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Background: Universal stress proteins (USPs) are a class of stress-induced proteins that play a crucial role in biotic and abiotic stress responses. These proteins have previously been reported to participate directly in responses to various stress and protect plants against unfavorable environmental conditions. However, there is limited research on USPs in cotton, and systematic characterization of USPs in Gossypium species is lacking. Results: In the present study, the USP genes in Gossypium hirsutum were systematically identified and classified into six distinct subfamilies. The expansion of USPs in Gossypium species is mainly caused by dispersed duplication and whole genome duplication. Notably, the USPs that have expanded through allotetraploidization events are highly conserved in the allotetraploid species. The promoter regions of GhUSPs contain a diverse range of cis-acting elements associated with stress response. The RNA-Seq analysis and RT-qPCR assays revealed a significant induction of numerous GhUSPs expressions in response to various abiotic stresses. The co-expression network of GhUSPs revealed their involvement in stress response. Conclusions: This study systematically analyzed the biological characteristics of GhUSPs and their response to abiotic stress. These findings serve as a theoretical basis for facilitating the breeding of cotton varieties in future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monocytes are highly plastic innate immune cells that display significant heterogeneity during homeostasis, inflammation, and tumorigenesis. Tumor-induced systemic and local microenvironmental changes influence the phenotype, differentiation, and distribution of monocytes. Meanwhile, monocytes and their related cell subsets perform an important regulatory role in the development of many cancers by affecting tumor growth or metastasis. Thanks to recent advances in single-cell technologies, the nature of monocyte heterogeneity and subset-specific functions have become increasingly clear, making it possible to systematically analyze subset-specific roles of monocytes in tumorigenesis. In this review, we discuss recent discoveries related to monocytes and tumorigenesis, and new strategies for tumor biomarker identification and anti-tumor immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potato rot nematode Ditylenchus destructor is one of the most damaging pests in potato-producing regions and causes severe yield losses worldwide. However, D. destructor has been rarely reported in potato crops in China. We collected 542 samples from 17 Chinese provinces during 2016–2020 for the detection of D. destructor using species-specific primers and universal primers targeting ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) or 28S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) sequences. D. destructor was detected in 14.94% of total samples, primarily in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region (43 sites), Jilin Province (12 sites), and Shaanxi Province (9 sites). The nematode was for the first time detected in Guizhou Province and Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. Phylogenetic analysis of 33 ITS sequences along with the prediction of the secondary structure of the helix H9 of ITS1 sequences revealed that haplotypes A, B, and C accounted for 6.06%, 9.09%, and 69.70% of our detections, respectively, while 15.15% were comprised of haplotypes H–L, and extensive genetic diversity of ITS sequences was detected in samples from Gansu Province. Using RNAfold software, we analyzed the haplotypes of 124 Chinese D. destructor populations based on their ITS sequences, and the results showed that haplotypes A, B, C, E, F, and new haplotypes M–P accounted for 49.19%, 12.10%, 15.32%, 3.23%, 1.61%, and 18.55% of the total sequences, respectively. Infection tests on the potato cultivar ‘Helan 15’ showed significant difference in infection capacity among different D. destructor populations. The information obtained in this study on spatial patterns of D. destructor haplotypes in China provides valuable insights into the development of an integrated approach for the management of this plant-parasitic nematode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) is an annual herbaceous plant of the genus Hibiscus in family Malvaceae. Roselle calyxes are rich in anthocyanins, which play important roles in human health. However, limited information is available on anthocyanin biosynthesis in the roselle calyx. In this study, transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses were performed to identify the key genes involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis in the roselle calyx. Three roselle cultivars with different calyx colors, including FZ-72 (red calyx, R), Baitao K (green calyx, G), and MG5 (stripped calyx, S), were used for metabolomic analyses with UPLC-Q-TOF/MS and RNA-seq. Forty-one compounds were quantified, including six flavonoids and 35 anthocyanins. The calyx of FZ-72 (red calyx) had the highest contents of anthocyanin derivatives such as delphinidin-3-O-sambubioside (955.11 μg/g) and cyanidin-3-O-sambubioside (531.37 μg/g), which were responsible for calyx color, followed by those in MG5 (stripped calyx) (851.97 and 330.06 μg/g, respectively). Baitao K (green calyx) had the lowest levels of these compounds. Furthermore, RNA-seq analysis revealed 114,415 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the calyxes at 30 days after flowering (DAF) for the corresponding cultivars FZ-72 (R), Baitao K (G), and MG5(S). The gene expression levels in the calyxes of the three cultivars were compared at different flowering stages, revealing 11,555, 11,949, and 7177 DEGs in R vs. G, R vs. S, and G vs. S, respectively. Phenylpropanoid and flavonoid biosynthesis pathways were found to be enriched. In the flavonoid pathway, 29, 28, and 27 genes were identified in G vs. R, G vs. S, and S vs. R, respectively. In the anthocyanin synthesis pathway, two, two, and one differential genes were identified in the three combinations; these differential genes belonged to the UFGT gene family. After joint analysis of the anthocyanin content in roselle calyxes, nine key genes belonging to the CHS, CHI, UFGT, FLS, ANR, DFR, CCoAOMT, SAT, and HST gene families were identified as strongly related to anthocyanin synthesis. These nine genes were verified using qRT-PCR, and the results were consistent with the transcriptome data. Overall, this study presents the first report on anthocyanin biosynthesis in roselle, laying a foundation for breeding roselle cultivars with high anthocyanin content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tire wear particles (TWPs), as predominant microplastics (MPs) in road runoff, can be captured and retained by bioretention systems (BRS). This study aimed to investigate the effect of TWPs accumulation on nitrogen processes, focusing on soil characteristics, microbial community, and functional genes. Two groups of lab-scale bioretention columns containing TWPs (0 and 100 mg g−1) were established. The removal efficiencies of NH 4 +-N and TN in BRS significantly decreased by 7.60%–24.79% and 1.98%–11.09%, respectively, during the 101 days of TWPs exposure. Interestingly, the emission fluxes of N 2 O and CO 2 were significantly decreased, while the emission flux of CH 4 was substantially increased. Furthermore, prolonged TWPs exposure significantly influenced the contents of soil organic matter (increased by 27.07%) and NH 4 +-N (decreased by 42.15%) in the planting layer. TWPs exposure also significantly increased dehydrogenase activity and substrate-induced respiration rate, thereby promoting microbial metabolism. Microbial sequencing results revealed that TWPs decreased the relative abundance of nitrifying bacteria (Nitrospira and Nitrosomonas) and denitrifying bacteria (Dechloromonas and Thauera), reducing the nitrification rate by 42.24%. PICRUSt2 analysis further indicated that TWPs changed the relative abundance of functional genes related to nitrogen and enzyme-coding genes. [Display omitted] • TWPs inhibited nitrogen removal of BRS under 101-day exposure. • TWPs significantly reduced the GHGs emission flux of BRS. • TWPs altered enzymatic activities (DHA, HyR, NXR, NAR, and NIR) of planting soil. • TWPs promoted microbial metabolism but negatively impacted nitrification process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potato rot nematode Ditylenchus destructor is one of the most damaging pests in potato-producing regions and causes severe yield losses worldwide. However, D. destructor has been rarely reported in potato crops in China. We collected 542 samples from 17 Chinese provinces during 2016–2020 for the detection of D. destructor using species-specific primers and universal primers targeting ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) or 28S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) sequences. D. destructor was detected in 14.94% of total samples, primarily in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region (43 sites), Jilin Province (12 sites), and Shaanxi Province (9 sites). The nematode was for the first time detected in Guizhou Province and Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. Phylogenetic analysis of 33 ITS sequences along with the prediction of the secondary structure of the helix H9 of ITS1 sequences revealed that haplotypes A, B, and C accounted for 6.06%, 9.09%, and 69.70% of our detections, respectively, while 15.15% were comprised of haplotypes H–L, and extensive genetic diversity of ITS sequences was detected in samples from Gansu Province. Using RNAfold software, we analyzed the haplotypes of 124 Chinese D. destructor populations based on their ITS sequences, and the results showed that haplotypes A, B, C, E, F, and new haplotypes M–P accounted for 49.19%, 12.10%, 15.32%, 3.23%, 1.61%, and 18.55% of the total sequences, respectively. Infection tests on the potato cultivar 'Helan 15' showed significant difference in infection capacity among different D. destructor populations. The information obtained in this study on spatial patterns of D. destructor haplotypes in China provides valuable insights into the development of an integrated approach for the management of this plant-parasitic nematode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficient removal of nitrate nitrogen (NO 3 −-N) and reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in bioretention system (BRS) poses challenges. This study aimed to investigate the performance of a pyrite/biochar-based BRS coupled with microbial fuel cell (MFC) (PBM-BRS) in terms of pollution removal, bioelectricity generation, and GHG emissions under various operating conditions. Compared with the conventional bioretention system (C-BRS), the PBM-BRS demonstrated an enhanced capacity for pollutant removal, with an increase of 5%–30%. It also exhibited low GHG emissions, as evidenced by a CO 2 equivalent (CO 2eq) release flux of 971.20 ± 277.54 mg CO 2 /(m2·d). As the influent C/N ratio increases, all systems experienced an increase in NO 3 −-N and TN removal, output voltage, and power density. Meanwhile, the accumulation of nitrite nitrogen (NO 2 −-N) gradually diminished, and the emission fluxes of CO 2eq decreased significantly (P < 0.05). Microbial analysis revealed that the PBM-BRS significantly affected the community structure, promoting the proliferation of electroactive bacteria (e.g., Geobacteraceae), and augmenting the abundance of denitrification functional enzymes (narG , nirS , norB , and nosZ) through the incorporation of pyrite. The SEM and spectroscopy (XPS and FTIR) results indicated that the electrochemical action facilitated Fe2+/Fe3+ in-situ supported on biochar (Fe@BC), promoting electron transport. This process impeded the respiration of methanogenic bacteria and diminishing the formation of intermediate product N 2 O. In conclusion, the PBM-BRS demonstrated superior performance in the removal of NO 3 −-N, reduction of GHG emissions, and bioelectricity generation through a synergistic action of adsorption, electrolysis, and microbial degradation. This confirms the high potential of PBM-BRS as a highly promising technology for water treatment. [Display omitted] • A pyrite/biochar-based BRS coupled with MFC (PBM-BRS) was established. • The lower nitrate effluent concentration and GHG flux were observed in PBM-BRS. • PBM-BRS remained stability under different operation conditions. • The in-situ ferric supported on biochar enhances integrated system's performance. • PBM-BRS promotes the richness of denitrification-related bacteria and enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a progressive disorder of liver metabolism and has become the most common chronic liver disease worldwide. Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) is recognized as a potent carcinogen, but the effect of low-dose BaP on the development of NAFLD has not been well-studied, and its molecular mechanism is still unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that low-dose BaP induced hepatic steatosis in a mouse model with a notable increase in hepatic lipid content. Interestingly, mRNA expression of genes related to fatty acids uptake or synthesis was not significantly altered after BaP exposure. Instead, we found that low-dose BaP promoted lipid deposition in primary mouse hepatocytes by inhibiting autophagy, which was regulated through Leucine carboxyl methyltransferase-1 (LCMT1) mediated Protein Phosphatases 2A subunit C (PP2Ac) methylation. The role of LCMT1 in BaP-induced steatosis was further validated in a liver-specific lcmt1 knockout (L-LCMT1 KO) mouse model. In this study, we provided evidence to support a novel mechanism by which BaP induces the development of hepatic steatosis through PP2Ac mediated autophagy inhibition. These findings provided new insight into the pathogenesis of NAFLD induced by environmental exposure to low-dose BaP. • Low-doses BaP can promote lipid deposition in liver cells. • 2. Low-dose BaP induces hepatic lipid deposition through LCMT1/PP2Ac-regulated autophagy inhibition. • Liver-specific LCMT1 knockout alleviates low-dose BaP induced hepatic lipid deposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) induced protein 6 is a major anti-inflammatory mediator released by activated mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). Neonatal MSCs are considered more metabolically active than cells derived from adult tissues, and potentially less heterogeneous. We hypothesized that a TNF-α-activated neonatal MSC population [human umbilical cord perivascular cells (HUCPVCs)] would show an enhanced level of TSG-6 activation compared with adult bone marrow MSCs (BMMSCs). Thus, we stimulated HUCPVCs, and both human BMMSCs (hBMMSCs) and mouse BMMSCs (mBMMSCs) with 1, 10, 50, and 100 ng/mL of recombinant TNF-α over various exposure times. Supernatant, and total RNA, of the cells were collected for measurement of both TSG-6 RNA expression, and secreted TSG-6 protein. To compare gene levels, quantification was done by normalizing the expression levels of TSG-6 to the geometric mean of the three most stable reference genes, out of a cohort of 30 tested genes, using the Pfaffl method. We found that HUCPVCs exhibited both an enhanced and more rapid response to low dose (1 ng/mL) TNF-α exposure resulting in ∼11.5-fold increase in TSG-6 expression within the first 30 min. In contrast, hBMMSCs showed 2-fold increase by 1 h that increased to 9.5-fold with a higher (50 ng/mL) TNF-α exposure for the same time. mBMMSCs showed a two-fold increase after 24 h that was independent of TNF-α concentration. Thus, although TSG-6 expression level varied among donors, both hMSC populations exhibited enhanced TSG-6 upregulation, upon TNF-α stimulation, compared with mBMMSCs. In conclusion, HUCPVCs showed higher sensitivity, and a prompter response to TNF-α stimulation compared with hBMMSCs. Thus, neonatal MSCs may be a stronger candidate population than those derived from adult bone marrow to treat inflammatory diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tridacna crocea , the smallest and earliest sexually maturing giant clam species, harbours important ecological value in maintaining coral reefs and holds potential for development as an ornamental species. At present, the molecular mechanism of gonadal development of this species remains largely unclear, and this hinders its artificial breeding and subsequent resource proliferation. The transcription factor forkhead box L subfamily member 2 (FoxL2) is one of the most conserved genes involved in the process of ovarian differentiation and development in many vertebrates and invertebrates. In this study, the Foxl2 gene (Tc-Foxl2) was cloned and characterized from T. crocea for the first time. The ORF of Tc-Foxl2 cDNA encoded a putative protein of 384 amino acid residues with a deduced molecular mass of 43.39 kDa and a theoretical isoelectric point (pI) of 8.92. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the amino acid sequence of Tc-Foxl2 contained a typical FH domain and clustered with molluscan Foxl2 homologues. Tc-Foxl2 was mainly expressed in the gonads of females and hermaphroditic individuals but was fairly low in the gonads of males and resting individuals. Quantitative RT–PCR revealed that the expression of Tc-Foxl2 mRNA was significantly upregulated during vitellogenesis, while in situ hybridization indicated that Tc-Foxl2 mRNA was mainly detectable in follicle cells in the ovary. Furthermore, RNAi-mediated Tc-Foxl2 knockdown impeded the further growth of oocytes on the 14th day postinjection in the process of early vitellogenesis. Whole-mount in situ hybridization and qRT–PCR analyses demonstrated that during embryonic development, Tc-Foxl2 mRNA had a conserved expression profile, which may be involved in the formation of primordial germ cells. These results collectively suggest that Tc-Foxl2 is a female-biased gene that is involved in the vitellogenesis and embryonic development in Tridacna crocea. • A full-length cDNA of Foxl2 from Tridacna crocea was identified. • Tc-Foxl2 was a female-biased gene. • Knockdown of Tc-Foxl2 impeded the further growth of oocytes. • Tc-Foxl2 was involved in the early formation of primordial germ cells (PGCs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The formation of a novel complex with cyclodextrin was investigated for the separation of cinchona alkaloids including the diastereomeric pairs of quinine, quinidine, cinchonine, and cinchonidine. The optimized separation of mixed cinchona alkaloids was obtained using 18 mM tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane, 3 mM Cu(II), and 20 mM hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin at pH 5.7 with an applied voltage of 20 kV. Under these conditions, the four cinchona alkaloids were completely separated with resolution values between 9.08 and 3.94. The linear dynamic ranges for the analytes were from 10 to 1000 µg/mL with separation in less than 30 minutes. This method was used for the analysis of cinchona bark, quinine injection, and tonic water. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

For the realization of real-time detection of nitrogen concentration in the process of automatic mixed liquid fertilizer, a detection device was designed, which was mainly composed of a nitrate ion selective electrode, an electrode signal conditioning circuit, a temperature sensor, and a data acquisition and display circuit. There was a one-to-one correspondence between the response potential of a nitrate ion selective electrode and nitrate ion concentration. For this reason, the detection device could obtain the level of nitrate ion concentration by detecting the electrode's response potential, and then the nitrogen concentration of liquid fertilizer had been acquired indirectly. Measuring accuracy for the electrode's potential was a key influence factor of the device's performance. A 1 mV error of the electrode's potential led to a 4% concentration measuring error of monovalent ions. To evaluate the device's measuring accuracy for an electrode's potential, the electrode had been placed in a series of prepared potassium nitrate solutions whose NO3- concentration were 10-6, 5×10-6, 10-5, 5×10-5, 10-4, 5×10-4, 10-3, 5×10-3,10-2, 5×10-2, and 10-1 mol/L respectively, and the response potential of the electrode was measured by the device and a standard millivoltmeter PHS-3CT which was used as the comparative reference respectively, and it was known from the test results that the device's measuring result for the electrode's potential in each NO3- concentration was closed to that of PHS-3CT, and its maximum and minimum relative error were 5.2% and 1.2% respectively. Meanwhile, the response potential of the electrode would produce a temperature drift when the temperature varied, which would result in a measuring error of ion concentration. For reducing the influence of temperature variation, the electrode's temperature variability had been analyzed with 25°C as a reference, by measuring its response potential in a series of prepared solutions with different NO3- concentrations in the range of 10-5-10-1 mol/L and different temperatures within the scope of 5-45°C. The results showed that the response potential of the electrode had a linear change with the temperature difference of the solution to be examined and the maximum variability rate of the potential was 8.8%. Based on the response potential of the electrode measured in a series of prepared solutions with different NO3- concentrations and different temperatures, a temperature parameter model had been established by using the method of the least squares fitting step by step. Verification experiments of the temperature parameter model had been carried out, by using three kinds of prepared potassium nitrate solutions whose NONO3- concentration were 4×10-1, 4×10-2 and 4×10-3 mol·L-1 severally, and it turned out that the average relative measurement error and the maximum relative measurement error of the temperature parameter model were 4.49% and 9.2% separately. Furthermore, there may be some interfering ions (such as Cl-, SO4 2-, H2PO4 - and HPO4 2-) in a mixed liquid fertilizer in addition to NO3-, and the nitrate ion selective electrode had cross sensitivity. It would allow the electrode's response for interfering ions to come into being, which could bring about some impact on the device's measuring results. In order to determine the degree of influence of the interfering ions for the device's measuring results, the fixed interference method had been used to measure the electrode's selectivity coefficient for Cl-, SO4 2-, H2PO4-, and HPO4 2- respectively. The results indicated that the selectivity coefficient for 4 interfering ions were 5.1×10-2, 1.0×10-4, 2.0×10-4, and 5.0×10-5 singly, and that the bigger the selectivity coefficient was, the greater the impact of interfering ions on the electrode; moreover, it was found from experiments that the effects of interfering ions on the electrode weakened gradually with the decrease of the interfering ions concentration, and the measuring error of the device caused by Cl- was 4% when Cl-: NO3- = 1:100, that was to say, a small amount of interfering ions in a liquid fertilizer could not constitute a significant effect for the measured results. From the above, the device developed could meet the application requirements of a nitrogen concentration test in the process of automatically mixed fertilizer in engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high-resolution record (~5–20 years per sample) of pollen, charcoal, total organic carbon (TOC), and total nitrogen (TN) was analysed from a core obtained from a small lake (Xing Co) on the northeastern Tibetan Plateau. Findings shed light on vegetation change and its driving forces over the last ~1440 years and the impact of recent human activities. Between ca. 580 and 1300 CE, vegetation was alpine meadow, dominated by Cyperaceae with low percentages of Poaceae and Artemisia. Pollen spectra indicate that vegetation shifted to dry alpine steppe dominated by Poaceae and Artemisia between 1300 and 1470 CE, possibly as a response to reduced precipitation and cooler temperatures linked to the transition from the Medieval Warm Period (MWP) to the Little Ice Age (LIA). A further significant increase of Poaceae from 1770 to 1910 CE indicates consolidation of the alpine steppe. However, after 1910 CE, pollen spectra are characterized by decreasing Poaceae abundance and increasing abundances of Artemisia , Cyperaceae, Ranunculaceae, Thalictrum , and Polygonaceae, with high pollen richness and evenness. These recent vegetation changes are probably caused, at least in part, by enhanced human impacts. Furthermore, our analysis also shows an significant increase in percentages of Pediastrum and Potamogeton together with a sharp increase in TN after ca. 1990 CE, suggesting eutrophication of the lake water. Therefore, our record suggests that human activities did not have any significant impact on the composition of the vegetation until recent decades at Xing Co. • A high resolution pollen spectra covering last 1440 years completed for the northeastern Tibetan Plateau. • Vegetation changes were triggered mainly by climate changes until 1910 CE. • Human activities could disturb both of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems since 1910 CE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] The study identifies the important role of face cues in modulating bilingual lexical activation. [•] Face-language congruence effect facilitates lexical access in L1 and L2 picture naming. [•] Cortical and subcortical regions are active in integrating cross-modal language and face cues. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

For improving the energy economy and mitigating the dynamic impact of electric buses, a scheme is proposed to use a manual clutch with a 3-gear transmission in powertrain system. According to the driving conditions of vehicle and the torque-speed characteristics of motor, the transmission system is matched. Based on the typical urban driving conditions, the vehicle speed and the distribution of driving force are converted to the speed and torque of motor and then mapped into the characteristics chart of motor to make most of the operating points fall into high efficiency region, and enhance the energy economy of vehicle in typical working conditions. The results of simulation and testing show that the powertrain system adopted has higher power performance and energy economy in urban driving condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypoxia is a complex microenvironmental condition known to regulate choline kinase α (CHKA) activity and choline transport through transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and, therefore, may confound the uptake of choline radiotracer [18F]fluoromethyl-[1,2-2H4]-choline ([18F]-D4-FCH). The aim of this study was to investigate how hypoxia affects the choline radiotracer dynamics. Three underlying mechanisms by which hypoxia could potentially alter the uptake of the choline radiotracer, [18F]-D4-FCH, were investigated: 18F-D4-FCH import, CHKA phosphorylation activity, and the efflux of [18F]-D4-FCH and its phosphorylated product [18F]-D4-FCHP. The effects of hypoxia on [18F]-D4-FCH uptake were studied in CHKA-overexpressing cell lines of prostate cancer, PC-3, and breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells. The mechanisms of radiotracer efflux were assessed by the cell uptake and immunofluorescence in vitro and examined in vivo (n = 24). The mathematical modelling methodology was further developed to verify the efflux hypothesis using [18F]-D4-FCH dynamic PET scans from non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients (n = 17). We report a novel finding involving the export of phosphorylated [18F]-D4-FCH and [18F]-D4-FCHP via HIF-1α-responsive efflux transporters, including ABCB4, when the HIF-1α level is augmented. This is supported by a graphical analysis of human data with a compartmental model (M2T6k + k5) that accounts for the efflux. Hypoxia/HIF-1α increases the efflux of phosphorylated radiolabelled choline species, thus supporting the consideration of efflux in the modelling of radiotracer dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this paper, the solubility of several modified poly(propylene oxide) (PPO) derivatives and silicones has been investigated by measuring cloud point pressure (CPP) values in supercritical carbon dioxide (Sc CO2) at a temperature range of 308–328K and in the pressure range of 7.40–23.00MPa. The end group and molecular weight strongly affect the solubility of the PPO derivatives. The solubility of modified silicones in Sc CO2 is generally larger than that of polyethers of the same chain length. In addition, the solubility of some silicones with pendant phosphine groups in Sc CO2 was also determined. The CPP values of the phosphine-modified silicone oils increases with the number of phosphine side chains along the silicone backbone. The relationship between the solubility and structure of the PPOs and silicones is discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The cathodic active materials of spent Zn–Mn batteries are complicated. The majority materials that they contain are Mn(OH)2, Mn2O4, λ-Mn2O2, ZnMn2O4, Zn(NH3)2Cl2, [Zn(OH)2]4·ZnCl2, etc. Dissolving these kinds of materials is important to the environmental pollution control and materials recycle. In present paper we investigated the dissolution mechanism of the cathodic active materials in HCl by testing the factors that can influence the dissolution procedure, including temperature, time, and the concentration of HCl and H2O2. Our results showed that both neutralization and oxidation–reduction reactions occurred in the dissolution process, and that H2O2 had a great effect on the dissolution efficiency. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Does volunteer participation reduce depressive symptoms among older people? Does depression influence whether older people will volunteer? Might nonrandom attrition in a longitudinal study bias the relationship between volunteering and depression? This research addresses these questions with three-wave data from theAmericans' Changing Lives study. Multigroup structural equation models for complete and incomplete data are used to estimate the joint causal relationship between volunteer work and depression. The results reveal a beneficial effect of formal volunteering on depression, but not for informal helping. Depression was shown to be associated with a subsequent increase in formal volunteering, suggesting voluntarism as a means of compensation. Functional health problems, not depression, emerged as the important barrier to volunteering. In addition, a sample selection effect--depressed persons and nonvolunteers were less likely to complete the panel study--was detected and accounted for in the analysis. The results are discussed in light of the legitimacy of formal social integration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies on preparing manganese–zinc ferrites by coprecipitation method using spent Zn–Mn batteries have been carried out to determine the influential factors on preparing process, including coprecipitation pH value, coprecipitation temperature and calcining temperature, etc. Results show that the suitable preparing conditions are: coprecipitation pH value, 7–7.5; copecipitation temperature, 50 °C and calcining temperature, 1100–1150 °C. It also finds that Fe powder is the suitable material to remove Hg existing in spent Zn–Mn batteries completely. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Traumatic fractures occur frequently worldwide. However, research remains limited on the association between short-term exposure to temperature and traumatic fractures. This study aims to explore the impact of apparent temperature (AT) on emergency visits (EVs) due to traumatic fractures. Methods: Based on EVs data for traumatic fractures and the contemporary meteorological data, a generalized Poisson regression model along with a distributed lag nonlinear model (DLNM) were undertaken to determine the impact of AT on traumatic fracture EVs. Subgroup analysis by gender and age and sensitivity analysis were also performed. Results: A total of 25,094 EVs for traumatic fractures were included in the study. We observed a wide "J"-shaped relationship between AT and risk of traumatic fractures, with AT above 9.5 °C positively associated with EVs due to traumatic fractures. The heat effects became significant at cumulative lag 0–11 days, and the relative risk (RR) for moderate heat (95th percentile, 35.7 °C) and extreme heat (99.5th percentile, 38.8 °C) effect was 1.311 (95% CI: 1.132–1.518) and 1.418 (95% CI: 1.191–1.688) at cumulative lag 0–14 days, respectively. The cold effects were consistently non-significant on single or cumulative lag days across 0–14 days. The heat effects were higher among male and those aged 18–65 years old. The sensitivity analysis results remained robust. Conclusion: Higher AT is associated with cumulative and delayed higher traumatic fracture EVs. The male and those aged 18–65 years are more susceptible to higher AT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: A new species of cyst-forming nematode, Heterodera amaranthusiae n. sp., is described and illustrated from the weed, Amaranthus retroflexus , in a potato field in Yunnan Province, China. It is characterised by having canary to russet-brown and asymmetric lemon-shaped cyst, distinct neck, bifenestrate vulval cone, relatively short vulval slit of 29 (28-32) μ m, bullae absent and underbridge absent or weak if present. Second-stage juveniles are characterised by a well-developed stylet of 23 (22-25) μ m with robust shaft and basal knobs concave anteriorly, tail conoid, 51 (48-58) μ m long and hyaline region comprising 48 (41-53)% of its length. Morphologically and morphometrically it most resembles H. vallicola in the Humuli group. The ITS, 28S and COI gene sequences of H. amaranthusiae n. sp. clearly differentiate it from other Heterodera species. For diagnostic purposes, restriction enzyme analysis of the ITS region and three restriction enzymes, Alu I, Bsu RI (Hae III) and Cfo I (Hha I), were selected, clearly distinguishing H. amaranthusiae n. sp. from representative species in the Humuli group. Phylogenetic relationships with other species of the genus, inferred from two ribosomal regions and the cytochrome oxidase c subunit 1 region, based on Bayesian analysis, consistently showed that H. amaranthusiae n. sp. clustered with high support with other Humuli group species but with separate species status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ba 0.5 Sr 0.5 Co 0.8 Fe 0.2 O 3-δ (BSCF) perovskite membranes process excellent oxygen permeation flux at high temperature. However, the time-dependent flux degradation of BSCF restricts its industrial application at intermediate-low temperature. To address this issue, a series of K+ doped BSCF perovskite materials were prepared by EDTA-citric acid combined complexing method. The effect of K+ introduction on crystal structure, oxygen vacancy concentration, oxygen permeability and flux degradation of BSCF was systematically investigated. The results indicates that BSCF doped with K+ exhibits typical cubic perovskite structure and optimized oxygen permeability while the doping content of K+ is lower than 20%. Meanwhile, the oxygen permeability of BSCF can be significantly improved by introducing K+ ions, where the highest oxygen permeation flux of K 0.05 Ba 0.45 Sr 0.5 Co 0.8 Fe 0.2 O 3-δ could reach up to 2.70 ml.min-1.cm-2. And a stable intermediate-low temperature oxygen permeation flux of 0.81 ml.min-1.cm-2 at 750 oC for 90 h can be realized for K 0.1 Ba 0.4 Sr 0.5 Co 0.8 Fe 0.2 O 3-δ and no obvious flux degradation can be found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Super‐resolution techniques like single‐molecule localisation microscopy (SMLM) and stimulated emission depletion (STED) microscopy have been extended by the use of non‐covalent, weak affinity‐based transient labelling systems. DNA‐based hybrid systems are a prominent example among these transient labelling systems, offering excellent opportunities for multi‐target fluorescence imaging. However, these techniques suffer from higher background relative to covalently bound fluorophores, originating from unbound fluorophore‐labelled single‐stranded oligonucleotides. Here, we introduce short‐distance self‐quenching in fluorophore dimers as an efficient mechanism to reduce background fluorescence signal, while at the same time increasing the photon budget in the bound state by almost 2‐fold. We characterise the optical and thermodynamic properties of fluorophore‐dimer single‐stranded DNA, and show super‐resolution imaging applications with STED and SMLM with increased spatial resolution and reduced background. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Super‐resolution techniques like single‐molecule localisation microscopy (SMLM) and stimulated emission depletion (STED) microscopy have been extended by the use of non‐covalent, weak affinity‐based transient labelling systems. DNA‐based hybrid systems are a prominent example among these transient labelling systems, offering excellent opportunities for multi‐target fluorescence imaging. However, these techniques suffer from higher background relative to covalently bound fluorophores, originating from unbound fluorophore‐labelled single‐stranded oligonucleotides. Here, we introduce short‐distance self‐quenching in fluorophore dimers as an efficient mechanism to reduce background fluorescence signal, while at the same time increasing the photon budget in the bound state by almost 2‐fold. We characterise the optical and thermodynamic properties of fluorophore‐dimer single‐stranded DNA, and show super‐resolution imaging applications with STED and SMLM with increased spatial resolution and reduced background. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cytosolic deacetylase histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) is involved in the autophagy degradation pathway of malformed proteins, an important survival mechanism in cancer cells. We evaluated modulation of autophagy-related proteins and cell death by the HDAC6-selective inhibitor C1A.Methods: Autophagy substrates (light chain-3 (LC-3) and p62 proteins) and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress phenotype were determined. Caspase-3/7 activation and cellular proliferation assays were used to assess consequences of autophagy modulation.Results: C1A potently resolved autophagy substrates induced by 3-methyladenine and chloroquine. The mechanism of autophagy inhibition by HDAC6 genetic knockout or C1A treatment was consistent with abrogation of autophagosome-lysosome fusion, and decrease of Myc protein. C1A alone or combined with the proteasome inhibitor, bortezomib, enhanced cell death in malignant cells, demonstrating the complementary roles of the proteasome and autophagy pathways for clearing malformed proteins. Myc-positive neuroblastoma, KRAS-positive colorectal cancer and multiple myeloma cells showed marked cell growth inhibition in response to HDAC6 inhibitors. Finally, growth of neuroblastoma xenografts was arrested in vivo by single agent C1A, while combination with bortezomib slowed the growth of colorectal cancer xenografts.Conclusions: C1A resolves autophagy substrates in malignant cells and induces cell death, warranting its use for in vivo pre-clinical autophagy research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: TFG‐related axonal Charcot–Marie–Tooth (CMT) disease is a late‐onset, autosomal dominant, hereditary motor, and sensory neuropathy characterized by slowly progressive weakness and atrophy of the distal muscles. The objective of this study was to determine the common pathogenic mechanism of TFG‐related CMT type 2 (CMT2) caused by different mutations and establish a direct association between TFG haploinsufficiency and neurodegeneration. Methods: Three individuals carrying the TFG p.G269V mutation but with varying disease durations were studied. The effect of the p.G269V mutation was confirmed by analyzing protein samples extracted from the blood of two individuals. The functional consequences of both CMT2 mutant gene products were evaluated in vitro. The effect of TFG deficiency in the nervous system was examined using zebrafish models and cultured mouse neurons. Results: Overexpression of p.G269V TFG failed to enhance soluble TFG levels by generating insoluble TFG aggregates. TFG deficiency disrupted neurite outgrowth and induced neuronal apoptosis both in vivo and in vitro and further impaired locomotor capacity in zebrafish, which was consistent with the phenotype in patients. Wnt signaling was activated as a protective factor in response to TFG deficiency. Conclusion: CMT2‐related TFG mutation induces TFG haploinsufficiency within cells and drives disease by causing progressive neurite degeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The storage and reduction of NOx on a series of Fe-modified hydrotalcite-based lean NOx trap catalysts were assessed, together with the product selectivity. The crystal structures and micromorphologies of these materials were characterized using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, while in situ diffuse reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to evaluate the evolution of transition state species. The introduction of Fe was found to improve the synergistic interaction between the Mg and Fe in the hydrotalcite structure, allowing these catalysts to work efficiently at low temperatures. In addition, both Pt/BaO/MgAlO and Pt/BaO/MgFeO catalysts exhibited better NOx adsorption and reduction performance compared with Pt/BaO/Al 2 O 3. The superior performance of the former two materials was attributed to the enhanced adsorption of NOx in the form of nitrates and nitrites by Fe and Mg and to the ready decomposition of these nitrates at low temperatures. A Pt/BaO/MgFeO catalyst showed excellent low temperature activity and high selectivity for N 2 together with superior sulfur resistance compared with Pt/BaO/Al 2 O 3. [Display omitted] • This study prepared a series of hydrotalcite-derived lean NOx trap catalysts. • The introduction of Fe was found to increase the NOx removal efficiency at low temperature because of improving the synergistic interaction between the Fe and Mg in the hydrotalcite structure. • Pt/BaO/MgFeO has better sulfur resistance than traditional Pt/BaO/Al 2 O 3 catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyst nematodes are one of the most important pathogens worldwide. Most cyst nematode species have been reported recently in China. From 2016 to 2020, an extensive survey of cyst nematodes was conducted in the Bashang region of Hebei Province. A total of 158 soil samples were collected, and cyst-forming nematodes were isolated from five soil samples. Morphological and molecular characterization showed that four of the cyst-forming nematode populations were Heterodera glycines (SCN), named populations of ZM, KM, CB and FN, respectively. These SCN populations were collected from Zhangbei County, Kangbao County, Chabei Management Area of Zhangjiakou and Fengning Manchu Autonomous County of Chengde, respectively, where the corresponding cyst densities were 57, 41, 103 and 31 cysts/200 cc soil. Furthermore, the populations of ZM, KM and CB were identified as race 4, whereas the FN population was identified as race 3. The cyst-forming nematode population was collected from Zhangbei County of Zhangjiakou, which was confirmed to be Heterodera schachtii (SBCN), named population ZZ, and the cyst density was 94 cysts/200 cc soil. It is a new disease of Chinese cabbage caused by SBCN based on Koch's postulates. Fourteen cultivars from five plant families were evaluated as hosts for SBCN. Chinese cabbage (cv. Linglonghuang012) and cabbage (cv. Chunwang) were suitable hosts, while celery (cv. Yuhuang), potato (cv. Helan 15) and eggplant (cv. Junlang) were nonhosts. The obtained results regarding the occurrence, distribution, races of SCN and hosts of SBCN in the Bashang region in this study provide a reference for SCN and SBCN management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Although smoking prevalence has been declining for smokers without mental illness, it has been static for those with mental illness. The purpose of this study is to examine differences in smoking rates and trajectories of smoking prevalence in the often-overlooked population of smokers with poor mental health, compared with those with better mental health. Methods Data were obtained from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System from 2001 to 2010 to examine the relationship between poor mental health and current, daily, and intermittent tobacco use in New Jersey. Data were analyzed in 2014. Results During 2001–2010, current, daily, and intermittent smoking prevalence was higher in participants with poor mental health than those with better mental health. In addition, with the exception of 2 years, prevalence rates remained unchanged in this 10-year period for those with poor mental health while they significantly decreased for those with better mental health. Conclusions The disparity in which smokers with poor mental health are more likely to be current smokers and less likely to be never smokers as compared with those with better mental health has increased over time. These data suggest the need to more closely examine tobacco control and treatment policies in smokers with behavioral health issues. It is possible that tobacco control strategies are not reaching those with poor mental health, or, if they are, their messages are not translating into successful cessation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] We report the growth of amorphous carbon nanowalls with molten salt electrolytes and a carbonate carbon source at 600 °C on home-made Cu(111) foil as the growth substrate (and cathode). The nanometer thick nanowalls grow preferentially along symmetric slip lines on the Cu(111) surface and their ordered arrangement appears to also be dictated by the electrosynthesis parameters. Computational chemistry suggests that nucleation of carbon growth is favored at the slip lines (atomic steps) of the Cu(111) surface. The electrodeposited carbon structures can be varied by tuning the potential on the electrodes and temperature of the molten salt. The macro, micro, and nanoscale structure of the nanowalls was studied and is reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prolonged exposure to high altitudes above 2500 m above sea level (a.s.l.) can cause cognitive and behavioral dysfunctions. Herein, we sought to investigate the effects of chronic exposure to plateau hypoxia on the hippocampus in a rat model by using voxel-based morphometry, creatine chemical exchange saturation transfer (CrCEST) and dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging techniques. 58 healthy 4-week-old male rats were randomized into plateau hypoxia rats (H group) as the experimental group and plain rats (P group) as the control group. H group rats were transported from Chengdu (500 m a.s.l.), a city in a plateau located in southwestern China, to the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (4250 m a.s.l.), Yushu, China, and then fed for 8 months there, while P group rats were fed in Chengdu (500 m a.s.l.), China. After 8 months of exposure to plateau hypoxia, open-field and elevated plus maze tests revealed that the anxiety-like behavior of the H group rats was more serious than that of the P group rats, and the Morris water maze test revealed impaired spatial memory function in the H group rats. Multimodal MR imaging analysis revealed a decreased volume of the regional gray matter, lower CrCEST contrast and higher transport coefficient Ktrans in the hippocampus compared with the P group rats. Further correlation analysis found associations of quantitative MRI parameters of the hippocampus with the behavioral performance of H group rats. In this study, we validated the viability of using noninvasive multimodal MR imaging techniques to evaluate the effects of chronic exposure to a plateau hypoxic environment on the hippocampus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article we discuss historical patterns and dynamics of policing in Hong Kong since the formation of the first police force in the then British colony in 1844 until the handover to China in 1997 when a policy of ‘one country, two systems’ was implemented. We specifically focus on the changes that took place in the organisation of the police function and how these changes responded to shifting socio-structural conditions in political, economic and legal respects and, comparatively, to what extent institutional dynamics of Hong Kong police organisation and culture were responsible for dominant policing styles. We argue that the case of Hong Kong policing shows that internal developments of police culture and police management are, independently from broader societal developments, essential components to bring about changes towards the adoption of civilian police practices that enjoy both effectiveness and accountability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumor-associated microglia/macrophages (TAMs) are the main innate immune effector cells in malignant gliomas and have both pro- and anti-tumor functions. The plasticity of TAMs is partially dictated by oncogenic mutations in tumor cells. Heterozygous IDH1 mutation is a cancer driver gene prevalent in grade II/III gliomas, and IDH1 mutant gliomas have relatively favorable clinical outcomes. It is largely unknown how IDH mutation alters TAM phenotypes to influence glioma growth. Here we established clinically relevant isogenic glioma models carrying monoallelic IDH1 R132H mutation (IDH1R132H/WT) and found that IDH1R132H/WT significantly downregulated immune response-related pathways in glioma cells, indicating an immunomodulation role of mutant IDH1. Co-culturing IDH1R132H/WT glioma cells with human macrophages promoted anti-tumor phenotypes of macrophages and increased macrophage migration and phagocytic capacity. In orthotopic xenografts, IDH1R132H/WT decreased tumor growth and prolonged animal survival, accompanied by increased TAM recruitment and upregulated phagocytosis markers, suggesting the induction of anti-tumor TAM functions. Using human cytokine arrays that query 36 proteins, we identified significant downregulation of ICAM-1/CD54 in IDH1R132H/WT gliomas, which was further confirmed by ELISA and immunoblotting analyses. ICAM1 gain-of-function studies revealed that ICAM1 downregulation in IDH1R132H/WT cells played a mechanistic role to mediate the immunomodulation function of IDH1R132H/WT. ICAM-1 silencing in IDH1 wild-type glioma cells decreased tumor growth and increased the anti-tumor function of TAMs. Together, our studies support a new TAM-mediated phagocytic function within IDH1 mutant gliomas, and improved understanding of this process may uncover novel approaches to targeting IDH1 wild type gliomas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • DNA nanotechnology was correlated with multiplexed single-molecule super-resolution imaging. • A procedure for near-molecular visualization and analysis of membrane receptor networks was established. • This approach enabled quantitative microscopy of the FGFR1-4 receptor network at the native cellular expression level. • Information on receptor clustering and distance relationships was extracted. • The imaging and analysis pipeline can be easily adapted to other protein networks. Fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs) are a subfamily of receptor tyrosine kinases and central players in health and disease. Following ligand binding and the formation of homo- and heteromeric complexes, FGFRs initiate a cellular response. Challenges in studying FGFR activation are inner-subfamily interactions and a complex heterogeneity of these in the cell membrane, which demand for observation techniques that can resolve individual protein complexes and that are compatible with endogenous protein levels. Here, we established an imaging and analysis pipeline for multiplexed single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) of the FGFR network at the plasma membrane. Using DNA-labeled primary antibodies, we visualize all four FGFRs in the same cell with near-molecular spatial resolution. From the super-resolution imaging data, we extract information on FGFR density, spatial distribution, and inner-subfamily colocalization. Our approach is straightforward and easily adaptable to other multiplexed SMLM data of membrane proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ecological floating bed (EFB) has been used extensively for the purification of eutrophication water. However, the traditional EFB (T-EFB) often exhibits a decline in nitrogen and phosphorus removal because of the limited adsorption capacity of fillers and inadequate electron donors. In the present study, a series of electrolysis-ecological floating beds (EC-EFBs) were constructed to investigate the decontamination performance of conventional pollutants. EC-EFB outperformed T-EFB in terms of nitrogen and phosphorus removal. Its removal efficiency of total nitrogen and total phosphorus was 20.51–32.95% and 45.06–96.20%, which were higher than that in T-EFB.. Moreover, the plants in EC-EFB demonstrated higher metabolic activity than those in T-EFB. Under the electrolysis condition of 0.51 mA/cm2 for 24 h, the malondialdehyde content and superoxide dismutase activity in EC-EFB were 6.08 nmol/g and 22.61 U/g, which were significantly lower compared to T-EFB (38.65 nmol/g and 26.13 U/g). And the soluble protein content of plant leaves increased from 3.31 mg/g to 5.72 mg/g in EC-EFB. Microbial analysis revealed that electrolysis could significantly change the microbial community and facilitate the proliferation of nitrogen-functional microbes, such as Thermomonas , Hydrogenophaga , Deinococcus , and Zoogloea. It is important to highlight that the hydrogen evolution reaction at the cathode area facilitated phosphorus removal in EC-EFB, thereby inhibiting phosphorus leaching. This study provides a promising and innovative technology for the purification of eutrophic water. [Display omitted] • A novel ecological floating bed was developed by integrated with 3D-BER. • The hydrogen evolution reaction promoted phosphorus removal. • Electrolysis alleviated the pollutant's stress on the plant and improved its activity. • Nitrogen-functional microbes were activated in EC-EFB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pain, a worldwide problem with a high incidence and complex pathogenesis, has attracted the attention of pharmaceutical enterprises for the development of safer and more effective drugs. Extensive experimental and clinical evidence has demonstrated the analgesic effects of two endogenous peptides: endomorphin-2 (EM-2) and salmon calcitonin (sCT). However, EM-2 has limitations, such as poor ability to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and little therapeutic effect in chronic pain due to rapid in vivo proteolysis. Herein, we propose the design of a novel hybrid peptide TEM2CT by combining EM-2, sCT 16–21 , and the cell-penetrating peptide HIV-1 trans-activator protein (TAT) with the aim of enhancing their analgesic effects. TEM2CT treatment attenuated nociceptive behavior in both acute and chronic pain mouse models, exhibiting increased anti-allodynic and anti-anxiety effects compared to sCT treatment. Furthermore, TEM2CT also regulated the excitability of pyramidal neurons in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) in spared nerve injury (SNI) model mice. The improved efficacy of this hybrid peptide provides a promising strategy for developing analgesic drugs. • Designed and synthesized a novel hybrid peptide as potential analgesic agent. • Hybrid peptide exhibited both prolonged analgesic effect and anxiolytic ability. • Hybrid peptide could modulate neuronal excitability in ACC, one of the key regions of central nervous system regulating pain and emotional disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) orchestrate cell motility and differentiation. Deregulated RTKs may promote cancer and are prime targets for specific inhibitors. Increasing evidence indicates that resistance to inhibitor treatment involves receptor cross-interactions circumventing inhibition of one RTK by activating alternative signaling pathways. Here, we used single-molecule super-resolution microscopy to simultaneously visualize single MET and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) clusters in two cancer cell lines, HeLa and BT-20, in fixed and living cells. We found heteromeric receptor clusters of EGFR and MET in both cell types, promoted by ligand activation. Single-protein tracking experiments in living cells revealed that both MET and EGFR respond to their cognate as well as non-cognate ligands by slower diffusion. In summary, for the first time, we present static as well as dynamic evidence of the presence of heteromeric clusters of MET and EGFR on the cell membrane that correlates with the relative surface expression levels of the two receptors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glioblastoma (GBM) has limited therapeutic options. DNA repair mechanisms contribute GBM cells to escape therapies and re-establish tumor growth. Multiple studies have shown that POLD2 plays a critical role in DNA replication, DNA repair and genomic stability. We demonstrate for the first time that POLD2 is highly expressed in human glioma specimens and that expression correlates with poor patient survival. siRNA or shRNA POLD2 inhibited GBM cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, invasiveness, sensitized GBM cells to chemo/radiation-induced cell death and reversed the cytoprotective effects of EGFR signaling. Conversely, forced POLD2 expression was found to induce GBM cell proliferation, colony formation, invasiveness and chemo/radiation resistance. POLD2 expression associated with stem-like cell subsets (CD133+ and SSEA-1+ cells) and positively correlated with Sox2 expression in clinical specimens. Its expression was induced by Sox2 and inhibited by the forced differentiation of GBM neurospheres. shRNA-POLD2 modestly inhibited GBM neurosphere-derived orthotopic xenografts growth, when combined with radiation, dramatically inhibited xenograft growth in a cooperative fashion. These novel findings identify POLD2 as a new potential therapeutic target for enhancing GBM response to current standard of care therapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spray-drying-assisted EISA synthesis of SBA-15-type silica microparticles with water as the solvent is achieved by using a multiple-role polymer colloid. The microparticles possess uniform micro-sizes, large ordered mesopores, hierarchical porosities and high surface areas. They are promising for lysozyme adsorption with a fast adsorption rate and a high adsorption capacity because of the improved pore accessibility. The fast and scalable spray-drying-assisted evaporation-induced self-assembly (EISA) synthesis of hierarchically porous SBA-15-type silica microparticles from a water-based system is demonstrated. The SBA-15-type silica microparticles has bowl-like shapes, uniform micro-sizes (∼90 µm), large ordered mesopores (∼9.5 nm), hierarchical meso-/macropores (20–100 nm) and open surfaces. In the synthesis, soft- and hard-templating approaches are combined in a single rapid drying process with a non-ionic tri-block copolymer (F127) and a water-insoluble polymer colloid (Eudragit RS, 120 nm) as the co-templates. The RS polymer colloid plays three important roles. First, the RS nanoparticles can be partially dissolved by in-situ generated ethanol to form RS polymer chains. The RS chains swell and modulate the hydrophilic-hydrophobic balance of F127 micelles to allow the formation of an ordered mesostructure with large mesopore sizes. Without RS, only worm-like mesostructure with much smaller mesopore sizes can be formed. Second, part of the RS nanoparticles plays a role in templating the hierarchical pores distributed throughout the microparticles. Third, part of the RS polymer forms surface "skins" and "bumps", which can be removed by calcination to enable a more open surface structure to overcome the low pore accessibility issue of spray-dried porous microparticles. The obtained materials have high surface areas (315–510 m2 g−1) and large pore volumes (0.64–1.0 cm3 g−1), which are dependent on RS concentration, HCl concentration, silica precursor hydrolysis time and drying temperature. The representative materials are promising for the adsorption of lysozyme. The adsorption occurs at a >three-fold faster rate, in a five-fold larger capacity (an increase from 20 to 100 mg g−1) and without pore blockage compared with the adsorption of lysozyme onto spray-dried microparticles of similar physicochemical properties obtained without the use of RS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The trigeminal root entry zone (TREZ) is the transitional zone of central and peripheral tissue compartments in the trigeminal root. Microvascular compression on the TREZ is the main etiology of most idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia (TN) patients. However, the pathogenesis of TN is still uncertain. To investigate the glial plasticity changes in oligodendrocytes, Schwann cells, astrocytes and microglia/macrophages in the TREZ in TN, immunohistochemical staining and Western blot methods were performed in rats with TN induced by compression injury. The results showed that mechanical compression injury in the trigeminal nerve of the TN rats induced glial plasticity in the TREZ, which dynamically changed the glial interface of the CNS–PNS transitional zone. Additionally, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)-immunoreactive astrocyte processes significantly proliferated and extended distally from the central region to the peripheral side of the TREZ after nerve compression injury in the TN group. Moreover, the expression of p75 in Schwann cells was upregulated on the peripheral side of the TREZ, and activated Iba-1-immunoreactive microglia/macrophages were observed on both sides of the TREZ. A significantly higher number of Schwann cells, astrocytes and microglia/macrophages were found in the TN group than in the sham operation group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, mechanical compression injury in the TN rats activated various glial cells, including oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, Schwann cells and microglia/macrophages, in the CNS–PNS transitional zone of TREZ. Changes in glial cell plasticity in the TREZ after compression injury might be involved in TN pathogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxaliplatin is a third-generation derivative of platinum that is effective in the treatment of multiple solid tumors. However, it can cause peripheral neuropathic pain, and the molecular mechanisms of this effect remain unknown. We induced a model of peripheral neuropathic pain in rats by intraperitoneally injecting them with oxaliplatin twice a week for 4.5 weeks. We found that both the mRNA and protein expression levels of Na v 1.6 (encoded by the gene Scn8a) increased while the miR-30b-5p (shorthand for miR-30b) expression decreased in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) of treated rats. Using TargetScan and miRanda predictive software, we discovered that Scn8a was a major target of miR-30b. Moreover, we found that miR-30b negatively regulated Scn8a by binding to the Scn8a 3′UTR in PC12 cells. In addition, Na v 1.6 and miR-30b were colocalized in the DRG neurons of naive rats. Overexpression of miR-30b using an miR-30b agomir attenuated neuropathic pain induced by oxaliplatin and inhibited both the mRNA and protein expression levels of Na v 1.6 both in vitro and in vivo. Conversely, the inhibition of miR-30b with an miR-30b antagomir resulted in neuropathic pain and an increase in the expression of Na v 1.6. More importantly, overexpression of miR-30b inhibited the proliferation of LS-174t cells (Colorectal cancer cells). These data suggest that miR-30b contributes to oxaliplatin-induced chronic neuropathic pain through Na v 1.6 downregulation and could be a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of oxaliplatin-induced neuropathic pain as a side effect of chemotherapy in cancer patients. • Na v 1.6 expression increased in the DRGs of oxaliplatin-induced neuropathic pain. • miR-30b expression decreased in the DRGs of oxaliplatin-induced neuropathic pain. • miR-30b attenuated pain by negatively regulating the expression levels of Na v 1.6. • miR-30b inhibited the proliferation of colorectal cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Impaired motor function, due to the dysfunction of the basal ganglia, is the most common syndrome of hepatic encephalopathy (HE), and its etiology remains poorly understood. Neural oxidative stress is shown to be the major cellular defects contributing to HE pathogenesis. Mitochondrial uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) has been implicated in neuroprotection in several neurological disorders. We explored the neuroprotective role of UCP2 within the substantia nigra pars reticulate (SNr), the output structure of the basal ganglia, in HE. The toxin thioacetamide (TAA) induced HE mice showed hypolocomotion, which was associated with decreased ATP levels and loss of antioxidant substances SOD and GSH within the SNr. Stable overexpression of UCP2 via AAV-UCP2 under the control of the UCP2 promoter in bilateral SNr preserved local ATP level, increased antioxidant substances, and ameliorated locomotion defects after severe liver failure. Contrary to UCP2 overexpression, targeted knockdown of UCP2 within bilateral SNr via AAV-UCP2 shRNA exacerbated the impaired mitochondrial dysfunction and hypokinesia in HE mice. The modulatory effects of UCP2 was due to mediation of K + -Cl − cotransporter-2 (KCC2) expression on GABAergic neurons of SNr. Taken together, our results demonstrate that UCP2 exerts a neural protective role at the subcortical level by increasing the resistance of neurons to oxidative stress, which may offer a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of motor dysfunction diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Impaired glucose regulation is one of the most important risk factors for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular diseases, which have become a major public health issue worldwide. Dysregulation of carbohydrate metabolism in liver has been shown to play a critical role in the development of glucose intolerance but the molecular mechanism has not yet been fully understood. In this study, we investigated the role of hepatic LCMT1 in the regulation of glucose homeostasis using a liver-specific LCMT1 knockout mouse model. The hepatocyte-specific deletion of LCMT1 significantly upregulated the hepatic glycogen synthesis and glycogen accumulation in liver. We found that the liver-specific knockout of LCMT1 improved high fat diet-induced glucose intolerance and insulin resistance. Consistently, the high fat diet-induced downregulation of glucokinase (GCK) and other important glycogen synthesis genes were reversed in LCMT1 knockout liver. In addition, the expression of GCK was significantly upregulated in MIHA cells treated with siRNA targeting LCMT1 and improved glycogen synthesis. In this study, we provided evidences to support the role of hepatic LCMT1 in the development of glucose intolerance induced by high fat diet and demonstrated that inhibiting LCMT1 could be a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of glucose metabolism disorders. [Display omitted] This research investigated the role of hepatic LCMT1 in the regulation of glucose homeostasis. The liver-specific LCMT1 knockout(L-LCMT1KO) improved high fat diet-induced glucose intolerance and insulin resistance by regulating glycogen metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mutations in the isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) gene have been identified as one of the earliest events in gliomagenesis, occurring in over 70% of low grade gliomas and are present in the vast majority of secondary glioblastoma (GBM) that develop from these low-grade lesions. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the IDH1 R132H mutation influences the expression of oncogenic miR-20a and shed light on the underlying molecular mechanisms. The findings of the current study demonstrate presence of the IDH1 R132H mutation in primary human glioblastoma cell lines with upregulated HIF-1α expression, downregulating c-MYC activity and resulting in a consequential decrease in miR-20a, which is responsible for cell proliferation and resistance to standard temozolomide treatment. Elucidating the mechanism of oncogenic miR-20a activity introduces its role among well-established signaling pathways (i.e. HIF/c-MYC) and may be a meaningful prognostic biomarker or target for novel therapies among patients with IDH1-mutant glioma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interspecific hybridization between oysters Crassostrea angulata and C. gigas has been recently studied, but it remains unclear how these hybrids can be used to advance the techniques of oyster farming. Interspecific backcrossing is expected to transfer the favorable traits of a species to genetically altered F 1 hybrids. In this study, therefore, interspecific backcrosses were conducted between the hybrids of C. angulata ♀ × C. gigas ♂ and their parental species, which included nine groups based on their crossed combinations: hybrid combinations and self-breeding (AG GA, GG and AA); backcross combinations (HA, HG, AH and GH); hybrid self-breeding (HH). Results showed high cleavage rate and D-larval rate in each group without fertilization barrier. Among groups, we observed (1) the highest shell height of AG on Day 12, (2) faster growth of AH than other groups from Day 90 to Day 180, (3) the highest shell height of AG after Day 180. Limited superiority of the backcross groups was found on Day 360, but the degree of heterosis of AG and AH was higher than that of other groups. A mild degree of outbreeding depression in terms of growth was found in self-breeding progenies. The survival rate among groups follows an order: the group with C. angulata as Dam > the group with the hybrid as Dam > the group with C. gigas as Dam. Positive outbreeding depression in terms of survival rate was observed on Day 360. In particular, the survival rate of AH was higher than that of other groups with a heterosis value of 54.80% at the harvest stage. In terms of relative yield, outbreeding depression and inconspicuous superiority were found. Overall, hybrid combination AG exhibited the best performance among groups, followed by backcross combination AH. • A successful backcross between hybrids (C. angulata ♀ × C. gigas ♂) and their parents was first conducted. • AG had great heterosis in growth, and AH had good performance in survival. • Maternal effect of C. angulata was very obvious and increases over time. • Outcrossing depression occurred in F2, but there were still potential individuals could be used for further breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to insufficient palaeo-environmental records, the vegetation history and hydrology of the Tibetan Plateau during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) are uncertain. In this study, a 316-cm-long sediment core covering the last 33.8 thousand years recovered from Koucha Lake on the north-eastern Tibetan Plateau was analysed for pollen, along with total organic carbon (TOC) and total nitrogen (TN), to explore past vegetation and hydrology changes. Alpine desert was widely distributed around the lake with sparse vegetation cover between 33.8 and 16.8 cal ka BP, particularly in the LGM, as inferred from the extremely low pollen concentrations together with high proportions of desert pollen taxa and exogenous arboreal taxa. Alpine steppe developed around the lake thereafter and was replaced by alpine meadow at ca. 7 cal. ka BP, which reflects the increasing effective moisture during the mid and late Holocene. The ancient Koucha Lake existed from 33 to 29 cal ka BP as a shallow lake and probably dried out in the LGM with a sediment hiatus (presence of coarse gravel layer), as suggested by the high and low content of Pediastrum. The current Koucha Lake formed at ca. 20 cal. ka BP with an increase in water level at ca. 16.8 cal ka BP as revealed by faint stratification of the sediments along with higher pollen concentration and presence of Pediastrum and Botryococcus. Our research suggests that pollen concentration should be paid more attention when investigating past vegetation, and that pollen percentages are not comparable among samples with large differences in pollen concentrations. • A reliable pollen spectra covering last 33.8 ka completed for the northeastern Tibetan Plateau. • Hostile climate with sparse vegetation during the LGM revealed by pollen spectra and concentration. • Low lake level during the MIS 3 and LGM for the northeastern Tibetan Plateau. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triploid is widely cultivated in China and many other oyster-producing countries for the advantages of fast growth, favorable infertility and better meat quality. However, triploid Crassostrea gigas is found to have disadvantages of slow growth in later grow-out stage and high summer mortality, while the triploid C. angulata has the disadvantages of fragile shells and a relatively high ratio of developed gonads in population, and therefore, both of them have space for further improvement. Due to the limitations of poor fertility and low survival of offspring, triploid genetic improvement cannot be carried out directly. Hybridization between species is a useful method for indirect genetic improvement of triploids, and natural crosses between tetraploid males and diploid females have proven to be the best method for commercial promotion of triploids. The growth, survival and gonad development of autotriploids (DGTG-diploid C. gigas ♀ × tetraploid C. gigas ♂, DATA-diploid C. angulata ♀ × tetraploid C. angulata ♂) and allotriploids (DATG-diploid C. angulata ♀ × tetraploid C. gigas ♂, DGTA-diploid C. gigas ♀ × tetraploid C. angulata ♂) were investigated in this study. It is showed that the fertilization rates of autotriploids were significantly higher than that of allotriploids, and DATG larvae grew significantly faster than the other three groups (P < 0.05). DGTA had significant shell height, whole weight and survival advantages at Laizhou site (P < 0.05), while DATG exhibited significantly fastest growth and highest survival at Zhangpu site (P < 0.05), but both DATG and DATA showed significantly faster growth and higher survival at Beihai site (P < 0.05), with no significant difference between them (P > 0.05). Sites, genotypes and their interaction always presented significant effects on shell height and whole weight from the 90th to 360th day, but not on survival with the 180th day as an exception. Gonad examination confirmed that the proportions of fertile individuals in the groups with maternal C. gigas (DGTG and DGTA) were lower than that in the groups with maternal C. angulata (DATA and DATG), and DATA always had the highest rate of developed gonad at three sites. These results indicate that DGTA has advantages in growth, survival and infertility in northern China while DATG performs best in southern China, which exhibits that there is a significant maternal effect of hybridization in allotriploids, and promise a guidance for their commercial production. • First comparison analysis of tetraploid-based natural crossing autotriploid and allotriploid (C. gigas × C. angulata). • DGTA had growth and survival advantages in northern China, while DATG and DATA had advantages in southern China. • The infertility of four triploid groups followed the same decreasing trend DGTG ≥ DGTA > DATG > DATA. • Site, genotype and their interaction always had significant effects on growth. • DGTA in northern and DATG in southern China could be commercial promotion as excellent new strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Primary liver cancer (PLC) is one of the most common malignant tumors world-wide but its pathogenesis is unclear. We suggest that steroid hormones may offer diagnostic information for PLC. Methods Using liquid chromatography (UPLC) and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS), we quantified 7 endogenous steroids in 66 PLC human serum samples, 59 liver cirrhosis (LC) samples, and 65 healthy volunteers (HV). Data were assessed chemometrically and with Mann-Whitney U tests and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). Results For PLC patients, androgens were low and estrogen was high. PLS-DA analysis discriminated between healthy subjects and cancer patients using (estrone + estradiol)/testosterone ratios. Moreover, cirrhosis patients were also distinguished with receiver operating characteristic curves indicating the specificity and sensitivity of our current approach. Conclusions Steroid hormone profiling by UPLC-MS/MS may be promising for early diagnosis of PLC but investigations with more patients and steroids are required to confirm the utility of these biomarkers for clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]