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Abstract: High strength is essential for the practical application of Zr alloys as structural materials. In this work, Zr–5Al–xSn (x =2, 3, 4, 5 and 6) alloys have been designed and fabricated through arc melting in order to effectively improve the strength while retaining good ductility. Phase analysis results show that all the samples consist of single phase α-Zr. The variation trend of lattice constants as a function of Sn content has been analyzed. The microstructural analysis indicates that the Zr–5Al–xSn alloys mainly contain martensite structure. Mechanical tests show that these Zr–5Al–xSn alloys exhibit high compressive strength (1250–1450MPa), high yield stress (800–1000MPa), and favorable plastic strain of 18–23%. The fracture mode has been experimentally analyzed. Finally, both Zr–5Al–3Sn and Zr–5Al–5Sn are subjected to heat treatments for further study on the roles of Sn element and controlled heat treatment on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Zr alloys. Sn is found to promote the formation of ZrAl in the Zr–5Al–xSn alloys. Moreover, the martensite laths are observed to evolve into larger strip grains and fine equiaxed grains after heat treatment at 900°C for 2h. These factors strengthen the Zr–5Al–xSn alloys. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: The underlying mechanism of atrial fibrillation (AF) in association with hypoxia remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the AF vulnerability in an acute intermittent hypoxia model and ascertained the mechanism. Methods and results: In 15 anesthetized open-chest dogs (10 experimental and 5 control), multiple-electrode catheters were sutured to the surface of atria, pulmonary veins and superior vena cava. The ventilators were adjusted to simulate the intermittent hypoxia for 1h. The heart rate, blood pressure, blood gas, heart rate variability (HRV), effective refractory period (ERP) and window of vulnerability (WOV) as a measure of AF inducibility were measured. As the hypoxia prolonged, the pH, PaO2 and SaO2 progressively decreased, while the PaCO2 increased (P<0.05 for all). In the first 30min of hypoxia, the HRV indexes associated with sympathetic activity (LF) and parasympathetic activity (HF) both increased but the ratio of LF/HF stayed unchanged. The ERP and WOV were not affected. In the second 30min of hypoxia, the parasympathetic activity (HF) further increased while the ratio of LF/HF subsequently decreased. Meanwhile, the ERP shortened, and the WOV significantly increased (P<0.05 for all). All the changes that were caused by hypoxia were reversed by 1-h re-ventilation. Conclusions: AF vulnerability increases in the acute intermittent hypoxia model in which autonomic imbalance may play an important role. The treatment targeting autonomic imbalance may be considered when encountering this kind of AF such as in sleep apnea. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We present a scheme for bidirectional controlled teleportation by using a five-qubit composite GHZ-Bell state as quantum channel. Based on the C-not operation and single qubit measurements, Alice may transmit an arbitrary single qubit state of qubit A to Bob and Bob may transmit an arbitrary single qubit state of qubit B to Alice via the control of the supervisor Charlie. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The female condom (FC) is an effective tool for dual protection, but it remains underused. Individual and contextual reasons need to be explored.Objective: The aim of this study was to compare individual and contextual characteristics of FC multitime users, 1-time users, and nonusers among women in the sex industry of 4 study sites in China.Methods: A standardized 1-year FC intervention along with male condoms was implemented through outreach to sex establishments. Three serial cross-sectional surveys were conducted at baseline and after each of two 6-month intervention phases.Results: A total of 445, 437, and 290 eligible women were interviewed at 3 cross-sectional surveys, respectively. At the first and second postintervention surveys, 83.3% and 81.7% of women reported knowing about FC, and 28.8% and 36.6% had used FC at least once. Women who used FC multiple times reported less unprotected sex than nonusers in the last 30 days (3.0% vs. 17.2% at first and 3.2% vs. 16.8% at second postintervention survey, P < 0.01). Polytomous logistic regression showed that both 1-time and multitime users were more likely to come from one particular site (approximately 3 times more than the reference site). Higher intervention scores (adjusted odds ratio, 1.8-4.0) and working in boarding houses (adjusted odds ratio, 3.4) were associated with FC use.Conclusions: Adding FC into male-condom-only intervention may reduce unprotected sex among women in sex establishments in rural and small urban areas of China. Adoption of FC may be related not only to intervention exposure but also to contextual factors associated with study site and type of sex establishments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cavity quantum electrodynamics scheme for implementing the deterministic quantum information splitting of an arbitrary three-atom state is proposed. In the scheme, a genuine five-atom entangled state and a Bell-state can be used as the quantum channel, which does not involve Bell-state measurement and only needs to perform the single-atom measurements. Our scheme is insensitive to both the cavity decay and the atom radiation, and considered here is secure against certain eavesdropping attacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Fish is considered to be an important model in comparative immunology studies because it is a representative population of lower vertebrates serving as an essential link to early vertebrate evolution. Fish immune-relevant genes have received considerable attention due to its role in improving understanding of both fish immunology and the evolution of immune systems. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of teleost immune-relevant genes for both innate and adaptive immunity, including pattern recognition receptors, antimicrobial peptides, complement molecules, lectins, interferons and signaling factors, inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, adaptive immunity relevant cytokines and negative regulators, major histocompatibility complexes, immunoglobulins, and costimulatory molecules. The implications of these factors on the evolutionary history of immune systems were discussed and a perspective outline of innate and adaptive immunity of teleost fish was described. This review may provide clues on the evolution of the essential defense system in vertebrates. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The structural, electronic and elastic properties of AlCr2 compound in the pressure range 0–50GPa with a step of 10GPa have been investigated for the first time by means of first principles calculation based on density functional theory. The calculated results of structural parameters for AlCr2 at zero pressure and zero temperature are in good agreement with the reported experimental data. The total density of state (TDOS) and partial density of states (PDOS) for AlCr2 at different pressures have been calculated in this work, revealing that AlCr2 compound exhibits favorable metallic behavior. The elastic constants, bulk modulus B, shear modulus G, Young’s modulus E, ratio of shear modulus to bulk modulus B/G, microhardness parameter H and Poisson’s ratio ν under various pressures have also been investigated. The calculated results indicate that AlCr2 compound has good mechanical stability, high elastic modulus, favorable ductility and high hardness in the pressure range of 0–50GPa. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: Prevailing data suggest that ATP-sensitive potassium channels (KATP) contribute to a surprising resistance to hypoxia in mammalian embryos, thus we aimed to characterize the developmental changes of KATP channels in murine fetal ventricular cardiomyocytes. Methods: Patch clamp was applied to investigate the functions of KATP. RT-PCR, Western blot were used to further characterize the molecular properties of KATP channels. Results: Similar KATP current density was detected in ventricular cardiomyocytes of late development stage (LDS) and early development stage (EDS). Molecular–biological study revealed the upregulation of Kir6.1/SUR2A in membrane and Kir6.2 remained constant during development. Kir6.1, Kir6.2, and SUR1 were detectable in the mitochondria without marked difference between EDS and LDS. Acute hypoxia–ischemia led to cessation of APs in 62.5% of tested EDS cells and no APs cessation was observed in LDS cells. SarcKATP blocker glibenclamide rescued 47% of EDS cells but converted 42.8% of LDS cells to APs cessations under hypoxia-ischemic condition. MitoKATP blocker 5-HD did not significantly influence the response to acute hypoxia–ischemia at either EDS or LDS. In summary, sarcKATP played distinct functional roles under acute hypoxia-ischemic condition in EDS and LDS fetal ventricular cardiomyocytes, with developmental changes in sarcKATP subunits. MitoKATP were not significantly involved in the response of fetal cardiomyocytes to acute hypoxia–ischemia and no developmental changes of KATP subunits were found in mitochondria. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The catalytic hydrolysis of p-nitrophenyl picolinate (PNPP) by triethanolamine Co(II) complex in the presence or in the absence of CTAB and Triton X-100 micelle was investigated. The results indicated that triethanolamine Co(II) complex promoted the hydrolysis of PNPP by the addition of the catalytic effect of triethanolamine and Co(II), however, in the presence of CTAB and Triton X-100 micelle, triethanolamine Co(II) complex exhibited a remarkably catalytic effect on the hydrolysis of PNPP, indicating the formation of the metallomicelle. According to the proposed ternary complex kinetic model for metallomicellar catalysis, the obtained thermodynamic and kinetic parameters explained well the mechanism of the catalytic hydrolysis of PNPP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The catalytic hydrolysis of p-nitrophenyl picolinate (PNPP) by triethanolamine Co(II) complex in the presence or in the absence of CTAB and Triton X-100 micelle was investigated. The results indicated that triethanolamine Co(II) complex promoted the hydrolysis of PNPP by the addition of the catalytic effect of triethanolamine and Co(II), however, in the presence of CTAB and Triton X-100 micelle, triethanolamine Co(II) complex exhibited markably catalytic effect on the hydrolysis of PNPP, indicating the formation of the metallomicelle. According to the proposed ternary complex kinetic model for metallomicellar catalysis, the obtained thermodynamic and kinetic parameters explained well the mechanism of the catalytic hydrolysis of PNPP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To retrospectively observe the effects of anterior chamber maintainer (ACM) placement in glaucoma patients undergoing trabeculectomy following vitrectomy. Methods: Trabeculectomy was performed on 51 secondary glaucoma patients (51 eyes), all of whom had undergone vitrectomy. During trabeculectomy, an ACM was placed in 27 eyes (group A), but not in the remaining 24 (group B). Intra- and post-operative complications were recorded. Intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements were recorded pre-operatively and repeated post-operatively on follow up days 1, 3, and 7, and months 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24. Surgical success rates were recorded. Results: Mean pre-operative IOPs of groups A and B were 32.74 ±± 11.25 and 34.29 ±± 9.68 mmHg, respectively. In group A, anterior chamber bleeding (two cases), and choroidal detachment and/or ciliary detachment (four cases) occurred. In group B, anterior chamber bleeding (five cases), and choroidal detachment and/or ciliary detachment (11 cases) occurred. There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups. There also was statistically significant difference in post-operative IOPs between the two groups at 12 and 24 months. The surgical success rate of group A was higher than that of group B. Conclusion: ACM is effective in maintaining IOP and reducing complications during trabeculectomy following vitrectomy, thereby increasing surgical success rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An isoenzyme of glutathione S-transferase (adGST) was purified from liver intestine of the seashell (Asaphis dichotoma) by GST–Sepharose 4B affinity chromatography followed by reverse-phase HPLC. The enzyme has a pI value of 4.6 and is composed of two subunits each with a molecular weight of 23 kDa. It exhibits different catalytic activities toward the substrates 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene, 7-chloro-4-nitrobenzo-2-oxa-1,3-diazole, ethacrynic acid, and p-nitrophenyl acetate and, fascinatingly, shows high activity toward CDNB. The amino acid composition of adGST was determined and found to be very similar to the Sloane squid GSTs. N-terminal analysis of the first 15 residues of adGST revealed that it has 73% sequence identity with the pig roundworm GSTs. The adGST shows characteristics similar to those of class sigma GSTs, as was indicated by its substrate specificity, N-terminal amino acid sequence, and amino acid composition. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The AA5052 aluminum alloy is widely used in automobile and aerospace manufacturing, and with the development of light-weight alloys, it is required that these materials exhibit better mechanical properties. Previous studies have demonstrated that the addition of Sc to aluminum alloys can improve both the microstructure and properties of the alloys. In this study, the effect of Sc on the Fe-rich phase and properties of the AA5052 aluminum alloy was studied by adding 0%, 0.05%, 0.2%, and 0.3% Sc. The results show that with the increase of Sc, the coarse needle-like Fe-rich phase gradually transforms into Chinese-script and then nearly spherical particles, reduce the size of Fe-rich phase, and refine the grain with increase of high angle grain boundaries (HAGBs). These microstructure changes enhance the strength of the AA5052 alloy through Sc addition. The ductility of the alloy is obviously improved because the addition of a lower amount of Sc changes the morphology of Fe-rich phase from needle-like into a Chinese-script, and it is subsequently reduced as a result of significant increase in HAGBs with increasing Sc content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C20H22Cu3N8O10, monoclinic, C2/c (no. 15), a = 12.0766(11) Å, b = 16.2778(14) Å, c = 14.7605(13) Å, β = 97.8580(10)∘, V = 2874.4(4) Å3, Z = 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0420, wRref (F2) = 0.0988, T = 298.15 K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ferns of Adiantum Series Gravesiana (Pteridaceae) consist of species that occur exclusively on Danxia (A. juxtapositum) and Karst (A. mariesii, A. longzhouensis, A. dentatum, A. obovatum, and A. gravesii) landforms. We cultured representatives of these six species from 20 different populations on both agar and soil to investigate and compare their gametophyte development. All species had the Vittaria-type pattern of spore germination except A. obovatum, for which we missed the best time to observe this developmental phase. However, two different patterns of subsequent development were observed: the Adiantum-type (i.e., naked, cordate mature gametophyte thallus) in A. mariesii, A. longzhouensis, A. juxtapositum, and A. gravesii and the Kaulinia-type (i.e., naked, ribbon-shaped mature gametophyte thallus) in A. dentatum and A. obovatum. All populations from A. juxtapositum and A. gravesii possess the same Adiantum-type, suggesting that Karst and Danxia soils were not the main factor causing the differences in gametophyte development. The Kaulinia-type adult thallus has not been observed previously in Adiantum and may be an adaptive strategy for survival within the relatively harsh micro-habitats experienced by A. dentatum and A. obovatum compared to other members of this series. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Obtaining tumour-free margins is critical for avoiding re-excision and reducing local recurrence following breast-conserving surgery; however, it remains challenging. Imaging-guided surgery provides precise detection of residual lesions and assists surgical resection. Herein, we described water-soluble melanin nanoparticles (MNPs) conjugated with cyclic Arg-Gly-Asp (cRGD) peptides for breast cancer photoacoustic imaging (PAI) and surgical navigation. Methods: The cRGD-MNPs were synthesised and characterized for morphology, photoacoustic characteristics and stability. Tumour targeting and toxicity of cRGD-MNPs were determined by using either breast cancer cells, MDA-MB-231 tumour-bearing mice or the FVB/N-Tg (MMTV-PyVT) 634Mul/J mice model. PAI was used to locate the tumour and guide surgical resection in MDA-MB-231 tumour-bearing mice. Results: The cRGD-MNPs exhibited excellent in vitro and in vivo tumour targeting with low toxicity. Intravenous administration of cRGD-MNPs to MDA-MB-231 tumour-bearing mice showed an approximately 2.1-fold enhancement in photoacoustic (PA) intensity at 2 h, and the ratio of the PA intensity at the tumour site to that in the surrounding normal tissue was 3.2 ± 0.1, which was higher than that using MNPs (1.7 ± 0.3). Similarly, the PA signal in the spontaneous breast cancer increased ~ 2.5-fold at 2 h post-injection of cRGD-MNPs in MMTV-PyVT transgenic mice. Preoperative PAI assessed tumour volume and offered three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction images for accurate surgical planning. Surgical resection following real-time PAI showed high consistency with histopathological analysis. Conclusion: These results highlight that cRGD-MNP-mediated PAI provide a powerful tool for breast cancer imaging and precise tumour resection. cRGD-MNPs with fine PA properties have great potential for clinical translation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isatidis Radix, the sun-dried roots of Isatis indigotica Fortune ex Lindl., is one of the most usually used traditional Chinese medicines. For centuries, the herb has been employed in clinical practice for treatment of virus infection and inflammation. However, its active ingredients remain unclear. In the present study, the anti-influenza virus activity of epiprogoitrin, progoitrin, epigoitrin and goitrin, the Isatidis Radix derived glucosinolate isomers and their breakdown products, was firstly evaluated in vitro and in ovo and their mechanism of action was investigated. Epiprogoitrin, progoitrin, epigoitrin and goitrin were isolated from Isatidis Radix by chiral separation. In vitro and in ovo evaluations were performed on Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells and embryonated eggs respectively, both using protocols including prevention, treatment and virus neutralization. Hemagglutination (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) inhibition assays were performed for further understanding of the antiviral mechanism. Isatidis Radix derived glucosinolate isomers and their breakdown products all exhibited dose-dependent inhibition effect against influenza A virus (H1N1) without toxicity. The antiviral potency of the components was in the order of progoitrin > goitrin > epigoitrin > epiprogoitrin. The attachment of the constituents to the viral envelope conduced to the mechanism of their antiviral action without disturbing viral adsorption or budding. Taken together, these results are promising for further development of Isatidis Radix and may contribute an adjunct to pharmacotherapy for influenza virus infection. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mannose-binding lectin (MBL) plays an important role in host immune responses against pathogens. LjMBL-like-1 was identified from Japanese sea bass (Lateolabrax japonicas), which has selectivity for galactose. Herein, this lectin might be better designated as galactose-binding lectin (LjGalBL-1). LjGalBL-1 transcripts were detected in all tested tissues, with highest expression in liver. Upon Vibrio harveyi infection, LjGalBL- 1 mRNA expression was increased in major immune-related tissues, and protein levels in serum were also upregulated. Recombinant LjGalBL-1 (rLjGalBL-1) bound to monosaccharides and polysaccharides, and both rLjGalBL-1 and native LjGalBL-1 (nLjGalBL-1) agglutinated three Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus , Streptococcus iniae and Micrococcus luteus) and four Gram-negative bacteria (Aeromonas hydrophila , Edwardsiella tarda , Vibrio anguillarum and V. harveyi) in a Ca2+-dependent manner in vitro. Moreover, rLjGalBL-1 increased the survival rate of V. harveyi -infected fish and decreased bacterial load in liver, spleen, kidney and blood. Thus, LjGalBL-1 protects L. japonicas against V. harveyi infection. • LjGalBL-1 was identified in Japanese sea bass and functionally characterised. • LjGalBL-1 is expressed in various tissues, with highest levels in liver. • LjGalBL-1 transcription is are increased in immune-related tissues. • LjGalBL-1 binds monosaccharides and polysaccharides in a Ca2+-dependent manner. • LjGalBL-1 agglutinates Gram-positive/negative bacteria and enhances fish survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The detection of attentive mental state plays an essential role in the neurofeedback process and the treatment of Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). However, the performance of the detection methods is still not satisfactory. One of the challenges is to find a proper representation for the electroencephalogram (EEG) data, which could preserve the temporal information and maintain the spatial topological characteristics. Inspired by the deep learning (DL) methods in the research of brain–computer interface (BCI) field, a 3D representation of EEG signal was introduced into attention detection task, and a 3D convolutional neural network model with cascade and parallel convolution operations was proposed. The model utilized three cascade blocks, each consisting of two parallel 3D convolution branches, to simultaneously extract the multi-scale features. Evaluated on a public dataset containing twenty-six subjects, the proposed model achieved better performance compared with the baseline methods under the intra-subject, inter-subject and subject-adaptive classification scenarios. This study demonstrated the promising potential of the 3D CNN model for detecting attentive mental state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton (Gossypium spp.) is a vital global source of renewable fiber and ranks among the world's most important cash crops. While extensive nuclear genomic data of Gossypium has been explored, the organellar genomic resources of allotetraploid cotton, remain largely untapped at the population level. The plastid genome (plastome) is well suited for studying plant species relationships and diversity due to its nonrecombinant uniparental inheritance. Here, we conducted de novo assembly of 336 Gossypium plastomes, mainly from domesticated cultivars, and generated a pan‐plastome level resource for population structure and genetic diversity analyses. The assembled plastomes exhibited a typical quadripartite structure and varied in length from 160 103 to 160 597 bp. At the species level, seven allotetraploid species were resolved into three clades, where Gossypium tomentosum and Gossypium mustelinum formed an early diverging clade rooted by diploids, followed by splitting two sister clades of Gossypium darwinii–Gossypium barbadense and Gossypium hirsutum–Gossypium ekmanianum–Gossypium stephensii. Within the G. hirsutum clade the resolution of cultivated accessions was less polyphyletic with landrace and wild accessions than in G. barbadense suggesting some selection on plastome in the domestication of this adaptable species of cotton. The nucleotide diversity of G. hirsutum was higher than that of G. barbadense. We specifically compared the plastomes of G. hirsutum and G. barbadense to find mutational hotspots within each species as potential molecular markers. These findings contribute a valuable resource for exploring cotton evolution as well as in the breeding of new cotton cultivars and the preservation of wild and cultivated germplasm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) binds pathogenic and other cytoplasmic double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) to catalyze the synthesis of cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP), which serves as the secondary messenger to activate the STING pathway and innate immune responses. Emerging evidence suggests that activation of the cGAS pathway is crucial for anti-tumor immunity; however, no effective intervention method targeting cGAS is currently available. Here we report that cGAS is palmitoylated by ZDHHC9 at cysteines 404/405, which promotes the dimerization and activation of cGAS. We further identified that lysophospholipase-like 1 (LYPLAL1) depalmitoylates cGAS to compromise its normal function. As such, inhibition of LYPLAL1 significantly enhances cGAS-mediated innate immune response, elevates PD-L1 expression, and enhances anti-tumor response to PD-1 blockade. Our results therefore reveal that targeting LYPLAL1-mediated cGAS depalmitoylation contributes to cGAS activation, providing a potential strategy to augment the efficacy of anti-tumor immunotherapy. [Display omitted] • cGAS palmitoylation facilitates its dimerization and activation • cGAS is mainly palmitoylated by ZDHHC9 at cysteine 404/405 • LYPLAL1 functions as a regulator of cGAS depalmitoylation • Targeting LYPLAL1 enhances the efficacy of anti-PD-1 therapy in cancer Fan et al. report that cGAS undergoes ZDHHC9-mediated palmitoylation to promote its activation, which is antagonized by the acyl-protein thioesterase LYPLAL1. Furthermore, they provide a strategy to augment the cGAS-mediated anti-viral as well as anti-tumor immunity by inhibiting LYPLAL1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little is known about pollen-food allergy syndrome (PFS) in China. To investigate the clinical characteristics, as well as sensitization patterns, of PFS in China. Clinical parameters and serum Immunoglobulin E (IgE) responses to prevalent pollens, plant foods and corresponding allergen components were evaluated. The top three most common pollen-associated allergenic foods were peach, apple and pear. Fifty-nine percent of the patients with PFS were allergic to peach. Sixty-one percent of PFS patients developed systemic reactions with or without oral cavity discomfort upon ingestion of the culprit food. Positive IgE responses to nonspecific lipid transfer proteins occurred in 69.9% of PFS patients, which was in accordance with the high prevalence of systemic reactions. Peach was the most common allergenic food in PFS patients. Patients with PFS in China showed an LTP-dominant sensitization profile and usually presented systemic reactions upon consumption of the allergenic foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kisspeptins, encoded by the KISS1 gene, are a family of polypeptides that bind the kisspeptin receptor (KISS1R) to perform biological functions. Produced mainly in the hypothalamus, these neuropeptides regulate the pulsatile secretion of GnRH and trigger the hypothalamus–pituitary–gonadal axis. Other peripheral organs also express kisspeptin, which inhibits metastasis. Kisspeptin and KISS1R are reportedly present in the endometrium and may play roles in limiting the migration and invasion of trophoblasts into the endometrium during pregnancy (decidua) to maintain endometrial homeostasis. A deficiency of kisspeptin and KISS1R in the endometrium can lead to pathological conditions such as endometriosis and endometrial carcinoma. Kisspeptin and KISS1R in the endometrium can also promote endometrial receptivity and decidualization. Overall, kisspeptin and KISS1R are important for maintaining the normal physiological functions of the endometrium. By summarizing the roles of kisspeptin and KISS1R in the endometrium, our review explores the regulatory roles in the peripheral reproductive system of this peptide family that plays broad and profound roles in many physiological processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Heavy metals are considered a global concern because they can deteriorate human health. This guideline aims to scientifically evaluate health risk of heavy metals in TCM and to propose a reference for decision making in developing TCM-related health policies. Methods: Using a multidisciplinary approach, a steering committee oversaw the development of the guideline. To obtain a reasonable and accurate risk assessment, key exposure assessment parameters for TCM, e.g., exposure frequency (EF), exposure duration (ED), and daily ingestion rate (IR) were obtained from surveys. In addition, transfer rates for heavy metals from Chinese medicinal materials (CMM) to decoctions or preparations were examined. Results: Based on the scientific theory of risk control, the guideline was designed systematically, and principles and procedures for the risk assessment of heavy metals in TCM were identified. The guideline can be utilized to assess the risk of heavy metals in CMM and Chinese patent medicines (CPM). Conclusion: This guideline may help standardize the risk assessment of heavy metals in TCM, advance regulatory standards for heavy metals in TCM, and ultimately improve human health through scientific TCM usage in clinic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The CC motif chemokine 19 (CCL19) functions in acute inflammation by recruiting lymphocytes and other cells. However, CCL19 has only been investigated in few fish species. In this study, we characterized a CCL19-like molecule (PaCCL19l) in ayu ( Plecoglossus altivelis ), a teleost fish. Sequence analysis revealed that PaCCL19l was most closely related to Atlantic salmon ( Salmon salar ) CCL19l1, which belonged to the fish CCL19a.1 subcluster. PaCCL19l was constitutively expressed in the tested ayu tissues and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), with the highest transcript level in PBMCs. Upon infection with Vibrio anguillarum , the expressions of PaCCL19l in the head kidney, liver, spleen, PBMCs, and monocytes/macrophages (MO/MΦ) were dramatically up-regulated. Recombinant PaCCL19l (rPaCCL19l) exhibited a significant effect on the chemotaxis of lymphocytes and MO/MΦ in vitro and in vivo . Meanwhile, rPaCCL19l exerted a high chemotaxic activity for lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated MO/MΦ (M1-type), but not for cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-stimulated MO/MΦ (M2-type). When ayu MO/MΦ was treated with rPaCCL19l along with Vibrio anguillarum infection, the mRNA expression of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNFα, IL-6, IL-12b, and IFN-γ) was up-regulated, while that of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10, TGFβ, and IL-22) was down-regulated. Ayu MO/MΦ treated with anti-PaCCL19l IgG gave the opposite result. These results implicated that PaCCL19l is involved in the selective chemotaxis of ayu immune cells and promotes the host at a pro-inflammatory state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to study the dynamic characteristics of the 660 MW ultra-supercritical circulating fluidized bed (CFB) boiler when the main fuel trip (MFT) and boiler trip (BT) are triggered, a dynamic simulation model of the 660 MW ultra-supercritical circulating fluidized bed boiler was established on the Apros simulation platform. The model dynamically simulated the MFT and BT processes at 100% BMCR, 75% THA, and 50% THA conditions, respectively. The steady-state simulation results showed a high accuracy compared with the designed parameters. The dynamic simulation results showed that after triggering the MFT and BT, owing to the huge thermal inertia, the bed temperature and steam temperature decreased lowly. For 100% BMCR and 75% THA conditions, the moisture separator always worked in dry state during the MFT and BT processes. For the 50% THA condition, the moisture separator quickly switched from dry to wet operation after the boiler triggers MFT and BT and gradually switched from wet to dry operation after MFT and BT were reset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a deterministic protocol for remotely preparing an arbitrary four-qubit entangled cluster-type state. In our protocol, a seven-qubit cluster state is employed to link the two senders (Alice and Bob) and the receiver Charlie. The to-be-prepared state is realized successfully with the probability of 100 % by performing the local unitary operation and classical communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new series of chalcone derivatives 1 – 18 , bearing isoxazole moieties were designed and synthesized, and biologically evaluated for their activity on mushroom tyrosinase and melanin synthesis in murine B16 cells. The result indicated that most of prepared compounds 1 – 18 showed potent activating effect on tyrosinase, especially for 1 – 2 , 4 , 6 – 7 , 9 and 15 . Among them, compounds 2 , 4 and 9 demonstrated the best activity with EC 50 = 1.3, 2.5 and 3.0 μmol·L −1 respectively, much better than the positive control 8-methoxypsoralan (8-MOP, EC 50 = 14.8 μmol·L −1 ); In B16 cells, all the tested compounds exhibited a stronger activity on melanogenesis than 8-MOP (with the value of 115%). It was interesting that derivatives substituted with halogen ( 1 , 2 , 4 , 5 , 7 , 9 ) were generally more potent. Compounds 2 (463%) and 18 (438%) with 3 and 4-fold potency compared with 8-MOP respectively, were recognized as the most promising candidate hits for further pharmacological study of anti-vitiligo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: BMP9-stimulated DPSCs, SCAPs and PDLSCs are effective candidates for repairing maxillofacial bone defects in tissue engineering, while the most suitable seed cell source among these three hDMSCs and the optimal combination of most suitable type of hDMSCs and BMP9 have rarely been explored. Moreover, the orthotopic maxillofacial bone defect model should be valuable but laborious and time-consuming to evaluate various candidates for bone regeneration. Thus, inspired from the maxillofacial bone defects and the traditional in vivo ectopic systems, we developed an intrabony defect repair model to recapitulate the healing events of orthotopic maxillofacial bone defect repair and further explore the optimized combinations of most suitable hDMSCs and BMP9 for bone defect repair based on this modified ectopic system. Methods: Intrabony defect repair model was developed by using decellularized bone matrix (DBM) constructs prepared from the cancellous part of porcine lumbar vertebral body. We implanted DBM constructs subcutaneously on the flank of each male NU/NU athymic nude mouse, followed by directly injecting the cell suspension of different combinations of hDMSCs and BMP9 into the central hollow area of the constructs 7 days later. Then, the quality of the bony mass, including bone volume fraction (BV/TV), radiographic density (in Hounsfield units (HU)) and the height of newly formed bone, was measured by micro-CT. Furthermore, the H&E staining and immunohistochemical staining were performed to exam new bone and new blood vessel formation in DBM constructs. Results: BMP9-stimulated periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) exhibited the most effective bone regeneration among the three types of hDMSCs in DBM constructs. Furthermore, an optimal dose of PDLSCs with a specific extent of BMP9 stimulation was confirmed for efficacious new bone and new blood vessel formation in DBM constructs. Conclusions: The reported intrabony defect repair model can be used to identify optimized combinations of suitable seed cells and biological factors for bone defect repair and subsequent development of efficacious bone tissue engineering therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transferrin plays an important role in iron metabolism and has been reported to be involved in the immune response to environmental stress. In this study, the transferrin gene (LwTf) from Amur ide (Leuciscus waleckii) was cloned and characterized. The cDNA was observed to contain an open reading frame (ORF) of 1998bp and encode a 665-amino-acid-long protein that shares 73.04% identity with the transferrin from silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix). Amino acid alignment analysis showed that LwTf contained an initial peptide and two lobes (N- and C-lobes). Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) analyses showed that the expression levels of LwTf were abundant in the liver of the fish but were also significant in the brain and spleen, with lower expression observed in six other tissues. The temporal expression profiles were detected during the alkaline challenge experiment in alkali-water and freshwater populations of healthy adult Amur ide. LwTf expression was significantly upregulated in the main immune organs (spleen, kidney, and head kidney) of the freshwater Amur ide population compared to that in the alkali-water Amur ide population. Taken together, these results indicate that in Amur ide, LwTf might play an important role in the innate immune response to a high alkaline stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We provide various schemes for quantum teleportation by using the four and five qubit cluster states. Explicit protocols for the perfect quantum teleportation of three and four qubit states are illustrated. It is found that the four-qubit cluster state can be used for perfect quantum teleportation of a special form of three-qubit state and the five-qubit cluster state can be used for perfect quantum teleportation of a special form of four-qubit state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose an experimentally feasible scheme for implementing controlled quantum secure direct communication by using six-qubit entangled states. According to the results measured by the sender and the controller, the receiver can obtain different secret messages in a deterministic way with unit successful probability. In our scheme, the information-carrying qubits do not need to be transmitted over the public channel. Therefore, the scheme is determinate and secure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paradigm that B cells mainly play a central role in adaptive immunity may have to be reevaluated because B-1 lineage cells have been found to exhibit innate-like functions, such as phagocytic and bactericidal activities. Therefore, the evolutionary connection of B-1 lineage cells between innate and adaptive immunities have received much attention. In this review, we summarized various innate-like characteristics of B-1 lineage cells, such as natural antibody production, antigen-presenting function in primary adaptive immunity, and T cell-independent immune responses. These characteristics seem highly conserved between fish B cells and mammalian B-1 cells during vertebrate evolution. We proposed an evolutionary outline of B cells by comparing biological features, including morphology, phenotype, ontogeny, and functional activity between B-1 lineage cells and macrophages or B-2 cells. The B-1 lineage may be a transitional cell type between phagocytic cells ( e.g ., macrophages) and B-2 cells that functionally connects innate and adaptive immunities. Our discussion would contribute to the understanding on the origination of B cells specialized in adaptive immunity from innate immunity. The results might provide further insight into the evolution of the immune system as a whole. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to improve the Internet coverage ratio and provide connectivity guarantee, based on sensor opportunistic coverage mechanism and cooperative cloud service, we proposed the coverage connectivity guarantee protocol for mobile Internet. In this scheme, based on the opportunistic covering rules, the network coverage algorithm of high reliability and real-time security was achieved by using the opportunity of sensor nodes and the Internet mobile node. Then, the cloud service business support platform is created based on the Internet application service management capabilities and wireless sensor network communication service capabilities, which is the architecture of the cloud support layer. The cooperative cloud service aware model was proposed. Finally, we proposed the mobile Internet coverage connectivity guarantee protocol. The results of experiments demonstrate that the proposed algorithm has excellent performance, in terms of the security of the Internet and the stability, as well as coverage connectivity ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose an experimentally feasible scheme for implementing controlled quantum secure direct communication by using a five-atom cluster state in cavity QED. According to the results measured by the sender and the controller, the receiver can obtain different secret messages in a deterministic way with unit successful probability. In the communication processes, one only need separate measurements with the assistance of a strong classical driving field. In addition, the scheme is insensitive to the cavity decay and the thermal field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We explore the interaction between estrogen and PCSK9 and their collective impact on lipid metabolism, especially concerning the regulation of low-density lipoprotein receptor levels. Utilizing both animal and cellular models, including ovariectomized mice and HepG2 cell lines, we demonstrate that estrogen deficiency leads to a disruption in lipid metabolism, characterized by elevated levels of total cholesterol and LDL-C. The study commences with mice undergoing ovariectomy, followed by a diet regimen comprising either high-fat diet or normal feed for a four-week duration. Key assessments include analyzing lipid metabolism, measuring PCSK9 levels in the bloodstream, and evaluating hepatic low-density lipoprotein receptor expression. We will also conduct correlation analyses to understand the relationship between PCSK9 and various lipid profiles. Further, a subset of ovariectomized mice on high-fat diet will undergo treatment with either estrogen or PCSK9 inhibitor for two weeks, with a subsequent re-evaluation of the earlier mentioned parameters. Our findings reveal that estrogen inhibits PCSK9-mediated degradation of low-density lipoprotein receptor, a process crucial for maintaining lipid homeostasis. Through a series of experiments, including immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis, we establish that PCSK9 is involved in lipid metabolism disorders caused by estrogen deficiency and that estrogen regulates PCSK9 and low-density lipoprotein receptor at post-transcriptional level. The study provides a mechanism for the involvement of PCSK9 in elucidating the disorders of lipid metabolism caused by estrogen deficiency due to perimenopause and ovarian decline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a scheme to realize the deterministic quantum teleportation of an arbitrary two-ion state by using a genuine four-ion entangled state in ion-trap systems. The scheme does not involve Bell-state measurements and only needs to make the single-ion measurements. Our scheme is insensitive to both the initial vibrational state and heating, which is of importance in view of experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dendritic cells (DCs) are among the most important professional antigen-presenting cells (APCs) that participate in various biological activities in mammals. However, evidence of the existence of DCs in teleost fish and other lower vertebrates remains limited. In this study, phenotypic and functional characteristics of teleost DCs were described in a zebrafish model. An improved method to efficiently enrich DCs was established. Immunofluorescence staining revealed that the surface phenotypic hallmarks of mammalian DCs, including MHC-II, CD80/86, CD83, and CD209, were distributed on the surfaces of zebrafish DCs ( Dr DCs). Functional analysis results showed that Dr DCs could initiate antigen-specific CD4 + T cell activation, in which MHC-II, CD80/86, CD83, and CD209 are implicated. Hence, teleost DCs exhibit conserved immunophenotypes and functions similar to those of their mammalian counterparts. Our findings contributed to the current understanding of the evolutionary history of DCs and the DC-regulatory mechanisms of adaptive immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] The cathode current collector was treated by plasma electrolytic oxidation. [•] Superhydrophilic coating was formed on the cathode current collector. [•] Water flooding of cathode current collector was solved. [•] The micro passive DMFC showed better performance and extremely high stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) and stromal cells (ESCs) have a close functional association. During the peri‐implantation period, EECs with enhanced functional activities secrete a variety of paracrine factors to promote the decidualization of ESCs. However, little is known about the specific process by which EECs secrete paracrine factors to induce the decidualization of ESCs. Some evidence suggests that the activation of sodium‐glucose cotransporter 3a (SGLT3a) induces the depolarization of ESCs to affect their function. Therefore, SGLT3a acts as a sensor molecule in certain cell types. In this study, the expression of SGLT3a was investigated in EECs to determine whether its levels increased during the peri‐implantation period in female mice. The activation of SGLT3a in mouse EECs induced Na+‐dependent depolarization of the cell membrane and an influx of extracellular Ca2+, which further promoted the expression and release of the paracrine factors prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and F2‐alpha (PGF2α) by upregulating the expression of cyclooxygenase‐2. In turn, PGE2 and PGF2α induced the decidualization of ESCs. Importantly, we identified SGLT3a as a key molecule involved in the cross‐talk between EECs and ESCs during the process of uterine decidualization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this paper, a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) with novel structure is designed and fabricated for a micro direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC), which used stainless steel fiber felt (SSFF) to replace the current collector and the backing layer at cathode. Result data shows that the novel structure can reduce the methanol crossover dramatically, as a result, achieves a better performance with a higher methanol concentration, a higher fuel utilization ratio and energy efficiency. In addition, the novel MEA also presents an improved water management at room temperature, allowing it to achieve a better performance. To elaborate the effect of the novel structure on anode or cathode electrode process, a reference electrode is built inside the single cell. The electrochemical results of half-cell test show that the novel MEA has a greatly reduced cathode polarization and a slightly increased anode polarization. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We propose a scheme for preparing a genuinely entangled six-atom state (in J. Phys. A 40:13407, ) in cavity QED, where the atoms interact simultaneously with the highly detuned single-mode cavity and the strong classical driving field. Thus our scheme is not sensitive to both the cavity decay and thermal field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Galectin-9, a tandem-repeat galectin, plays an important role in the regulation of innate immune response against various microbial infections. Here, galectin-9 from mudskipper (Boleophthalmus pectinirostris) was identified and named as BpGal-9. Putative BpGal-9 contains two conserved carbohydrate recognition domains (CRDs), one CRD within N-terminal (N-CRD) and the other one within C-terminal (C-CRD). Multi-alignment analysis indicated that BpGal-9 shared the highest amino acid sequence identity of 64.3 % with that of Southern platyfish (Xiphophorus maculatus). Phylogenetic analysis showed that BpGal-9 grouped tightly with other teleosts galectin-9 and was most closely related to that of Southern platyfish. BpGal-9 transcripts were more abundant in the intestine, and its expression upregulated significantly in the intestine, kidney, spleen, gills, and skin after Edwardsiella tarda infection. Meanwhile, BpGal-9 expression significantly increased in hemocytes and serum of mudskipper infected by E. tarda. The recombinant BpGal-9 (rBpGal-9) and rBpGal-9C-CRD could agglutinate all tested bacteria, whereas rBpGal-9N-CRD could only agglutinate three kinds of bacteria. When targeting the same bacteria, rBpGal-9 showed stronger agglutinating activities than rBpGal-9C-CRD or rBpGal-9N-CRD. In addition, the induction effect of three recombinant proteins on the mRNA expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines (BpIL-10 and BpTGF-β) was better than that on the pro-inflammatory cytokines (BpIL-1β and BpTNF-α). Our result suggested that the N-CRD and C-CRD of galectin-9 contribute differently to its multiple functions in innate immunity in teleosts. • We identified a galectin-9 (BpGal-9) from mudskipper. • BpGal-9 transcripts showed upregulation in multiple tissues against Edwardsiella tarda. • rBpGal-9 displayed stronger microbial agglutinating activity than rBpGal-9C-CRD and rBpGal-9N-CRD. • The induction effect of three recombinant proteins on the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines was better than that on pro-inflammatory cytokines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many functional activities of endometrium epithelium are energy consuming which are very important for maintaining intrauterine environment needed by early embryonic development and establishment of implantation window. Glucose is a main energy supplier and one of the main components of intrauterine fluid. Obviously, glucose transports in endometrium epithelium involve in for these activities but their functions have not been elucidated. In this research, we observed a spatiotemporal pattern of sodium glucose transporter 1 (SGLT1) expression in the mouse endometrium. We also determined that progesterone can promote the expression of SGLT1 in the mouse endometrial epithelium in response to the action of oestrogen. Treatment with the SGLT1 inhibitor phlorizin or small interfering RNA specific for SGLT1 (SGLT1-siRNA) altered glucose uptake in primary cultured endometrial epithelial cells, which exhibited reduced ATP levels and AMPK activation. The injection of phlorizin or SGLT1-siRNA into one uterine horn of each mouse on day 2 of pregnancy led to an increased glucose concentration in the uterine fluid and decreased number of harvested normal blastocysts and decreased expression of integrin αVβ3 in endometrial epithelium and increased expression of mucin 1 and lactoferrin in endometrial epithelium and the uterine homogenates exhibited activated AMPK, a decreased ATP level on day 4, and a decreased number of implantation sites on day 5. In embryo transfer experiments, pre-treatment of the uterine horn with phlorizin or SGLT1-siRNA during the implantation window led to a decreased embryo implantation rate on day 5 of pregnancy, even when embryos from normal donor mice were used. In conclusion, SGLT1, which participates in glucose transport in the mouse endometrial epithelium, inhibition and/or reduced expression of SGLT1 affects early embryo development by altering the glucose concentration in the uterine fluid. Inhibition and/or reduced expression of SGLT1 also affects embryo implantation by influencing energy metabolism in epithelial cells, which consequently influences implantation-related functional activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this contribution, an improved near-infrared absorbing colorimetric detection of Hg2+ ion with high selectivity and sensitivity had been developed by using bis-dibenzo-18-crown-6-based squaraine (BCSQ) as sensor in aqueous media. The proposed method was applied to analyze trace Hg2+ in synthetic Hg2+ samples and natural Hg2+ samples. Under the optimum conditions, the detection had a linear range of 7.5–150×10−8 molL−1 with a correlation coefficient (R) of 0.9983 combining a limit detection (3σ, n =20) of 5.6×10−9 molL−1. The relative standard deviation (RSD) was lower than 2.4% (n =5). The proposed method possesses the advantages of simplicity, rapidity, high selectivity and sensitivity. The action mechanism between BCSQ and Hg2+ was discussed in details. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper presents an improved impregnation–reduction (I–R) method for modifying a Nafion membrane that achieves a lower methanol crossover. During impregnation of the Nafion membrane in Pd(NH3)4Cl2 solution, an electric field was conducted across the membrane to enhance the migration of Pd ions. After impregnation, Pd ions were reduced to form Pd nanoparticles by soaking the membrane in NaBH4 solution. The test results show that the Pd–Nafion membrane prepared by the improved I–R method has higher proton conductivity and lower methanol permeability than that prepared by usual I–R method. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

For real-time monitoring of mine water inrush catastrophic process and early warning of precursory, electrical resistivity constrained inversion imaging method was proposed. First, inequality constraints characterizing variation range of grid resistivity was introduced into electrical resistivity inversion imaging equation. Multiplicity of inversion was inhibited by the means of inequality constraints. Meanwhile, fast inversion algorithm was designed to effectively improve computational efficiency. Then, numerical experiment of micro faults water inrush real-time monitoring using constrained inversion imaging method was carried out. And, by gray correlation theory, inversion image responses characteristics to water inrush precursors were evaluated quantitatively, in which the abnormal events (e. g. , strata fracturing ,water inrush channel forming) and gray correlation coefficient of inversion images exhibit monotonic developments or mutation. Finally, real-time monitoring method was applied to physical model test of mine water inrush. It achieves realistically dynamic imaging and monitoring on important processes of water inrush, such as crack generation and propagation , and strata fracturing. And precursor information of water inrush hazard was precisely captured ,813 s ahead of inrush. It suggests that real-time monitoring using electrical resistivity constrained inversion imaging method is feasible for mine water inrush monitoring and early warning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The acidophilic Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans can resist exceptionally high cadmium (Cd) concentrations. This property is important for its use in biomining processes, where Cd and other metal levels range usually between 15 and 100 mM. To learn about the mechanisms that allow A. ferrooxidans cells to survive in this environment, a bioinformatic search of its genome showed the presence of that a Cd(II)/Pb(II)-responsive transcriptional regulator (CmtR) was possibly related to Cd homeostasis. The expression of the CmtR was studied by real-time reverse transcriptase PCR using A. ferrooxidans cells adapted for growth in the presence of high concentrations of Cd. The putative A. ferrooxidans Cd resistance determinant was found to be upregulated when this bacterium was exposed to Cd in the range of 15-30 mM. The CmtR from A. ferrooxidans was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli, the soluble protein was purified by one-step affinity chromatography to apparent homogeneity. UV-Vis spectroscopic measurements showed that the reconstruction CmtR was able to bind Cd(II) forming Cd(II)-CmtR complex in vitro. The sequence alignment and molecular modeling showed that the crucial residues for CmtR binding were likely to be Cys77, Cys112, and Cys121. The results reported here strongly suggest that the high resistance of the extremophilic A. ferrooxidans to Cd including the Cd(II)/Pb(II)-responsive transcriptional regulator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]