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In this manuscript, our primary objective is to delve into the intricacies of an extended nonlinear Schrödinger equation. To achieve this, we commence by deriving a dynamical system tightly linked to the equation through the Galilean transformation. We then employ principles from planar dynamical systems theory to explore the bifurcation phenomena exhibited within this derived system. To investigate the potential presence of chaotic behaviors, we introduce a perturbed term into the dynamical system and systematically analyze the extended nonlinear Schrödinger equation. This investigation is further enriched by the presentation of comprehensive two- and 3D phase portraits. Moreover, we conduct a meticulous sensitivity analysis of the dynamical system using the Runge–Kutta method. Through this analytical process, we confirm that minor fluctuations in initial conditions have only minimal effects on solution stability. Additionally, we utilize the complete discrimination system of the polynomial method to systematically construct single traveling wave solutions for the governing model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work examines the practical prescribed-time bipartite synchronization problem of some interacting neural networks under the leaderless and leader-follower framework, respectively, where the topological structure follows certain signed graph. By applying a feedback controller with well-designed high-gain function, the practical bipartite synchronization is proved to be achievable when time approaches certain prescribed-time. Our theorems provide simple criteria for designing the control parameters and reveal the impact of the underlying network. An interesting finding is that, under a leader-follower framework, bipartite synchronization is unachievable under the conventional pinning controller if the followers that can reach the leader belong to different sets of the signed graph. Furthermore, despite the use of increasing control gain, the control signals are shown to remain bounded. Finally, some numerical examples are presented to show the theoretical result's validity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to design organic small molecule fluorescent materials with multiple sensing, a bibranched -NH2 modified cyanostilbene derivative (AM) was synthesized. It exhibits solvent and aggregation-induced emission effects, with a solid-state quantum yield of 28%, which is seven times higher than that in THF. The synthesized sample AM demonstrated high sensitivity to trace water via a fluorescence “turn-off” response, achieving a low detection limit of 0.41 µM in THF and 0.80 µM in EtOH. AM also exhibits a “turn-off” response to picric acid, attributed to the photo-induced electron transfer effect it induces. The recognition of picric acid by AM demonstrates specificity and resistance to interference from nitro explosives, with a detection limit of 300 ppb and a linear relationship (R2 = 0.9981) at the range of 0–4 equivalents AM. Such acid recognition can facilitate the design of qualitative test papers and safety inks. Additionally, AM can function as a temperature sensor with a linear relationship (R2 = 0.9976) within the temperature range of 25–110 °C. Leveraging these unique characteristics, a series of methods were proposed for the direct quantitative determination of trace water in nonaqueous solvents, picric acid, and temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The different reconstruction parameters of CT imaging lead to domain shifts, which limits the generalization of deep learning models and their applications in computer-aided diagnosis systems. In this paper, we investigate the multi-source domain generalization (DG) problem in the context of lung nodule detection from CT images. We first identify the reconstructed convolution kernel as the key parameter leading to domain shifts. Accordingly, we reorganize the public LUNA16 dataset into a domain generalization benchmark, i.e.,, LUNA-DG. Then, we propose a novel DG method by adversarial frequency alignment (AFA). Specifically, we devise an adaptive transition module (ATM) to learn a frequency attention map that can align different domain images in a common frequency domain. For this purpose, a fidelity discriminator and a multi-domain discriminator are used to train the ATM alternately and adversarially. In addition, to mitigate the issue of ineffective gradient back-propagation in naive multi-domain adversarial learning, we propose a novel random domain adversarial learning (RDAL) strategy that can back-propagate effective gradient signals and gradually reduce the gap between multiple domains. The ATM can be combined with nodule detection models through differentiable Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) and inverse FFT, allowing end-to-end training. Experimental results on both LUNA-DG and our in-house datasets validate the superiority of AFA over representative DG methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work investigates the synchronization problem of dynamical networks with delayed nodal dynamics under a leader-following framework, where the topological structure is directed, and the inter-couplings are allowed to be intermittent. By tailoring certain simple triggering condition, an event-triggered control protocol is designed to reduce the redundant execution of the control, and some sufficient conditions in terms of the time average of the control gain over one single period are established for reaching synchronization despite the intermittency of the inter-coupling. Moreover, the largest admissible delay is estimated. Interestingly, our theoretical result is applicable to situations with typical coupling strength functions for delayed nodal dynamics, such as the piece-wise linear function and quadratic function. Some numerical examples are finally given to demonstrate the validity of the theoretical result. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Against the background of a changing climate, the responses of functional traits of plateau wetland plants to increasing temperatures and CO2 concentrations need to be understood. Hydraulic traits are the key for plants to maintain their ecological functions and affect their growth and survival. However, few studies have comprehensively considered the response strategies of wetland plants' hydraulic traits to environmental changes in the context of water and matter transport, loss, and retention. According to the latest IPCC prediction results, we performed experiments under increased temperature (2 °C) and CO2 levels (850 μmol/mol) in an artificial Sealed-top Chamber (STC) to investigate the responses of the hydraulic characteristics of Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani, the dominant species in plateau wetlands in China. Results: Compared with the CK group, net photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, stomatal length, cuticle thickness, vascular bundle length, vascular bundle width, and vascular bundle area of S. tabernaemontani in the ET group were significantly reduced, whereas stomatal density and vein density increased significantly. Compared with the CK group, the hydraulic traits of S. tabernaemontani in the EC group were reduced considerably in stomatal length and cuticle thickness but increased dramatically in stomatal density, and there were no significant differences between other parameter values and the control group. Net photosynthetic rate was significantly positively correlated with stomatal length, cuticle thickness, and vascular bundle length, and stomatal conductance was significantly positively correlated with cuticle thickness. The transpiration rate was significantly positively correlated with cuticle thickness, epidermal cell area, vascular bundle length, vascular bundle width, and vascular bundle area. Regarding the hydraulic traits, there was a significant negative correlation between stomatal density and stomatal length, or cuticle thickness, and a significant positive correlation between the latter two. The epidermal cell area was significantly positively correlated with epidermal thickness, vascular bundle length, vascular bundle width, and vascular bundle area. Conclusions: Increased temperature and CO2 levels are not conducive to the photosynthetic activity of S. tabernaemontani. Photosynthetic rate, stomatal density and size, vein density, epidermal structure size, and vascular bundle size play an essential role in the adaptation of this species to changes in temperature and CO2 concentration. In the process of adaptation, hydraulic traits are not isolated from each other, and there is a functional association among traits. This study provide a scientific basis for the management and protection of plateau wetlands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper considers the initial-boundary value problem of the one-dimensional full compressible nematic liquid crystal flow problem. The initial density is allowed to touch vacuum, and the viscous and heat conductivity coefficients are kept to be positive constants. Global existence of strong solutions is established for any H 2 initial data in the Lagrangian flow map coordinate, which holds for both vacuum and non-vacuum case. The key difficulty is caused by the lack of the positive lower bound of the density. To overcome such difficulty, it is observed that the ratio of ρ 0 (y) ρ (t , y) is proportional to the time integral of the upper bound of temperature and vector director field, along the trajectory. Density weighted Sobolev type inequalities are constructed for both temperature and director field in terms of ρ 0 (y) ρ (t , y) and small dependence on their dissipation estimates. Besides this, to deal with cross terms arising due to liquid crystal flow, higher order priori estimates are established by using effective viscous flux. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonlinear dynamical problems, characterized by unpredictable and chaotic changes among variables over time, pose unique challenges in understanding. This paper explores the coupled nonlinear (2+1)-dimensional complex modified Korteweg-de-Vries (cmKdV) equation-a fundamental equation in applied magnetism and nanophysics. The study focuses on dynamic behaviors, specifically examining bifurcations and equilibrium points leading to chaotic phenomena by introducing an external term to the system. Employing chaos theory, we showcase the chaotic tendencies of the perturbed dynamical system. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis using the Runge-Kutta method reveals the solution's stability under slight variations in initial conditions. Innovatively, the paper utilizes the planar dynamical system technique to construct various solitons within the governing model. This research provides novel insights into the behavior of the (2+1)-dimensional cmKdV equation and its applications in applied magnetism and nanophysics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate the location and distribution patterns of neurovascular structures and determine the effective injection point in the tarsal tunnel for heel pain. Methods: Fifteen adult non-embalmed cadavers with a mean age of 71.5 years were studied. The most inferior point of the medial malleolus of the tibia (MM) and the tuberosity of the calcaneus (TC) were identified before dissection. A line connecting the MM and TC was used as a reference line. The reference point was expressed in absolute distance along the reference line using the MM as the starting point. For measurements using MRI, the depth from the skin was measured to inferior at an interval of 1 cm from the MM. Results: The posterior tibial artery, lateral plantar nerve, and medial plantar nerve were located from 29.0 to 37.3% of the reference line from the MM. The distribution frequencies of the medial calcaneal nerve on the reference line from the MM were 0%, 8.60%, 37.15%, 37.15%, and 17.10%, respectively. The mean depth of the neurovascular structures was 0.3 cm. Discussion: This study recommended an effective injection site from 45.0 to 80.0% of the reference line. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although microbial exopolysaccharides (EPSs) are applied in different fields, no EPS has been used to protect human skin cells against UV-induced oxidative stress. The EPS produced by the Arctic bacterium Polaribacter sp. SM1127 has high moisture-retention ability and antioxidant activity, suggesting its good industrial potentials. In this study, we improved the EPS production of SM1127 and evaluated its protective effect on human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) against UV-induced oxidative stress. With glucose as carbon source, the EPS yield was increased from 2.11 to 6.12 g/L by optimizing the fermentation conditions using response surface methodology. To lower the fermentation cost and decrease corrosive speed in stainless steel tanks, whole sugar, whose price is only 8% of that of glucose, was used to replace glucose and NaCl concentration was reduced to 4 g/L in the medium. With the optimized conditions, fed-batch fermentation in a 5-L bioreactor was conducted, and the EPS production reached 19.25 g/L, which represents the highest one reported for a polar microorganism. Moreover, SM1127 EPS could maintain the cell viability and integrity of HDFs under UV-B radiation, probably via decreasing intracellular reactive oxygen species level and increasing intracellular glutathione content and superoxide dismutase activity. Therefore, SM1127 EPS has significant protective effect on HDFs against UV-induced oxidative stress, suggesting its potential to be used in preventing photoaging and photocarcinogenesis. Altogether, this study lays a good foundation for the industrialization of SM1127 EPS, which has promising potential to be used in cosmetics and medical fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Leaf water conservation and pseudobulb water storage are two of the strategies commonly employed by epiphytic plants to adapt to dry environments. During the flowering period, a great deal of water transpires through the flowers, which then influences water-related processes. However, there is little research on the coordinated relationship between the different structures of epiphytes. Our study explored the phylogenetic conservation and evolutionary correlations between structural traits of 8 species in the genus Dendrobium by using phylogenetic independent contrast (PIC) analysis. Results: Leaf dry mass, leaf water content, leaf dry matter content, specific leaf area, stomatal density, stomatal area index, pseudobulb length, pseudobulb width, and flower dry mass show strong phylogenetic signals. Pseudobulb length is significantly positively correlated with stomatal volume but significantly negatively correlated with mesophyll thickness according to both species mean values and PIC values. Pseudobulb internode length is also positively correlated with stomatal volume but negatively correlated with stomatal density according to PIC values. Pseudobulb width is significantly positively correlated with leaf dry mass, stomatal density, stomatal area index, flower petal vein number and flower dry mass but negatively correlated with specific leaf area according to species mean values. However, these correlations are insignificant when PIC values are analyzed. Stomatal volume is positively correlated with flower dry mass, and after phylogeny is considered, this correlation is still significant. Leaf dry mass is positively correlated with flower petal vein number according to species values. Flower number per pseudobulb is negatively correlated with upper epidermal cell size according to species values but negatively correlated with stomatal area index according to PIC values. There are no correlations between pseudobulb and flower water-related traits according to PIC values. Conclusions: A trade-off should exist in epiphytic plants between the two drought-tolerant strategies of pseudobulb storage and leaf water retention. Plants possessing thick blades with a few large stomata tend to use the pseudobulb water storage strategy to adapt to drought. Small flowers and low flower dry mass should be associated with the leaf water retention strategy. In addition, flowers and leaves exhibit an obvious water balance and should share common selection pressures. The present study provides a case with which to understand the coordinated adaptation of different structures in epiphytic plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a new affinity medium of Zn-SBA-15-immobilized ACE was prepared and applied in the separation of ACE inhibitor peptides from Volutharpa ampullacea perryi protein hydrolysate. Molecular sieve SBA-15 for immobilizing ACE was prepared by hydrothermal crystallization method. Zn2+ was directly adsorbed by SBA-15 to form Zn-SBA-15. ACE was immobilized on Zn-SBA-15 by affinity adsorption. ACE inhibitory peptides were separated by affinity chromatography based on the specific binding force between immobilized ACE and its inhibitors. The bound peptides were released by 2 M NaCl and further purified by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. Then the amino acid sequence of two peptides with ACE inhibitory activity was identified by MS/MS. Two new ACE inhibitory peptides Ile-Val-Thr-Asn-Trp-Asp-Asp-Met-Glu-Lys (IC50 = 2.08 mM)) and Val-Gly-Pro-Ala-Gly-Arg-Pro-Gly (IC50 = 4.66 mM) were purified from Volutharpa ampullacea perryi protein hydrolysate. The study suggest that the two peptides separated from the Volutharpa ampullacea perryi protein hydrolysate were potent ACE inhibitors and may be used to decrease blood pressure. The significance of the research is to prepare a new affinity medium of Zn-SBA-15 immobilized ACE and apply it in separation of ACE inhibitory peptides from Volutharpa ampullacea perryi protein hydrolysate, which can also provide an effective means to separate the peptides with ACE inhibitory activities from other food sources. It can promote the research and development of antihypertensive active substances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the protective effects of Saikosaponin a (SSa), a triterpene saponin derived from Radix bupleuri, on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury (ALI) using a murine model. The mice were given SSa 1 h after intranasal instillation of LPS. Then, lung histopathological examination, the wet/dry (W/D) ratio, myeloperoxidase (MPO), and inflammatory cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were detected in this study. The results showed that SSa reduced lung pathological injury induced by LPS. Furthermore, LPS-induced lung W/D ratio, MPO activity, and inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β in BALF were significantly inhibited by SSa. In addition, SSa suppressed LPS-induced NF-κB activation and NLRP3 inflammasome expression. In conclusion, we found that SSa played a critical anti-inflammatory effect through inhibition of NF-κB and NLRP3 signaling pathways and protected against LPS-induced ALI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the clinical characteristics of Kawasaki disease (KD) presenting with abdominal manifestation as the first manifestation. Our findings may help improve the cognition of KD with abdominal complications, and avoid misdiagnosis and missed diagnosis. A retrospective analysis was conducted of 1490 KD patients admitted to Shengjing Hospital between January 2019 and March 2022. Clinical characteristics, related factors, and prognosis of KD with abdominal manifestation as first manifestation were analyzed. Based on the presenting symptoms, patients were divided into gastrointestinal symptom group (n = 141), liver dysfunction group (n = 55), and control group (n = 1294). In the gastrointestinal group, diarrhea [100 cases (70.9%)], vomiting [55 cases (39.0%)], and abdominal pain [34 cases (24.1%)] were the most common symptoms at onset. 8 cases (5.7%) were complicated with pseudo-intestinal obstruction, 6 cases (4.3%) with ischemic colitis, 5 cases (3.5%) with pancreatitis, 2 cases (1.4%) with appendicitis, and 1 case (0.7%) with cholecystitis. Comparied to ordinary gastroenteritis caused by infection, gastroenteritis with KD has longer fever duration before treatment, higher WBC, PLT, CRP, AST levels and lower albumin levels. All patients in the liver dysfunction group had elevated transaminases, and 19 patients (34.5%) presented with jaundice. In the gastrointestinal group, the average hospital stay was 10.3 days, and the incidence of IVIG unresponsiveness and coronary artery lesion were 18.4% and 19.9%, respectively, which were significantly higher than that in the control group. In the liver dysfunction group, the average hospital stay (11.18 days), incidence of IVIG unresponsiveness (25.5%), and incidence of coronary artery lesion (29.1%) were significantly higher than that in the control group. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, gastrointestinal involvement, fever duration, ALT, PLT, and CRP were identified as risk factors for CAL, younger age, gastrointestinal involvement and fever duration were risk factors for IVIG unresponsiveness. Conclusion: KD with gastrointestinal involvement is associated with a higher risk of IVIG unresponsiveness and coronary artery lesion. KD should be considered in the differential diagnosis of children with acute fever, especially those with gastrointestinal involvement and liver dysfunction. What is Known: • Fever duration, PLT, and CRP were identified as risk factors for CAL. Timely diagnosis and application of IVIG treatment can avoid exploratory laparotomy for ileus, appendectomy for misdiagnosed appendicitis, colonoscopy for misdiagnosed inflammatory bowel disease, and reduce the complications of CAL and IVIG unresponsiveness. What is New: • Abdominal symptoms as the first manifestation can be an independent risk factor for CAL and IVIG unresponsiveness. KD should be considered in the differential diagnosis of children with acute fever, especially those with gastrointestinal symptoms or liver dysfunction. • Gastroenteritis in KD group had longer fever duration before treatment, accompanied with higher WBC, PLT, CRP, AST levels and lower albumin levels than those gastroenteritis caused by infection. Therefore, high attention should be paid to the possibility of KD when gastroenteritis accompanied by along fever duration, high WBC, PLT, CRP, AST level or lowalbumin level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluorescent proteins facilitate a variety of imaging paradigms in live and fixed samples. However, they lose their fluorescence after heavy fixation, hindering applications such as correlative light and electron microscopy (CLEM). Here we report engineered variants of the photoconvertible Eos fluorescent protein that fluoresce and photoconvert normally in heavily fixed (0.5-1% OsO4), plastic resin-embedded samples, enabling correlative super-resolution fluorescence imaging and high-quality electron microscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many marine microorganisms can secrete exopolysaccharides (EPSs) which have important applications in biotechnology. We have purified a novel EPS from deep-sea bacterium Zunongwangia profunda SM-A87, identified its glycosyl composition and linkage, and optimized its production to 8.9 g/l in previous studies. To reduce the fermentation cost, an economical fermentation medium containing 60.9 % whey, 10 g/l soybean meal, and 2.9 % NaCl was developed. The EPS yield of batch fermentation in this medium reached 12.1 ± 0.3 g/l. Fed-batch fermentation was conducted and led to an EPS yield of 17.2 ± 0.4 g/l, which represents the highest EPS yield ever reported for a marine bacterium. The EPS was extracted and it displayed good rheological properties, moisture-retention ability, and antioxidant activity. Particularly, its moisture-retention ability is superior to that of other marine bacterial EPSs reported to date. SM-A87 EPS also showed high antioxidant activity. These results suggest that SM-A87 EPS has promising potentials in biotechnology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC) remains unclear, and it is believed that an imbalance of regulatory T (Treg) cells and T helper 17 (Th17) cells is related to the occurrence of UC. Curcumin has been confirmed to exert anti-inflammatory effects in bronchial asthma and osteoarthritis by regulating the balance of Treg/Th17 cells. This study aimed to explore the therapeutic potential of curcumin in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)–induced UC rats by regulating the balance of Treg/Th17 cells. Disease activity index (DAI) scores were calculated. Changes in colon inflammation were observed using hematoxylin and eosin staining. Treg and Th17 cells in the spleen were detected by flow cytometry, and the levels of interleukin (IL)-10 and IL-17A were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. In DSS-induced colitis, curcumin significantly ameliorated colitis symptoms by reducing the DAI and increasing colon length. Additionally, curcumin significantly increased the expression of Treg cells and decreased the expression of Th17 cells and the extent of histopathological damage. Furthermore, curcumin increased the expression of IL-10 and decreased the expression of IL-17A. Curcumin attenuates DSS-induced UC injury by regulating Treg/Th17 balance and related cytokine secretion. Thus, curcumin may be a promising therapeutic drug for treating UC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study addresses the damped (2 + 1)-dimensional nonlinear Schrödinger equation (DNLS) using innovative techniques, with a focus on elucidating the problem's significance, employed methodologies, key findings, and unique contributions. We extensively explore the modified exponential rational function technique and other distinctive approaches, revealing a diverse range of wave solutions for DNLS equation. Notably, our research unveils new optical solutions, including bright and dark solitons, extracted under specific parameter conditions. The significance of this work is underscored by its contributions to nonlinear dynamics and optical physics. Our findings provide valuable insights into the intricacies of the DNLS equation, surpassing prior endeavors in the field by introducing novel methodologies and uncovering a wealth of solutions with broad applicability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bacterial infection has a significant impact on the human health. With the widespread use of antibiotics, the bacterial resistance has increased significantly, which necessitates the urgent identification of novel antibacterial materials. In this study, a hydrogel with an inherent antibacterial ability, self-assembled from a heterochiral peptide C16-DL4LR4, has been reported. The hydrogel demonstrated optimal rheological and injectable properties. It revealed a time-dependent antibacterial activity against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis as well as Gram-negative Escherichia coli and Shigella sonnei. After 5 h treatment with the hydrogel, the survival rate of S. aureus, B. subtilis, E. coli and Sh. sonnei bacteria was decreased to 5.9%, 0%, 5.3% and 11.09%, respectively. The chiral nanofibers with a diameter of 15–20 nm in the hydrogel were observed to be conducive to the aggregation of bacteria and destruction of the cell membrane to achieve the antibacterial effect. In addition, the in vitro analysis on the mouse embryonic fibroblasts confirmed the superior biocompatibility of the hydrogel. The results obtained in this study provide the basis for the development of the functional antibacterial hydrogels by the self-assembly of the heterochiral peptides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This manuscript delves into the exploration of a third-order dispersive Schrödinger equation incorporating Kerr nonlinear effects, a common model employed for the transmission of optical fiber pulses. Utilizing an effective analytical approach, the study unveils previously undiscovered exact solutions for the Schrödinger equation, with a primary focus on analyzing optical solitons within nonlinear Schrödinger equations. The proposed method leverages a Riccati equation, yielding solutions expressed in trigonometric and hyperbolic functions. Noteworthy are the captivating dynamics exhibited by the optical solitons across diverse spatial variables, denoted as x. All numerical results are executed using Mathematica software and are visually presented in both 2D and 3D space. Additionally, the manuscript elucidates the significance of these findings in advancing our understanding of optical soliton behavior within the realm of nonlinear Schrödinger equations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to analyze the role of the FcepsilonRI (FcεRI) signaling pathway in the pathogenesis of benign lymphoepithelial lesion of lacrimal gland (LGBLEL). Transcriptomic analysis was performed on LGBLEL and orbital cavernous hemangioma (CH) patients diagnosed via histopathology in Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, between July 2010 and October 2013. Four LGBLEL and three orbital CH patients, diagnosed between October 2018 and August 2019, were randomly selected as experimental and control groups, respectively. RT-PCR, immunohistochemical staining, and western blotting were used to verify genes and proteins related to the FcεRI signaling pathway. Transcriptomic analysis showed that the FcεRI signaling pathway was upregulated in the LGBLEL compared with the CH group. The mRNA expression levels of important genes including SYK, p38, JNK, PI3K, and ERK were significantly increased in the LGBLEL group (P = 0.0066, P = 0.0002, P = 0.0003, P < 0.0001, P < 0.0001, respectively). Immunohistochemical staining results showed that SYK, p38, and ERK were positively expressed in LGBLEL, while JNK and PI3K were not. The protein contents of P-SYK, P-p38, P-JNK, P-PI3K, and P-ERK were significantly higher in the LGBLEL than in the CH group (P = 0.0169, P = 0.0074, P = 0.0046, P = 0.0157, P = 0.0156, respectively). The FcεRI signaling pathway participates in the pathogenesis of LGBLEL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on Au nano-cone array (Au-NCA) and a three-segment hybridization strategy, a novel SERS biosensor is proposed for the ultrasensitive detection of the microRNA miR-21. The uniform, stable, and reproducible Au-NCA was prepared by the single-layer colloidal ball template method. Subsequently, the target was hybridized with sequence 2. The resulting target-sequence 2 complex was then hybridized with sequence 1 anchored on Au-NCA. Thus, a three-segment sequence complex was formed. SERS measurements can be performed without the need for complex purification and amplification steps. Due to the ability of miR-21 to perform specific complementary hybridization with two sequences, SERS biosensors have superior specificity for miR-21 without interference from other miRNAs. Under the optimal conditions, the SERS biosensor was applied and the limit of detection (LOD) was as low as 3.02 aM. This method has been successfully used to the detection of miR-21 in the serum of lymphoma patients and healthy volunteers. The results are consistent with the traditional test methods. Therefore, this novel SERS biosensor shows excellent clinical translational potential in the detection of lymphoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore the expression and correlation of microRNA-7 (miR-7) and trefoil factor 3 (TFF3) genes and proteins in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) mouse models and to elucidate the effect of miR-7 inhibition in the intestinal mucosa in IBD models. A TNBS-induced IBD mouse model was established. Changes in intestinal inflammation were observed by HE staining, and the expression levels of miR-7 and TFF3 were detected by RT-PCR. After miRNA-antagomir injection, the degree of colonic tissue damage and the expression levels of miR-7 and TFF3 in intestinal tissues were compared. TNBS-induced IBD mice showed significant weight loss, significantly decreased disease activity index (DAI), and a significantly increased pathological damage score. miR-7 was highly expressed in the colon tissue of IBD mice, and TFF3 was downregulated. Inhibition of the expression of miR-7 improved the stool characteristics and fecal occult blood (OB) of IBD mice, significantly increased the expression of TFF3 protein, and decreased the pathological damage scores. In the IBD mouse model, miR-7 posttranscriptionally regulates TFF3. The inhibition of miR-7 expression improves some clinical manifestations of IBD mice, reduces the pathological damage of the intestinal mucosa, and shows a protective effect in IBD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, quantum teleportation schemes of a single qubit, two-qubit and N-qubit state are presented in a multihop communication network. All the schemes can be completed deterministicly. The shared entanglement resource between two adjacent nodes is the composition of the asymmetric W state and Bell state. It is not equivalent to the composite of GHZ state and Bell state used by Zou et al. (Phys. Lett. A 381, 76-81 2017). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A correction to the article "Fixation-resistant photoactivatable fluorescent proteins for CLEM," by Maria G. Paez-Segala, Mei G. Sun, and Sarada Viswanathan that was published online on January 12, 2015 is presented.

The objective of this study is to explore the value of fecal calprotectin (FC) for early screening of the abdominal type of Henoch-Schonlein purpura (AHSP) in children. The study cohort included 40 children with AHSP treated at Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University from November 2014 to November 2015, and 40 children hospitalized in the Division of Pediatric Orthopedics in the corresponding period were selected as a control group. Fresh fecal samples were collected in the acute phase of the first visit (FC1), 3 days after treatment (FC2), and 7 days after treatment (FC3) from the AHSP group and the control group. Calprotectin levels in the fecal samples were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. At the same time, gastrointestinal performance and the laboratory examination indicators white blood cell (WBC) count and C-reactive protein (CRP) level were recorded. The median levels of FC1 (3053 μg/g) and FC2 (2778.3 μg/g) were higher than in the control group (102.5 μg/g), with significant differences among the three groups (p < 0.001). FC levels gradually decreased in remission, and the level of FC3 on day 7 was close to that of the control samples (p > 0.05). When the optimal cut-off was 264.5 μg/g, the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of FC for diagnosis of AHSP was 0.961 with a corresponding sensitivity and specificity of 93.1 and 87.5%, respectively. The levels of FC in children with AHSP were positively correlated with WBC count (rs = 0.688) and CRP value (rs = 0.513). The area under the ROC curve of WBC count for screening AHSP was 0.785 when the optimal cut-off value was 11.1 × 109/L with a corresponding sensitivity and specificity of 81.5 and 62.5%, respectively. The area under the ROC curve of CRP was 0.963 when the optimal cut-off value was 5.72 mg/dL with a corresponding sensitivity and specificity of 88.9 and 100%, respectively. Comparisons of FC, WBC count, and CRP level as diagnostic indicators of AHSP showed that the sensitivity of FC was higher than that of the WBC count and CRP level, and its diagnostic value was better than that of the WBC count. The levels of FC began to increase in the early stages of AHSP, showing a decreasing tendency in remission and tending to be within a normal range after a week or so. For the early diagnosis of AHSP, FC with a cut-off level of 264.5 μg/g has good sensitivity and specificity. The sensitivity of FC is better than that of the traditional inflammation indicators CRP and WBC count, and its diagnostic performance is better than WBC count; FC can be suitable as a new marker for the early diagnosis of AHSP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the association between first-trimester subchorionic hematoma (SCH) detected at 6–8 weeks of gestation after fresh embryo transfers and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort involving 3074 patients. All of them acquired singleton pregnancies after fresh embryo transfers in the first in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) cycles. According to first-trimester ultrasound examinations at 6–8 weeks of gestation, we divided patients into SCH and non-SCH groups and compared their perinatal outcomes. Symptomatic patients with vaginal bleeding and asymptomatic patients were analyzed separately, and propensity score matching (PSM) and multivariable regression were adopted to control potential confounding factors. Results: The incidence of SCH was 17.1% in 3074 women, and vaginal bleeding occurred in 92 SCH patients and 215 control patients. In the asymptomatic cohort, 415 women with SCH and 807 women without SCH were finally included after PSM. No significant differences were observed in livebirth rate (91.3% vs 92.9%, P = 0.314), miscarriage rate (8.4% vs 6.7%, P = 0.267), and preterm birth rate (4.8% vs 5.7%, P = 0.519) between two groups. Secondary outcomes including gestational hypertension or preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), gestational age (GA) at delivery, mode of delivery, sex of newborns and birthweight of newborns were comparable. For symptomatic patients, both univariable and multivariable regression analysis showed no significant association between SCH and pregnancy outcomes. A subgroup analysis including patients with SCH illustrated the symptom of vaginal bleeding rather than hematoma size was associated with livebirth. Conclusion: First-trimester SCH detected at 6–8 weeks of gestation was not associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes in singleton pregnancies after fresh embryo transfers. Vaginal bleeding was the risk factor of pregnancy loss for patients with SCH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key message: Salt-induced phosphorylation of MdVHA-B1 protein was mediated by MdSOS2L1 protein kinase, and thereby increasing malate content in apple. Abstract: Salinity is an important environmental factor that influences malate accumulation in apple. However, the molecular mechanism by which salinity regulates this process is poorly understood. In this work, we found that MdSOS2L1, a novel AtSOS2-LIKE protein kinase, interacts with V-ATPase subunit MdVHA-B1. Furthermore, MdSOS2L1 directly phosphorylates MdVHA-B1 at Ser site to modulate malate accumulation in response to salt stress. Meanwhile, a series of transgenic analyses in apple calli showed that the MdSOS2L1-MdVHAB1 pathway was involved in the regulation of malate accumulation. Finally, a viral vector-based transformation approach demonstrated that the MdSOS2L1-MdVHAB1 pathway also modulated malate accumulation in apple fruits with or without salt stress. Collectively, our findings provide a new insight into the mechanism by which MdSOS2L1 phosphorylates MdVHA-B1 to modulate malate accumulation in response to salinity in apple. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this present study, a graphene-based magnetic composite (FeO/GO) was prepared and characterized by SEM, TEM, XRD and FTIR. The immobilization of U(VI) onto FeO/GO by a adsorption process was using a batch technique. The pseudo-second-order kinetic and Langmuir isotherm model could best describe the adsorption kinetics and isotherms. The thermodynamic parameters calculated from the temperature dependent adsorption isotherms revealed that the adsorption of U(VI) on FeO/GO was spontaneous and endothermic in nature. The as-prepared FeO/GO composite may be utilized as an efficient, magnetically separable adsorbent for the removal of U(VI) and related radionuclides from aqueous solutions in nuclear waste management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the feasibility of enhanced T2 star-weighted angiography (ESWAN) in differentiating endometrial from non-endometrial cysts. Methods: Forty-nine patients with 60 histopathologically proven ovarian cystic lesions underwent pelvic MRI including T1-weighted imaging (T1WI), T2-weighted imaging (T2WI), liver acquisition with volume acceleration, and ESWAN. Ovarian cystic lesions were divided into endometrial cysts (group 1; n = 28), pyosalpinx and hydrosalpinx (group 2; n = 13), and ovarian cystic and cystic-solid tumors (group 3; n = 19). R2* (effective transverse relaxation rate) values were measured and pairwise comparison of the R2* values among the three groups was made using Kruskal-Wallis test. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to calculate cutoff values and performance of R2* values for distinguishing among groups. T1WI signal intensity and R2* value were also compared using area under curve values. Results: R2* values for group 1 were statistically higher than groups 2 and 3 (15.37, 1.40, and 1.79 Hz, respectively; P < 0.001). The cutoff value for R2* was 7.43 Hz with a sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy of 96.43, 87.50, 87.10, 96.55, and 91.67%, respectively. There was no significant difference between the R2* value and T1WI in diagnosing endometrial cysts. Conclusions: The R2* value provides an effective way to discriminate endometrial cysts from other ovarian cystic lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diagnostic procedure of pleural effusion (PEs) is challenging due to low detection rates and numerous aetiologies. Hence, any attempt to enhance diagnosis is worthwhile. We present a clinical pathway to guide combined application of interventional pulmonology (IP) for tracing causes of undiagnosed PEs. Subjects with undiagnosed PEs were identified in the Hospital Information System of Dalian Municipal Central Hospital from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2018. Eligible subjects were divided into a group of combined tests and a group of medical thoracoscopy (MT). Optimal and subsequent diagnostic tests were performed depending on the guidance of the clinical pathway by matching profitable chest lesions with the respective adaptation. As the guidance of clinical pathway, common bronchoscopy would be preferentially selected if pulmonary lesions involved or within the central bronchus, EBUS-TBNA was favoured when pulmonary lesions were adjacent to the central bronchus or with the enlarged mediastinal/hilar lymph nodes, guided bronchoscopy would be preferred if pulmonary nodules/masses were larger than 20 mm with discernible bronchus signs, CT-assisted transthoracic core biopsy was preferred if pulmonary nodules were less than 20 mm, image guided cutting needle biopsy was the recommendation if the pleural thickness was larger than 10 mm and pulmonary lesions were miliary. MT was preferred only when undiagnosed PEs was the initial symptom and pulmonary lesions were miliary or absent. A total of 83.57% cases of undiagnosed PEs were eligible for the clinical pathway, and 659 and 216 subjects were included in the combined tests and MT groups, respectively, depending on the optimal recommendation of the clinical pathway. The total diagnostic yields in the combined tests and MT groups were 95.99% and 91.20%, respectively, and the difference in total diagnostic yield was statistically significant (χ2 = 7.510, p = 0.006). Overall, clinical pathway guidance of the combined application of IP is useful for tracing the causes of undiagnosed PEs. The diagnostic yield of undiagnosed PEs is significantly increased compared with that of MT alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a novel CdS/BiOBr heterojunction comprising CdS quantum dots (QDs) decorated on BiOBr nanoflakes (NFs) was successfully synthesized by a facile microwave-assisted aqueous chemical synthesis technology. The crystal structure, chemical composition, and optical and electric properties were characterized by various techniques. The results demonstrated that cubic CdS QDs are planted uniformly on {001}-faced exposed tetragonal BiOBr NFs with about 30 nm thicknesses. The formation mechanism for CdS/BiOBr nanostructure was proposed. The photocatalytic performance of CdS/BiOBr heterojunction was greatly enhanced by the decomposition of organic pollutant under visible light irradiation. In particular, sample CB-3 exhibited the best photocatalytic activity for the degradation of malachite green, the fastest pseudo-first-order kinetic rate constant of which reached 0.125 min−1, 4.4, 22.6, and 3.2 times higher than that of BiOBr, CdS and the physical mixture, respectively. The direct Z-scheme photocatalytic mechanism for CdS/BiOBr heterojunction could be attributed to the perfect band matching and the efficient charge carrier separation and transfer. Furthermore, the highly efficient photocatalytic performance for the degradation of Congo red (CR) and methyl red (MR) suggests a promising application in industrial wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to ascertain whether an association exists between hepatocyte nuclear factor 1 alpha ( HNF1A) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Methods: One thousand one hundred thirty-eight PCOS and 1125 healthy control Han Chinese women were recruited from Reproductive Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University. Serum hormone, blood lipid level, and genomic DNA were obtained from the peripheral blood for this research. Two single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)-rs2393791 and rs7305618-located in HNF1A were genotyped using the Sequenom MassARRAY system. Results: The allele frequencies of SNP rs7305618 had significant differences between PCOS patients and controls after adjusting for age and BMI ( p = 0.023). Besides, PCOS patients carrying the rs7305618 CC genotype shown a higher testosterone level than the patients with CT + TT genotypes after being adjusted by age and BMI ( p = 0.019). Conclusions: A SNP located in the HNF1A gene is associated with PCOS among Han Chinese women. This suggested that variations in HNF1A might confer risk for PCOS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to explore the association between the IL7R T244I polymorphism (rs6897932) and susceptibility of multiple sclerosis (MS). A comprehensive literature search for relevant studies was conducted on Google scholar, PubMed, the Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and the Chinese Biomedical Literature Database (CBM). This meta-analysis was performed using the STATA 11.0 software and the pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95 % confidence interval (CI) was calculated. Seventeen case-control studies were included in this meta-analysis. In total, 17 articles provided data for 15,270 cases and 17,971 controls. The results showed significant association between the IL7R T244I polymorphism and susceptibility to MS (OR = 1.125, 95 % CI: 1.016-1.245, p = 0.024 for C vs. T; OR = 1.176, 95 % CI: 1.078-1.282, p < 0.001 for CC + CT vs. TT; OR = 1.243, 95 % CI: 1.088-1.421, p = 0.001 for CC vs. TT). Stratified analysis of ethnicities also showed significant association in Europeans. However, no association was found in Asians. This study suggested that the IL7R C allele was associated with an increased risk of MS and larger-scale studies of populations are needed to explore the roles played by the IL7R T244I polymorphism during the pathogenesis of MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) is a vasculitic disorder resulting from autoinflammatory-mediated tissue injury. Procalcitonin (PCT) and C-reactive protein (CRP) are two biomarkers of the immune response that recognize bacterial infection and inflammation, respectively. This study tested whether levels of PCT and CRP were associated with selected clinical features, disease severity, and organ damage in HSP. Eighty-nine pediatric patients with HSP were analyzed for clinical manifestations and organ damage. Serum CRP, PCT, and occult blood in the urine and stool (prior to steroid therapy) were measured. Disease severity was classified according to previously established clinical classifications. Sixty patients (67.4 %) had a low clinical score (LCS) of <4 (group A) while 29 patients (32.5 %) had a high clinical score (HCS) of ≥4 (group B). When patients were then classified by the presence of gastrointestinal bleeding, 66 (74.2 %) cases lacked alimentary tract hemorrhage (group C) while 23 (25.8 %) cases presented with gastrointestinal bleeding (group D). There were no significant differences in CRP (group A: median = 5.26, range = 1.00-77.60 vs. group B: median = 8.59, range = 1.00-144.00 mg/l; u = 1.397) or PCT levels (group A: median = 0.05, range = 0.05-0.24 vs. group B: median = 0.08, range = 0.05-1.02 ng/ml; u = 1.709) between groups A and B. When serum PCT levels were examined in relation to gastrointestinal bleeding, the levels of serum PCT were higher in group D than group C patients (group D: median = 0.09, range = 0.05-1.02 vs. group C: median = 0.05, range = 0.05-0.32 ng/ml; u = 2.849). It is important to note that the average PCT level was below the threshold for a systemic bacterial infection (0.5 ng/ml). We did not observe a correlation between CRP levels and the absence or presence of GI bleeding in groups C or D (group C: median = 4.66, range = 1.00-144.00 vs. group D: median = 9.44, range = 1.06-124.00 mg/l; u = 1.783), respectively. In all patients, there was a significant correlation between the concentrations of PCT and CRP ( r = 0.721, p = 0.002). In patients with HSP, inflammatory markers are not uniformly associated with the disease and instead, show variable association depending on the clinical severity and level of organ damage. In patients with severe HSP, elevated serum PCT was significantly associated with gastrointestinal bleeding. In contrast, CRP was not a specific predictor for different clinical classifications of HSP, despite a similar pattern of concentration changes to PCT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (F-FDG PET/CT) has become useful for the detection and diagnosis of inflammatory conditions, including rheumatic diseases, immunoglobulin (Ig) G4-related disease and giant cell arteritis. However, few articles based on small sample sizes ( n = 7) diagnosed as adult-onset Still's disease (AOSD) have been published. The study aim was to observe the reliable characteristics and usefulness of F-FDG PET/CT for the evaluation of consecutive patients with AOSD. Eligible patients were selected from among those who had undergone F-FDG PET/CT between May 2007 and June 2014. Twenty-six consecutive AOSD patients were recruited retrospectively according to criteria set by Yamaguchi et al. All patients underwent evaluation by F-FDG PET/CT. The characteristics and usefulness of F-FDG PET/CT for evaluation of consecutive patients with AOSD were evaluated. All 26 patients had F-FDG-avid lesion(s) related to their particular disease. Diffuse and homogeneous accumulation of F-FDG was seen in the bone marrow (26/26; 100 %; maximum standardized uptake (SUV), 2.10-6.73) and spleen (25/26; 96.15 %). The SUV of affected lymph nodes was 1.3-9.53 (mean ± SD, 4.12 ± 2.24). The SUV and size factors (maximum diameter and areas) of affected lymph nodes were significantly different ( P = 0.033 and P = 0.012, respectively). F-FDG PET/CT showed the general distribution of F-FDG accumulation. This factor helped to exclude malignant disease and aided the diagnosis of AOSD (42.3 %) in 11 cases when combined with clinical features and aided decisions regarding appropriate biopsy sites, such as the lymph nodes ( n = 9) and bone marrow ( n = 13). F-FDG PET/CT is a unique imaging method for the assessment of metabolic activity throughout the body in subjects with AOSD. Characteristics or patterns of AOSD observed on F-FDG PET/CT can be used for the indication and diagnosis or to guide the clinical management of ASOD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Left ventricular (LV) function influences outcomes in right ventricular (RV) failure. Carvedilol reduces mortality in LV failure and improves RV function in experimental pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). However, its impact on ventricular-ventricular interactions and LV function in RV afterload is unknown. We investigated effects of carvedilol on biventricular fibrosis and function in a rat model of persistent PAH. Rats were randomized into three groups: Sham controls, PAH, and PAH + carvedilol. Severe PAH was induced by 60 mg/kg subcutaneous monocrotaline. In the treatment group, oral carvedilol (15 mg/kg/day) was started 2 weeks after monocrotaline injection and continued for 3 weeks until the terminal experiment. Echocardiography and exercise performance were performed at baseline and repeated at the terminal experiment with hemodynamic measurements. LV and RV myocardium were analyzed for hypertrophy, fibrosis, and molecular signaling by protein and mRNA analysis. PAH and PAH + carvedilol rats experienced severely elevated pulmonary arterial pressures and RV hypertrophy. Despite similar RV systolic pressures, carvedilol reduced biventricular collagen content (RV fibrosis area; 13.4 ± 6.5 vs. 5.5 ± 2.7 %, p < 0.001) and expression of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFβ1) (RV TGFβ1/glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) ratio; 1.16 ± 0.39 vs. 0.57 ± 0.22, p < 0.01) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) (RV CTGF/GAPDH ratio; 0.49 ± 0.06 vs. 0.35 ± 0.17, p < 0.05). RV pro-apoptotic caspase-8 was increased in PAH compared to controls and was significantly reduced in both ventricles compared to PAH animals by carvedilol. Tissue effects were accompanied by improved biventricular systolic and diastolic performance and exercise treadmill distance (36 ± 30 vs. 80 ± 33 m, p < 0.05). In RV pressure-load, carvedilol improves biventricular fibrosis and function through abrogation of TGFβ1-CTGF signaling. Key message: • RV afterload caused biventricular injury and dysfunction through TGFβ1-CTGF signaling. • Carvedilol reduced biventricular TGFβ1-CTGF signaling, fibrosis, and apoptosis. • Carvedilol improved cardiac output and biventricular function. • Improved fibrosis and hemodynamics occurred despite persistent RV afterload. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Starch physicochemical properties strongly influence eating and cooking quality of rice. The cleaved amplified polymorphic sequences, derived CAPS, and InDel markers for 13 starch synthesis-related genes (SSRGs) were developed, and together with markers developed before, there are 35 markers tagged for 23 SSRGs, with each gene tagged with at least one marker. These and 108 other markers were used for association mapping for 20 starch physicochemical property parameters. A total of 64 main-effect loci or quantitative trait locus (QTLs) was detected. In addition, 56 and 62 loci were identified under the Wx and SSIIa background, respectively. Wx was a major main-effect QTL for apparent amylose content (AAC), pasting viscosity, gel texture, and retrogradation property ( P < 0.0001). SSIIa was a major main-effect QTL for pasting temperature, thermal, and retrogradation properties ( P < 0.0001), but it was a minor main-effect QTL for some pasting viscosity parameters, such as BD, CS, Stab, and SBratio. Four other SSRGs, SSIIa, BE1, SSIIc, and GBSSII were detected for AAC under Wx background. Wx was detected for Tc and ΔHg under the SSIIa background. PUL was detected for HD as main-effect QTL and under SSIIa background. AGPL2 and ISA1 were detected, respectively, for ΔHg and retrogradation as main-effect QTL, as well as under both Wx and SSIIa backgrounds. This study suggested that retrogradation properties were mainly controlled by Wx, SSIIa, and ISA1 with the relative effects in the order of SSIIa > Wx > ISA1. These results have direct applications to quality breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strategies adopted by individuals in a social network significantly impact the network, and they strongly affect relationships between individuals in the network. Links between individuals also heavily influence their levels of cooperation. Taking into account the evolution of each individual's connection, we explore how sensitivity and visibility affect the prisoner's dilemma game. The so-called 'sensitivity' and 'visibility' respectively present one's self-protection consciousness and the ability of gaining information. We find that at moderate levels of player sensitivity cooperative behavior increases, but that at high levels it is inhibited. We also find that the heterogeneity of the weight of individuals at the end of the game is higher when sensitivity and visibility are increased, but that the successful-defection-payoff has less impact on the weight of individuals and on the relationship between the heterogeneity of the weight of individuals and the density of cooperators. This framework can be used to clarify the interaction mechanism between the micro-level of individual behavior and the macro-level of individual co-evolutionary processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]