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Advanced anonymous communication schemes have been proposed to protect the privacy of network users, enabling them to communicate anonymously on the Internet. However, this can lead to the issue of misuse of anonymous communication. Most anonymous communication systems lack accountability mechanisms, allowing malicious users to engage in illegal activities on the network without facing consequences. This presents difficulties for maintaining social stability and promoting anonymous communication. To address these challenges, we develop an accountable anonymous broadcast system that combines group signatures and a secret-shared shuffle protocol. This system allows honest users to anonymously publish messages, while the identities of users who publish illegal messages will be exposed. We employ batch verification to reduce the time required for verifying group signatures, which in turn reduces system latency. Finally, we implement the system and conduct performance evaluations to demonstrate its practicality. Compared to previous accountable anonymity mechanisms, our system can directly trace and hold malicious users accountable without compromising the privacy of honest users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is of great significance to understand the diffusion rate of the volatile corrosion inhibitor (VCI) in the VCI films for corrosion inhibition. The diffusion behavior of 1,2,3-Benzotriazole (BTA) in pure low density polyethylene (LDPE) and VCIs/LDPE blends was investigated using molecular dynamics (MD) simulation at 310, 328 and 353 K temperatures. The temperature dependence and diffusion property of BTA in LDPE were revealed. Subsequently, the accuracy of the MD simulations was confirmed by comparing the diffusion coefficients obtained from the MD simulations with those obtained from the experiments. The fractional free volume, interaction energy between BTA and VCIs/LDPE, activation energy of BTA and the self-diffusion behavior of LDPE on the diffusion of BTA were explored, which illustrated the microscopic diffusion mechanism of BTA in LDPE. Results showed that the diffusion coefficients of BTA increased with increasing temperature, increasing free volume and the more flexible chain of LDPE, while the increase in the interaction energy between BTA and VCIs/LDPE slowed down the diffusion of BTA. It can be concluded that the increase in the interaction energy between BTA and the system, the activation energy of BTA and the formation of H-bonds due to the addition of other VCIs led to the decrease in the diffusion coefficients of BTA. The strong molecular interactions between BTA and VCIs were the main reason for the decrease in the BTA diffusion coefficients. Adjusting the formulation of the VCI films can provide new ideas for regulating the BTA diffusion rate, which is beneficial for extending the corrosion inhibition time of BTA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To a certain extent, the development and vaccination of COVID-19 vaccine have reduced the alarming rate of transmission speed and mortality rate. At present, vaccine coverage is quite high in countries around the world. Since individual differences are unavoidable, it is necessary to assess the efficacy of the vaccine in each vaccinated person in order to reflect the protective effect of the vaccine in different populations. In this study, we developed a novel COVID-19 neutralizing antibody detection kit combining lateral flow immunochromatography and novel quantum dot technology with 85.23% sensitivity, 92.50% specificity. The novel QD-ICA could achieve an accurate detection of SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies with 10 minutes, two steps, small equipment size, and broad testing application, suggesting its capability to assess vaccine effectiveness on a large scale in areas of world that currently affected by the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to improve machining efficiency and quality of aero-engine blisks, a novel multi-spindle 5-axis machine tool is developed under the inspiration of the blisk structure. The proposed machine contains 8 spindles, which are arranged radially along the blisk and simultaneously participate in machining. The actuator of the machine contains three rotation axes and two translation axes, which can realize 5-axis CNC machining. Based on the unified kinematics model, the mechanism is analyzed in terms of forward and inverse kinematics, singularity, and flexible workspace. Meanwhile, the structural parameters of the machine are optimized according to the flexibility index to improve the kinematic performance of the mechanism. Theoretical and experimental results show that the machine tool has a more compact structure, fewer moving axes, and better kinematics performance, compared with the traditional multi-spindle modular machine tool. Therefore, the machine has significant advantages in processing efficiency and has great application potential in large batch machining of the blisk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fabricating three-dimensional (3D) composite lithium anodes via thermal infusion effectively addresses uncontrollable Li deposition and large volume changes. However, potential risks due to the long wetting time and high melting point remain a critical yet unconsidered issue. Herein, we report a stable 3D composite Li anode by infusing molten Li into a 3D scaffold within 3 s at 220 °C. The key-enabling technique is the growth of a lithiophilic Mg-Al double oxide (LDO) nanosheet array layer on the scaffold. The in-situ formed lithiophilic alloy, combined with the capillary forces from the nanosheet arrays, enabled the transient infiltration of molten Li. In addition, the formed high ionic-conductivity Li phase can help construct a robust solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), stabilize the Li anode/electrolyte interface, and guide uniform Li deposition. The 3D composite anode exhibited a long cycling life of 1,000 h under a current density of 1 mA·cm−2 and over 1,600 h under a current density of 2 mA·cm−2 with a high areal capacity of 4 mAh·cm−2 in Li/Li symmetric cells. The 3D composite anodes paired with high areal capacity LiFePO4 (LFP) and S cathodes demonstrate its practical application feasibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electron transfer is the most elementary process in nature, but the existing electron transfer rules are seldom applied to high-pressure situations, such as in the deep Earth. Here we show a deep learning model to obtain the electronegativity of 96 elements under arbitrary pressure, and a regressed unified formula to quantify its relationship with pressure and electronic configuration. The relative work function of minerals is further predicted by electronegativity, presenting a decreasing trend with pressure because of pressure-induced electron delocalization. Using the work function as the case study of electronegativity, it reveals that the driving force behind directional electron transfer results from the enlarged work function difference between compounds with pressure. This well explains the deep high-conductivity anomalies, and helps discover the redox reactivity between widespread Fe(II)-bearing minerals and water during ongoing subduction. Our results give an insight into the fundamental physicochemical properties of elements and their compounds under pressure. Li and coworkers quantitatively evaluate the tendency and direction of electron transfer in the deep Earth using a machine learning method to predict the electronegativity of atoms and work function of minerals under pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hard carbon derived from biomass is regarded as a promising anode material for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) because of its low operating potential, high capacity, resource availability, and low cost. However, scientific and technological challenges still exist to prepare hard carbon with a high initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE), an excellent rate capability, and good cycling stability. In this work, we report a self-supported hard carbon electrode from fungus-pretreated basswood with an improved graphitization degree and a low tortuosity. Compared with the hard carbon derived from basswood, the hard carbon electrode from fungus-pretreated basswood has an improved rate capability of 242.3 mAh·g−1 at 200 mA·g−1and cycling stability with 93.9% of its capacity retention after 200 cycles at 40 mA·g−1, as well as the increased ICE from 84.3% to 88.2%. Additionally, ex-situ X-ray diffraction indicates that Na+ adsorption caused the sloping capacity, whereas Na+ intercalation between interlayer spacing corresponded to the low potential plateau capacity. This work provides a new perspective for the preparation of high-performance hard carbon and gains the in-depth understanding of Na storage mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contact calculation is of great importance in predicting the material removal (MR) of flexible grinding process (FGP). The contact is mostly considered approximately constant in the existing MR models, while the situations that contact varies a lot after FGP are ignored. Therefore, a novel model is proposed in this paper to take those situations into consideration. Firstly, the nonconstant-contact situation is introduced. Then, an equivalent method is developed to convert the nonconstant-contact grinding process into the accumulation of several quasi-constant-contact grinding processes. Based on the equivalent method, a MR model is established, and the procedure to obtain the model parameters by the finite element analysis (FEA) is introduced. In the end, the equivalent method and the MR model are tested by a series experiments of different process parameters. Results show that the proposed MR model can predict the material removal effectively for the nonconstant-contact situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The critically endangered Chinese sturgeon, Acipenser sinensis, presents late sexual maturity and has a large body size. Germ cell transplantation is a powerful technique for the production of gametes from large-bodied species in closely related recipients with a smaller body size and shorter generation time. To accelerate reproduction of Chinese sturgeon, donor spermatogonia collected from the cryopreserved testes of 3-year-old Chinese sturgeon were intraperitoneally transplanted into 7–8 days post-hatch larvae of Yangtze sturgeon (Acipenser dabryanus) with shorter generation interval. At 2 months post-transplantation (mpt), donor spermatogonia had colonized in the 81.25% of recipient gonads, with average numbers about two times those of endogenous primordial germ cells. Within the next 2 months, the rate of endogenous germ cell division in females (2–3 times) was faster than that in males (once), whereas colonized donor-derived spermatogonia divided about 2–3 times and twice in recipient females and males, respectively. Furthermore, the expression of germ cell-related genes, dazl, dead end, and vasa, in transplanted fish was higher than that in non-transplanted fish, suggesting the incorporation and proliferation donor spermatogonia in recipient. At 18 mpt, donor-derived spermatogonia survived in the 75.00% of recipient gonads. These results showed that the somatic microenvironment of Yangtze sturgeon gonad can support the long-term colonization, proliferation, and survival of xenogeneic germ cells. Thus, this study suggested that small-bodied Yangtze sturgeon is promising recipient as surrogate for Chinese sturgeon gamete production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interspecific hybridization has been considered as a possible approach to improve biological traits and has been applied in aquaculture practices. In the present study, artificial hybridization was carried out in the small yellow croaker (SYC; Larimichthys polyactis) ♀ × large yellow croaker (LYC; L. crocea) ♂ by artificial insemination, and the processes of sex differentiation and gonadal development in SYC and its hybrid were investigated under controlled conditions. Histological analysis of SYC larvae showed that migrating primordial germ cells (PGCs) were observed at 4 days post-hatching (dph), a genital ridge was formed on the dorsal side of the peritoneum at 6 dph, and a pair of primary gonads was first observed at 10 dph. Signs of the differentiated ovary and ovarian cavity were observed at 45 dph. However, some presumptive testes showed alterations in morphology, including an increase in the number of oocytes and an enhanced basophilia at 50 dph. These presumptive testes seemed to alter again, and numerous gonial cells were arranged in cyst-like groups with several degenerating oocytes that developed into residual body-like structures during 60–90 dph. Compared with SYC, the hybrid had a lower number of PGCs and showed retarded gonadal development at the early stage. Ovarian differentiation in the hybrid was observed at 50 dph, while testicular differentiation occurred at 60 dph. The presence of vitellogenic oocytes and spermatozoa at 360 dph in the hybrids suggested that hybrid individuals can undergo successful gametogenesis in females and males, respectively. Overall, the present results suggest that morphological sex differentiation occurred at 40 and 50 dph in SYC and its hybrid, respectively, both of which have normal gametogenesis. Moreover, some level of heterosis (hybrid vigor) occurred in the growth of the hybrid (total length and body weight) compared with that in the growth of SCY over time. Gonadal development of the hybrid was also found to be advanced at 360 dph. The present information will contribute to the potential use and management of these fish for aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gout, the most prevalent inflammatory arthritis worldwide, released interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and Cathepsin B inflammatory mediators that constitute the hallmark of the disease. Herein we aimed to investigate whether procyanidin B2 (PCB2), a natural dietary compound, can suppress MSU crystals-stimulated gouty inflammation. Treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) plus MSU, both mouse peritoneal macrophages (MPM) and mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDM) released a large amount of mature IL-1β compared to those treated with MSU or LPS alone, while IL-1β release was blocked by TLR4 and its downstream effector inhibitors. In two mouse models of gout, oral administration of PCB2 suppressed MSU crystals-induced increasing expression of IL-1β, Cathepsin B and NLRP3 in the air pouch skin and paws, accompanied with the downregulation prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in pouch exudates. Inflammatory immune cell infiltration including macrophages and neutrophils were significantly blocked by PCB2 in air pouch skin and paws of mice gout groups. PCB2 also suppressed the release of IL-1β and Cathepsin B induced by MSU plus LPS in MPM. Our results suggest that the inhibitory effects of PCB2 on NLRP3 inflammasome may alleviate inflammatory response in gout, and this might be a promising anti-inflammatory mechanism of PCB2 against the inflammation in gout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insufficient intratumoral penetration greatly hurdles the anticancer performance of nanomedicine. To realize highly efficient tumor penetration in a precisely and spatiotemporally controlled manner, far-red light-responsive nanoclusters (NCs) capable of size shrinkage and charge conversion were developed and co-administered with iRGD to synergistically improve the intratumoral penetration and the anticancer efficacy. The NCs were constructed using the singlet oxygen-sensitive (SOS) polyethylene glycolpolyurethane-polyethylene glycol (PEG-(1O2)PU-PEG) triblock copolymer to encapsulate the doxorubicin (DOX)-loaded, chlorin e6 (Ce6)-conjugated polyamindoamine (PAMAM) dendrimer (DCD) via the double-emulsion method. Co-administration of iRGD notably increased the permeability of NCs within tumor vasculature and tumor tissues. In addition, upon far-red light irradiation (660 nm) of tumors at low optical density (10 mW/cm2), the generated 1O2 could disintegrate the NCs and release the DCD with positive surface charge and ultra-small size (∼5 nm), which synergized with iRGD to enable deep intratumoral penetration. Consequently, the local 1O2 at lethal concentrations along with the released DOX efficiently and cooperatively eradicated tumor cells. This study provides a convenient approach to spatiotemporally promote the intratumoral penetration of nanomedicine and mediate programmed anticancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Piwi proteins are essential for germline stem cell maintenance, gametogenesis and gonadal development in diverse organisms. In this study, two piwi homologues were identified and characterized in Dabry's sturgeon Acipenser dabryanus, designated Adpiwil1 and Adpiwil2. Multiple sequence alignments showed that both AdPiwil1 and AdPiwil2 shared highly homologous PAZ and PIWI domains, the typical regions of Piwi orthologs. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that AdPiwil1 and AdPiwil2 were conservatively grouped with teleosts. We found that the Adpiwil1 transcripts were abundantly expressed in gonadal tissues and rarely present in brain tissues, whereas the Adpiwil2 transcripts were found to be specifically expressed in gonads by tissue distribution analysis. Fluorescence in situ hybridization also revealed that both Adpiwil1 and Adpiwil2 mRNAs were restricted exclusively to germ cells of both sexes. In addition, E2 (17β-estradiol) intraperitoneal injection was performed on female Dabry's sturgeons, and its effects on Adpiwil1 and Adpiwil2 mRNA levels were evaluated by relative real-time PCR. The results showed that the transcription levels of Adpiwil1 and Adpiwil2 were significantly decreased in ovaries after E2 injection. Our findings will contribute to an understanding of the piwi function and provide a basis for further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to explore Internet addiction (IA) and its associated factors among Chinese adolescents. Ten thousand one hundred fifty-eight Chinese adolescents were selected in this study by using random cluster sampling. The prevalence rate of IA among Chinese adolescents was 10.4%. Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed gender, the only child, father-adolescent relationship, annual family income, academic performance, physical exercise, Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale (RSES) score, and Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS) score were significantly associated with IA among adolescents in social anxiety group (P < 0.05). In addition, gender, parental control, annual family income, academic performance, physical exercise, RSES score, and LSAS score were significantly associated with Internet addiction among adolescents in non-social anxiety group (P < 0.05). The mediating effects of social anxiety between multiple factors and IA were also significant. These findings can provide guidance aimed at reducing IA among Chinese adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among various photochromic compounds, diarylethenes (DAEs) have been widely studied and applied due to their excellent thermal bistability and fatigue resistance. Most researches are focused on the properties and applications of DAEs in solution. However, they meet the problem of fluorescence quenching at high concentration or at solid state which limits their performance in the practical applications. Fortunately, the DAE based photochromic aggregation-induced emission (AIE) materials do well in addressing this problem. This work here reviews the current research progress on the structures, properties and applications of the DAE based photochromic AIE materials and points out some existing problems so as to promote subsequent development of this field in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Room-temperature Na-ion batteries have been widely used as promising energy storage systems for large-scale storage due to the nature abundance and low cost of Na. However, the search for an anode with appropriate Na storage and high structural stability still remains challenging. In this work, the carbon microsphere films-coated Ni foam is prepared by a simple chemical vapor deposition method and is used as a novel anode for the long-lifespan Na-ion batteries. These carbon microspheres possess special onion-like structures that enhance the Na-ions intercalation and exhibit excellent Na storage properties. In addition, directly coating the carbon microsphere films on Ni foam current collectors without binders and conductive additives results in an integrated electrode structure, which avoids the undesirable interfaces and reduces the packaging volume. Compared to the common used hard carbon anode with long discharge plateau and short lifespan, this integrated electrode exhibits a slope discharge profile with higher security and demonstrates a long lifespan of 700 cycles with a high capacity retention of 83%. Furthermore, the storage mechanism of sodium ion is also investigated in detail by ex situ Raman, X-ray diffraction and nuclear magnetic resonance techniques in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little is known about the molecular mechanisms governing gonadal developmental processes in abalones. Here, we conducted transcriptome analysis of Pacific abalone Haliotis discus discus for gene discovery in the brain, ovary, testis, and unfertilized eggs. Among the annotated unigenes, 48.6% of unigenes were identified by Venn diagram analysis as having universal or tissue-specific expression. Twenty-three genes with gonad-biased gene ontology (GO) terms were first obtained. Secondly, 36 genes were found by screening known gene names related to germ cell development. Finally, 17 genes were obtained by querying the annotated unigene database for zygotically expressed gonadal genes (ovary and testis) and maternally expressed gonadal genes (ovary, testis, and unfertilized eggs) using keywords related to reproduction. To further verify tissue distribution pattern and subcellular localization of these genes, RT-PCR and in situ hybridization were performed using a unigene encoding a germ cell marker, vasa, as control. The results showed that vasa was expressed mainly in the early developmental stages of germ cells in both sexes. One of the candidate genes, vitelline envelope zona pellucida domain protein 12 (ZP12), was expressed in the primordial germ cells of immature gonad and early developmental stages of germ cells of the adult female. The results obtained from the present study suggest that vasa and ZP12 are involved in germ cell development of Pacific abalone and that ZP12 is an especially useful germ cell-specific marker in immature adults. The current gonadal transcriptome profile is an extensive resource for future reproductive molecular biology studies of this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the association between specific contraceptives use and reproductive tract infections (RTIs). Study design: Participants consisted of 52,481 rural married women of reproductive age identified from a cross-sectional study in Anhui Province of China. The questionnaire, gynecological examination, and laboratory inspection were used to collect data. The subgroup analysis was performed to estimate the effect of the specific contraceptives on the specific RTIs. Results: A total of 49,970 (95.2 %) women used contraceptive methods and 31,390 (59.8 %) women had at least one RTI. Overall, use of intrauterine device (IUD), condom, female sterilisation, rhythm method, and oral contraceptive (OC) were associated with RTIs. In the subgroup analysis, IUD use was a risk factor for endocervicitis, bacterial vaginosis (BV), and trichomoniasis; condom, rhythm method, and OC were associated with endocervicitis; female sterilisation was associated with endocervicitis and trichomoniasis. Moreover, male sterilisation was associated with endocervicitis; withdrawal was a protective factor for endocervicitis and a risk factor for trichomoniasis; subdermal implant was associated with candidiasis and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Conclusions: All the contraceptive methods may lead to the RTIs. A properly assessment for contraceptive methods use is needed for female reproductive health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Germ cells are set aside from somatic cells early in embryogenesis, and are responsible for transmitting genetic information through generations. Vasa is a highly conserved germ cell marker across animal phyla, and widely used to label primordial germ cells. Dabry's sturgeon is a rare and endangered species distributed solely in the Yangtze River basin. Here, seven vasa isoforms, named Advasa1-7, were isolated and characterized in Dabry's sturgeon. RT-PCR and western blot analyses revealed that vasa mRNA and protein were mainly restricted to the testis and ovary, but exhibited sexually dimorphic expression. Cellular and subcellular localization uncovered that Advasa mRNA and protein displayed mitotic and meiotic expression in females, and mainly showed mitotic expression in males; surprisingly, they exhibited both cytoplasmic and nuclear expression in the ovarian germ cells, while showing exclusively cytoplasmic expression in the testicular germ cells. By microinjecting chimeric RNA consisting of the red fluorescent protein coding region and the Advasa 3'-untranslated region into embryos of Dabry's sturgeon, zebrafish and medaka, we demonstrated that it had the ability to visualize primordial germ cells (PGCs) in Dabry's sturgeon and zebrafish but not in medaka. It seemed that the machinery of vasa 3'UTR RNA localization was conserved between Dabry's sturgeon and ostariophysan, while possibly changed during the divergence of euteleosts and ostariophysan. Finally, Dabry's sturgeon PGCs moved on the yolk ball, and migrated toward the genital ridge via mesenchyme. Taken together, these results provide new information for vasa expression pattern and function, and lay a foundation for PGC cryopreservation and conservation of Dabry's sturgeon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The standard approach to laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) involves sleeve-forming through a vertical gastrectomy, producing a narrow, tubular stomach. Considerable laparoscopic skills are required to find a suitable size at which the pressure of the sleeve is not excessive and the restriction is sufficient for obtaining good weight-loss effect without increasing the risk of complications. There is no doubt that considerable technical details are required to create a 'perfect sleeve.' We report our sleeve-forming technique for LSG involving both vertical gastrectomy and plication, which we have termed 'laparoscopic plicated sleeve gastrectomy.' This technique was shown to be safe and efficacious for the treatment of severe obesity and can reduce technical difficulties in the creation of a 'perfect sleeve.' [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gene family DAZ (deleted in Azoospermia), including boule, dazl and DAZ, performs highly conserved functions in germ cell development and fertility across animal phyla. Differential expression patterns have been demonstrated for the family members in invertebrates and vertebrates including fish. Here, we report the identification of boule and dazl and their expression at both RNA and protein levels in developing and mature gonads of Chinese sturgeon ( Acipenser sinensis). Firstly, the isolation of the boule and dazl genes in Chinese sturgeon and the observation of the two genes in coelacanth suggest that dazl originated after the divergence of bony fish from cartilaginous fish but before the emergence of the Actinistia. Quantitative real-time PCR and western blot analyses reveal that boule and dazl RNA and proteins are restricted to the testis and ovary. In situ hybridization and fluorescent immunohistochemistry show that the bisexual mitotic and meiotic germ cell expression of dazl RNA and protein is conserved in vertebrates, while Chinese sturgeon boule RNA and protein exhibit mitotic and meiotic expression in the testis, and also likely display mitotic and meiotic expression in female. Moreover, we directly demonstrate for the first time that sturgeon Balbiani body/mitochondrial cloud disperses in the cytoplasm of early developing oocytes and co-localizes with Dazl to some extent. Finally, urbilaterian boule may also have an ancestral function in oogenesis. Taken together, these results provide useful information on the evolution of DAZ family genes, expression patterns and functions in animal reproduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies examining the possible role of the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) polymorphisms in the development of schizophrenia (SZ) and bipolar disorder (BPD) have provided inconclusive findings, this meta-analysis was therefore designed to get a more reliable assessment. A total of 38 articles were identified through a search of electronic databases, up to 27 February 2014. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95 % confidence interval (CIs) were calculated using random effects models. Meta-analysis showed that MTHFR C677T was significantly associated with SZ, the highest OR was found for the recessive model (for TT vs. CT + CC: OR = 1.34, 95 % CI: 1.18-1.53); a marginal association of MTHFR C677T with increased risk of BPD has also been found for the recessive model (OR = 1.26, 95 % CI: 1.00-1.59). Subgroup analysis by ethnicity indicated that the significant association with SZ and BPD existed among Asian and African populations, but not for the white. MTHFR A1298C was significant associated with SZ, the highest OR for the dominant model (OR = 1.13, 95 % CI: 1.03-1.24). Subgroup analysis indicated a significant association with SZ existed in Asian populations, not among the white populations and no significant association was detected between the MTHFR A1298C and BPD in all groups. We conclude that MTHFR polymorphism is associated with SZ and BPD among Asian, African populations, but not the white. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Serotonin 2A receptor (HTR2A) gene was implicated to be associated with major depressive disorder (MDD) susceptibility due to its role of key neurotransmitter in many physiologic processes. A great number of related studies reported in different populations have emerged. The results of these studies, however, have been inconsistent and thereby definite conclusions are difficult to establish. With the cumulative data in recent years, it was necessary to carry out a comprehensive analysis of previous findings. Electronic databases were systematically searched for studies published before May 2013. Pooled odds ratios (OR) and 95 % confidence interval (CI) were estimated under three different genetic models. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were also performed. A total of 21 studies, 3,299 patients and 4,092 controls, met the selection criteria. 15 studies included HTR2A T102C polymorphism (with a total of 2,409 patients and 3,130 controls), and 9 studies included HTR2A A-1438G polymorphism (with a total of 1,510 patients and 2,281 controls). Our results showed that no significant association of MDD susceptibility with T102C polymorphism was found in allelic analysis and genotypic analysis (For T vs. C: OR = 1.06, 95 % CI = 0.95-1.18, P = 0.307; For TT + TC vs. CC: OR = 1.07, 95 % CI = 0.90-1.28, P = 0.451; For TT vs. TC + CC: OR = 1.08, 95 % CI = 0.95-1.22, P = 0.235). With respect to A-1438G polymorphism, however, carriers with A allele tend to suffer from MDD (AA + AG vs. GG: OR = 1.20, 95 % CI = 1.02-1.43, P = 0.030). When stratified by race for T102C polymorphism and A-1438G polymorphism of the HTR2A, we found no significant association. In conclusions, our study suggests that the A allele of A-1438G polymorphism might play a role in susceptibility to MDD. On the contrary, T102C polymorphism does not seem to be capable of modifying MDD risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1) polymorphisms are known to play a crucial role in the development and metastasis of malignant diseases including esophageal cancer. However, the results of previous studies investigating the association between CYP1A1 polymorphisms and esophageal cancer risk have been inconsistent. This meta-analysis of 27 eligible studies, encompassing 4,215 esophageal cancer cases and 6,339 control subjects, pooled the odds ratios (ORs) with corresponding 95 % confidence intervals (95 % CI) to assess this association. The effects of ethnicity (Caucasian and Asian) and histopathology type (esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and esophageal adenocarcinoma) were considered in subgroup analyses. A significant association was observed between the CYP1A1 Ile/Val gene polymorphism and esophageal cancer in all of the genetic models (Ile/Val vs. Ile/Ile, OR = 1.41, 95 % CI = 1.25-1.58; Val/Val vs. Ile/Ile, OR = 1.94, 95 % CI = 1.34-2.82; Ile/Val + Val/Val vs. Ile/Ile, OR = 1.49, 95 % CI = 1.33-1.66). The subgroup analysis based on ethnicity showed that the association between the CYP1A1 Ile/Val polymorphism and esophageal cancer existed in Asian and Caucasian populations. However, no association was observed between the CYP1A1 MspI polymorphism and esophageal cancer in either subgroup or in the overall population. These results suggested that the CYP1A1 Ile/Val polymorphism was associated with an increased risk of esophageal cancer, whereas the CYP1A1 MspI polymorphism may not have increased susceptibility to esophageal cancer. Further studies are required to confirm these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Laparoscopic greater curvature plication (LGCP) is an emerging restrictive bariatric procedure that successfully reduces the gastric volume by plication of the gastric greater curvature. The aim of this prospective nonrandomized study was to compare short-term outcomes and associated complications between LGCP and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). Methods: From January 2011 to November 2011, a total of 39 patients were allocated to undergo either LGCP ( n = 19) or LSG ( n = 20). Data on the operative time, complications, hospital stay, overall cost of LSG and LGCP, body mass index loss (BMIL), percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL), loss of appetite and improvement of comorbidities were collected during the follow-up examinations. Results: All procedures were completed laparoscopically. The mean operative time was 95.0 ± 17.4 minutes for the LGCP group and 85.5 ± 18.4 minutes for the LSG group ( P = 0.107). No patient required reoperation due to an early complication. One patient in the LSG group was readmitted because of gastric stenosis. The mean hospital stay was 4.2 ± 1.9 days in the LGCP group and 3.9 ± 1.7 days in the LSG group ( P = 0.595). The total cost of LSG was $7,826 ± 537 compared to LGCP ($3,358 ± 264) ( P < 0.001). One year after surgery, the mean %EWL was 58.8 ± 16.7 % ( n = 11) in the LGCP group and 80.0 ± 26.8 % ( n = 11) in the LSG group ( P = 0.038). Loss of feeling of hunger was reported in 27.3 % LGCP patients and 72.7 % LSG patients ( P = 0.033) at 1 year after surgery. The comorbidities, including diabetes, sleep apnea and hypertension, were markedly improved in both groups 6 months after surgery. Conclusions: The short-term outcomes of our study demonstrate that compared with LSG, LGCP is inferior as a restrictive procedure for weight loss, despite its significantly smaller cost. Longer follow-up and prospective comparative trials are needed to confirm the long-term outcomes of this novel procedure and make definitive conclusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In spite of previous reports documented that many beneficial effects can be obtained by adding rare earth (RE) elements to Pb-free solders, this paper presents the risk of Sn whisker growth in the Sn–9Zn–0.5Ga Pb-free solders due to the addition of RE Pr. Results showed that solder microstructures are refined with the addition of trace amount of Pr. However, excessive Pr addition led to the formation of Pr–Sn intermetallic compounds (IMCs) and spontaneous growth of Sn whiskers on the IMC surfaces. It was found that the IMC size has a dramatic impact on whisker growth. Sn whiskers grew in slow-cooled solder with larger IMC particles are much longer and more prolific than that in fast-cooled solder with smaller IMC size. It was proposed that the driving force for whisker growth is originated from the oxidation of the RE-rich Pr–Sn IMCs. Our results indicated that the effects of RE on Pb-free solders should be reevaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The class V POU family genes, including pou5f1 and pou2, encode transcription factors critical for the maintenance of pluripotency in embryonic stem cells (ESC) and germ line cells in vertebrates. In the present study, the full-length cDNA of a pou2 ortholog in A. sinensis, Aspou2, was cloned and sequenced. This cDNA sequence is 2,853 base pairs in length and encodes a peptide of 431 amino acid residues. A comparison of the deduced amino acid sequence of Aspou2 with that of other vertebrate species showed that they were highly conserved in the POU domain, which shared 88 and 90% identity with that of zebrafish and medaka, respectively, and was 69, 67 and 67% identical to frog, mouse and human, respectively. RT-PCR analysis revealed that Aspou2 was detected in all tissues examined except for the liver, and high mRNA levels of Aspou2 were found in the muscle, pituitary and brain. During the embryogenesis and early larval development, the expression level of Aspou2 mRNAs decreased gradually apart from 1-day larvae that were not observed. Furthermore, Aspou2 seemed to raise with the development of gonads of immature Chinese sturgeons. These results suggested the possible involvement of Aspou2 in the nonpluripotent cells, pluripotent cells, embryogenesis, and gonad development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One previous meta-analysis found no evidence that interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) −511 gene polymorphism was associated with febrile seizures (FS) by pooling a limited number of studies. However, it is necessary for the meta-analysis to reevaluate the relationship with more recent findings. Electronic databases were systematically searched for studies published before June 2011. Pooled odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were estimated by means of a genetic model free approach. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were also performed. All statistical analyses were conducted using Stata 9.0. A total of eight studies, 728 FS cases and 1,223 controls, met the selection criteria. The results show a significant association between IL-1β −511 C/T gene polymorphism and FS (recessive genetic model TT vs. CC + CT: OR = 1.361, 95% CI: 1.065-1.738, P = 0.014). Subgroup analyses show a significant association in Asia (OR = 1.394, 95% CI: 1.005-1.935, P = 0.047), but not in Europe (OR = 1.387, 95% CI: 0.750-2.565, P = 0.298). IL-1β −511 C/T gene polymorphism may play a role in susceptibility to FS, especially in Asia. Geographic differences may be a critical factor in the risk of FS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growth hormone/prolactin family genes are major participants in control of several complex physiologic processes, including growth, reproduction, and metabolism. In this study, total RNA was isolated from the pituitary of the Prenant's schizothoracin ( Schizothorax prenanti), and SMART cDNA was synthesized from 100 ng total RNA. The full-length cDNAs of three GH/PRL family genes have been cloned and sequenced from the SMART cDNA library. The growth hormone of S. prenanti ( SpGH) cDNA contains 1238 base pairs (bp) and encodes 215 amino acid (aa) residues; the prolactin ( SpPRL) cDNA contains 1124 bp and encodes 209 aa residues; the cDNA sequence of somatolactin ( SpSL) is 1290 bp in length, and encodes for a peptide of 234 aa residues. Although there is only about 22% aa sequence identity between the three deduced proteins, SpGH, SpPRL and SpSL, overall, the C-terminal region shows a higher identity. Multiple aa sequence alignments indicated the deduced SpGH, SpPRL and SpSL show high identities to that of goldfish and zebrafish, respectively. RT-PCR analysis revealed that the three hormones displayed different tissue distribution patterns. SpPRL transcripts were detected only in the pituitary of the Prenant's schizothoracin. SpSL was more widely distributed than SpPRL, high mRNA levels of SpSL were detected in the pituitary and low mRNA levels of SpSL were found in liver, kidney and heart. SpGH was expressed in nearly all tissues detected with the highest expression level in the pituitary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]