomy (OVX)‐ and letrozole (LET)‐treated female mice. Under G1, G15, and/or OVX treatment, the spatial memory, spine density, levels of ERα, ERβ, and SRC‐1, selected synaptic proteins, mTORC2 signals (Rictor and p‐AKT Ser473), and actin polymerization dynamics were subsequently evaluated. Furthermore, G1, G15, and/or E2 combined with SRC‐1 and/or PI3K inhibitors, actin cytoskeleton polymerization modulator JPK, and CytoD treatments were used to address the mechanisms that underlie GPR30 regulation in vitro. Finally, mTORC2 activator A‐443654 (A4) was used to explore the role of mTORC2 in GPR30 regulation of spatial memory. Results: The results showed that high levels of GPR30 were detected in the adult hippocampus and the levels were downregulated by OVX and LET. OVX induced an impairment of spatial memory, and changes in other parameters previously described were reversed by G1 and mimicked by G15. Furthermore, the E2 effects on SRC‐1 and mTORC2 signals, synaptic proteins, and actin polymerization were inhibited by G15, whereas G1 effects on these parameters were inhibited by the blockade of SRC‐1 or PI3K; the levels of synaptic proteins were regulated by JPK and CytoD. Importantly, G15‐induced actin depolymerization and spatial memory impairment were rescued by mTORC2 activation with A4. Conclusions: Taking together, these results demonstrated that decreased GPR30 induces actin depolymerization through SRC‐1 and PI3K/mTORC2 pathways and ultimately impairs learning and memory, indicating its potential role as a therapeutic target against hippocampus‐based, E2‐related memory impairments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bistability (coexistence of two stable steady states in a dynamical system) is a key mechanism of cellular decision‐making and has been observed in many biochemical reaction networks such as mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. Theoretical studies have shown that bistability can arise in a single two‐site MAPK phosphorylation and dephosphorylation cycle. However, the bistable behavior mostly relies on the kinetic mechanisms and parameters of this two‐site modification. In exploring the system‐level properties of MAPK regulation, most models to date focus on two limiting reaction regimes, distributive and processive, and are characterized by high levels of parametric uncertainty. Here, we developed a combined kinetic method which applies a continuous spectrophotometric enzyme‐coupled assay incorporated with the viscosity approach, to perform detailed kinetic analyses of p38α MAPK dual phosphorylation by MKK6. Almost all kinetic rate constants for the first and second phosphorylation steps in p38α activation have been quantitatively determined, supporting that the phosphorylation occurs randomly in the first step, albeit preferring the tyrosine residue. The release rates of monophosphorylated p38α from MKK6, either as the product in the first modification or as the substrate in the second step, were comparable to the respective adjacent phosphoryl transfer steps. These results indicated that dual phosphorylation of p38α by MKK6 involves a random, partially processive mechanism. Based on the experimentally determined models and parameters, dynamics of the p38α‐MKK6‐MKP5 system were explored, demonstrating for the first time that bistability can arise with this model at biologically feasible parameter values. Enzymes: p38α (EC 2.7.11.24); MKK6 (EC 2.7.12.2). Almost all kinetic rate constants for the first and second phosphorylation steps in p38α activation have been quantitatively determined. Dynamics of the p38α‐MKK6‐MKP5 system were explored based on these experimentally determined models and parameters, demonstrating for the first time that bistability (coexistence of two stable steady states in a dynamical system) can arise with this model at biologically feasible parameter values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • MT-LS showed smaller and relatively smoother particles compared to HMT-LS and GT-LS. • The solubility and swelling power of MT-LS, HMT-LS and GT-LS presented a significant decrease at 65 and 95 °C. • MT-LS, HMT-LS and GT-LS reflected stronger starch aggregations and lower retrogradation tendency. • Both G′ and G″ of treated starch decreased indicating the weaker gel structures. Abstract The effects of microwave treatment (MT), heat-moisture treatment (HMT) and autoclaving treatment (GT) on the structural and physicochemical characteristics of lycoris starch (LS) were investigated. The HMT-LS and GT-LS particles were larger and rougher with block-like characteristics compared to the LS particles. The XRD results revealed that HMT and GT converted native starch (A-type) into B-type starch. The density of the starch crystallization zone after HMT and GT was higher than that of LS, while MT had the weakest effect. The solubility and swelling power of MT-LS, HMT-LS and GT-LS were significantly (p < 0.05) lower at 65 and 95 °C, but opposite trends were observed at 55 °C. The RVA viscograms for MT-LS, HMT-LS, and GT-LS showed a lower breakdown and setback value compared to that of LS, reflecting stronger starch aggregations and lower retrogradation tendencies. Additionally, both G′ and G″ of the treated starch were lower, which indicated weaker gel structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine microalgae have been widely applied in cosmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and functional foods. In the present study, we first investigated the hepatoprotective effects of peptide purified from microalgae, Isochrysis zhanjiangensis on HepG2 cells alcoholic injury. I. zhanjiangensis was hydrolyzed utilizing chymotrypsin, trypsin, pepsin, and by vitro gastrointestinal digestion. Among hydrolysates, the gastrointestinal hydrolysate showed relatively high free radical scavenging ability preliminarily and was purified with following sequential chromatography methods. The amino acid sequence and molecular mass of the purified peptide from I. zhanjiangensis (PIZ) was identified as Asn-Asp-Ala-Glu-Tyr-Gly-Ile-Cys-Gly-Phe (NDAEYGICGF; MW, 1088.16 Da) via Q-TOF ESI/MS. Additionally, PIZ attenuated ethanol-induced cytotoxicity and inhibited the production of intracellular reactive oxygen species by DCFH-DA assay. Western blot results showed that superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) levels up-regulated with PIZ treatment before alcohol exposure while gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) protein expression down-regulated. These results provide an opportunity to discover new highly active peptide against alcohol toxicity in HepG2 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The three‐component reaction of quinoline, dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate and 2‐arylidene‐1,3‐indanediones or 5‐arylidene‐N,N'‐dimethylbarbituric acids in acetonitrile at room temperature afforded polysubstituted spiro[indene‐2,4′‐pyrido[1,2‐a]quinolines] or spiro[pyrido[1,2‐a]quinoline‐4,5′‐pyrimidines] in high yields and with high diastereoselectivity. However, the similar reaction of dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate with 2‐arylidene‐1,3‐indanediones in the presence of 4‐Dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP) gave unexpected dihydroindeno[1,2‐b]pyrene derivatives in satisfactory yields. This three‐component reaction containing quinoline might be the most sustainable reaction without release any waste. The three‐component reaction of quinoline, dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate and 2‐arylidene‐1,3‐indanediones or 5‐arylidene‐N,N'‐dimethylbarbituric acids in acetonitrile afforded spiro[indene‐2,4′‐pyrido[1,2‐a]quinolines] or spiro[pyrido[1,2‐a]quinoline‐4,5′‐pyrimidines] in high yields and with high diastereoselectivity. The similar reaction with DMAP gave dihydroindeno[1,2‐b]pyrenes in satisfactory yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new multifunctional sensor ( L1 ) based on phenylene-acetylene was designed and synthesized. L1 showed an excellently colorimetric response toward Fe 2+ with a detection limit of 2.0☓10 −8 M. This result indicated that L1 can sensitive detect Fe 2+ by “naked eye” and discriminate iron types in different oxidative states. Simultaneously, L1 can ratiometric fluorescent detection of Cd 2+ and Zn 2+ with detection limits of 2.62☓10 -8 M and 2.03☓10 -9 M, respectively. L1 can distinguish Cd 2+ and Zn 2+ according to differently emissive colours, after addition of Cd 2+ and Zn 2+ to the blue emissive solution of L1 , cyan and yellow-green fluorescence emission were observed, respectively. The binding modes of L1 with Fe 2+ , Cd 2+ and Zn 2+ were evidenced by 1 H NMR, Job’s plot and ESI-MS. Water samples and On-site test paper experiments for detecting Fe 2+ , Cd 2+ and Zn 2+ were successfully implemented for practical application in environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumor necrosis factor-a-induced protein 8-like 2 (TIPE2) is a novel negative regulator for maintaining immune homeostasis. This study aimed to investigate TIPE2 mRNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells for predicting 3-month functional outcomes and mortality of patients with acute ischemic stroke. A total of 182 consecutive patients were prospective collected, and there were 55 (30.2%) patients with unfavorable outcome and 33 (18.1%) patients died at the end of 3 months. The area under the operating characteristic curve (AUC) for TIPE2 mRNA was 0.810 (95% CI 0.733-0.886) for mortality and 0.740 (95% CI 0.662-0.818) for unfavorable outcome. The model incorporating National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) plus TIPE2 showed significantly (P = 0.04) increased discrimination power (AUC = 0.925, 95% CI 0.874-0.976) for mortality than NIHSS (AUC = 0.882, 95% CI 0.833-0.932). Furthermore, NIHSS plus TIPE2 showed a significant improvement of both integrated discrimination index (IDI) and net reclassification index (NRI) as compared with NIHSS (IDI = 0.224, 95% CI 0.150-0.299, P < 0.001; NRI = 1.119, 95% CI 0.810-1.429, P < 0.001). The pruned time-dependent tree analysis showed that patients with NIHSS ≥ 5.5 and TIPE2 mRNA < 5.2 had rather high 3-month mortality. In conclusion, TIPE2 mRNA improved the diagnostic value of NIHSS score, and patients with NIHSS ≥ 5.5 and TIPE2 mRNA < 5.2 had high 3-month mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abalone is a marine gastropod that is an important fishery and food industrial resource, massively maricultured in Asia, Africa, Australia, and America. Marine by-products from boiled abalone, normally discarded as industrial waste in manufacturing plants, were fractionated and concentrated using an ultrafiltration membrane system (˂ 1 kDa). In this study, the antioxidant and angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition effects of the boiled abalone by-products (BABs) were investigated. BABs have high antioxidant activities against free radicals (1,1-diphenyl-2-pycryl-hydrazyl (DPPH), hydroxyl, peroxyl, and superoxide radicals), reactive oxygen species (ROS) stress, and DNA damage in H2O2-treated RAW 264.7 macrophages. The structure of the purified peptide was identified to be ATPGDEG (MW 752 Da), and the ACE inhibition pattern of the peptide was found to be noncompetitive. In addition, the peptide exhibited an antihypertensive effect according to time-course measurement after oral administration to spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). BABs from this genus may be potential candidates for the development of unique natural substances for further industrial applications as functional foods and pharmaceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tormentic acid (TA), an effective triterpenoid isolated from Chaenomeles speciosa (Sweet) Nakai (Rosaceae) fruits, exerts an effective treatment for gastric damage. To investigate the gastroprotective effect of TA on indomethacin (IND) damaged GES-1 cells and rats, and explore potential mechanisms. TA concentrations of 1.563–25 µM were used. Cell proliferation, apoptosis and migration were performed using MTT, colony formation, wound healing, migration, Hoechst staining assays. SD rats were divided into control, IND, TA (1, 2 and 4 mg/kg) + IND groups, once a day for 21 continuous days. Twenty-four hours after the last administration, all groups except the control group were given IND (100 mg/kg) by gavage. Gastric juice parameters, gastric ulcer, gastric blood flow (GBF), blood biochemical parameters and cytokine analysis and gastric mucosal histopathology were detected for 2 h and 6 h after IND oral administration. The mRNA and protein expression of miR-139 and the CXCR4/CXCL12/PLC/PKC/Rho A/MLC pathway were analyzed in the IND-damaged GES-1 cells and gastric tissue of rats. TA might ameliorate the gastric mucosal injury by accelerating the IND-damaged GES-1 cell proliferation and migration, ameliorating GBF, ulcer area and pathologic changes, the redox system and cytokine levels, the gastric juice parameters, elevating the gastric pH in IND damaged rats; suppressed miR-139 mRNA expression, elevated CXCR4 and CXCL12 mRNA and protein expression, p-PLC, p-PKC, Rho A, MLCK and p-MLC protein expression. TA may have potential use as a clinical drug candidate for gastric mucosal lesion treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel electromagnetic bandgap (EBG) structure is proposed to suppress the simultaneous switching noise in high‐speed circuits. The proposed EBG pattern is etched on the power plane while the ground plane remains intact. The unit is composed of an S‐bridge EBG embedded with a coplanar EBG. The proposed EBG structure possesses an ultrawide bandgap extending from 0.28 to 25 GHz when the suppression depth is −45 dB. A prototype of the proposed EBG power plane is fabricated and tested, and good agreement is achieved between the simulation and the measurement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A key issue in the haploiedntical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (haplo-HSCT) setting is the search for the best donor, because donor selection can significantly impact the clinical outcomes. We aimed to identify the role of collateral related donors (CRDs) in donor selection for haplo-HSCT through comparing the clinical outcomes between CRDs (n = 60) and maternal donors (MDs, n = 296), which were the last choice of donor selection in immediate related donors (IRDs). The cumulative incidence of graft-versus-host disease was comparable between CRDs and MDs. The 5-year cumulative incidence of relapse and non-relapse mortality was 22.0% (95% CI, 11.3%–32.7%) versus 17.4% (95% CI, 13.0%–21.8%) (P = 0.455) and 25.0% (95% CI, 13.9%–36.1%) versus 23.1% (95% CI, 18.2%–28.0%) (P = 0.721) for the CRDs and MDs, respectively. The 5-year probabilities of disease-free survival and overall survival was 53.2% (95% CI, 40.4%–66.0%) versus 59.5% (95% CI, 53.8%–65.2%) (P = 0.406) and 56.5% (95% CI, 43.8%–69.2%) versus 61.8% (95% CI, 56.1%–67.5%) (P = 0.458) for the CRDs and MDs, respectively. Female donor/male recipient (FDMR) CRDs were associated with the poorest clinical outcomes, and the clinical outcomes of non-FDMR CRDs were comparable to those of MDs. In summary, our results showed that CRDs did not showed superiority over MDs. Thus, IRDs should be the first choice of donor selection, and CRDs could only be the donors for those without IRDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cervical cancer incidence and mortality is high in Uyghur ethnics. Their life style and dietary habit were different from other ethnics living together. Study on the role of trace elements in HPV infection and cervical lesion of Uyghur minority is needed for future intervention and prevention work.Methods: In total, 833 Uyghur women were randomly selected from the screening site and hospital. The concentrations of the trace elements As, Fe, Cd, Ni, Cu, Zn, Mn, and Se were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy. Univariate analysis was performed with chi-squared test between the HPV-positive and HPV-negative groups and between the case group and the control group. Multivariate analysis was performed with logistic regression.Results: An As concentration ≥ 0.02 mg/kg was a risk factor for HPV infection (OR > 1, P < 0.05), and Ni concentration ≥ 0.1232 mg/kg and Se concentration ≥ 0.02 mg/kg were protective factors (OR < 1, P < 0.05). Concentrations of Fe ≥ 6.9153 mmol/L and As ≥0.02 mg/kg were risk factors for CIN2+ (OR > 1, P < 0.05), and concentrations of Ni ≥0.0965 mg/kg and Se ≥0.02 mg/kg were protective factors (OR < 1, P < 0.05).Conclusions: Low serum concentrations of Se and Ni and a high serum concentration of As might be related to HPV infection and CIN2+ in Uyghur women in rural China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We evaluated the antioxidant activity of natural polyphenols which gives high oxidative stability to the pecan oil. The in vitro DPPH radical scavenging, reducing power and total antioxidant activity of tested antioxidants demonstrated that tannic acid displayed the highest DPPH scavenging activity and provided the largest reducing power. During storage of pecan oil, based on oxidative stability tests, we further evaluated the protective effect of polyphenols and synthetic antioxidants on the oxidative stability of pecan oil. The results showed that caffeic acid inhibited oxidation of pecan oil effectively. Sesamol and catechin showed slight improvement in oxidative stability, while ferulic acid, erucic acid and rutin had no effect. Taken together, compared with synthetic antioxidants (TBHQ, BHT, BHA), caffeic acid was observed to be stronger than BHT and BHA and was close to TBHQ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (PECAM-1 or CD31) is a well-known marker of endothelial cells and a key factor for adhesion and accumulation of platelets. CD31 plays roles in cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and cellular immunity. CD31 is also expressed on tumor cells, such as breast cancer cells and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, and contributes to tumor cell invasion. Here, our experiments show that CD31 promotes metastasis by inducing the epithelial-mesenchymal transition in hepatocellular carcinoma by up-regulating integrin β1 via the FAK/Akt signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Publications by Chinese researchers in scientific journals have dramatically increased over the past decade; however, academic misconduct also becomes more prevalent in the country. The aim of this prospective study was to understand the perceptions of Chinese biomedical researchers towards academic misconduct and the trend from 2010 to 2015. A questionnaire comprising 10 questions was designed and then validated by ten biomedical researchers in China. In the years 2010 and 2015, respectively, the questionnaire was sent as a survey to biomedical researchers at teaching hospitals, universities, and medical institutes in mainland China. Data were analyzed by the Chi squared test, one-way analysis of variance with the Tukey post hoc test, or Spearman’s rank correlation method, where appropriate. The overall response rates in 2010 and 2015 were 4.5% (446/9986) and 5.5% (832/15,127), respectively. Data from 15 participants in 2010 were invalid, and analysis was thus performed for 1263 participants. Among the participants, 54.7% thought that academic misconduct was serious-to-extremely serious, and 71.2% believed that the Chinese authorities paid no or little attention to the academic misconduct. Moreover, 70.2 and 65.2% of participants considered that the punishment for academic misconduct at the authority and institution levels, respectively, was not appropriate or severe enough. Inappropriate authorship and plagiarism were the most common forms of academic misconduct. The most important factor underlying academic misconduct was the academic assessment system, as judged by 50.7% of the participants. Participants estimated that 40.1% (39.8 ± 23.5% in 2010; 40.2 ± 24.5% in 2015) of published scientific articles were associated with some form of academic misconduct. Their perceptions towards academic misconduct had not significantly changed over the 5 years. Reform of the academic assessment system should be the fundamental approach to tackling this problem in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: We conducted a prospective observational study to identify the incidence of and risk factors for inadequate bowel preparation in elderly Chinese patients. Patients and Methods: We enrolled 240 outpatients over 60 years of age scheduled for elective colonoscopy at our university hospital between November 2016 and April 2017. We recorded patient demographics, bowel preparation data, and clinical characteristics. Factors associated with inadequate bowel preparation were identified by multivariate logistical regression analysis. Results: The rate of inadequate bowel preparation was 34.6%. Factors associated with inadequate bowel preparation were a history of abdominal surgery (OR, 2.617; CI, 1.324-5.174; P = 0.006), chronic constipation (OR, 3.307; CI, 1.551-7.054; P = 0.002), non-compliance with dietary instructions (OR, 2.239; CI, 1.122-4.471; P = 0.022), non-compliance with polyethylene glycol (PEG) dosage (OR, 4.576; CI, 1.855-11.287; P = 0.001), walking <30 minutes during preparation (OR, 2.474; CI, 1.261-4.855; P = 0.008), interval between PEG ingestion and the onset of bowel activity (OR, 1.025; CI, 1.010-1.040; P = 0.001), and a last stool that was not clear and watery (OR, 4.191; CI, 1.529-11.485; P = 0.005). Conclusion: The incidence of adequate bowel preparation in elderly patients is not optimal. Walking <30 minutes during the PEG ingestion period may be a surrogate for bowel preparation failure. Future studies should identify elderly patients at risk for poor bowel preparation and develop interventions to improve outcomes in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimized nanostructures design for composite continuously improved the electrochemical performances of supercapacitors in the past few years. Herein, we have successfully fabricated NiCo 2 O 4 Nanosheets@CoMoO 4 nanoflakes Core/shell Arrays on Ni foam by two steps of hydrothermal processing. The proposed nanoarchitectural design of active materials provides large interfacial area, abundant active sites for the electrolytic ions with the electrode materials and fast electron transport, which significantly improve the capacitive performance of individual electrodes and hence of the fabricated asymmetric supercapacitor. This electrode exhibits high specific capacitance of 1543.14 F g −1 (corresponding to area specific capacitance of 5.4 F cm −2 ) at a current density of 5 mA cm −2 , good rate capability, and superior cycling stability with ∼95% capacitance retention after 1000 cycles. Asymmetric supercapacitor (NiCo 2 O 4 @CoMoO 4 //AC/graphene) with a maximum voltage of 1.6 V has demonstrated a high energy density of 42.75Wh·kg −1 , a high power density of 11427 W·kg −1 at 29.52 Wh·kg −1 , and out standing cyclic stability with the capacitance retention of 104% after 10000 cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) are rare neoplasms which arise from pancreatic islet cells. Recently, lncRNA MEG3 has been reported as a tumor suppressor in variety cancers. This study aimed to reveal the functional effects of MEG3 on pNETs which has not been uncovered previously. Methods: The expression of MEG3, miR-183, and BRI3 in BON1 cells were altered by transfection with their specific vectors/shRNA, or mimic/inhibitor. Thereafter, cell viability, apoptosis, the protein expressions of cell cycle related factors, and apoptosis associated factors, as well as cell migration and invasion were respectively assessed by typan blue staining, flow cytometry, western blotting, and transwell assay. Results: MEG3 was low expressed in BON1 and QGP-1 cells, when compared to three normal cell lines (HEK293, CCL-153, and EC-304). MEG3 overexpression decreased BON1 cells viability, invasion, migration, but significantly induced apoptosis. miR-183 was a direct target of MEG3, and miR-183 up-regulation abolished the anti-growth and anti-metastasis effects of MEG3 overexpression on BON1 cells. Moreover, BRI3 was a target of miR-183, and BRI3 exhibited a tumor-promoting role possibly via activation of p38/ERK/AKT and Wnt/β-Catenin signaling in BON1 cells. Conclusion: This study demonstrated a tumor suppressive effect of MEG3 in BON1 cells that suppresses tumor cells growth and metastasis. A novel regulatory mechanism has been revealed that modulation of MEG3/miR-183/BRI3 axis may be pivotal in pNET. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seven previously undescribed 7,20-epoxy- ent -kaurane diterpenoids, isojiangrubesins A–G, along with seventeen known ones, were isolated from the aerial parts of Isodon rubescens . Their structures were characterized on the basis of spectroscopic methods and signal-crystal X-ray diffraction. All of these compounds were evaluated for their in vitro cytotoxicity against five human tumor cell lines (HL-60, SMMC-7721, A-549, MCF-7, and SW480). Four isolates exhibited significant inhibitory ability against all cell lines, with IC 50 values ranging from 0.5 to 6.5 μ M; They also strongly inhibited NO production in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Solid-state fermentation of summer Keemun black tea by Cordyceps militaris. • Fermentation decreased bitterness and astringency and produced unique fungal aroma. • LC-MS metabolomics and GC–MS analyses revealed non-volatile and volatile components Changes in KBT and SSF-KBT. • Linalool I oxide and dihydro- β -ionone showed the highest concentrations and OAV values in SSF-KBT. Cordyceps militaris (C. militaris) has been approved and widely used in healthy food. The present study aimed to improve the flavor of summer Keemun black tea (KBT) using C. militaris solid-state fermentation. Combined with sensory evaluation, the volatile and non-volatile components of solid-state fermentation of KBT (SSF-KBT) and KBT were analyzed. The results showed that after the solid-state fermentation, the contents of total polyphenol, total flavonoid, and total free amino acids were significantly reduced. Further non-targeted metabolomics analysis revealed that the contents of non-galloylated catechins and d -mannitol increased, while the galloylated catechins and flavonoid glycosides decreased as did the bitterness and astringency of KBT. Dihydro- β -ionone and β -ionone (OAV = 59321.97 and 8154.17) were the aroma-active compounds imparting woody and floral odors in SSF-KBT, respectively. Current study provides a new avenue to develop summer-autumn KBT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the 2-thienylselenoacetic acid ligand, four new organotin complexes, [Me3Sn(O2CCH2SeC4H3S-o)]n (1), [(Ph3Sn)6(O2CCH2SeC4H3S-o)6] (2), [(Me2Sn)4(μ3-O)2(O2CCH2SeC4H3S-o)4] (3), and [(PhSn)6(μ3-O)6(O2CCH2SeC4H3S-o)6] (4), have been synthesized and characterized by X-ray crystallography, elemental analysis, FT-IR and NMR (1H, 13C, and 119Sn) spectroscopy. The structure analysis indicates that complex 1 adopts a 1D infinite zig-zag chain structure, while complex 2 shows a centrosymmetric hexanuclear 24-membered macrocycle. In contrast, complex 3 and complex 4 display ladder and drum structures, respectively. Examination of the non-covalent intermolecular contacts in complex 3 reveals the existence of the C–H…O and C–H…π interactions, which play an important function in the supramolecular construction. These compounds are rare examples of selenium carboxylic acid-based organotin derivatives. Furthermore, the anti-tumor activity of complexes 1–3 has also been studied. Importantly, the anti-proliferative properties and possible mechanism of complex 2 are preliminarily investigated. The results demonstrate that complex 2 could induce apoptotic cell death via accumulation of ROS and collapse of the mitochondrial membrane permeabilization (MMP). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sole and endogenous anti-microbial peptide LL-37 is a significant effector molecule in the innate host defense system. Apart from its broadly direct anti-microbial activity, the peptide also activates mast cell in respect of allergic diseases and inflammation. On the other hand, mast cell can be activated by Toll-like receptors (TLRs) which are at the center of innate immunity. It was the aim of the study to illustrate the modulatory effect of TLR2 ligands peptidoglycan (PGN) and tripalmitoyl-S-glycero-Cys-(Lys)4 (Pam3CSK4) on LL-37 induced LAD2 cells (a human mast cell line) activation. LL-37 induced LAD2 cells degranulation and the release of IL-8. TLR2 ligands didn't induce LAD2 cells degranulation, but triggered the release of IL-8. Incubation with PGN or Pam3CSK4 significantly suppressed LL-37-induced degranulation through inhibition of calcium mobilization from LAD2 cells. Similarly, the release of IL-8 was inhibited when LAD2 cells were co-stimulated with TLR2 ligands and LL-37. Studies with inhibitors of key enzymes involved in mast cell signaling indicated that the release of IL-8 induced by TLR2 ligands and LL-37 involved the activation of the PI3K, ERK, JNK and calcineurin signaling pathways. In contrast, p38 activation down-regulated the release of IL-8 induced by TLR2 ligands and LL-37. Taken together, these observations suggest that activation of human mast cells by LL-37 could be modified by TLR2 ligands and the function of human mast cells could be switched from allergic reactions to innate immune response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keywords: immunology; pigmentation; whitening EN immunology pigmentation whitening 3712 3713 2 11/02/21 20211101 NES 211101 To the editor, Halo nevus (HN), also termed leukoderma acquisitum centrifugum or Sutton nevi, typically consists of central nevomelanocytic nevi surrounded depigmented zone resembling halo. The four-color halo congenital nevus is an unusual form of Halo Nevus, which reflects the underlying mechanism of halo phenomenon that may be related with the immunity to the central nevus and different degrees of damage of melanocytes. Difference in pathogenesis between vitiligo vulgaris and halo nevi associated with vitiligo is supported by an HLA association study. [Extracted from the article]

The dimensional stability of fiber reinforced composite-based engineering components is crucial to guaranteeing their structure-safe services. The viscoelastic response of fiber reinforced composites is a critical factor for dimensional stability but the viscoelastic behavior of short carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites is rarely reported. In this work, the viscoelastic behaviour of short carbon fiber reinforced polyetherimide (SCF/PEI) composites is investigated by a series of short-term creep-recovery tests in an extensive applied stress range. Experimental results reveal that the ∼32% ultimate strength is the applied stress as an indicator for the start of the nonlinear viscoelastic behavior of the SCF/PEI composites. Meanwhile, an empirical constitutive model is established by using Schapery's model to elaborate the viscoelastic behaviour of the SCF/PEI composite. It is found by validation that the predictions agree with the experimental results of the SCF/PEI composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anisotropic strain sensors are crucial to accurately detecting the complex strain states in wearable devices and robotics. Large directional sensitivity differences are the key for strain sensors to differentiate loading directions. Here, an ultrasensitive anisotropic strain sensor consisting of orthogonal heterogeneous piezo-resistive composite (HePC) and homogenous piezo-resistive composite (HoPC) is demonstrated for loading direction perception. Benefited by a unique stiff-soft-stiff segment structure design, the HePCs with ultrahigh strain sensitivity were fabricated with carbon black (CB)/silicone nanocomposite with a low Young's modulus as the soft segment (SoS) and carbon-fiber-reinforced CB/silicone nanocomposite with a high Young's modulus as the stiff segment (StS). The HePC with a length ratio (L StS /L SoS) of 14:1 offers an average gauge factor of 70 (ε < 1%), which is increased more than 60 times than that of HoPC, due to the strain concentration effect in the SoS of HePC. Moreover, the anisotropic strain sensor fabricated demonstrates significant directional sensitivity differences due to the heterogeneous structure, and their relative resistance changes (RCR) vary considerably from positive to negative upon the change of loading directions. This makes the sensor highly effective to distinguish strain magnitude and direction simultaneously, and succeeding in monitoring complex human body gestures. Meanwhile, the relation between the loading direction and the measured parameter K (RCR in X - direction over that in Y-direction) is proposed to predict the loading angle. Considering its ultrahigh sensitivity and loading-direction-perception capability, the anisotropic strain sensor with the heterogeneous structure of stiff-soft-stiff segments is promising in wearable devices, robotic systems, artificial intelligence, etc. [Display omitted] • An ultrasensitive anisotropic strain sensor based on heterogeneous piezo-resistive nanocomposites is demonstrated. • The heterogeneous structure endows large directional sensitivity differences to the strain sensor. • The anisotropic strain sensor shows excellent loading-direction-perception capability. • The relation between the loading direction and the measured parameter K is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycosylation plays a significant role in determining the receptivity of the uterine endometrium to embryo. Fucosyltransferase IV (FUT4) is expressed stage-specifically in the uterine endometrium of mammalians, and considered as a marker of the endometrial receptivity. Baicalin, a monomer of flavonoids, is known to have functions in improving reproduction. However, the mechanism by which baicalin regulates the expression of FUT4 in embryo-endometrium adhesion remains unclear. Our results showed that baicalin significantly increased FUT4 mRNA and protein expression levels both in human endometrial cells and mouse endometrial tissue, and consistently elevated embryo adhesion rate during implantation in vitro and embryonic implantation competence in pregnant mouse. This study suggests that baicalin facilitates endometrial reproduction via elevating FUT4 expression through Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]