Search

Objectives: Most human in‐vivo placental imaging techniques are unable to distinguish and characterize various placental compartments, such as the intervillous space (IVS), placental vessels (PV) and placental tissue (PT), limiting their specificity. We describe a method that employs T2* and diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data to differentiate automatically placental compartments, quantify their oxygenation properties and identify placental lesions (PL) in vivo. We also investigate the association between placental oxygenation patterns and fetal brain oxygenation. Methods: This was a prospective study conducted between 2018 and 2021 in which dual‐contrast clinical MRI data (T2* and diffusion‐weighted MRI) were acquired from patients between 20 and 38 weeks' gestation. We trained a fuzzy clustering method to analyze T2* and diffusion‐weighted MRI data and assign placental voxels to one of four clusters, based on their distinct imaging domain features. The new method divided automatically the placenta into IVS, PV, PT and PL compartments and characterized their oxygenation changes throughout pregnancy. Results: A total of 27 patients were recruited, of whom five developed pregnancy complications. Total placental oxygenation level and T2* did not demonstrate a statistically significant temporal correlation with gestational age (GA) (R2 = 0.060, P = 0.27). In contrast, the oxygenation level reflected by T2* values in the placental IVS (R2 = 0.51, P = 0.0002) and PV (R2 = 0.76, P = 1.1 × 10−7) decreased significantly with advancing GA. Oxygenation levels in the PT did not show any temporal change during pregnancy (R2 = 0.00044, P = 0.93). A strong spatial‐dependent correlation between PV oxygenation level and GA was observed. The strongest negative correlation between PV oxygenation and GA (R2 = 0.73, P = 4.5 × 10−7) was found at the fetal‐vessel‐dominated region close to the chorionic plate. The location and extent of the placental abnormality were automatically delineated and quantified in the five women with clinically confirmed placental pathology. Compared to the averaged total placental oxygenation, placental IVS oxygenation level best reflected fetal brain oxygenation level during fetal development. Conclusion: Based on clinically feasible dual‐MRI, our method enables accurate spatiotemporal quantification of placental compartment and fetal brain oxygenation across different GAs. This information should improve our knowledge of human placenta development and its relationship with normal and abnormal pregnancy. © 2022 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of mesh is controversial in the treatment of female pelvic organ prolapse.Objectives: To systematically review the outcomes of sacrocolpopexy compared with transvaginal mesh surgery and to provide evidence-based suggestions.Search Strategy: The MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and clinicaltrials.gov databases were searched on 21 November 2018.Selection Criteria: Randomised controlled trials and prospective and retrospective cohort studies were included.Data Collection and Analysis: Data were extracted by one reviewer and examined by a second reviewer for accuracy. Odds ratios and 95% CI were calculated using random-effects models.Main Results: Twenty comparative studies were included. The meta-analysis was performed with subgroups. The summary odds ratios of the randomised controlled group were 1.84 (95% CI 0.79-4.29, I2  = 75%) for anatomical success, 1.41 (95% CI 0.47-4.24, I2  = 38%) for subjective success, 0.42 (95% CI 0.18-0.98, I2  = 0%) for mesh complications, 0.61 (95% CI 0.20-1.91, I2  = 0%) for prolapse reoperation and 0.44 (95% CI 0.23-0.88, I2  = 0%) for de novo dyspareunia. The mean differences were 0.77 (95% CI 0.31-1.23, I2  = 66%) for total vaginal length and -1.28 (95% CI -2.00 to -0.55, I2  = 66%) for point C after surgery.Conclusions: Very-low-quality evidence indicated that the anatomical and subjective success rates of sacrocolpopexy were similar to those of transvaginal mesh surgery; sacrocolpopexy might be more beneficial than transvaginal mesh surgery in terms of mesh-related complication rates, prolapse recurrence and de novo dyspareunia. However, additional high-quality randomised trials with long-term follow-up durations are needed.Tweetable Abstract: Sacrocolpopexy is beneficial after surgical anatomical changes and has decreased rates of mesh-related complications and dyspareunia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: High‐resolution imaging is an important issue in various fields of scientific researches and engineering applications. Pseudothermal ghost imaging is one of the subfields of quantum imaging, providing new capabilities beyond conventional imaging methods. Also, it can provide a new viewpoint of imaging physical mechanisms. In this review, we explain the major ideas of pseudothermal ghost imaging, restricting the very important case of high‐resolution imaging. We analyse the strategies which can significantly improve the image quality in pseudothermal ghost imaging. It may apply for merging it with common optical imaging methods in the extreme ultraviolet (XUV) or X‐ray spectral regime for driving the applications to a wider audience in bioscience and nano‐physics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The vacuum ultraviolet beamline BL03U with a photon energy range from 7 eV upwards has been constructed at the 3.5 GeV Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility. Equipped with an APPLE‐Knot undulator, this beamline is dedicated to angle‐resolved photoemission spectroscopy. An energy‐resolving power of higher than 4.6 × 104 has been achieved in the photon energy range 21.6–48 eV, which is almost the same as the theoretical estimation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The terpenoid backbone biosynthesis pathway is responsible for the synthesis of different backbones for terpenoids; (E)‐β‐farnesene (EβF), a sesquiterpene, is the major component of aphid alarm pheromone. Our previous studies eliminated the possibility of host plants and endosymbionts as the sources of EβF, and we thus speculate that the terpenoid pathway might affect the biosynthesis of EβF in aphids. First, the transcriptional responses of four genes encoding farnesyl diphosphate synthase (FPPS), geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthase (GGPPS) and decaprenyl diphosphate synthase in the cotton aphid Aphis gossypii to simulated stimulation were analysed using quantitative real‐time PCR, showing an immediate decrease in the transcript abundances of the four genes. Next, RNA‐interference‐mediated gene knockdown was performed, indicating that fpps knockdown caused a significant cost in terms of body size and fecundity. Finally, an association analysis of gene knockdown with the amount of EβF was conducted, revealing that the concentration of EβF per milligram of aphid was drastically decreased in response to fpps knockdown, whereas ggpps knockdown significantly raised the concentration of EβF. Our data support a peculiar mode of biosynthesis and storage of the aphid alarm pheromone that relies directly on the terpenoid backbone biosynthesis pathway in the aphid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying the Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) with functions in insect fecundity promises to provide novel insight into genetic mechanisms of adaptation and to aid in effective control of insect populations. We previously identified several SNPs within the vitellogenin (Vg) promoter region between a high‐fecundity population (HFP) and a low‐fecundity population (LFP) of the brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens Stål (Hemiptera: Delphacidae). Here, we found that an A‐to‐T (HFP allele to LFP allele) transversion at nucleotide −953 upstream of Vg in a Nilaparvata lugens GATA‐1 (Nl GATA) binding motif is associated with the level of Vg transcription. We also characterized Nl GATA‐1, containing a double CX2CX17CX2C zinc finger, which has been implicated in the activation of Vg gene expression. Knockdown of the NlGATA‐1 gene results in a reduced basal level of expression of the Vg gene and fewer offspring of N. lugens in vivo, whereas overexpression of NlGATA‐1 in cells increased Vg promoter activity. Moreover, upon cotransfection with Nl GATA‐1 expression vector, the luciferase activities of Vg reporter vectors with the A allele were significantly higher than those with the T allele. These findings support a mechanism in which a SNP within the promoter of Vg is associated with the level of Vg transcription by altering the binding activity of Nl GATA‐1 and subsequently affecting fecundity in N. lugens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Pre‐treated maize stalk could be used for animal feed due to the improved digestibility. Steam explosion (SE) and solid‐state fermentation (SSF) are two methods in maize stalk pre‐treatment. To evaluate the effect of combination of SE and SSF on the maize stalk pre‐treatment, the maize stalk was treated with steam explosion and microbial fermentation with Penicillium decumbens and Phanerochate chrysporium in this study. The steam explosion severity (logR0) affected component of the corn stover and then affected the SSF. The highest weight loss of substrate (23.20%), protein (12.71%) and cellulase filter paper activity (FPA) (7.42IU/g) could be obtained at logR0 = 3.64 and the IVDMD of SE‐SSF‐treated straw could reach 75.8%. The SE‐SSF pre‐treatment method could improve the utilization of straw as animal feed and overcome the shortage of feed source in animal husbandry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To examine the overall survival differences for the following neoadjuvant therapy modalities - no therapy, chemotherapy alone, radiation alone and chemoradiation - in a large cohort of patients with locally advanced rectal cancer. Method Adults with clinical Stage II and III rectal adenocarcinoma were selected from the National Cancer Database and grouped by type of neoadjuvant therapy received: no therapy, chemotherapy only, radiotherapy only or chemoradiation. Multivariable regression methods were used to compare adjusted differences in perioperative outcomes and overall survival. Results Among 32 978 patients included, 9714 (29.5%) received no neoadjuvant therapy, 890 (2.7%) chemotherapy only, 1170 (3.5%) radiotherapy only and 21 204 (64.3%) chemoradiation. Compared with no therapy, chemotherapy or radiotherapy alone were not associated with any adjusted differences in surgical margin positivity, permanent colostomy rate or overall survival (all P > 0.05). With adjustment, neoadjuvant chemoradiation vs no therapy was associated with a lower likelihood of surgical margin positivity ( OR 0.74, P < 0.001), decreased rate of permanent colostomy ( OR 0.77, P < 0.001) and overall survival [hazard ratio ( HR) 0.79, P < 0.001]. When compared with chemotherapy or radiotherapy alone, chemoradiation remained associated with improved overall survival ( vs chemotherapy alone HR 0.83, P = 0.04; vs radiotherapy alone HR 0.83, P < 0.019). Conclusion Neoadjuvant chemoradiation, not chemotherapy or radiotherapy alone, is important for sphincter preservation, R0 resection and survival for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer. Despite this finding, one-third of patients in the United States with locally advanced rectal cancer fail to receive stage-appropriate chemoradiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of new technology encouraged exploration of the effectiveness and difference of collaborative learning in blended learning environments. This study investigated the social interactive network of students, level of knowledge building and perception level on usefulness in online and mobile collaborative learning environments in higher education. WeChat, which is a mobile synchronous communication tool, and modular object-oriented dynamic learning environment (Moodle) were used as mobile and online collaborative learning settings. Seventy-eight college students majoring in information engineering participated in the experiment. The following findings were revealed by combining methods of social network analysis, content analysis and questionnaire survey: (1) the collaborative social networks generated in this study showed that students had tighter interaction relationships in Moodle than in WeChat; (2) deeper level of knowledge building in collaboration and interaction through Moodle than WeChat was observed; and (3) Moodle got higher perception level than WeChat because of its usefulness for collaboration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Responses to stocking density (SD), dietary biotin concentration and litter condition were evaluated on 2016 Ross 308 male broilers in the fattening period (day 22-day 42). The birds were placed in 48 pens with either dry or wet litter to simulate the final stocking density of 30 kg (12 broilers/m2; normal stocking density, NSD) and 40 kg (16 broilers/m2; high stocking density, HSD) of body weight (BW)/m2 floor space. A corn-soybean meal-based diet was supplemented with biotin to provide a normal (NB; 155 μg/kg) or high (HB, 1521 μg/kg) level of dietary biotin. There were six repetitions per treatment. The inappropriate moisture content of litter associated with HSD was avoided (p < 0.05) by good management (SD difference: dry litter, 6.65% vs. wet litter, 13.23%; 42 days), which made it advantageous (p < 0.01) for footpad (SD difference: dry litter, 0.118 vs. wet litter, 0.312; weekly average value) and hock health (SD difference: dry litter, 0.090 vs. wet litter, 0.303; weekly average value) of HSD birds, but not (p > 0.05) for growth and processing yield. In HSD, the biotin effect (gains, FCR) was significantly higher (p < 0.01) than in NSD. The similar response of HSD birds to supplemental biotin was observed (p < 0.05) for lesion scores of footpad and hock in particularly finishing chickens, and a significant interaction (p < 0.01) among stocking density, biotin supplementation and litter condition existed from 35 to 42 days of age. Taken together, increasing dietary biotin improves the performance and well-being of broiler chickens stocked at high densities in litter-independent and litter-dependent manners respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research examines the distribution of bi-conical reflectance of particulate surfaces with different particle sizes by multi-angular reflectance. Two types of particulate samples (called desert and cultivated soil) were sieved to a particle size range of 0.15-0.9 mm. The reflectance factors were measured at 570 or 330 different viewing positions for each illumination angle (45° and 60°). The reflectance was strongly non-Lambertian for all samples, but with markedly different patterns for the two types of particulate surface. Particle size was correlated with the bi-conical reflectance factor ( BCRF) and anisotropic reflectance factor ( ARF), respectively. The results showed a strong relation between BCRF and particle size in all viewing directions, except for the backward scattering direction, with an average R2 value of 0.9. The use of ARF improved the relation with particle size more in the backward scattering direction in the principal plane than with BCRF ( R2 = 0.7 for BCRF; R2 = 0.91 for ARF). However, the strong relation between the ARF and particle size was limited in the forward and backward scattering directions, with an average R2 value of 0.86. The results showed the considerable potential of multi-angular reflectance for quantitative evaluation of the particle size of particulate surfaces. This approach appears to provide a promising empirical and theoretical basis for the future retrieval of soil particle size. Highlights: The aim is to estimate the particle size from the reflectance of soil samples., Analysis of the relation between particle size and reflectance with multi-angular data., There was a strong relation between reflectance and particle size in 2π space., Multi-angular reflectance has the potential to evaluate quantitatively the particle size of soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aims Body surface area is important in determining the severity of psoriasis. However, objective, reliable, and practical method is still in need for this purpose. We performed a computer image analysis ( CIA) of psoriatic area using the image J freeware to determine whether this method could be used for objective evaluation of psoriatic area. Methods Fifteen psoriasis patients were randomized to be treated with adalimumab or placebo in a clinical trial. At each visit, the psoriasis area of each body site was estimated by two physicians (E-method), and standard photographs were taken. The psoriasis area in the pictures was assessed with CIA using semi-automatic threshold selection (T-method), or manual selection (M-method, gold standard). The results assessed by the three methods were analyzed with reliability and affecting factors evaluated. Results Both T- and E-method correlated strongly with M-method, and T-method had a slightly stronger correlation with M-method. Both T- and E-methods had a good consistency between the evaluators. All the three methods were able to detect the change in the psoriatic area after treatment, while the E-method tends to overestimate. Conclusion The CIA with image J freeware is reliable and practicable in quantitatively assessing the lesional of psoriasis area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to estimate genetic parameters of main length ratios associated with morphological traits in Paralichthys olivaceus. At 180, 240 and 360 days of age, body length ( L1), head length ( L2), body depth ( L3), caudal peduncle depth ( L4) and caudal-peduncle length ( L5) were observed in 4757-5224 individuals from 52 full-sib families. Based on these observed traits, the main length-ratio traits including L3: L1, L2: L1, L5: L1 and L4: L3 were constructed. Three single-trait animal models were used to examine the phenotypic variation of length-ratio traits and were compared using the likelihood ratio test. As a result, the optimal model for all the analysed traits was determined as the model with the fixed, additive genetic and full-sib family effects. Using the optimal model, animal model analysis for single trait showed that heritabilities were estimated to be low, ranging from 0·122 to 0·276. The estimates for all length-ratio traits decreased while the days of age increased except for L3: L1. Multivariate animal model analysis indicated that within and among days of age, genetic correlations between length-ratio traits were different in the direction and magnitude. Genetic parameter estimation of main length ratios would be helpful for genetic improvement of body shape in P. olivaceus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To investigate the kinetics of GSK3β and p- GSK3β (Ser 9) expression in experimentally induced rat periapical lesions and to explore their possible functions in the pathogenesis of periapical lesions. Methodology Periapical lesions were established in Wistar rats by occlusal pulp exposure in mandibular first molar teeth. The animals were killed on days 0, 7, 14, 21 and 28. Micro-computed tomographic, histological and enzyme histochemical analyses were performed to detect the progression of periapical lesions. Immunohistochemistry, double-dye immunofluorescence and Western blot were performed to determine the expression of GSK3β and p- GSK3β (Ser 9) in periapical tissues. Results From day 0 to day 28, the lesion volume and area gradually expanded, and the GSK3β-positive cells gradually ascended. A few p- GSK3β (Ser 9)-positive cells and osteoclasts appeared on day 7 and then climaxed on day 14. The numbers then simultaneously decreased from day 21 to day 28. Western blot analysis revealed that p- GSK3β (Ser 9) and GSK3β proteins were expressed at all time-points. The positive cells and protein expression ratio of p- GSK3β (Ser 9) against GSK3β increased from day 0 to day 14 and then decreased from day 14 to day 28. Finally, double-dye immunofluorescence assay revealed that p- GSK3β (Ser 9)-positive and RANKL-positive cells were co-localized around periapical lesions on days 14 and 28. Conclusions GSK3β and p- GSK3β (Ser 9) can be observed and may be involved in alveolar bone resorption and inflammatory response in periapical lesions, as well as associated with periapical lesion pathogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Most traditional skin histological analysis methods are based on the light microscopy images, which can only provide limited information and low contrast results for pathology evaluation. Molecular hyperspectral imaging technology can provide both spatial and spectral information of skin sections, which is a new method for histological skin analysis. Methods: The molecular hyperspectral imaging system was developed by coupling an acousto-optic tunable filters adapter to microscopy and the molecular hyperspectral images were analyzed by home-written software with image processing algorithms. Then, the histological structures in skin sections were investigated in several locations to evaluate the potential application of the molecular hyperspectral imaging technique to dermatology. Results: Molecular hyperspectral images of skin sections were obtained. Single-band images, false color images, virtual 3D surface view images, and color-coded spectral clustering results were produced to highlight the skin structures for histological evaluation. Conclusion: Unlike traditional histological analysis with light microscopy, the molecular hyperspectral imaging technology can enhance the visualization of skin structures using their spectral signatures and their gray values. This technology has potential for the diagnosis and histopathologic characterization of different kind of skin cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new alternative to achieve fast transient response while inherently managing the in‐rush current during DC/DC switching converter start‐up is proposed. An AC coupled feedback (ACCF) is introduced using a capacitor multiplier from the output of the converter to the output of the error amplifier. With this additional feedback, the transient response, which used to be limited by the compensator mid‐band gain has been significantly improved. Meanwhile, the ACCF circuit can help to control the converter output ramping speed during power‐up, thus eliminating the bulky soft‐start circuit. The simplified circuit design means the new controller can be realised by a tiny on‐chip circuit, thereby minimising the footprint and the cost. A buck converter with the proposed technique is designed using 0.18 μm CMOS process and simulated across different process corners. Simulation shows that the output voltage increases linearly with the designed slope despite the variations of the input voltage, inductor or output capacitor values. An excellent load transient response of 0.021 mV/mA is achieved for a load current variation from 50 μA to 1 A in 1 μs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cosmetics have a long history in China, but their origins remain unclear. Cosmetic industry potentially originated in the Spring and Autumn Period (770–476 bce), but little is known about the early manufacture and use of cosmetics. The Liujiawa site, located on the southern edge of the Loess Plateau in northern China, was the late capital of the ancient Rui state in the early to mid‐Spring and Autumn Period. During the excavation, a sealed small and exquisite container with suspected cosmetic use was unearthed from tomb M49 belonging to a male associated with the aristocratic class. We report in this paper the multidisciplinary application of ATR‐FTIR, XRD, SEM, stable isotope analysis, GC‐MS and GC‐C‐IRMS analysis of the residue inside the container, demonstrating that the residue, which was made of ruminant adipose fat mixed with monohydrocalcite from cave moonmilk, was likely used as cosmetic face cream by the nobleman of the Rui state. This study provides an early example of cosmetic production in China, and, together with the prevalence of similar cosmetic containers during this period, it suggests the rise of an incipient cosmetics industry. Furthermore, the exploitation of moonmilk, a special stalactite in some limestone caves, reflects the link between early Taoist School and cosmetic production encouraged by the aristocratic class. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new alternative to achieve fast transient response while inherently managing the in-rush current during DC/DC switching converter start-up is proposed. An AC coupled feedback (ACCF) is introduced using a capacitor multiplier from the output of the converter to the output of the error amplifier. With this additional feedback, the transient response, which used to be limited by the compensator mid-band gain has been significantly improved. Meanwhile, the ACCF circuit can help to control the converter output ramping speed during power-up, thus eliminating the bulky soft-start circuit. The simplified circuit design means the new controller can be realised by a tiny onchip circuit, thereby minimising the footprint and the cost. A buck converter with the proposed technique is designed using 0.18 μm CMOS process and simulated across different process corners. Simulation shows that the output voltage increases linearly with the designed slope despite the variations of the input voltage, inductor or output capacitor values. An excellent load transient response of 0.021 mV/ mA is achieved for a load current variation from 50 μA to 1 A in 1 μs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To investigate the stress distribution and tooth displacement of a maxillary central incisor with various apical root resection lengths and occlusal relationships using finite element (FE) analysis. Methodology: A maxillary central incisor was scanned by micro‐CT. First, the FE intact incisor model with dentine, enamel, pulp and root surrounded by alveolar bone and periodontal ligament was designed based on the micro‐CT image data. Then, six FE models with varying lengths of apical root resection were established to simulate the clinical treatment and reveal the clinically applicable limit of apical root resection during endodontic microsurgery. For each model under different loading conditions, the maximum von Mises stress (σ max) at the root apex, root cervix, alveolar bone and periodontal ligament and the maximum tooth displacement (ΔR max) were calculated and compared. Results: In a normal occlusion, more than 6 mm of root resection resulted in a marked increase in the ΔR max values (>10%) and σ max values of alveolar bone (>50%); the stress levels at the root apex increased dramatically when the apical root was resected more than 7 mm. With increased overjet, apical root resection did not change the stress level markedly until it reached 8 mm, but the ΔR max increased markedly (>10%) if the root was resected more than 5 mm. With deep overbites, the σ max increased significantly (>50%) when the root was resected more than 4 mm whilst the ΔR max decreased. With increased overjet and deep overbite, more than 6 mm of resection resulted in a substantial σ max increase (>50%) of alveolar bone and the ΔR max increased markedly (>10%) when the root was resected 8 mm. Additionally, the σ max and the ΔR max values were greater with increased overjet and lower with deep overbites. Conclusions: Using FE analysis, apical root resection of more than 6 mm resulted in a marked increase of stress distribution and tooth displacement in normal and increased overjet with deep overbite occlusal relationships. In increased overjets or deep overbites, more than 5 mm or 4 mm, respectively, stress distribution and tooth displacement increased markedly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The upregulation of co‐inhibitory immune checkpoints hampers the immune response toward tumor cells and facilitates the tumor cells ability to evade immunosurveillance. Specific inhibitory immune checkpoint delivers inhibitory signals to T cells using multiple mechanisms. More in‐depth understanding of the co‐inhibitory immune checkpoints could be exploited for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) treatment. In this review, we summarize the expression and the mechanism of partial co‐inhibitory immune checkpoint signals and discuss targeting co‐inhibitory immune checkpoints as an immunotherapeutic target for cancer therapy. This review may provide a better understanding of the co‐inhibitory immune checkpoints and could promote applications of immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims To assess the association between attenuated heart rate recovery, a non-invasive measure of autonomic dysfunction, and risk of diabetes in the general population. Methods Databases were searched for cohort studies up to May 2017 that reported the association of heart rate recovery with the risk of diabetes. The overall hazard ratios for slowest vs fastest heart rate recovery (the referent) and for every 10-beats-per-min decrement in heart rate recovery were calculated using a random effects meta-analysis model. Results Four cohort studies with 430 incident cases of diabetes among a total of 9113 participants during a mean follow-up period of 8.1 years were included. Results showed that the slowest heart rate recovery was associated with a higher risk of diabetes (hazard ratio 1.66, 95% CI 1.16 to 2.38) vs the fastest heart rate recovery, and the hazard ratio of risk of diabetes for every 10-beats-per-min decrement in heart rate recovery was 1.29 (95% CI 1.13 to 1.48). No significant interaction effect was observed regarding the efficacy of 1-min and 2-min heart rate recovery in predicting risk of diabetes (both Pfor interaction >0.60); however, a linear dose-response relationship existed for overall studies and for studies using 1-min heart rate recovery as the exposure (both P >0.60 for non-linearity). Conclusions Attenuated heart rate recovery is associated with an increased risk of diabetes in a dose-dependent manner, and measurement of heart rate recovery is worth recommending as part of diabetes risk assessment in clinical routines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The immune system can be damaged by chronic stress. However, for this process, the involved molecular alterations and their regulatory roles played in immunosuppression still remain unclear. This study was aimed to identify the differences in serum protein expressions that are closely associated with the effect of chronic stress on immune function. Serum protein levels of rats in control group and chronic stress group were measured by iTRAQ analysis. Subsequently, among the 121 differentially expressed proteins screened between the two groups, 46 proteins were upregulated (>1.5-fold, P < 0.05), while 75 proteins were downregulated (<0.67-fold, P < 0.05). Bioinformatics analysis revealed that most of the differentially expressed proteins were in relation with the metabolic, cellular, response stimulus and immune system processes. The significantly differential expression of ceruloplasmin, haptoglobin, catalase and peroxiredoxin-1 were picked out for reconfirmation by ELISA analysis. The results were consistent with those obtained by iTRAQ. What is more, the roles of above-mentioned four proteins, apolipoprotein B-100 and heat-shock protein 90 in immunosuppression induced by chronic stress were discussed. Taken together, these findings may provide a new insight into better understanding the molecular mechanisms of immunosuppression induced by chronic stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Review: 52 refs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article is composed of three independent commentaries about the state of Integrated, Coordinated, Open, Networked (ICON) principles (Goldman, et al., 2021b, https://doi.org/10.1029/2021EO153180) in Earth and Space Science Informatics (ESSI) and includes discussion on the opportunities and challenges of adopting them. Each commentary focuses on a different topic: (Section 2) Global collaboration, cyberinfrastructure, and data sharing; (Section 3) Machine learning for multiscale modeling; (Section 4) Aerial and satellite remote sensing for advancing Earth system model development by integrating field and ancillary data. ESSI addresses data management practices, computation and analysis, and hardware and software infrastructure. Our role in ICON science therefore involves collaborative work to assess, design, implement, and promote practices and tools that enable effective data management, discovery, integration, and reuse for interdisciplinary work in Earth and space science disciplines. Networks of diverse people with expertise across Earth, space, and data science disciplines are essential for efficient and ethical exchanges of findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable (FAIR) research products and practices. Our challenge is then to coordinate the development of standards, curation practices, and tools that enable integrating and reusing multiple data types, software, multi‐scale models, and machine learning approaches across disciplines in a way that is as open and/or FAIR as ethically possible. This is a major endeavor that could greatly increase the pace and potential of interdisciplinary scientific discovery. Plain Language Summary: We present commentaries on the state of "Integrated, Coordinated, Open, Networked (ICON) principles" in Earth and Space Science Informatics. ICON principles are meant to improve the research experience for all. Ultimately, data standardized according to community conventions and formats lead to more effective and efficient collaboration, data discovery, integration, and analyses. Data standards, tools, and machine learning developed using ICON principles enhance our understanding of Earth processes. Using ICON principles improves model results and efficacy, fosters interdisciplinary research, and provides a framework by which non‐experts can confidently contribute volunteered data and findings. Standardized data also provides reliable common resources to help train and benchmark machine learning algorithms. When networked communities work together to standardize and share data openly, the resulting web of research products is more readily findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable. Ongoing support is crucial to develop and sustain the people, systems, and tools necessary to embrace ICON principles in Earth and Space Science Informatics now and in the future. Key Points: Networks across communities, with Coordinated data and information modeling practices, improve scientific outcomes for all involvedIntegrated, Coordinated, and Open data requires sustainable support to create and maintain infrastructure for interdisciplinary NetworksIntegrated and Coordinated use of data in machine learning calls for Open benchmark datasets shared across Networks for improved outcomes [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fault slip rates are critical to quantify continental deformation. Those along the Karakax fault (northwestern Altyn Tagh Fault: ATF) have been debated, even though it is one of Tibet's most outstanding active faults. At Taersa, using LiDAR measurements of terrace and fan riser offsets (∼6 to ∼500 m) and 10Be/26Al dating of alluvial surfaces (<210 ka), we obtain a late Quaternary slip rate of ∼2.5 ± 0.5 mm/yr. This doubles the ∼2.6 ± 0.5 mm/yr rate time span found to the east and west. We interpret the ∼150 km‐long, free‐faced rupture along the fault to be that of the M ∼ 7.6 event felt in Hotan in 1882. Characteristic slip (∼6 m) during four large earthquakes since ∼10 ka implies a ∼2500 ± 500 years return time. A ∼3 mm/yr rate is consistent with the ∼80 km offset of the Karakax river since uplift of the West Kunlun range and sediment deposition in the Tarim foreland accelerated, ∼24 Ma ago. The faster slip rate (∼10.5 mm/yr) on the central ATF matches the sum of those along the reactivated West Tibetan terrane boundaries (Karakax and Longmu‐Gozha Co faults) at the Uzatagh triple junction (∼36°N, 83°E). The abrupt termination and altitude drop of the Karakorum range where the Longmu Co and Karakorum faults meet (Angmong junction), also reflect triple junction kinematics. Such localized changes account for the rise of the Karakorum and West Kunlun ranges and support lithospheric block tectonics rather than diffusely distributed deformation. Plain Language Summary: How the Tibetan plateau rose to ∼4500 m and deforms today remain outstanding questions. Tibet's northern edge follows the ∼2000 km‐long ATF, whose westernmost branch is the Karakax fault. Despite the spectacular escarpments and offsets observed along that fault, its slip rate, critical to quantify continental deformation, has remained controversial. Here, we corroborate that, for the last ∼210,000 years, that rate has been ∼2.5 ± 0.5 mm/yr, based on high‐resolution topography and dating of left‐laterally offset fluvial surfaces. The ∼80 km offset of the Karakax river implies that this rate may have remained constant since the rise of the Kunlun range above the Tarim basin started ∼24 Ma ago. The sharp fault trace reflects the exceptional preservation, since ∼10,000 years ago, of four M ∼ 7.6 earthquake ruptures (the last in 1882), each with ∼6 m of slip (∼2500 years return time). Fault slip rates, GPS vectors and mountain altitudes across western Tibet reflect block motions and triple junction kinematics rather than continuum deformation. Specifically, localized velocity changes appear to account for the rise of the West Kunlun and Karakorum ranges. Our results bridge the gaps between present and long‐term geological history, and broad‐scale geodesy and local field evidence. Key Points: The ∼400 km‐long, left‐lateral Karakax fault (western Altyn Tagh fault) slip rate has been ∼2.5 ± 0.5 mm/yr for ∼210 kaFour M ∼ 7.6 earthquakes (150 km rupture length; 2.5 ka return time) have offset Holocene terraces (6, 12, 18, and 24 m characteristic slip)Block tectonics and triple junction kinematics account for 24 Ma deformation of west Tibet and rise of ≥8000 m‐high Karakorum range [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A MoSi2 coating and a B-modified MoSi2 coating were prepared on pure Mo by halide activated pack cementation (HAPC) method. The B-modified MoSi2 coating consisted of a thick MoSi2 outer layer with MoB precipitates distributed in its inner part, a Mo5Si3 second layer, a MoB third layer, and aMo2B inner layer. Both coatings were oxidized isothermally at 873, 1523, and 1773 K. It was found that pest oxidation did not occur in both coatings at 873 K for full cover scales could form on their surfaces after 100 h oxidation. During oxidation, B atoms in the B-modified MoSi2 coating diffused outward to the coating surface and oxidized to low viscose B2O3, which promoted the formation of full cover scale and significantly reduced the volatilization of MoO3 at 1523 K, while that effect was negligible at 1773 K for silica had good fluidity at such a high temperature. It was alsofound that the MoB layer of the B-modified MoSi2 coating retarded the inward diffusion of Si from MoSi2 to the substrate, which could increase the coating oxidation-resistant lifetime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Progressive β-cell dysfunction hinders the maintenance of glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes, but comparative data on β-cell-protective therapies are lacking in the early stage of type 2 diabetes. Here we evaluated the comparative glycaemic efficacy and impact on β-cell function of three antihyperglycaemic agents that have a β-cell-protective effect, exenatide, insulin and pioglitazone, in newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes. Design and methods In this 48-week, multicentre, parallel-group study, 416 patients newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes were randomly assigned 1 : 1 : 1 to receive exenatide, insulin or pioglitazone. The primary end-point was the change in glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) from baseline. Secondary end-points included effects on weight, blood pressure, lipid profiles and β-cell function assessed by homeostasis model assessment, fasting proinsulin:insulin ( PI/I), disposition index ( DI) and acute insulin response ( AIR). Results At week 48, mean [95% confidence interval ( CI)] HbA1c changes from baseline were −1.8% (−1.55% to −2.05%) with exenatide, −1.7% (−1.52% to −1.96%) with insulin and −1.5% (−1.23% to −1.71%) with pioglitazone. Treatment differences were −0.20% (95% CI −0.46% to 0.06%) for exenatide versus insulin ( P = 0.185), and −0.37% (95% CI −0.63% to −0.12%) for exenatide versus pioglitazone ( P = 0.002). Significant improvements from baseline in AIR, PI/I and DI were observed with all treatments, with the greatest improvements in DI, as well as weight, blood pressure and lipid profile, observed with exenatide. Conclusions All three agents showed efficacy regarding glycaemic control and metabolic benefits; however, exenatide showed the greatest efficacy. β-cell function improved in all treatment groups; hence, early initiation of β-cell-protective therapy may halt the decline in β-cell function in type 2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: Progressive [beta]-cell dysfunction hinders the maintenance of glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes, but comparative data on [beta]-cell-protective therapies are lacking in the early stage of type 2 diabetes. Here we evaluated the comparative glycaemic efficacy and impact on [beta]-cell function of three antihyperglycaemic agents that have a [beta]-cell-protective effect, exenatide, insulin and pioglitazone, in newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes. DESIGN AND METHODS: In this 48-week, multicentre, parallel-group study, 416 patients newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes were randomly assigned 1 : 1 : 1 to receive exenatide, insulin or pioglitazone. The primary end-point was the change in glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) from baseline. Secondary end-points included effects on weight, blood pressure, lipid profiles and [beta]-cell function assessed by homeostasis model assessment, fasting proinsulin:insulin (PI/I), disposition index (DI) and acute insulin response (AIR). RESULTS: At week 48, mean [95% confidence interval (CI)] HbA1c changes from baseline were -1.8% (-1.55% to -2.05%) with exenatide, -1.7% (-1.52% to -1.96%) with insulin and -1.5% (-1.23% to -1.71%) with pioglitazone. Treatment differences were -0.20% (95% CI -0.46% to 0.06%) for exenatide versus insulin (P = 0.185), and -0.37% (95% CI -0.63% to -0.12%) for exenatide versus pioglitazone (P = 0.002). Significant improvements from baseline in AIR, PI/I and DI were observed with all treatments, with the greatest improvements in DI, as well as weight, blood pressure and lipid profile, observed with exenatide. CONCLUSIONS: All three agents showed efficacy regarding glycaemic control and metabolic benefits; however, exenatide showed the greatest efficacy. [beta]-cell function improved in all treatment groups; hence, early initiation of [beta]-cell-protective therapy may halt the decline in [beta]-cell function in type 2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

EP27.31: Intracavitary fluid versus early gestational sac using different reconstruction techniques: inter- and intraobserver reproducibility of sonologists of differing experience Images from 15 women with confirmed early pregnancies which either demonstrated an early gestational sac or free fluid within the endometrial cavity were imaged using different reconstruction techniques, sagittal, tranverse, coronal and real time images. Real time imaging was the only image reconstruction technique to demonstrate a significant prefence in this study. [Extracted from the article]

Surface emissivity has a significant impact on atmospheric parameter retrievals from microwave sounding instruments. To reduce the dependence of retrievals on surface emissivity, a double channel differences equation is deduced, and a corresponding retrieval scheme is constructed. Retrieval experiments are performed using Advanced Microwave Sounding Unit‐A (AMSU‐A) and Microwave Humidity Sounder (MHS) simulations and global measurements. Simulation experiments show that the double channel differences scheme can reduce the root mean square errors (RMSE) of the temperature and humidity profiles in the middle and lower atmosphere. Retrieval experiments based on AMSU‐A and MHS global measurements show that the proposed scheme can significantly reduce the RMSE of temperature profiles in the lower atmosphere and humidity profiles in the middle and lower atmosphere for cloudy and cloudless conditions, different surface types, and different scan angles, with maximum reduction values of 0.64 K and 9.03%, respectively. Regarding RMSE improvement, that of the cloudy condition is greater than that of the cloudless condition, that of the land is greater than that of the coast and the sea, and there is no significant dependence on the scan angles. The double channel differences scheme is very sensitive to initial near‐surface temperatures. Reducing the initial near‐surface temperature error can significantly improve the temperature retrieval accuracy below 900 hPa, with maximum reduction value of 3.25 K. Plain language summary: Microwave sounding instruments such as AMSU‐A/MHS provide an unique ability to acquire global atmospheric temperature and humidity profiles. However, at present, their ability to acquire temperature and humidity information in the lower atmosphere has not been fully exploited, mainly due to the impact of surface emissivity. Therefore, reducing the impact of surface emissivity is a key issue. In this paper, a temperature and humidity profiles retrieval scheme is constructed by using the relationship between the surface emissivity of adjacent channels. The research shows that the scheme can significantly improve temperature and humidity retrieval accuracy for cloudy and cloudless conditions, different surfaces types, different scan angles. Reducing initial values error in the scheme can further improve retrieval accuracy. Key Points: We propose a microwave temperature and humidity retrieval scheme based on double channel differencesWe show the accuracy performance of the double channel differences retrieval scheme for AMSU‐A/MHS measurementsResults demonstrate a significant retrieval improvement over a traditional AMSU‐A/MHS neural network retrieval scheme [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To investigate the association of urinary glucose excretion with levels of serum uric acid in adults with newly diagnosed diabetes. Methods: A total of 597 people with newly diagnosed diabetes, confirmed in an oral glucose tolerance test, were included in the present study. The participants were divided into two groups: 142 participants with low urinary glucose excretion and 455 with high urinary glucose excretion. Demographic characteristics and clinical variables were evaluated. The association of urinary glucose excretion with uric acid was analysed using multivariable regression analysis. Results: The low urinary glucose excretion group had a significantly higher prevalence of hyperuricaemia than the high urinary glucose excretion group. Moreover, urinary glucose excretion was negatively associated with uric acid level. The correlation remained significant after adjusting for potential confounders, including gender, age, fasting plasma glucose, 2‐h plasma glucose and BMI. The results also showed that participants with high urinary glucose excretion were at decreased risk of hyperuricaemia (odds ratio 0.47, 95% CI 0.27–0.80; P = 0.006). Conclusion: Urinary glucose excretion was independently associated with uric acid level in participants with newly diagnosed diabetes. In addition to lowering blood glucose, promoting urinary glucose excretion may also be an effective approach to reducing serum uric acid levels, especially for people with diabetes complicated with hyperuricaemia. What's new?: Serum uric acid levels are reported to be decreased in people treated with sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, which improve glycaemic control by promoting urinary glucose excretion (UGE); however, to date, few studies have focused on the correlation between UGE and serum uric acid.Urinary glucose excretion was found to be negatively correlated with serum uric acid after adjustment for potential confounders. Moreover, individuals with high UGE were at decreased risk of hyperuricaemia.In addition to lowering blood glucose, promoting UGE may also be an effective approach to reducing serum uric acid levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low‐temperature vitreous materials fluxed with lead (and barium) appeared in the early Warring States period (c.fifth century bce) in ancient China. A range of lead vitreous products fluxed with the same agent, including faience/glass beads, glazed pottery and Chinese blue (purple) pigment, were developed subsequently. This study carries out scientific analysis of six vitreous beads unearthed from the Zhaitouhe cemetery site in northern Shaanxi dating to the early and middle Warring States period to investigate their chemical composition, microstructure and coloration. The lead (and barium) vitreous beads identified here are some of the earliest lead vitreous materials discovered in China so far, and therefore important for the study of the development of lead vitreous technologies in ancient China. This paper also points out that it is meaningful to evaluate the lead glass, glazed pottery and barium copper silicate pigments as a whole technological assemblage given their close relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aim: To investigate whether peer support would reduce diabetes distress and improve glycaemic control when added to usual diabetes education among adults with Type 2 diabetes in China. Methods: We conducted a cluster randomized trial involving 400 adults with Type 2 diabetes from eight communities in Nanjing. All participants received usual education for an average of 2 h each month from physicians, certified diabetes educators, dieticians, psychologists and podiatric nurses. Peer support was led by trained peer leaders and included diabetes knowledge‐ and skills‐sharing at least once a month, as well as peer‐to‐peer communication. The primary outcome was diabetes distress measured using the Diabetes Distress Scale at 12 months. Secondary outcomes included fasting plasma glucose, 2‐h postprandial glucose and HbA1c concentration. Outcome data were collected from all participants at baseline, 6 months and 12 months. Results: From 2012 to 2013, there were 200 participants in each study arm at baseline. Compared with the usual education arm, the peer support with usual education arm had greater reductions in regimen‐related distress (1.4 ± 0.6 vs 1.2 ± 0.4; P=0.004) and total distress (1.3 ± 0.4 vs 1.2 ± 0.3; P=0.038) at 6 months. At 12 months, the scores for emotional burden (1.2 ± 0.3 vs 1.4 ± 0.6; P=0.002), physician‐related distress (1.1 ± 0.3 vs 1.3 ± 0.4; P=0.001) and total scores (1.2 ± 0.3 vs 1.3 ± 0.4; P=0.002) were significantly lower in the peer support with usual education arm than in the usual education arm. Fasting plasma glucose levels were lower in the peer support with usual education arm than in the usual education arm at 6 months (7.5 ± 1.95 vs 8.0 ± 2.2; P=0.044) and 12 months (7.0 ± 2.3 vs 7.6 ± 1.5; P=0.008). Conclusions: Beyond the benefits of usual education, peer support was effective in reducing diabetes distress for Type 2 diabetes mellitus. (Clinical Trials Registry no: NCT02119572) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Endothelial cells (ECs) and macrophages engage in tight and specific interactions that play critical roles in cardiovascular homeostasis and the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are circular membrane fragments released from the endosomal compartment as exosomes or shed from the surfaces of the membranes of most cell types. Increasing evidence indicates that EVs play a pivotal role in cell‐to‐cell communication. However, the contribution of EVs, as determine by oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (ox‐LDL)‐exposed and/or Kruppel‐like factor 2 (KLF2)‐transduced ECs in the interaction between vascular ECs and monocytes/macrophages, which is a key event in atherosclerotic plaque development, has remained elusive. This study demonstrates the characteristic impact of EVs from ox‐LDL‐treated and/or KLF2‐transduced ECs on the monocyte/macrophage phenotype in vitro and in vivo.Q‐PCR showed that both the atherosclerosis inducer ox‐LDL and atheroprotective factor KLF2 regulated inflammation‐associated microRNA‐155 (miR‐155) expression in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Moreover, coculture, immunofluorescence and flow cytometry revealed that miR‐155 was enriched in ox‐LDL‐induced ECs‐EVs and subsequently transferred to human monocytic THP1 cells, in which these vesicles enhance monocyte activation by shifting the monocytes/macrophages balance from anti‐inflammatory M2 macrophages towards proinflammatory M1 macrophages; EVs from KLF2‐expressing ECs suppressed monocyte activation by enhancing immunomodulatory responses and diminishing proinflammatory responses, which indicate the potent anti‐inflammatory activities of these cells. Furthermore, oil red staining showed that atherosclerotic lesions were reduced in mice that received EVs from KLF2‐transduced ECs with decreased proinflammatory M1 macrophages and increased anti‐inflammatory M2 macrophages, and this effect is at least partly due to the decreased expression of inflammation‐associated miR‐155, confirming our in vitro findings. In summary, this study provides novel insights into the pathophysiological effects of altered EV secretion and/or microRNA content and their influence on modulating monocyte activation depending on the environment surrounding EVs‐releasing ECs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A human skull, buried about 2500 years ago in a Bronze Age cemetery at Jinggouzi, a site of an important ethnic group in ancient China, appeared to have characteristics of fibrous dysplasia. The CT images indicated a reduction in bone density and relatively homogeneous lesions. More features were revealed using CT reconstruction techniques. Lesions seen in low‐magnification images using a 3D deep‐field microscope had an irregular honeycomb‐like structure. At higher magnification, the trabeculae morphology and the gaps between the trabeculae were irregular and varied in size and shape. Paraffin‐embedded specimens stained with HE showed trabeculae with tortuous irregular arrangements varying in shape and width. The irregular trabeculae of woven bone has been described as having fibrous dysplasia. Molecular analysis of the GNAS gene indicated no mutation. This provides a non‐invasive approach for us to make more comprehensive diagnoses and to assist research into ancient human diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar amendment to soil has the potential to improve soil quality and increase crop yield. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi ( AMF) provide beneficial plant services of stress alleviation with respect to phosphorus (P) deficiency and drought. The aim of this study was to explore interactive effects of biochar with AMF, P fertilization levels and irrigation strategies on growth of potato plants. Potato plants were amended with wood biochar of 0.74 % w/w (B+) or not (B−), fertilized with phosphorus of 0.11 mg P g−1 soil (P1) or not (P0), irrigated with full irrigation ( FI) or partial root-zone drying irrigation ( PRD) and inoculated with AMF of Rhizophagus irregularis (M+) or not (M−) in split-root pots in a sandy loam soil. Plants were analysed for growth performance, P and nitrogen (N) uptake and water use efficiency ( WUE). Biochar adsorption of mineral P and N in aqueous solution was tested in subexperiment. B+ significantly decreased plant biomass production except under P0 FI M−, where B+ increased plant biomass. This growth stimulation was counteracted by treatments of P1, PRD and M+. B+ significantly decreased plant leaf area, P and N uptake and WUE, but had no significant effect on root biomass and soil pH. The positive plant growth response to AMF was substantially reduced by biochar amendment. The wood biochar had no adsorption for mineral N, and it had 0.96 % adsorption for mineral P in aqueous solution. The results suggested that the negative effect of wood biochar application on plant growth may due to the reduced plant uptake of P and N and the possibility of phytotoxic effects of wood biochar on potato growth. It was concluded that the wood biochar used in current study had negative impact on plant growth and P/N uptake and it is not recommendable to apply this wood biochar to mycorrhizal agro-system, to soil fertilized with high rate of P or to soil suffering water deficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Our aim is to evaluate the expression of SATB1 in human oral squamous cell carcinomas ( OSCC) and its role in the invasiveness and metastasis of OSCC. Subjects and methods A human OSCC tissue microarray was used to evaluate the expression pattern of SATB1. SATB1 mRNA knockdown was performed in human OSCC cell lines SCC25 and Cal27 to assess the function of SATB1 in the invasiveness and metastasis of OSCC. Results SATB1 is highly expressed in human OSCC determined by immunohistochemistry, and its nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio of histoscore is significantly correlated with patients' prognosis. Reduced cell motility, invasiveness, expression of epithelial to mesenchymal transition ( EMT) markers (N-cadherin and β-catenin), and elevated expression of epithelial markers were observed in SATB1-knockdown cells in in vitro studies. Depletion of SATB1 also restored a cobblestone-like morphology in TGF-β1-treated cells. Conclusions These findings suggest SATB1 may play an important role in OSCC invasiveness and metastasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the influence of maxillary impacted canines on the root morphology of adjacent premolars in a Chinese population. Subjects and Methods A sample of 370 Chinese subjects with maxillary canine impaction and 370 control subjects were collected in this study. CBCT data of all subjects were collected and analyzed. The prevalence of separate-rooted maxillary premolars was compared between subjects with and without impacted canines. Then, the prevalence of separate-rooted maxillary premolars was compared between subjects with buccal canine impaction ( BIC) and those with palatal impaction ( PIC). Results The prevalence of separate-rooted first premolars was significantly higher in the canine impaction group ( P = 0.046), but the prevalence of separate-rooted second premolars was not different ( P = 0.780). Furthermore, a significant higher prevalence of first premolar root separation was found on the impacted site in the BIC subgroup ( P < 0.001), but not in the PIC subgroup ( P = 0.508). Also, the prevalence of separate-rooted first premolars in the BIC subgroup was significantly higher than that of the control group ( P = 0.008), but not so for the PIC subgroup ( P = 0.097). Conclusions Buccally impacted maxillary canines are associated with an increased prevalence of root separation in the adjacent maxillary first premolars. This is likely because that buccally impacted canines encroach on the space needed for root development of the first premolars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Porokeratosis ( PK, MIM 175800) is a chronic autosomal dominant cutaneous keratinization disorder, which has a wide variety of clinical manifestations. Objectives We analysed the molecular basis of 10 families and 12 sporadic cases with different subtypes of porokeratosis in the Chinese population. Methods Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood samples. Mutation screening was performed by direct sequencing of exons and flanking intron-exon boundaries for the entire coding region of four mevalonate pathway genes and SLC17A9 gene. Results We detected three novel mutations and seven previously described mutations by direct sequence analysis of the PCR products. Mutations p.Phe249Ser and p.Asn292Ser in mevalonate decarboxylase ( MVD) were the most common mutations in this PK cohort; their presence was 27.3% and 13.6% respectively. Conclusions This study extended the mutation spectrum of PK in the Chinese Han population and provided further evidence for the genetic basis of PK. We first identified MVD simultaneously responsible for porokeratosis palmaris et plantaris disseminate development and confirmed the genotype-phenotype correlations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Themechanismof localized corrosion in 2A97 aluminiumalloy has been investigated. Electron backscatter diffraction analysiswas performed at the localized corrosion site to determine the grain-stored energy. The relationship between the grain-stored energy, namely the population density of crystallographic defects, and the corrosion susceptibility of the alloy has been established. Itwas revealed that the grain boundaries that surrounded grains of relatively high stored energy were preferentially attacked. Intergranular corrosion could occur at grain boundaries where second phase precipitate was absent. Non-uniform attack of the adjacent grain interior was also observed along the attacked grain boundary, with preferential dissolution of the grains with high stored energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Although pedometer intervention is effective in increasing physical activity among adults with Type 2 diabetes, its impact on weight loss remains unclear. This meta-analysis was aimed to assess whether pedometer intervention promotes weight loss. Methods Three different databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in English up to April 2015. Studies were included if they investigated the effects of pedometer intervention on weight loss, as measured by BMI or weight. Effect sizes were aggregated using a random-effects model. Subgroup and meta-regression analyses were used to identify potential moderators. Eleven RCTs with 1258 participants were included. All enrolled participants were overweight or obese. Results Pedometer intervention led to significantly decreased BMI [weighted mean difference (WMD) −0.15 kg/m2, 95% confidence interval (CI) −0.29 to −0.02 kg/m2] and reduced weight (WMD −0.65 kg, 95% CI −1.12 to −0.17 kg). Dietary counselling seemed to be a key predictor of the observed changes. However, none of the following variables had a significant influence: step goal setting, baseline age, BMI, weight, sex distribution, disease duration, intervention duration, and baseline values or change scores for total or moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. After completion of the pedometer intervention, non-significant declines in BMI and weight were observed during the follow-up periods. Conclusions Pedometer intervention promotes modest weight loss, but its association with physical activity requires further clarification. Future studies are also required to document dietary and sedentary behaviour changes to facilitate the use of pedometers for weight loss in overweight and obese adults with Type 2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article looks at study which has been approved by Yale University Human Research Protection Program which found bacterial phyla Firmicutes and Actinobacteria from induced sputum were evaluated using 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) sequencing to compare abundance of different bacteria genera between asthmatic and nonasthmatic sibling. It also mentions need to diminish baseline variation caused by different household environmental exposures and association between asthma and sputum microbes.

The polymorphisms of tumour necrosis factor alpha-induced protein 3 ( TNFAIP3) have been found to associate with several autoimmune diseases. This study aimed to explore the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms ( SNPs) of TNFAIP3 gene with systemic lupus erythematosus ( SLE) in Han Chinese. Thirty-two SNPs were genotyped in 284 patients with SLE and 630 controls using the ligation detection reaction ( LDR) method. The quality control steps and statistical analyses were performed using the plink 1.07 package and haploview software. We found that 13 SNPs in TNFAIP3 showed significant association with SLE ( P < 1.85 × 10−3), and all of them were in high linkage disequilibrium ( LD). After conditioning on the SNP rs2230926, other 12 SNPs did not show association ( P > 0.27). All 13 SNPs showed most significant association in the dominant model. In haplotype analysis, a long risk SNP haplotype ( GCCCGTGTCATGG) showed most significant association ( P = 1.00 × 10−4). In conclusion, our data suggest that TNFAIP3 is a susceptible gene for SLE in the Han Chinese population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An environment-friendly phosphate conversion coating free of chromate, fluorides, and nitrite was developed on AZ91D alloy through a facile chemical deposition method. The surface morphology and phase composition of the coating were characterized by field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The corrosion resistance of the coating was evaluated by potentiodynamic polarization test in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution. Results indicate that the calcium phosphate coating was composed of a large number of leaf-like and flower-like particles. The chemical composition of the conversion coating was CaHPO4·2H2O crystals. The coating can remarkably reduce the corrosion current density of the substrate. Introduction of triethanolamine (TEA) additive into the phosphating bath leads to denser coating and high anticorrosive property of the phosphate coating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(Y1− xEu x)4Al2O9 solid solution powders can be easily prepared by a simple and convenient method, which effectively combined a molten salt process with a chemical co-precipitation technique. All the samples were characterized by XRD, SEM, and photoluminescence ( PL) spectra techniques. The results show that the incorporation of NaCl salt can greatly promote the formation and crystallization of (Y1− xEu x)4Al2O9 crystallites, and lower their synthesizing temperature, and that their particle size and morphology strongly rely on x value, which finally dominates their PL properties. The prominent emission intensity of 5D0→7F2 transition rather than 5D0→7F1 indicates doped Eu3+ cations occupy Y3+ position in monoclinic Y4Al2O9, which is sensitive to Eu3+ local environment, and at x = 0.10, there exist a maximum PL intensity due to the concentration quenching effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant responses to elevated CO2 and high temperature are critically regulated through a complex network of phytohormones and redox homeostasis. However, the involvement of abscisic acid ( ABA) in plant adaptation to heat stress under elevated CO2 conditions has not been thoroughly studied. This study investigated the interactive effects of elevated CO2 (800 μmol·mol−1) and heat stress (42 °C for 24 h) on the endogenous level of ABA and the cellular redox state of two genotypes of tomato with different ABA biosynthesis capacities. Heat stress significantly decreased maximum photochemical efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm) and leaf water potential, but also increased levels of malondialdehyde ( MDA) and electrolyte leakage ( EL) in both genotypes. Heat-induced damage was more severe in the ABA-deficient mutant notabilis ( not) than in its parental cultivar Ailsa Craig ( Ailsa), suggesting that a certain level of endogenous ABA is required to minimise the heat-induced oxidative damage to the photosynthetic apparatus. Irrespective of genotype, the enrichment of CO2 remarkably stimulated Fv/Fm, MDA and EL in heat-stressed plants towards enhanced tolerance. In addition, elevated CO2 significantly strengthened the antioxidant capacity of heat-stressed tomato seedlings towards a reduced cellular redox state for a prolonged period, thereby mitigating oxidative stress. However, elevated CO2 and heat stress did not alter the endogenous level of ABA or the expression of its biosynthetic gene NCED2 in either genotype, indicating that ABA is not involved in elevated CO2-induced heat stress alleviation. The results of this study suggest that elevated CO2 alleviated heat stress through efficient regulation of the cellular redox poise in an ABA-independent manner in tomato plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To address severe grassland degradation, the Chinese government implemented national restoration programmes, which in turn drove a research focus towards assessment of the environmental effectiveness of such initiatives. In this study, net primary productivity ( NPP) was used as an indicator for assessing the impacts of land use and cover change ( LUCC), improved land-use management and climate change on the grassland ecosystem of the Shiyanghe River Basin. NPP was calculated on the basis of the Carnegie- Ames- Stanford Approach model, which is driven by a Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer ( MODIS) normalized difference vegetation index and meteorological data. The LUCC data for 2001 and 2009 were derived from MODIS land-cover data. During the study period, the net increase in grassland development was 5105·5 km2, with 80·4% of the newly developed grasslands attributed to desert-to-grassland conversion. The total NPP of grasslands in 2009 increased by 659·62 Gg C compared with that in 2001. The contributions of human activity and climate change to total NPP increase were 133 and −33% respectively. Land conversion and improved management measures directly increased grassland NPP. These factors are dominant positive driving forces, whereas warm and dry climates impose adverse effects on grassland restoration in the study site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The African green monkey may be an ideal replacement for the rhesus monkey in biomedical research, but relatively little is known about the genetic background of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules. In analysis of 12 African green monkeys, 13 Chae-A and 19 Chae-B alleles were identified. Among these alleles, 12 Chae-A and 9 Chae-B were new lineages. The full amino acid length deduced for Chae-A genes is 365 amino acids, but for Chae-B genes, the lengths are 365, 362, 361, and 359 amino acids, respectively. There were 1-3 Chae-A alleles and 2-5 Chae-B alleles in each animal. In African green monkeys, rhesus monkeys, and cynomolgus monkeys, the MHC-A and MHC-B alleles display trans-species polymorphism, rather than being clustered in a species-specific fashion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to the editor is presented which describes the successful abdominal operation without replacement therapy in a patient with combined factor V (FV) and FVIII deficiency due to novel homozygous mutation in LMAN1 gene.