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The article presents a case study of a 23-year-old woman who was admitted to a local hospital due to severe headache for five days. Cerebral angiography showed a tentorial dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) and emergent cranial computed tomography (CT) scans revealed a right temporal mass typical of a hematoma. Removal of the hematoma and microsurgical disconnection of the shunt were regarded to be the treatment of choice.

With the rapid development, household energy consumption has become major driving force inducing higher energy consumption and corresponding carbon emissions. As the largest developing country, China's household energy consumption has grown quickly over the last two decades due to improved living standards and rapid urbanization. Thus, it is necessary to study household carbon footprint and identity the key driving forces so that appropriate mitigation policies can be raised. Under such a circumstance, this paper aims to uncover household carbon footprints in Liaoning province so that household carbon footprint characteristics and driving forces for the years of 1997, 2002 and 2007 can be quantified. Our results show that urban households have higher carbon footprints than their rural counterparts and indirect carbon footprints are higher than direct carbon footprints. Also, population size and per capita consumption are the main factors to contribute the increase of household carbon footprints, while carbon intensity had negative effect on the increase of household carbon footprints. Finally, we provide our policy recommendations in order to help local decision makers prepare their low carbon development strategies. The research outcomes from this study can also facilitate decision-makers in other provinces to mitigate the overall carbon emissions from their household sector by considering their local situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, molecularly imprinting technology and stir bar absorption technology were combined to develop a microextraction approach based on a molecularly imprinted polymeric stir bar. The molecularly imprinted polymer stir bar has a high performance, is specific, economical, and simple to prepare. The obtained naftopidil-imprinted polymer-coated bars could simultaneously agitate and adsorb naftopidil in the sample solution. The ratio of template/monomer/cross-linker and conditions of template removal were optimized to prepare a stir bar with highly efficient adsorption. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, selectivity, and extraction capacity experiments showed that the molecularly imprinted polymer stir bar was prepared successfully. To utilize the molecularly imprinted polymer stir bar for the determination of naftopidil in complex body fluid matrices, the extraction time, stirring speed, eluent, and elution time were optimized. The limits of detection of naftopidil in plasma and urine sample were 7.5 and 4.0 ng/mL, respectively, and the recoveries were in the range of 90-112%. The within-run precision and between-run precision were acceptable (relative standard deviation <7%). These data demonstrated that the molecularly imprinted polymeric stir bar based microextraction with high-performance liquid chromatography was a convenient, rapid, efficient, and specific method for the precise determination of trace naftopidil in clinical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymer carbon nanotube (PCN) nanocomposites based on a melt-miscible poly(oxymethylene)/poly( l-lactic acid) (POM/PLLA) blend and a trace of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) have been prepared by simple melt-mixing. The crystallization behaviors of the ternary poly­mer-CNT nanocomposites ( t-PCNs) have been investigated. It is found that MWCNTs first nucleate POM selectively to yield novel 'mace-like' hybrid structure crystals. The 'mace-like' hybrid POM crystals subsequently serve as highly efficient polymeric nucleating agents (PNAs) for the crystallization of PLLA, leading to the remarkable enhancement of crystallization rate ( vc) and crystallinity ( Xc) of PLLA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nearly three-quarters of the growth in global carbon emissions from the burning of fossil fuels and cement production between 2010 and 2012 occurred in China. Yet estimates of Chinese emissions remain subject to large uncertainty; inventories of China's total fossil fuel carbon emissions in 2008 differ by 0.3 gigatonnes of carbon, or 15 per cent. The primary sources of this uncertainty are conflicting estimates of energy consumption and emission factors, the latter being uncertain because of very few actual measurements representative of the mix of Chinese fuels. Here we re-evaluate China's carbon emissions using updated and harmonized energy consumption and clinker production data and two new and comprehensive sets of measured emission factors for Chinese coal. We find that total energy consumption in China was 10 per cent higher in 2000-2012 than the value reported by China's national statistics, that emission factors for Chinese coal are on average 40 per cent lower than the default values recommended by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, and that emissions from China's cement production are 45 per cent less than recent estimates. Altogether, our revised estimate of China's CO2 emissions from fossil fuel combustion and cement production is 2.49 gigatonnes of carbon (2 standard deviations = ±7.3 per cent) in 2013, which is 14 per cent lower than the emissions reported by other prominent inventories. Over the full period 2000 to 2013, our revised estimates are 2.9 gigatonnes of carbon less than previous estimates of China's cumulative carbon emissions. Our findings suggest that overestimation of China's emissions in 2000-2013 may be larger than China's estimated total forest sink in 1990-2007 (2.66 gigatonnes of carbon) or China's land carbon sink in 2000-2009 (2.6 gigatonnes of carbon). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, a number of studies have demonstrated the potential beneficial role for novel anti-diabetic GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) in the skeleton metabolism in diabetic rodents and patients. In this study, we evaluated the impacts of the synthetic GLP-1RA Liraglutide on bone mass and quality in osteoporotic rats induced by ovariectomy (OVX) but without diabetes, as well as its effect on the adipogenic and osteoblastogenic differentiation of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs). Three months after sham surgery or bilateral OVX, eighteen 5-month old female Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups to receive the following treatments for 2 months: (1) Sham + normal saline; (2) OVX + normal saline; and (3) OVX + Liraglutide (0.6 mg/day). As revealed by micro-CT analysis, Liraglutide improved trabecular volume, thickness and number, increased BMD, and reduced trabecular spacing in the femurs in OVX rats; similar results were observed in the lumbar vertebrae of OVX rats treated with Liraglutide. Following in vitro treatment of rat and human BMSCs with 10 nM Liraglutide, there was a significant increase in the mRNA expression of osteoblast-specific transcriptional factor Runx2 and the osteoblast markers alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and collagen α1 (Col-1), but a significant decrease in peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ). In conclusion, our results indicate that the anti-diabetic drug Liraglutide can exert a bone protective effect even in non-diabetic osteoporotic OVX rats. This protective effect is likely attributable to the impact of Liraglutide on the lineage fate determination of BMSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To investigate the Th17/Treg immune balance in the ulcerative colitis (UC) patients with two Chinese syndrome: dampness-heat in large intestine (DHLI) and spleen and kidney Yang deficiency (SKYD). Methods. Ninety UC patients (45 were diagnosed with DHLI and 45 with SKYD syndrome) and 23 healthy people were recruited. The serumIL-17 and TGF-β1 levels of these participants were measured with ELISA; the expression of IL-17 and TGF-β 1 in colonic mucosa tissue was determined with immunohistochemistry and the percentage of Th17 and Treg in peripheral blood with flow cytometry. Results. The levels of IL-17 and Th17 were significantly higher in both DHLI and SKYD groups than in healthy control group and higher in DHLI than in SKYD group (P<0.05). The levels of TGF-β1 and Treg were significantly lower in the two UC patients groups than in healthy control group; and lower in SKYD group than in DHLI group (P<0.05). Conclusions. UC with DHLI syndrome could be characterized by the elevation of Th17 and IL-17 levels, which indicated an accentuation of inflammatory reaction; UC with SKYD syndrome could be characterized by the reduction of serum Treg and TGF-β1 levels, which represented a depression of immune tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The switchable second-order nonlinear optical properties of a series of dithienylethene-containing boron compounds possessing reversible photochromic behavior have been systemically investigated based on density functional theory. The significant differences on the static first hyperpolarizabilities caused by the photoisomerization reaction confirm the switchable nonlinear optical behavior. Results show that the closed-ring 1c- 4c possess large static first hyperpolarizabilitieswith respect to their corresponding open-ring 1o- 4o, which is due to the better π-conjugation and a more obvious degree of charge transfer. Specifically, the static first hyperpolarizability values increase in the range of 2.4-5.2 times with the strengthening electron-withdrawing ability of the substituent R (R = H, CF3, NO2) on the pyridine and elongating the conjugated chains. It indicates that introducing boron-based functional groups to the dithienylethene monomer and modifying the pyridine ring can effectively improve the switching nonlinear optical responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Brucellosis presents a significant economic burden for China because it causes reproductive failure in host species and chronic health problems in humans. These problems can involve multiple organs. Brucellosis is highly endemic in Shanxi Province China. Molecular typing would be very useful to epidemiological surveillance. The purpose of this study was to assess the diversity of Brucella melitensis strains for epidemiological surveillance. Historical monitoring data suggest that Brucella melitensis biovar 3 is the predominant strain associated with the epidemic of brucellosis in Shanxi Province. Methods/Principal Findings: Multiple-locus variable-number repeat analysis (MLVA-16) and hypervariable octameric oligonucleotide fingerprinting (HOOF-print) were used to type a human-hosted Brucella melitensis population (81 strains). Sixty-two MLVA genotypes (discriminatory index: 0.99) were detected, and they had a genetic similarity coefficient ranging from 84.9% to 100%. Eighty strains of the population belonged to the eastern Mediterranean group with panel 1 genotypes 42 (79 strains) and 43 (1 strain). A new panel 1 genotype was found in this study. It was named 114 MLVAorsay genotype and it showed similarity to the two isolates from Guangdong in a previous study. Brucella melitensis is distributed throughout Shanxi Province, and like samples from Inner Mongolia, the eastern Mediterranean genotype 42 was the main epidemic strain (97%). The HOOF-printing showed a higher diversity than MLVA-16 with a genetic similarity coefficient ranging from 56.8% to 100%. Conclusions: According to the MLVA-16 and HOOF-printing results, both methods could be used for the epidemiological surveillance of brucellosis. A new genotype was found in both Shanxi and Guangdong Provinces. In areas with brucellosis, the MLVA-16 scheme is very important for tracing cases back to their origins during outbreak investigations. It may facilitate the expansion and eradication of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The granzyme B/perforincytotoxic pathway is a well established mechanism of initiating target cell apoptosis. Previous studies have suggested a role for the granzyme B/perforin cytotoxic pathway in vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque formation. In the present study, granzyme B deficiency resulted in reduced atherosclerotic plaque development in the descending aortas of apolipoprotein E knockout mice fed a high fat diet for 30 weeks while perforindeficiency resulted in greater reduction in plaque development with significantly less plaque area than granzyme Bdeficient mice. In contrast to the descending aorta, no significant change in plaque size was observed in aortic roots from either granzyme Bdeficient or perforindeficient apolipoprotein E knockout mice. However, atherosclerotic plaques in the aortic roots did exhibit significantly more collagen in granzyme B, but not perforin deficient mice. Together these results suggest significant, yet separate roles for granzyme B and perforin in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis that go beyond the traditional apoptotic pathway with additional implications in plaque development, stability and remodelling of extracellular matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Inflammatory responses are important to host immune reactions, but uncontrolled inflammatory mediators may aid in the pathogenesis of other inflammatory diseases. Geniposide, an iridoid glycoside found in the herb gardenia, is believed to have broad-spectrum anti-inflammatory effects in murine models but its mechanism of action is unclear. We investigated the action of this compound in murine macrophages stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), as the stimulation of macrophages by LPS is known to induce inflammatory reactions. We determined the effect of geniposide on LPS-induced production of the inflammatory mediators, nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), the mRNA and protein expression of the NO and PGE2 synthases, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), respectively, and the mRNA and protein expression of the inflammatory cytokine, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Furthermore, nuclear factor (NF)-κB, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and activator protein (AP)-1 activity were assayed. To understand the action of geniposide on the NF-κB and MAPK pathways, we studied the effect of NF-κB and MAPK inhibitors on the LPS-induced production of NO, PGE2 and TNF-α. Our findings clearly showed that geniposide mainly exerts its anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the LPS-induced NF-κB, MAPK and AP-1 signaling pathways in macrophages, which subsequently reduces overexpression of the inducible enzymes iNOS and COX-2 and suppresses the expression and release of the inflammatory factors, TNF-α, IL-6, NO and PGE2. Thus, geniposide shows promise as a therapeutic agent in inflammatory diseases. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In China, brucellosis is an endemic disease typically caused by Brucella melitensis infection (biovars 1 and 3). Brucella canis infection in dogs has not traditionally recognized as a major problem. In recent years however, brucellosis resulting from Brucella canis infection has also been reported, suggesting that infections from this species may be increasing. Data concerning the epidemiology of brucellosis resulting from Brucella canis infection is limited. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the diversity among Chinese Brucella canis strains for epidemiological purposes. First, we employed a 16-marker VNTR assay (Brucella MLVA-16) to assess the diversity and epidemiological relationship of 29 Brucella canis isolates from diverse locations throughout China with 38 isolates from other countries. MLVA-16 analysis separated the 67 Brucella canis isolates into 57 genotypes that grouped into five clusters with genetic similarity coefficients ranging from 67.73 to 100%. Moreover, this analysis revealed a new genotype (2-3-9-11-3-1-5-1:118), which was present in two isolates recovered from Guangxi in 1986 and 1987. Second, multiplex PCR and sequencing analysis were used to determine whether the 29 Chinese Brucella canis isolates had the characteristic BMEI1435 gene deletion. Only two isolates had this deletion. Third, amplification of the omp25 gene revealed that 26 isolates from China had a T545C mutation. Collectively, this study reveals that considerable diversity exists among Brucella canis isolates in China and provides resources for studying the genetic variation and microevolution of Brucella. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Re3+ (Re3+=Tm3+, Dy3+, Sm3+) ions doped phosphate glasses for white light emitting diodes (W-LEDs) are successfully prepared by the high-temperature melting method. The luminescence properties of the glasses were characterized by the emission and excitation spectra. When excited by ultraviolet light Tm3+ ions single doped, Dy3+ ions single doped, and Sm3+ ions single doped phosphate glass emit blue, green and red light, which give the characteristic transitions of Tm3+ ions (1D2→3F4), Dy3+ ions (4F9/2→6H13/2,15/2), and Sm3+ ions (4G5/2→6H7/2,9/2), respectively. Moreover, there exists simultaneous luminescence of Tm3+, Dy3+, Sm3+ ions individually when co-doping them in the single phased phosphate glass (for example, Tm3+/Sm3+ ions co-doped; Dy3+/Sm3+ ions co-doped; Dy3+/Tm3+ ions co-doped; Tm3+/Dy3+/Sm3+ ions tri-doped systems), which is beneficial to tune the emission colors. Under the 360nm excitation, the CIE coordinates of Tm3+/Dy3+/Sm3+ ions tri-doped samples are close to the standard equal energy white light illumination (x=0.333, y−0.333). With an increasing in Sm3+ ions concentration, blue and green emissions decrease gradually while red emission increases. In addition, the energy transitions among Tm3+, Dy3+, and Sm3+ ions are discussed in detail. The phenomenon is reasonably interpreted based on the analysis of the luminescence lifetime. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The Brucella melitensis vaccine strain M5 is widely used to prevent and control brucellosis in animals. In this study, we determined the whole-genome sequence of M5, and conducted a comprehensive comparative analysis against the whole-genome sequence of the virulent strain 16 M and other reference strains. This analysis revealed 11 regions of deletion (RDs) and 2 regions of insertion (RIs) within the M5 genome. Among these regions, the sequences encompassed in 5 RDs and 1 RI showed consistent variation, with a large deletion between the M5 and the 16 M genomes. RD4 and RD5 showed the large diversity among all Brucella genomes, both in RD length and RD copy number. Thus, RD4 and RD5 are potential sites for typing different Brucella strains. Other RD and RI regions exhibited multiple single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). In addition, a genome fragment with a 56 kb rearrangement was determined to be consistent with previous studies. Comparative genomic analysis indicated that genomic island inversion in Brucella was widely present. With the genetic pattern common among all strains analyzed, these 2 RDs, 1 RI, and one inversion region are potential sites for detection of genomic differences. Several SNPs of important virulence-related genes (motB, dhbC, sfuB, dsbAB, aidA, aroC, and lysR) were also detected, and may be used to determine the mechanism of virulence attenuation. Collectively, this study reveals that comparative analysis between wild-type and vaccine strains can provide resources for the study of virulence and microevolution of Brucella. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report on a Nd:Gd 3 Ga 5 O 12 crystal laser formed with a plane-parallel cavity, which could be passively Q -switched with single- or dual-loss modulation, and was capable of generating sub-nanosecond laser pulses. The laser was pumped by an 808-nm pulsed laser diode at a repetition rate of 120 Hz, with pump durations in a range of 100–350 μs. The shortest pulse width achieved in single-loss Q -switching was 461.7 ± 5.5 ps, and the highest peak power could amount to 128.5 ± 5.9 kW. Green laser pulses of 332 ps in width were also obtained through second-harmonic generation with a nonlinear component. In passively Q -switched operation with dual-loss modulation, the minimum pulse width attainable was 767.7 ± 2.5 ps, while the pulse peak power could reach 53.0 ± 6.6 kW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report on a Nd:Gd 3 Ga 5 O 12 crystal laser formed with a plane-parallel cavity, which could be passively Q -switched with single- or dual-loss modulation, and was capable of generating sub-nanosecond laser pulses. The laser was pumped by an 808-nm pulsed laser diode at a repetition rate of 120 Hz, with pump durations in a range of 100–350 μs. The shortest pulse width achieved in single-loss Q -switching was 461.7 ± 5.5 ps, and the highest peak power could amount to 128.5 ± 5.9 kW. Green laser pulses of 332 ps in width were also obtained through second-harmonic generation with a nonlinear component. In passively Q -switched operation with dual-loss modulation, the minimum pulse width attainable was 767.7 ± 2.5 ps, while the pulse peak power could reach 53.0 ± 6.6 kW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The far-field and near-field properties of a spherical nematic liquid crystal (NLC) coated metal nanoparticle (NPs) have been investigated in an external field, basing on the quasistatic theory. The resonant wavelength is tunable by varying metallic material of core, anisotropy extent and thickness of liquid crystals (LCs). The field enhancement is along the incident polarization near the outer surface of the shell. The direction of field is reverse in the inner surface comparing with the one if outer shell. In contrast to isotropy shell, the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) shows an obvious red shift and field enhancement near outer surface of the shell always is stronger. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The enhanced luminescences of Er3+/Yb3+ co-doped Y2Ti2O7 films were demonstrated when silver/gold (Ag/Au) nanoparticles (NPs) were doped in the films. With the precipitation of the Ag nanoprisms, more intense green (525nm, 546nm), red (659nm) upconversion (UC) emission bands and strong enhanced near infrared (NIR) emission were observed and the enhanced factors were up to 16.7, 15.6, 17.7 and 5.6 folds, respectively. The accordance between the local surface plasmon resonance of NPs and the UC emission band significantly increased the luminescence intensity. The efficiencies of the radiative emissions were enhanced also due to the hydroxyl groups primarily absorbed around the NPs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Rapid industrialization, increasing population urbanization, and improved living standards have all contributed to greatly increasing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in urban areas of developing countries. This situation is especially true for China, where fossil fuel depletion is a critical issue from its contribution to GHG emissions, and in terms of resources being consumed. To address these issues the Chinese government has supported application of ground source heat pumps (GSHP) technology. This focus is meant to alleviate the dependence on fossil fuels and improve the country''s energy structure. Several Chinese cities have embraced GSHP technology, and currently achieved some results. Shenyang, in Liaoning province, is one pioneering municipality. The city has become a champion of GSHP projects. However, the international energy research community has not been made aware of this important regional effort. The aim of this paper is to introduce and review the progress of GSHP technology diffusion within this region of China. This practical review will include policies, benefits and challenges facing the region and their adoption of GSHP technology. Recommendations for improvement of regional application on GSHP technologies given regional conditions are also made. These recommendations include strong leadership, appropriate policy incentives, effective enforcement mechanisms, and roundtable-based management. Relevant experience and lessons learned can be shared by other, globally locations, to help in GSHP technology diffusion. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: By conventional high-temperature melting method, Yb3+/Er3+/Tm3+ co-doped phosphate glass was synthesized. After annealing the precursor glass, the phosphate glass ceramic (GC) was obtained. By measuring the X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectrum, it is proved that the LiYbP4O12 and Li6P6O18 nano-crystals have existed in the phosphate GC. The up-conversion (UC) emission intensity of the GC is obvious stronger compared to that of the glass. The reason is that the shorter distance between rare earth ions in the glass ceramic increases the energy transitions from the sensitized ions (Yb3+) to the luminous ions (Er3+ and Tm3+). By studying the dependence of UC emissions on the pump power, the 523 and 546nm green emissions of Er3+ ions in the glass are two-photon processes. But in the glass ceramic, they are two/three-photon processes. The phenomenon implies that a three-photon process has participated in the population of the two green emissions. Using Dexter theory, we discuss the energy transitions of Er3+ and Tm3+. The results indicate the energy transition of Tm3+ to Er3+ is very strong in the GC, which changes the population mechanism of UC emissions of Er3+. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: Granzyme B (GrB) is a pro-apoptotic serine protease that contributes to immune-mediated target cell apoptosis. However, during inflammation, GrB accumulates in the extracellular space, retains its activity, and is capable of cleaving extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Recent studies have implicated a pathogenic extracellular role for GrB in cardiovascular disease, yet the pathophysiological consequences of extracellular GrB activity remain largely unknown. The objective of this study was to identify proteoglycan (PG) substrates of GrB and examine the ability of GrB to release PG-sequestered TGF-β1 into the extracellular milieu. Methods/Results: Three extracellular GrB PG substrates were identified; decorin, biglycan and betaglycan. As all of these PGs sequester active TGF-β1, cytokine release assays were conducted to establish if GrB-mediated PG cleavage induced TGFβ1 release. Our data confirmed that GrB liberated TGF-β1 from all three substrates as well as from endogenous ECM and this process was inhibited by the GrB inhibitor 3,4-dichloroisocoumarin. The released TGF-β1 retained its activity as indicated by the induction of SMAD-3 phosphorylation in human coronary artery smooth muscle cells. Conclusion: In addition to contributing to ECM degradation and the loss of tissue structural integrity in vivo, increased extracellular GrB activity is also capable of inducing the release of active TGF-b1 from PGs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The Er3+/Yb3+ co-doped Y2Ti2O7 phosphors were synthesized by the sol–gel method. XRD, TEM, and photoluminescence spectra of samples were measured and studied. The results demonstrate that the Y2Ti2O7 would transform from the amorphous to nanocrystalline at about 750°C. The mechanism of both upconversion and near infrared (NIR) photoluminescence and their changes with annealing temperature were analyzed. What is more, the pump-saturation effect of NIR emission and the anomalous slopes of the fitted straight line in the double-logarithmic plots for upconversion emissions were found in the nanocrystalline samples, which can be ascribed to domination of upconversion over linear decay for the 4I11/2 and 4I13/2 state and the saturation of 4I13/2 state in Er3+ ions largely owing to the energy back-transfer process. They are induced by high pump power and Yb3+ ions concentration. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: Granzyme B, a proapoptotic serine protease, is abundant in advanced, unstable atherosclerotic plaques, and it is suggested to contribute to plaque instability by inducing vascular smooth muscle cells apoptosis and by degrading plaque extracellular matrix. Proteinase inhibitor 9, the only known endogenous inhibitor of granzyme B in humans, confers protection against granzyme-B-induced apoptosis. However, the role of proteinase inhibitor 9 in atherosclerotic lesion development has yet to be determined. We hypothesized that atherosclerotic lesions have lower proteinase inhibitor 9 expression levels that will increase their susceptibility to granzyme-B-induced apoptosis. Methods: Serial sections of human coronary arteries exhibiting different stages of lesion development were assessed by immunohistochemistry for proteinase inhibitor 9, α-smooth muscle cells actin, granzyme B, CD8, and active caspase-3. Frozen samples were analyzed by Western blot to evaluate total proteinase inhibitor 9 levels. Results: Vascular smooth muscle cells express less proteinase inhibitor 9 as disease severity increases, and a significant difference in proteinase inhibitor 9 expression is observed between medial and intimal smooth muscle cells. High granzyme B levels colocalize with CD8+ cells and foam cells in the shoulder region and necrotic core area of advanced lesions. In advanced lesions, increased expression of activated caspase-3 in intimal SMC was associated with reduced proteinase inhibitor 9 expression in the presence of granzyme B. Conclusion: Reduced proteinase inhibitor 9 expression in human vascular smooth muscle cells is associated with atherosclerotic disease progression and is inversely related to the extent of apoptosis within the intima. Reduced proteinase inhibitor 9 expression may contribute to increased smooth muscle cell susceptibility to granzyme-B-induced apoptosis within the plaque. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The luminescence properties of Sm(TTFA) complex in presence of the silver (Ag) nanoparticles with size ranged from 80 nm to 120 nm and different shapes (nanorod, cube, tetrahedron, and nanowire) were investigated at two different excitation wavelengths of 397 nm and 350 nm, which was resonant and off-resonant excitation, respectively. The luminescence enhancement for the resonant excitation was much greater than that for the off-resonant excitation. The electric and magnetic dipole transitions were affected by the Ag nanoparticles and the results showed that their emission enhancement depended on the balance of the overlap between the emission wavelengths and the localized surface plasmon resonant of nanoparticles and their sensibility to the variation of local environments. The enhancement and quenching of the luminescence were both observed at the resonant excitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Apolipoprotein E knockout (apoE-KO) mice have been utilized for decades as a model of atherosclerosis. However, in addition to atherosclerosis, apoE-KO mice develop extensive cutaneous xanthomatosis, accelerated skin aging and frailty when fed a high fat diet. Granzyme B (GrB) is a pro-apoptotic serine protease that has recently been shown to exhibit extracellular proteolytic activity in certain pathologies. In the present study, the role of GrB in skin aging and pathology was assessed using the apoE-KO model of skin aging. Male C57BL/6 wild type and apoE-KO mice were grown for 0, 5, 15 or 30weeks on either a high fat (21.2% fat, 0.2% cholesterol) or regular chow diet (7% fat). ApoE/GrB double knockout (DKO) mice were also generated and assessed after being fed either diet for 30weeks. Skin was removed from the mid to lower back and examined for age-related changes such as hair loss, skin thinning and collagen remodeling and disorganization. ApoE-KO mice exhibited signs of frailty, hair graying, hair loss, skin thinning, loss of collagen density and increased skin pathologies featuring collagen remodeling and reduced decorin compared to wild type controls. These phenotypes occurred earlier and were more severe when fed a high fat diet. In addition, we also observed increased GrB expression in proximity to areas of decorin degradation and reduced collagen density in the skin of apoE-KO mice. DKO mice exhibited protection against skin thinning, ECM degradation and loss of dermal collagen density. In summary, our results provide novel insights into the effects of a high fat diet and apoE deficiency on skin aging and pathology and suggest a role for GrB in age-related skin thinning and frailty. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Aim of the study: Tripterygium wilfordii multiglycoside (GTW), an authorized Chinese patent drug, is used for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and other immune disease. This study was to determine whether GTW induced different toxic reactions in adjuvant arthritis rats (AA rats) compared to those in normal rats. Materials and methods: To prepare arthritic rat model, male Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats were immunized by injecting complete Freund''s Adjuvant into right hind footpad. And then, GTW was given to rats intragastrically at dosage of 7 or 105mgkg−1 day−1 from day 15 to day 28 after immunization. Routine clinical parameters and histopathologic changes of liver, kidney and testis were examined. Metabolic profiling in serum of groups was analyzed by LC–MS. A principal component analysis (PCA) and partial-least-squares discriminate analysis (PLS-DA) were carried out combined with mass spectrometry (MS) data set. All the quantitative data were performed by two-way ANOVA analysis following Student''s t-test. Results and conclusions: Treatment with GTW at both doses could diminish the right and left hind paws swelling. There was slight lipoid degeneration in hepatic tissue of normal rats treated by high dose of GTW, but there were not distinctly pathological changes in hepatic tissue of AA rats treated by GTW. Compared normal rats administered with GTW, no statistically significant difference in the serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), creatinine (CRE), and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels were observed. However, the serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) level was significant decreased in AA rats under exposure GTW compared with normal rats in the same conditions (p <0.05), which indicated that GTW could offer a different liver toxic reaction in normal and AA rats. The metabolic analysis showed that a clear separation of PCA and PLS-DA score spot in normal rats, but not separation was seen in AA rats perturbed with low dosage GTW. The result indicated low dosage GTW might arouse a general toxic in normal rats but not in AA rats. The biomarker analysis showed that the level of lysophosphatidylcholines (LPCs) was down-regulated, but the level of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and chenodexycholic acid (CDCA) was up-regulated in AA rats compared with normal rats under exposure GTW. According to pathway analysis of metabolic markers, we conceived that LPC, UDCA and CDCA were the critical intermediates of choline and fatty acid metabolism. And the lipid metabolism was a correlative outcome of GTW induced toxicity in the liver in physiological condition animals. Taken together, GTW could induce different toxic reactions between normal and AA rats, and the lipid metabolism might be part of the mechanism for the hepatic lipidosis or the other liver injury. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The Dajiuhu Basin at Shennongjia, located within typical East Asian Monsoon region, preserves a sub-alpine sphagnum peat deposition in its central area. The topmost 120 cm of the peat covers the last 4000 years according to AMS 14C dating of pollen concentration. Carbon isotope of a-cellulose, extracted from sphagnum peat, provides a quantitative reconstruction of atmospheric relative humidity, based on transfer functions of C3 plants carbon isotopic fractionation equation and the bryophyte photosynthesis CO2 absorption rate equation. δ13C, TOC and C/N variations reveal that the Dajiuhu area has experienced a long-term tendency to dry during 4000-1000 aBP, with a major transition happening around 3000 aBP. Four relative dry events are identified at 3400-3200, 3000-2600, 2200-2000 and 1600-1400 aBP, respectively, corresponding to those climate events documented in many global records. Three periodicities, 664 a, 302 a and 277 a enclosed in the atmospheric humidity of Dajiuhu are correlated to the cycles of solar activities. The weakening of East Asia summer monsoon during this period registered in the Dajiuhu peat is consistent with the synchronous weakening of Indian Monsoon. This trend may be attributed to gradual decrease of Northern Hemispheric summer solar insolation and the consequently southward migration of Intertropical Convergent Zone (ITCZ). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) is newly discovered virus which is the member of the order Bunyavirales, family phenuiviridae, phlebovirus genus. Its genome is composed of 3 segments of negative-sense RNA L, M and S. NSs is a non structure protein encoded by S segment which is important for viral replication and virulence. NSs protein of SFTSV is only involved in the regulation of host innate immune responses and suppression of IFN-promoter activities. So, the exact functions of this protein need to be studied deeply. To understand the exact role of NSs from SFTSV in viral replication and host immune response, a qualified antibody against this protein is required. In this study, NSs gene of SFTSV, was cloned into a bacterial expression vector (pGEX-6P-1) and the recombinant plasmid was transformed into Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) cells. The SFTSV NSs fusion protein was purified using Glutathione Sepharose 4B and utilized as an antigen to immunize rabbits and obtain an anti-SFTSV NSs polyclonal antibody. Proper expression of the fusion protein and polyclonal antibody specificity were confirmed by western blotting and immunofluorescence analyses. The polyclonal antibody recognized NSs from SFTSV specifically. This is the first report that NSs can form viroplasm-like structures not only in infected cells but also in transfected cells with NSs plasmids. This polyclonal antibody will be useful for future studies of NSs functions. • The polyclonal antibody could specifically recognize SFTSV NSs protein. It's essential to study biological function of SFTSV NSs protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrochemical behavior of copper (II)-2-[2,3,5-triazolylazo]-5-dimethyl-aninobenzonic [Cu(II)–TZAMB] complex was studied. In 0.05 mol l−1 potassium hydrogenphthalate (PBS, pH 2.5) buffer solution, Cu(II) and TZAMB can form Cu(II)–TZAMB complex. This complex has adsorptive characteristics on hanging mercury drop electrode (HMDE) and can be reduced in an irreversible reduction step. The calibration graph for copper(II) was linear over the concentration range 9.5×10−9mol l−1 to 4.7×10−7 mol l−1; the detection limit of the method was 9.5×10−9 mol l−1. The interference of some common ions was studied and the method was found suitable for the determination of copper(II) in rice and vegetables. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Cadmium (Cd) is a widespread environmental contaminant that causes severe bone metabolism disease, such as osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and osteomalacia. The present review aimed to explore the molecular mechanisms of Cd-induced bone injury starting from bone cell function and teeth development. Cd inhibits the differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) into osteoblasts, and directly causes BMSC apoptosis. In the case of osteoporosis, Cd mainly affects the activation of osteoclasts and promotes bone resorption. Cd-induces osteoblast injury and oxidative stress, which causes DNA damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, and endoplasmic reticulum stress, resulting in apoptosis. In addition, the development of osteoarthritis (OA) might be related to Cd-induced chondrocyte damage. The high expression of metallothionein (MT) might reduce Cd toxicity toward osteocytes. The toxicity of Cd toward teeth mainly focuses on enamel development and dental caries. Understanding the effect of Cd on bone cell function and teeth development could contribute to revealing the mechanisms of Cd-induced bone damage. This review explores Cd-induced bone disease from cellular and molecular levels, and provides new directions for removing this heavy metal from the environment. Cd exposure causes severe bone metabolism disease. Apoptosis and differentiation play an essential role in Cd-induced osteoporosis. The development of osteoarthritis (OA) might be related to Cd-induced chondrocyte damage. The expression of MT may affect Cd-induced osteocytes damage. The toxicity of Cd toward teeth is mainly focused on enamel development and dental caries. Therefore, bone cells function and teeth development is mainly present manner of Cd toxicity. Unlabelled Image • Cd causes severe bone metabolism disease. • Cd-induces bone injury via affecting bone cell formation and function. • Apoptosis is main death manner by Cd-induced bone cell. • The toxicity of Cd toward teeth is mainly affected enamel development and dental caries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We synthesized A-site-ordered perovskites LaMn 3 Rh 4 O 12 and La 0.8 Ca 0.2 Mn 3 Rh 4 O 12 by using high-pressure and high temperature method. • Both LaMn 3 Rh 4 O 12 and La 0.8 Ca 0.2 Mn 3 Rh 4 O 12 show antiferromagnetic semiconducting behavior. • The interaction between high spin Mn3+ ions induces a G-type antiferromagnetism, while low spin Rh3+ ions have no magnetic contribution. • The results confirm that non-Jahn-Teller distorted Mn4+ ion cannot occupy A' site in the A-site-ordered perovskite, even partly. A-site-ordered perovskites LaMn 3 Rh 4 O 12 and La 0.8 Ca 0.2 Mn 3 Rh 4 O 12 were prepared by using high-pressure and high temperature method. Structural and BVS analyses suggest that the valence states of Mn and Rh ions are both +3 in LaMn 3 Rh 4 O 12. Partial Ca-doping introduced some Mn4+ ions, which are transferred to B site and leave some deficiencies at A′ site. Localized electrons of Mn and Rh ions induce a semiconducting behavior. Combined with the results of the first principles calculation, it is believed that the interaction between high spin Mn3+ ions induce a G-type antiferromagnetism, while low spin Rh3+ ions have no magnetic contribution. And also, there is no interaction between Mn and Rh ions. The results confirm that non-Jahn-Teller distorted Mn4+ ion cannot occupy A′ site in the A-site-ordered perovskite, even partly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium (Cd), an environmental pollutant, induces osteoporosis by directly destroying bone tissue, but its direct damaging effect on bone cells is not fully illustrated. Here, we treated mouse bone marrow stem cells (BMSC) and bone marrow macrophages (BMM) with Cd, and gave BALB/c mice Cd in water. Long-term Cd exposure significantly inhibited BMSC osteogenesis and osteoclast differentiation in vitro , and induced osteoporosis in vivo. Cd exposure also reduced P2X7 expression dramatically. However, P2X7 deletion significantly inhibited osteoblast and osteoclast differentiation; P2X7 overexpression obviously reduced the suppression effect of Cd on osteoblast and osteoclast differentiation. The suppression of P2X7–PI3K–AKT signaling aggravated the effect of Cd. In mice, short-term Cd exposure did not result in osteoporosis, but bone formation was inhibited, RANKL expression was increased, and osteoclasts were significantly increased in vivo. In vitro , short-term Cd exposure not only increased osteoclast numbers, but also promoted osteoclast adhesion function at late-stage osteoclast differentiation. Cd exposure also reduced P2X7 expression in vivo and in vitro. Our results demonstrate that short-term Cd exposure does not affect osteoblast and osteoclast apoptosis in vivo and in vitro , but long-term Cd exposure significantly increases bone tissue apoptosis. Overall, our results describe a novel mechanism for Cd-induced osteoporosis. ga1 • Long-term Cd exposure induced osteoporosis in mice. • Cd exposure decreased P2X7 greatly in vitro and in vivo. • In vitro , deleting P2X7 inhibited osteoblast and osteoclast differentiation. • Cd exposure inhibited osteogenesis and osteoclast differentiation in vitro. • P2X7 overexpression decreased this suppressive effect of Cd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An increase in oxidative stress is an important pathological mechanism of heart injury induced by doxorubicin (DOX). Tranilast is an anti-allergy drug that has been shown to possess good antioxidant activity in previous studies. The overexpression and secretion of chymase by mast cells (MCs) increase the pathological overexpression of angiotensin II (Ang II), which plays a crucial role in myocardial hypertrophy and the deterioration of heart disease. The MC stabilizer tranilast (N-(3,4-dimethoxycinnamoyl) anthranilic acid; tran) prevents mast cells from degranulating, which may reduce DOX-induced Ang II synthesis. Therefore, in the present study, we hypothesized that tranilast will protect rats from DOX-induced myocardial damage via its antioxidant activity, thereby inhibiting Ang II expression. Thirty male Wistar rats were divided into three groups (n = 10 in each group) that received DOX, a combination of DOX and tranilast or saline (the control group) to test this hypothesis. Tranilast suppressed chymase expression, reduced Ang II levels and prevented the myocardial hypertrophy and the deterioration of heart function induced by DOX. Based on the findings of the present study, the suppression of chymase-dependent Ang-II production and the direct effect of tranilast on the inhibition of apoptosis and fibrosis because of its antioxidant stress capacity may contribute to the protective effect of tranilast against DOX-induced myocardial hypertrophy. • Tranilast attenuates the cardiac hypertrophy induced by DOX. • Tranilast prevents the deterioration of heart function induced by DOX. • Tranilast inhibits the expression of Ang II induced by DOX. • Tranilast attenuates oxidative stress and fibrosis induced by DOX. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• ZnMnO 3 was synthesized by high pressure method. It shows a hexagonal structure with a space group of R -3H. • Its lattice parameters are a = b = 4.9608 (2) Å, c = 13.7876 (3) Å at room temperature. • The octahedrons of ZnO 6 and MnO 6 are stacked layer by layer. • The electronic configuration is Zn2+Mn4+O 3 , where the interaction between Mn4+ ions induces an AFM transition at 16.2 K. • The results of the first principles calculation also indicates ZnMnO 3 is a Mn4+ ions dominated AFM insulating behavior. Ilmenite-type compound ZnMnO 3 was synthesized by high temperature and high pressure method. The phase is different from that synthesized at atmospheric pressure, it shows a hexagonal structure with a space group of R -3H (No. 148). Its lattice parameters are a = b = 4.9608 (2) Å, c = 13.7876 (3) Å at room temperature. The octahedrons of ZnO 6 and MnO 6 are stacked layer by layer. The electronic configuration is Zn2+Mn4+O 3 , where the antiferromagnetic (AFM) interaction between Mn4+ ions induces an AFM transition at 16.2 K. The results of the first principles calculation also indicates ZnMnO 3 is a Mn4+ ions dominated AFM insulator with an energy gap of 1.34 eV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium (Cd), a heavy metal produced by various industries, contaminates the environment and seriously damages the skeletal system of humans and animals. Recent studies have reported that Cd can affect the viability of cells, including osteoblasts, both in vivo and in vitro. However, the mechanism of Cd-induced apoptosis remains unclear. In the present study, primary rat osteoblasts were used to investigate the Cd-induced apoptotic mechanism. We found that treatment with 2 and 5 μM Cd for 12 h decreased osteoblast viability and increased apoptosis. Furthermore, Cd increased the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and, thus, DNA damage measured via p-H2AX. The level of the nuclear transcription factor p53 was significantly increased, which upregulated the expression of PUMA, Noxa, Bax, and mitochondrial cytochrome c , downregulated the expression of Bcl-2, and increased the level of cleaved caspase-3. However, pretreatment with the ROS scavenger N -acetyl- l -cysteine (NAC) or the p53 transcription specific inhibitor PFT-α suppressed Cd-induced apoptosis. Our results indicate that Cd can induce apoptosis in osteoblasts by increasing the generation of ROS and activating the mitochondrial p53 signaling pathway, and this mechanism requires the transcriptional activation of p53. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we report a method for rapid water quality evaluation based on laser-excited dissolved organic matter (DOM) fluorescence and water Raman peak. A formula, which results in the score from 0 to 100, was proposed to evaluate water quality. We first employed this method to evaluate the self-prepared water samples with humic acid or fulvic acid under different concentrations from 0.01 mg/L to 8 mg/L. In these experiments, the water samples were tested by our self-customed microlaser spectrometer. The good correlations between fluorescence intensity of DOM and concentrations of humic acid or fulvic acid were found. These results indicated that the method we proposed is reasonable on the water quality assessment. Furthermore, we evaluated water samples from five different sources and the results consisted well with the general knowledge of the water quality. These results demonstrated that this method offers a number of advantages for water quality evaluation including compact configuration, rapid test process, simple operation, and low cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium (Cd) is one of worldwide environmental pollutants that causes bone homeostasis, which depends on the resorption of bones by osteoclasts and formation of bones by the osteoblasts (OB). However, the Cd toxicity on OB and its mechanism are unclear. Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved degradation process in which domestic intracellular components are selectively digested for the recycling of nutrients and energy. This process is indispensable for cell homeostasis maintenance and stress responses. Dysregulation at the level of autophagic activity consequently disturbs the balance between bone formation and bone resorption and mediates the onset and progression of multiple bone diseases, including osteoporosis. TAK1 has been recently emerged as an activator of AMPK and hence an autophagy inducer. AMPK is a key molecule that induces autophagy and regulates cellular metabolism to maintain energy homeostasis. Conversely, autophagy is inhibited by mTORC1. In this study, we found that Cd treatment caused the formation of autophagosomes, LC3-II lipidation and p62 downregulation, and the increased autophagic flux, indicating that Cd treatment induced autophagy in OBs. Cd treatment induced TAK1 activation mediated AMPK phosphorylation, which promoted autophagy via phosphorylation of ULK1 at S317. Meanwhile, Cd treatment dramatically decreased mTORC1, S6K1, 4E-BP1, S6, ULK1S555 and ULK1S757 phosphorylation, suggesting that mTORC1 activity was inhibited and inactive mTORC1 prevents ULK1 activation by phosphorylating ULK1 at SerS555 and Ser757. Our data strongly suggest that TAK1 mediates AMPK activation, which activates ULK1 by phosphorylating ULK1S317 and suppressing mTORC1-mediated ULK1S555 and ULK1S757 phosphorylation. Our study has revealed a signaling mechanism for TAK1 in Cd-induced autophagy in OBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schematic representation of the proposed Cd-induced signaling pathway in osteoclasts. Treatment of osteoclasts with Cd leads to a transient increase in intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+] i). Cd-induces the elevation of [Ca2+] i and activation of CaM/CaMKII/CaMKIV signaling. CaM/CaMKII/CaMKIV signaling induces the expression of NFATc1, leading to osteoclast differentiation. ER Ca2+ release, the elevation of [Ca2+] I , and the activation of CaM, CaMKII, and CaMKIV can be inhibited by 2-APB, BAPTA-AM, W-7, KN93 and STO-609, respectively. Environmental cadmium (Cd) pollution can ultimately lead to chronic toxicity via food consumption. Previous studies have demonstrated that long-term low-dose Cd exposure decreases bone mineral density and bone mineralization. Cd may increase receptor activator of nuclear factor-κ B ligand (RANKL) expression by osteoclasts, and inhibit the expression of osteoprotegerin. However, the molecular mechanism underlying Cd toxicity toward osteoclasts is unclear. In this study, bone marrow monocytes were isolated from C57BL/6 mice and treated with macrophage colony-stimulating factor and RANKL to induce the formation of osteoclasts. The results show that low-dose Cd exposure induced osteoclast differentiation. Cd also increased the intracellular calcium concentration of osteoclasts by triggering release of calcium ions from the endoplasmic reticulum into the cytoplasm. Furthermore, the elevation of intracellular calcium levels was shown to activate the calmodulin (CaM)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase (CaMK) pathway. NFATc1 is a downstream protein of CaM/CaMK signaling, as well as a key player in osteoclast differentiation. Overall, we conclude that Cd activates the CaM/CaMK/NFATc1 pathway and regulates osteoclast differentiation by increasing intracellular calcium concentration. Our data provide new insights into the mechanisms underlying osteoclast differentiation following Cd exposure. This study provides a theoretical basis for future investigations into the therapeutic application of CaMK inhibitors in osteoporosis induced by Cd exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The significant enhancement of luminescence of the europium (Eu) complex Eu(TTFA)3 owing to the local surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of the silver nanocubes was observed. The excitation and emission enhancements were both presented. The excitation enhancement mainly came from the balance of two aspects. Besides the spectra overlap between the LSPR spectrum and the excitation bands of Eu ions, the intrinsic intensity of the excitation of the Eu ions in absence of nanocubes also played an important role. The emission enhancement, which was the relative change in the radiative decay rate, non-radiative decay rate and quantum efficiency, of the Eu ions at 612nm came from the change of the photonic mode density (PMD) and was concerned with concentrations of the nanocubes as well as the excitation wavelengths. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Expression patterns of TaSPLs in different tissues of wheat by RNA-seq. • TaSPL13-2B transgenic rice showing increased panicle branches with more grains. • TaSPL13-2B transgenic wheat with significant increases in florets and grains per spike. The SQUAMOSA promoter-binding protein-like (SPL) proteins play vital roles in plant growth and development in rice (Oryza sative L.) and Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. However, few studies regarding the SPL proteins have been reported in wheat. In this study, 56 TaSPLs were clustered into eight groups according to an OsSPL phylogenetic comparison analysis. The expression patterns of TaSPLs in different tissues were analysed by RNA-seq data, and partial results were confirmed by qRT-PCR. Based on the above results, genes such as TaSPL13 and TaSPL15 may be involved in spike or seed development in wheat. Multiple genes that regulate the inflorescence architecture of rice have been identified. Additionally, studies on the genes associated with spikelet development in wheat have been reported relatively rarely. Here, TaSPL13-2B was transferred into wheat cv. Bobwhite. Compared with the wild type, the transgenic lines showed significant increases in the number of florets and grains per spike, indicating that TaSPL13-2B could influence the floret development of wheat. TaSPL13-2B was transferred into rice cv. Nipponbare, which demonstrated that TaSPL13-2B can modify panicle architecture in transgenic rice, with significant increases in panicle length, the number and length of primary branches, and the number of secondary branches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of Ln-CPs (1 – 4) display two kinds of 1D chains due to the lanthanide contraction, which exhibit characteristic emission of corresponding Ln3+ ion. Furthermore, 2 (Eu) and 4 (Tb) act as luminescent probes for Fe3+ ions. • Four luminescent Lnlll coordination polymers based on 2-chloroisonicotinic (HL) acid have been synthesized. • Complexes 1 – 4 exhibit two 1D chain, including [Ln(COO) 2 Ln(COO) 4 n (1 , 2) and [Ln(COO) 2 n (3 , 4) chain. • Complexes 2 (Eu) and 4 (Tb) should be potential luminescent probes for Fe3+ ions. A series of lanthanide coordination polymers (Ln-CPs), with the formula of {[Ln(L) 3 (CH 3 OH)(H 2 O)] n } (Ln = Sm (1), Eu (2), HL = 2-chloroisonicotinic acid) and {[Ln(L) 3 (H 2 O) 2 n } (Ln = Dy (3), Tb (4)), were synthesized under solvothermal condition. This series display two different 1D chains due to the lanthanide contraction: complexes 1 and 2 , based on light Sm and Eu, respectively, consist of paddle-wheel [Ln 2 (COO) 4 dimmers through double μ 2 -COO bridges, and complexes 3 and 4 with heavy Dy and Tb, respectively, show 1D [Ln(COO) 2 n chains. The luminescent measurements indicate the typical emissions of corresponding Ln3+ ions in complexes 1 – 4. Furthermore, complexes 2 and 4 display significant luminescent response for Fe3+ ions with high quenching constant. The result indicates that complexes 2 and 4 can act as luminescent probes for Fe3+ ions with relatively high sensitivity and selectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigating the net effects of foreign trade on the local environment requires a multiscale perspective. Increasingly, scholars have been investing effort to establish a global–national–local system of linkages or a local–nonlocal division of linkages. However, analysis at the megaregion level has somehow been overlooked, although megaregions play a substantial role in the context of accelerating regional integration and increasing regional pollution. This study incorporated megaregions into the existing multiscale input-output model and constructed a four-level analytical framework to analyze the emissions embodied in exports (EEE) in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) region. Since this region pioneered the economic transition in China, this study further applies structural decomposition analysis (SDA) to investigate the structural changes in EEE. The empirical results show that EEE in the YRD region was mainly affected by local and cross-border linkages, which account for 85.1% and 9.8% of the total EEE in the region. The increase in local EEE linkages needs to be reduced by local technological innovation in sectors such as light industry and energy. To prevent the YRD from becoming a pollution haven for developed countries, the cross-border EEE linkage must be reduced by adjusting the production and consumption structure of light industry. Cross-regional EEE linkage can be reduced through technology upgrades in the construction sector. The trend of a decrease in intraregional linkage and an increase in cross-regional linkage indicates that YRD exports tend to be outward rather than inward oriented. The four-level framework for examining EEE offers new detailed insights into the mitigation of regional air pollution. • A four-linkage framework based on MRIO was developed to trace the sources of EEE. • Local and cross-border linkages accounted for most of the total EEE in the YRD. • The pollution haven trend from developed countries to China's coastal regions became weaker. • EEE in the YRD was mainly influenced by the energy and metal manufacturing sectors. • Local emission reduction relied on technology upgrade and structure optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Osteoclasts (OC) are unique terminally differentiated cells whose primary function is bone resorption. We previously showed that osteoprotegerin (OPG) inhibits OC differentiation in vitro by enhancing autophagy via the adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK)/mTOR/p70S6K signalling pathway in vitro. Here, we aimed to elucidate the mechanism of AMPK mediated autophagy to regulate OPG‐mediated inhibition of OC differentiation and identify potential therapeutic targets associated with bone loss. Materials and Methods: We used the AMPK activator AICAR to determine the relationship between AMPK activation and OC differentiation, and studied the role of AMPK‐mediated autophagy in OPG‐mediated inhibition of OC differentiation by using autophagy inhibitors or AMPK knockdown. Results: AMP‐activated protein kinase activation caused LC3II accumulation and weakened OC differentiation activity. In contrast, inactivation of autophagy by 3‐methyladenine or Bafilomycin A1 could attenuate OPG‐mediated inhibition of OC differentiation via the AMPK/mTOR/p70S6K signalling pathway. Furthermore, the AMPK inhibitor compound C and knockdown of AMPK impaired OPG‐mediated inhibition of OC differentiation by inducing autophagy. Conclusions: These results demonstrated that the AMPK signalling pathway functions as a critical regulator in the OPG‐mediated inhibition of OC differentiation, by inducing autophagy. Our results provide a basis for future bone‐related studies on the AMPK signalling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The first study aimed to achieve simultaneous detection of DA and electrophysiological signals (multiple brain regions). • Sudden STN-HFS induces the DA level increase in CPu and the synchronous massive spike firing both in M1 and in CPu. • Pathological slow oscillations (∼1 Hz) in spike trains of M1 and CPu were weakened evidently during main functional period. High-frequency stimulation of subthalamic nucleus (STN-HFS) is highly effective in alleviating motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD). However, there are few reports about the simultaneous changes of neural information, including neurotransmitter signal and neuro-electrophysiological signal (multiple brain regions), under the influence of STN-HFS. Here, a comprehensive system was established, while applying electrostimulation, modified microelectrode arrays were utilized to record dopamine concentration in caudate putamen (CPu) and to detect neuro-electrophysiological signal in primary motor cortex (M1) and CPu synchronously. Results show that rats with PD, dopamine level is significantly lower than that of normal rats; powers of spike trains in M1 and CPu are much higher than these of normal rats in low delta frequency range (0.3–1.5 Hz). Additionally, significant responses to STN-HFS were recorded. After STN-HFS, dopamine level dramatically increased more than 2-fold its pre-HFS; powers of M1 spike and CPu spike were suppressed in ∼1 Hz; Sequentially, neurotransmitter and electrophysiology activities gradually returned to stable, and recovered to PD-state. These observations revealed that the effects of STN-HFS were highly correlated with dopamine and electrophysiology activities in cortex-basal ganglia loop but last a brief duration, a theoretical basis that could be applied in closed-loop STN-HFS for long-term suppression of tremor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Honeybee coupling structure is made up of a strong sclerotized cuticle. • The coupling structure allows a large wing angle range during flight. • The coupled wing is positively cambered during the upstroke and downstroke. • The wing angle range augments lift and drag with a higher rate of drag augment. Worker honeybees (Apis mellifera) are morphologically four-winged, but are functionally dipterous insects. During flight, their fore- and hindwings are coupled by means of the forewing posterior rolled margin (PRM) and hindwing hamuli. Morphological analysis shows that the PRM can be connected to the hamuli, so that the fore- and hindwing are firmly hinged, and can rotate with respect to each other. In the present study, using a combination of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), we investigate the micromorphology and material composition of the coupling structures on both fore- and hindwings. High-speed filming is utilized to determine the angle variation between the fore- and hindwings in tethered flight. Using sets of two-dimensional (2D) computation fluid dynamic analyses, we further aim to understand the influence of the angle variation on the aerodynamic performance of the coupled wings. The results of the morphological investigations show that both PRM and hamuli are made up of a strongly sclerotized cuticle. The sclerotized hinge-like connection of the coupling structure allows a large angle variation between the wings (135°–235°), so that a change is made from an obtuse angle during the pronation and downstroke to a reflex angle during the supination and upstroke. Our computational results show that in comparison to a model with a rigid coupling hinge, the angle variation of a model having a flexible hinge results in both increased lift and drag with a higher rate of drag increase. This study deepens our understanding of the wing-coupling mechanism and functioning of coupled insect wings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Human brucellosis is endemic in China and commonly occurs through contact with infected animals from working with livestock or consumption of unpasteurized dairy products. Although rare, human-to-human, and possible sexual transmission, of Brucella has been reported. In this report, we describe a case of likely mother-to-child transmission of Brucella in Hunan Province, China.Case Presentation: Between June and October 2016, a 28-year old man sought care for testicular swelling and pain at several health facilities. His 26-year old wife developed intermittent fever along with right thigh and hip pain between November 2016 and February 2017 respectively. On April 5, 2017, the female patient delivered a male neonate at 34 weeks of gestation through natural labor. The child's venal blood sample was cultured on April 5, 2017. Brucella was isolated and identified on April 12, 2017. On the same date, serum antibodies of the father and mother were above 1:100 (based on the serum agglutination test [SAT]). The strains isolated from the mother and neonate were identified as Brucella melitensis biotype 1.Conclusions: This report highlights a family cluster of brucellosis. Culture results strongly support mother-to-child transmission, and a high probability of sexual transmission from husband to wife. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]