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Background: Toll-like receptor 8 (TLR8) can recognize specific pathogen-associated molecular patterns and exert multiple immunological functions through activation of signaling cascades. However, the precise distribution and age-related alterations of TLR8 in the spleens of Bactrian camels have not yet been investigated. This study aimed to prepare a rabbit anti-Bactrian camel TLR8 polyclonal antibody and elucidate the distribution of TLR8 in the spleens of Bactrian camels at different age groups. The methodology involved the construction of the pET-28a-TLR8 recombinant plasmid, followed by the expression of TLR8 recombinant protein via prokaryotic expression. Subsequently, rabbits were immunized with the purified protein to prepare the TLR8 polyclonal antibody. Finally, twelve Alashan Bactrian camels were categorized into four groups: young (1–2 years), pubertal (3–5 years), middle-aged (6–16 years) and old (17–20 years). These camels received intravenous sodium pentobarbital (20 mg/kg) anesthesia and were exsanguinated to collect spleen samples. Immunohistochemical techniques were employed to observe and analyze the distribution patterns and age-related changes of TLR8 in the spleen. Results: The results showed that the TLR8 recombinant protein was expressed in the form of inclusion body with a molecular weight of 52 kDa, and the optimal induction condition involved 0.3 mmol/L IPTG induction for 8 h. The prepared antibody yielded a titer of 1:32 000, and the antibody demonstrated specific binding to TLR8 recombinant protein. TLR8 positive cells exhibited a consistent distribution pattern in the spleen across different age groups of Bactrian camels, primarily scattered within the periarterial lymphatic sheath of the white pulp, marginal zone, and red pulp. The predominant cell type expressing TLR8 was macrophages, with expression also observed in neutrophils and dendritic cells. Statistical analysis revealed that there were significant differences in the distribution density of TLR8 positive cells among different spleen regions at the same age, with the red pulp, marginal zone, and white pulp showing a descending order (P<0.05). Age-related changes indicated that the distribution density in the marginal zone and red pulp exhibited a similar trend of initially increasing and subsequently decreasing from young to old camels. As camels age, there was a significant decrease in the distribution density across all spleen regions (P<0.05). Conclusions: The results confirmed that this study successfully prepared a rabbit anti-Bactrian camel TLR8 polyclonal antibody with good specificity. TLR8 positive cells were predominantly located in the red pulp and marginal zone of the spleen, signifying their pivotal role in the innate immune response of the spleen. Aging was found to significantly reduce the density of TLR8 positive cells, while leaving their scattered distribution characteristics unaffected. These findings provide valuable support for further investigations into the immunomorphology and immunosenescence of the spleen in Bactrian camels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Do anti-CD36 antibodies cause only fetal/neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia? In this study, we presented two cases of fetal anaemia related to anti-CD36 antibodies, one with FNAIT and one without FNAIT. Fetal and neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (FNAIT) is the common cause of severe thrombocytopenia and intracranial haemorrhage in foetuses and newborns. Two cases of platelet transfusion refractoriness and one case of possible FNAIT caused by antibodies against CD36 in China. [Extracted from the article]

Stroke classification for online handwriting and sketches, aimed at grouping strokes into different semantic categories, has drawn considerable attention due to its wide applications. This task is challenging since individual strokes look similar and are easily confused with each other. The key is to consider both the individual strokes and the contextual information jointly for making prediction. Previous methods are insufficient in modeling and exploiting complex contextual information of strokes. To overcome this limitation, we propose a Transformer-based model for Online Handwriting and Sketches (T-OHS), with novel relation encoding schemes to take advantage of temporal and spatial information in stroke sequence. Particularly, we introduce a coarse-to-fine hierarchical encoding approach based on the polar coordinate system for precisely modeling spatial relations between strokes. Experiments on three types of handwriting data, including online handwritten documents, diagrams, and sketches, demonstrate that our method is universal and provides state-of-the-art performance. • We propose a novel stroke classification method for online handwriting and sketches. • We design an effective encoding scheme to represent the spatial relations among strokes. • Extensive experiments demonstrate that our method is universal and provides the SOTA performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fruiting body of Hericium erinaceus has been used to treat digestive system disorder-related diseases for over 2000 years in China. A novel polysaccharide, HEFP-2b, was obtained from H. erinaceus fruiting bodies. Physical and chemical analysis showed that HEFP-2b consisted of fucose, galactose, glucose, and mannose in molar ratio of 11.81:22.82:44.28:21.09, and that its molecular weight was 3.252 × 104 Da. The backbone of HEFP-2b consisted of →6)-linked-α-D-Glc p -(1→ and →4)-β-D-Gal p -(1→ and →3,6) -α-D-Man p linkage, with two side-branching units of (1→ and →6)-β-D-Gal p and (1→ and →4)-α-D-Man p , terminated by Glc and Fuc. The results of the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and cell cycle arrest experiments revealed that HEFP-2b considerably inhibited the growth of colon cancer cells (HCT-116) in vitro. The growth inhibitory effects of HEFP-2b correlated with their ability to arrest the cell cycle at the S -phase. Our results will provide valuable information for future studies on HEFP-2b as a novel health-promoting functional food ingredient that can be used for treating colon cancer. • Hericium erinaceus , as a medicinal fungus with well-known health-promoting effects • A novel polysaccharide with 22.82% of Gal, HEFP-2b, was obtained from H. erinaceus. • HEFP-2b was able to effectively inhibit the growth of HCT-116 and DLD1 cells. • HEFP-2b could induce arrest of cell cycle at S -phage in the colon cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Paris Agreement has confirmed that the ultimate climate policy goal is to hold the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2 °C above pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit the increase to 1.5 °C. Moving the goal from 2 °C to 1.5 °C calls for much more concerted effort, and presents greater challenges and costs. This study uses an Asia-Pacific Integrated Model/Computable General Equilibrium (AIM/CGE) to evaluate the role of socioeconomic factors (e.g. technological cost and energy demand assumptions) in changing mitigation costs and achieving the 1.5 °C and 2 °C goals, and to identify the channels through which socioeconomic factors affect mitigation costs. Four families of socioeconomic factors were examined, namely low-carbon energy-supply technologies, end-use energy-efficiency improvements, lifestyle changes and biomass-technology promotion (technology cost reduction and social acceptance promotion). The results show that technological improvement in low-carbon energy-supply technologies is the most important factor in reducing mitigation costs. Moreover, under the constraints of the 1.5 °C goal, the relative effectiveness of other socioeconomic factors, such as energy efficiency improvement, lifestyle changes and biomass-related technology promotion, becomes more important in decreasing mitigation cost in the 1.5 °C scenarios than in the 2 °C scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A financial computable general equilibrium model is established to quantitatively calculate the systematic effects of a green credit policy. The punitive high-interest rate is applied to the energy-intensive industries as the green credit policy. This study is focused on the following industries: paper, chemical, cement, and iron and steel. Short-, medium- and long-term scenarios are used to conduct experiments representing the green credit policy. Then, a scenario is simulated wherein a green security policy and the green credit policy are carried out simultaneously. Finally, effects of the green credit policy, a differential electricity price policy, and a raised production tax policy towards the energy-intensive industries are compared. The results show that the green credit policy is effective in suppressing the investments in energy-intensive industries, and it is comparatively less effective in adjusting the industrial production structure. The green security policy helps the green credit policy to reduce the total financing of the target industries, but it brings more negative impacts on the economy. Although the policies of differential electricity prices and raising production taxes support the output structural adjustments, their negative effects are much larger than those of the green credit policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the scattering behaviour of an electromagnetic wave by vortex flow is studied in detail by solving the first-order (in v / c ) Maxwell's equation in the cylindrical coordinate system ( r , φ , z ) and the general solutions are obtained. From these solutions, the differential cross-section of the vortex flow is calculated and the electromagnetic scattering characteristics of the vortex flow are discussed. The dependence of differential cross-section on the velocity profile and the radius of the vortex flow is investigated independently. Besides, by considering the dependence of scattering characteristics on the frequency of an incident wave we conclude that the vortex flow has frequency selectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temperature is one of the pivotal factors influencing mycelium growth and fruit-body formation of Flammulina velutipes . To gain insights into hyphae growth and fruit-body formation events and facilitate the identification of potential stage-specific biomarker candidates, we investigated the proteome response of F. velutipes mycelia to cold stresses using iTRAQ-coupled two-dimensional liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (2D LC-MS/MS) technique. Among 1198 proteins identified with high confidence, a total of 63 displayed altered expression level after cold stress treatments. In-depth data analysis reveals that differentially expressed proteins were involved in a variety of cellular processes, particularly metabolic processes. Among the 31 up-regulated proteins, 24 (77.42%) were associated with 22 specific KEGG pathways. These up-regulated proteins could possibly serve as potential biomarkers to study the molecular mechanisms of F. velutipes mycelia response to cold stresses. These data of the proteins might provide valuable evidences to better understand the molecular mechanisms of mycelium resistance to cold stress and fruit-body formation in fungi. Biological significance Low-temperature is one of the pivotal factors in some Flammulina velutipes industrial processes influencing mycelium growth, inducing primordia and controlling fruit-body development. Preliminary study has indicated that effectively regulating cultivation could augment the yield by controlling optimal cold stress level on mycelia. However, we are still far from understanding the molecular and physiological mechanisms of adaptation of these fungi at cold stress. In the present study, the experiments reported above were undertaken to investigate chronological changes of protein expression during F. velutipes mycelia in response to cold stress by using iTRAQ-coupled 2D LC-MS/MS technique. This result would provide new insights to the underlying mycelium growth and fruit-body formation mechanisms of basidiomycetes under cold stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flammulina velutipes is a potentially excellent fungus to study basic mechanisms of basidiomycete mycelium biology. To provide a better understanding of the mechanism of hyphae growth and fruit-body formation, the biological functions of the differentially abundant proteins between the fruiting dikaryon and the non-fruiting monokaryon of F. velutipes were investigated at the proteomic level using iTRAQ-coupled two-dimensional liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry technique. Among the 1198 proteins identified with high confidence, a total of 472 proteins were detected differentially abundant at least one of the mycelium development stages. In-depth data analysis revealed that differentially expressed proteins were influenced a variety of cellular processes, particularly metabolic processes. Functional pathway analysis indicated that 63 up-regulated proteins at only the fruiting dikaryon (Fv13) stage were mainly distributed in 51 specific Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genome pathways, such as amino acids biosynthesis and metabolism, signaling pathway, and central carbon metabolism. These up-regulated proteins could possibly serve as potential biomarkers to study the mycelium development pathways as well as provide new insights on the mycelium heterogenic compatibility and fruit-body formation mechanisms of basidiomycetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clonostachys rosea is a promising biocontrol agent that parasitizes various fungal plant pathogens. In this paper, transaldolase gene Tal67 was found to be greatly upregulated in C. rosea isolate 67-1 during mycoparasitism of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum sclerotia. Quantitative real-time PCR revealed a significant increase in expression at 0–48 h after induction by sclerotia, and the level peaked at 13.9-fold higher than the control at 24 h. Gene disruption led to a decrease in the growth rate of the Tal67 -deficient strain Δ Tal67 to 5.3 mm/day, which was much lower than the wild type and the complemented strain Δ Tal67 + ( P < 0.05). The antagonistic activity of Δ Tal67 against Botrytis cinerea was 15.8% lower than the wild type, and the parasitic rate to S. sclerotiorum decreased by 24.6%. However, reinsertion of the transaldolase gene recovered the fungicidal activity of C. rosea . The efficacy of the mutants against soybean Sclerotinia stem rot was evaluated in the greenhouse, and the control efficiency of isolate 67-1 reached 65.3%, while the efficiency of the Δ Tal67 strain decreased sharply to 17.8%, and the complemented strain Δ Tal67 + recovered to 64.8%. These results suggest that Tal67 plays an important role in the growth and biocontrol activity of C. rosea . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the immune activation and reactive oxygen species scavenging activity of Cordyceps militaris polysaccharides (CMP) in vivo , 24 male and 24 female Kunming mice were randomly divided into four groups. The mice in the four experimental groups were administered 0 (normal control), 50, 100, or 200 mg/kg/d body weight CMP via gavage. After 30 days, the viscera index, leukocyte count, differential leukocyte count, immunoglobulin (IgG) levels, and biochemical parameters were measured. The effect of CMP on the expression of tumor necrosis (TNF)-α, interferon (IFN)-γ, and interleukin (IL)-1β in the spleens of experimental mice was investigated by real-time polymerase chain reaction. The results showed that the administration of CMP improved the immune function in mice, significantly increased the spleen and thymus indices, the spleen lymphocyte activity, the total quantity of white blood cells, and IgG function in mice serum. CMP exhibited significant antioxidative activity in mice, and decreased malondialdehyde levels in vivo . CMP upregulated the expression of TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-1β mRNA in high-dose groups compared to that observed for the control mice. We can thus conclude that CMP effectively improved the immune function through protection against oxidative stress. CMP thus shows potential for development as drugs and health supplements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of new half-sandwich chromium(III) complexes with asymmetric bidentate β-enaminoketonato ligands ( 3a-f ), Cp[PhN C(CF 3 )CHC(C 6 H 4 R( o ))O]CrCl ( 3a , R = H； 3b R = CH 3 ; 3c , R = F; 3d , R = CF 3 ; 3e , R = phenyl; 3f , R = naphthyl), have been synthesized by treating CpCrCl 2 (THF) with 1.0 equiv. of the deprotonated ligands in THF, and the complexes were identified by IR spectra and mass spectra as well as elemental analyses. X-ray structural analysis for 3b and 3e–f revealed that these complexes adopt three-legged piano stool geometry with a pseudo-octahedral coordination environment. Upon treatment with methylaluminoxane, they exhibited moderate to high catalytic activities for ethylene polymerizations. Both the electronic effect and the steric hindrance of the substituents have profound effect on polymerization behaviors. Additionally, these complexes also displayed notable ability to copolymerize ethylene with norbornene, affording the copolymers with high NBE incorporations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of novel non-Cp-based chromium(III) complexes bearing tridentate β-enaminoketonato chelating ligands of type, [R 2 NC(CF 3 )C(H)CR 1 O]CrCl 2 (thf) ( 2a : R 1 = t Bu, R 2 = C 6 H 4 OMe( o ); 2b : R 1 = t Bu, R 2 = C 9 H 6 N; 2c : R 1 = t Bu, R 2 = C 6 H 4 SMe( o ); 2d : R 1 = Ph, R 2 = C 9 H 6 N; 2e : R 1 = Ph, R 2 = C 6 H 4 SMe( o )) have been prepared in high yields (e.g. 63–79%) from CrCl 3 (thf) 3 by treating with 1.0 equiv. of the deprotonated ligands in tetrahydrofuran. These complexes were identified by IR, and mass spectra as well as elemental analysis. Structures for 2b , 2c and 2e were further confirmed by X-ray crystallography. Non-Cp-based chromium(III) complexes have six-coordinate distorted octahedral geometry, and the heteroatom in the sidearm is coordinated to chromium. When activated by modified methylaluminoxane, complexes 2b and 2c exhibited high activities towards ethylene polymerization. These results indicated that both the donor atoms in side arm and the substituents in backbone significantly affected polymerization behaviors. In order to further explore the structure–reactivity relationship of the catalysts, we synthesized some novel half-sandwich chromium(III) complexes, Cp[R 2 NC(CF 3 )C(H)CR 1 O]CrCl ( 3a : R 1 = t Bu, R 2 = C 6 H 4 OMe( o ); 3c : R 1 = t Bu, R 2 = C 6 H 4 SMe( o ); 3e : R 1 = Ph, R 2 = C 6 H 4 SMe( o )) and investigated their potential application in ethylene polymerization under the similar conditions. Complex 3c adopts a three-legged piano stool geometry with a pseudo-octahedral coordination environment, and the heteroatom in the sidearm is not coordinated to chromium. These half-sandwich chromium complexes all displayed high activities for ethylene polymerization under the same conditions. Neither the donor atom in side arm nor the substituent in backbone significantly affected polymerization behaviors, in complete contrast to the results by non-Cp-based chromium catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Four new complexes [Ln(3-Br-5-IBA)3phen]2 were synthesized and characterized. [•] The non-isothermal kinetics of the first stage for the complexes was studied. [•] The heat capacities of the complexes were measured by differential scanning calorimeter. [•] The antimicrobial activities for these complexes were tested. [•] The fluorescence properties of the complexes 2 and 3 were studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new family of binuclear lanthanidecompounds of general formula [Ln(2,4-DClBA)3phen]2(Ln(III) = Nd (1), Sm (2), Dy (3), Yb (4); 2,4-DClBA = 2,4-dichlorobenzoate; phen =1,10-phenanthroline) have been synthesized and characterized by elementalanalysis, molar conductance, infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet spectra,thermogravimetric analysis, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction.On the basis of X-ray crystallography, compounds 2–4belong to the triclinic crystal system, PI̅ space group. In compound 2, the Sm3+ion adopted a distorted monocapped square-antiprism coordinationgeometry. Compounds 3and 4are isomorphouswhose central ions (Dy3+and Yb3+) formed adistorted square-antiprism geometry. The heat capacities of compounds 1–4are measured using DSC technologyand fitted to a polynomial equation by the least-squares method. Thesmoothed molar heat capacities and thermodynamic function data ofcompounds 1–4relative to the referencetemperature 298.15 K are then calculated. Meanwhile, these compoundsexhibit in good antifungal activity against C. albicans, good antibacterial activity against S. aureus, and better antibacterial activity against E. coli. The fluorescence spectra of the samarium and dysprosium compoundsbehave as characteristic transitions of Sm(III) and Dy(III) ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, three molecular marker systems including sequence related amplified polymorphism (SRAP), random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD), and inter-simple sequence repeats (ISSR) were screened to select polymorphisms of 24 main commercial strains of Lentinula edodes cultivated widely in China. Twenty-nine sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) markers were developed to set up a dendrogram using UPMGA based on nucleotide sequences of some SRAP, RAPD, and ISSR polymorphic fragments. The grouping showed that the 24 strains were apparently clustered into five groups at a level of 0.68 similarity coefficient, and those that have similar breeding background clustered preferentially into the same subgroup. Results also revealed that the 24 strains had a low level of genetic diversity, and the breeding source of L. edodes should be broadened by exploiting wild types and introducing exotic strains. In addition, the tested strains of L. edodes could be clearly distinguished and identified from others by using different combinations of SCAR primers. Thus, results of this work demonstrated that SCAR was an excellent genetic marker system to characterize and investigate genetic diversity of L. edodes. Furthermore, this provided an alternative method to identify the genetic relationship of different strains of other fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of novel titanium(IV) complexes combining a phosphine oxide‐bridged bisphenolato ligand TiCl2{2,2′‐OP‐R3 (4‐R2‐6‐R1‐C6H2O)2}(THF) (6a: R1 = tBu, R2 = H, R3 = Ph; 6b: R1 = Ph, R2 = H, R3 = Ph; 6c: R1 = R2 = tBu, R3 = Ph; 6d: R1 = R2 = cumyl, R3 = Ph; 6e: R1 = tBu, R2 = H, R3 = PhF5) were prepared by the reaction of corresponding bisphenolato ligands with TiCl4 in THF. X‐ray analysis reveals that complex 6a adopts distorted octahedral geometry around the titanium center. These catalysts were performed for ethylene polymerization in the presence of modified methyaluminoxane (MMAO). The effects of reaction parameters on ethylene polymerization behaviors, such as cocatalyst concentration, polymerization temperature, and reaction time were studied in detail. In general, these new complexes exhibited high catalytic activity, good temperature tolerance, and long lifetime for ethylene polymerization. The resulting polymers possess high molecular weight, unimodal distribution, and linear structure. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 46: 7062–7073, 2008 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A six-generation Chinese family with autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (adRP) was identified and characterized. Genome-wide linkage analysis linked the family to markers D19S601 to D19S605, which span the PRPF31 gene on chromosome 19q13.33–13.43 (RP11) (LOD=5.03). Direct DNA sequence analysis identified a novel splicing mutation (IVS1+1G>T) in affected family members and carriers, but not in unaffected family members and 200 normal controls. The splicing mutation occurs at the splicing donor of intron 1. Real time PCR with lymphoblastoid RNA samples from family members showed that in comparison to normal family members, the splicing mutation reduced the expression level of the PRPF31 mRNA by 57% in symptomatic patients and by 28% in clinically asymptomatic carriers. Our studies identify a novel splicing mutation in PRPF31 associated with adRP and suggest that the penetrance of RP11 mutations may be correlated with the expression level of the PRPF31 mRNA. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Using genomic in situ hybridization with genomic DNA, high-order chromatin fibers were successfully exhibited under a light microscope through the cell cycle in barley, rice, maize and field bean. From the interphase to prophase and metaphase of mitosis, the fibers were basically similar. Each was estimated to be around 200 nm in diameter, but the strength of signals was not the same along the fiber length. Through the cell cycle a series of dynamic distribution changes occurred in the fibers. In the interphase, they were unraveled. At the early prophase they were arranged with parallel and mirror symmetry. During late-prophase and metaphase, the fibers were bundled and became different visible chromosomes. The parallel coiling and mirror symmetry structures were visible clearly until the metaphase. In anaphase they disappeared. During telophase, in peripheral regions of congregated chromosome group, borderlines of the chromosomes disappeared and the fibers were unraveled. This demonstrated that mitotic chromosomes are assembled and organized by parallel and adjacent coiling of the fibers and the fibers should be the highest order structure for DNA coiling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two multi-nuclear titanium complexes [Ti(η5–Cp*)Cl(μ–O)]3(1) and [(η5–Cp*TiCl)(μ–O)2(η5–Cp*Ti)2(μ–O)(μ–O)2]2Ti (Cp* = C5Me5)(2) have been investigated as the precatalysts for syndiospecific polymerization of styrene. In the presence of modified methylaluminoxane (MMAO) as a cocatalyst, complexes 1 and 2 display much higher catalytic activities towards styrene polymerization, and produce the higher molecular weight polystyrenes with higher syndiotacticities and melting temperatures (Tm) than the mother complex Cp*TiCl3 does when the polymerization temperature is above 70°C and the Al/Ti molar ratio is in the low range especially. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Second-order blind identification (SOBI) is a blind source separation (BSS) algorithm that has been applied to MEG and EEG data collected during a range of sensory, motor, and cognitive tasks. SOBI can decompose mixtures of electric or magnetic signals by utilizing detailed temporal structures present in the continuously recorded signals. Successful decomposition critically depends on the choice of temporal delay parameters used for computing multiple covariance matrices. Here, we present empirical findings from high-density EEG data (128 channels) to show that SOBI''s ability to recover correlated neuronal sources critically depends on the appropriate use of these temporal delay parameters. Specifically, we applied SOBI to EEG data collected during correlated activation of the left and right primary somatosensory cortices (SI). We show that separation of signals originating from the left and right SI is better achieved by using a large number and a wide range of temporal delays between a few and several hundred milliseconds when compared to results using various subsets of these delays. The paper also offers non-mathematician/engineer users a gentle introduction to the inner workings of SOBI. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Fe(II) pyridinebisimine complexes activated with trialkylaluminium or modified methylaluminoxane (MMAO) as catalysts were employed for the polymerization of butyl methacrylate (BMA). Polymer yields, catalytic activities and molecular weights as well as molecular weight distributions of BMA can be controlled over a wide range by varying the reaction parameters such as cocatalyst, Al/Fe molar ratio, monomer/catalyst molar ratio, monomer concentration and reaction temperature used in the polymerization. The catalytic activity of Fe(II) complex was 11.1 kgpolym/molFe·h and the highest yield could reach 99.1% under optimum condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a new chromosome fluorescence banding technique was developed in plants. The technique combined 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining with software analysis including three-dimensional imaging after deconvolution. Clear multiple and adjacent DAPI bands like G-bands were obtained by this technique in the tested species including Hordeum vulgare L., Oryza officinalis, Wall & Watt, Triticum aestivum L., Lilium brownii, Brown, and Vicia faba L. During mitotic metaphase, the numbers of bands for the haploid genomes of these species were about 185, 141, 309, 456 and 194, respectively. Reproducibility analysis demonstrated that banding patterns within a species were stable at the same mitotic stage and they could be used for identifying specific chromosomes and chromosome regions. The band number fluctuated: the earlier the mitotic stage, the greater the number of bands. The technique enables genes to be mapped onto specific band regions of the chromosomes by only one fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) step with no chemical banding treatments. In this study, the 45S and 5S rDNAs of some tested species were located on specific band regions of specific chromosomes and they were all positioned at the interbands with the new technique. Because no chemical banding treatment was used, the banding patterns displayed by the technique should reflect the natural conformational features of chromatin. Thus it could be expected that this technique should be suitable for all eukaryotes and would have widespread utility in chromosomal structure analysis and physical mapping of genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of nickel(II) complexes bearing two nonsymmetric bidentate β-ketoiminato chelate ligands have been prepared, and the structures of complexes [(2,6-Me2C6H3)NC(CH3)C(H)C(Ph)O]2Ni (4a) and [(2,6-Me2C6H3)NC(CH3)C(H)C(CF3)O]2Ni (4c) have been confirmed by X-ray crystallographic analysis. These nickel(II) complexes were investigated as catalysts for the vinylic polymerization of norbornene. Using modified methylaluminoxane (MMAO) as a cocatalyst, these complexes display very high activities and produce high molecular weight polymers. Catalytic activity of up to 1.16 × 104 kg/molNi · h and the viscosity-average molecular weight of polymer of up to 870 kg/mol were observed. Catalyst activity, polymer yield, and polymer molecular weight could be controlled over a wide range by the variation of the reaction parameters such as Al/Ni molar ratio, norbornene/catalyst molar ratio, monomer concentration, polymerization reaction temperature and time. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Fe(II) pyridinebisimine complexes activated with trialkylaluminium or modified methylaluminoxane (MMAO) as catalysts were employed for the polymerization of methyl methacrylate. Polymer yields, activities and polymer molecular weights as well as molecular weight distributions can be controlled over a wide range by the variation of the structures of the Fe(II) pyridinebisimine complexes and the reaction parameters such as Al/Fe molar ratio, monomer/catalyst molar ratio, monomer concentration, reaction temperature and time applied to the polymerization of methyl methacrylate. Under optimum condition, the catalytic activity of Fe(II) complex is of up to 74.5 kgpolym/molFe h. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Non-CO2 greenhouse gas emissions from the agricultural sector play an important role in the global warming process. The carbon neutrality target pledged by China accelerates the research and implementation of climate mitigation policies. This study assessed the distributional impacts of carbon pricing on the agricultural sector from a multi-regional CGE model subdividing 12 primary agricultural sectors, 15 processed food sectors and 10 groups of households. The results revealed that in an agricultural carbon tax scenario under 1.5 °C target, emission-intensive food products (red meat and dairy products) experienced rapid price increases (4.22% and 3.14%) and consumption decreases (−6.61% and − 4.30%). The poorest rural households experienced the highest losses of 2.05% in protein and 1.42% in energy due to the decline in food consumption. Regressive welfare impacts were also observed, with the loss of rural residents being 1.3 times that of urban residents. The poorest income quintile tended to suffer a larger loss due to their higher share of food expenditures and greater vulnerability to changes in food prices. Furthermore, income inequality increased under the agricultural carbon tax, and the Gini coefficient increased by 0.57% compared with the BAU scenario in 2050, especially for the northern and southwestern regions. Tax revenue recycling focusing on the poor can help to offset the negative effects by expanding their income. Overall, a carefully designed carbon policy for the agricultural sector could help reduce carbon emissions while protecting vulnerably poor people and regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of limiting global temperature rise to "well below" 2 °C has been reaffirmed in the Paris Agreement on climate change at the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP21). Almost all countries submitted their decarbonization targets in their Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDC) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and India did as well. India's nationally determined contribution (NDC) aims to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions intensity of national GDP in 2030 by 33–35% compared to 2005. This paper analyzes how India's NDC commitments compare with emission trajectories consistent with well below 2 °C and 1.5 °C global temperature stabilization goals. A top-down computable general equilibrium model is used for the analysis. Our analysis shows that there are significant emission gaps between NDC and global climate stabilization targets in 2030. The energy system requires significant changes, mostly relying on renewable energy and carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology. The mitigation costs would increase if India delays its abatement efforts and is locked into NDC pathways till 2030. India's GHG emissions would peak 10 years earlier under 1.5 °C global temperature stabilization compared to the 2 °C goal. The results imply that India would need financial and technological support from developed countries to achieve emissions reductions aligned with the global long-term goal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The white-tufted-ear marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) is a New World primate that inhabits the coastal rainforests of eastern Brazil. In the present work, we report the complete mitochondrial genome sequence of white-tufted-ear marmoset for the first time. The total length of this mitogenome is 16,499 bp long, containing 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, 2 ribosomal RNA genes, and 1 non-coding region (D-loop region). The gene organization and arrangement is identical to typical vertebrates. The overall base composition is 32.75% of A, 26.95% of T, 26.91% C, and 13.39% G, with a slight A + T bias of 59.7%. All the genes are encoded on H-strand, except for theND6subunit gene and 8 tRNA genes. The complete mitochondrial genome sequence reported here will be useful for comparative genomics studies in primates. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Very recently, the MYORG gene was identified as a novel causative gene for autosomal-recessive primary familial brain calcification.Objective: To investigate the clinical, genetic, and neuroradiological characteristics of primary familial brain calcification patients with biallelic MYORG mutations in China.Methods: We collected clinical and neuroradiological data of 169 Chinese patients with primary familial brain calcification, including 151 sporadic patients and 18 patients from 13 families compatible with an autosomal-recessive mode of inheritance. Mutational analysis of MYORG was performed in the cohort.Results: We identified four, including three novel, MYORG mutations segregating in four families with 5 patients: one nonsense mutation (c.1431C>A, p.Y477*), one missense mutation (c.687G>T, p.W229C), and two nonframeshift indels (c.348_349insCTGGCCTTCCGC, p.116_117insLAFR; c. 428_442delTGCACTTCTTCATCC, p.143_147delLHFFI). The 12-base-pair insertion, c.348_349insCTGGCCTTCCGC, was found in either homozygous or heterozygous state in 2 probands of our cohort and another Chinese primary familial brain calcification patient previously reported on in the literature. Haplotype analysis of our patients harboring the insertion indicated a founder effect in the ethnic Han Chinese population. To date, biallelic MYORG mutations have been reported in 17 patients (including our cohort). Most patients were symptomatic (13 of 17; 76.5%), and the most recurrent symptoms were movement disorders (10 of 17; 58.8%), cognitive decline (7 of 17; 41.2%), and cerebellar symptoms (6 of 17; 35.3%). All patients had calcifications on comprehensive cranial CT, most frequently located in the basal ganglia (17 of 17; 100%), cerebellum (17 of 17; 100%), subcortical white matter (14 of 17; 82.4%), and thalamus (13 of 17; 76.5%).Conclusions: We confirmed MYORG as a novel causative gene for primary familial brain calcification and further expanded the mutational and phenotypic spectrum of MYORG-related primary familial brain calcification. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to investigate the insecticidal activity of the essential oils (EOs) and extracts from Rhododendron rufum and Rhododendron przewalskii. The EOs were extracted from the leaves of R. Rufum and R. przewalskii by hydro-distillation and their chemical components were analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The repellency, contact toxicity and antifeedant activity of the EOs and extracts were evaluated against Sitophilus oryzae and Tribolium castaneum along with those of their main components. A total of nine compounds were identified from the EO of R. Rufum, and the most abundant component was myristicin (79.72%). The EO of R. Rufum exhibited repellent activities at different levels and its main compound myristicin showed contact toxicity and repellent effects against S. oryzae and T. castaneum. Meanwhile, by bioassay-guided fractionation, four compounds with strong antifeedant activities against T. castaneum, 24-methylenecycloartanyl-2'E, 4'Z-tetradecadienoate (1), methyl thyrsiflorin B acetate (2), friedelin (3) and Excoecarin R1 methyl ester (4) were separated and identified from the ethanol extract of R. przewalskii for the first time. Considering the significant anti-insect activities, the EOs and extracts of R. Rufum and R. przewalskii might be used in integrated pest strategies, establishing a good perspective for the comprehensive use of natural plant resources of Rhododendron genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Testis‐specifically expressed genes are important for male reproduction according to their unique expression patterns. However, the functions of most of these genes in reproduction are unclear. Here, we showed that mouse 4930590J08Rik was a testis‐specifically expressed gene. 4930590J08Rik knockout mice exhibited a delay in the first wave of spermatogenesis and a reduction of cauda epididymal sperm. Furthermore, knockout spermatozoa exhibited defective acrosome reactions and decreased progressive motility, which led to impaired in vivo fertilization. Transcriptome analysis of testes revealed that most of the differentially expressed genes in knockout testes were associated with metabolic processes. 4930590J08Rik knockout sperm exhibited oxidative phosphorylation deficiency and were highly dependent on increased anaerobic glycolysis to compensate for ATP demands. Taken together, the 4930590J08Rik‐disrupted mouse partially mimics the phenotypes of human asthenospermia and oligozoospermia, which provides a new model for further understanding the pathogenesis of idiopathic male infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mononuclear neutral nickel catalyst Ni 1 and binuclear complexes Ni 2 and Ni 3 based on rigid 9,9-dimethylxanthene frameworks featuring short Ni−Ni distances were synthesized, characterized and applied in ethylene (co)polymerization. Binuclear catalyst Ni 2 exhibited higher activity in ethylene polymerization than corresponding mononuclear Ni 1 , and produce higher molecular weight polymer with a bimodal molecular weight distribution. Catalyst Ni 2 is remarkably thermally robust, and still displaying promising activity at 93 °C. The polymer microstructure produced by Ni 1 reveals a hyperbranched structure with a variety of branch types, while Ni 2 product features methyl branches primarily. In the presence of comonomer 1,5-hexadiene, 1,7-octadiene, and methyl 10-undecenoate, mononuclear Ni 1 suffers from either low catalytic activity or poor incorporation efficiency, while binuclear catalyst Ni 2 effectively enchained these comonomers into the polymer chain, giving copolymer with unique microstructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Paris Agreement confirmed the global aim to achieve a long-term climate goal, in which the global increase in mean temperature is kept below 2 °C compared to the preindustrial level. We investigated the implications of the near-term emissions targets (for around the year 2030) in the context of the long-term climate mitigation goal using the Asia-Pacific Integrated Model framework. To achieve the 2 °C goal, a large greenhouse gas emissions reduction is required, either in the early or latter half of this century. In the mid-term (from 2030 to 2050), it may be necessary to consider rapid changes to the existing energy or socioeconomic systems, while long-term measures (after 2050) will rely on the substantial use of biomass combined with carbon capture and storage technology or afforestation, which will eventually realize so-called negative CO emissions. With respect to the policy context, two suggestions are provided here. The first is the review and revision of the nationally determined contributions (NDCs) in 2020, with an additional reduction target to the current NDCs being one workable alternative. The second suggestion is a concrete and numerical mid-term emissions reduction target, for example to be met by 2040 or 2050, which could also help to achieve the long-term climate goal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A loading device for simulating the real traffic loading. • Compression-shear strength for flexible-rigid pavement. • A fatigue life prediction model for flexible-rigid pavement. To investigate the mechanical characteristics of asphalt pavement over rigid base, a loading device with an inclined indenter was designed to simulate the partial compression-shear of moving traffic loading. A series of tests were conducted to comparatively study the mechanical properties, including compression-shear strength and fatigue life of composite pavement. Temperature and asphalt overlay thickness were identified as the two most influencing factors on compression-shear strength, based on which a strength model was proposed. Substantial differences were found between asphalt pavement with and without rigid base in energy distribution and damage evolution. Due to the support and confinement provided by the rigid base, the mechanical properties and resilience of asphalt pavement are significantly improved: the fatigue life of composite pavement specimen was nearly 35% higher than that asphalt pavement specimen without rigid base. Fatigue life was significantly reduced by heavy load, whilst proportionally increased with asphalt overlay thickness. Fatigue life prediction model of asphalt layer over rigid base was characterized and validated by the multi-stress fatigue test. The results can provide reference for the design and promotion of composite pavement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the effects of polysaccharides extracted from Hericium erinaceus fruiting bodies (HEFPs) on the inflammatory response to oxidative stress in a mouse model of ulcerative colitis (UC) induced by ingestion of dextran sodium sulfate. The results indicated reduced oxidative damage in the HEFPs groups, as evidenced by significantly decreased malondialdehyde levels and significantly increased levels of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and catalase in colon homogenates, compared with those in the Model Control (MC) group. Additionally, compared with the levels in the MC group, the levels of the pro-inflammatory factors IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α in the positive-control (PC) and HEFPs groups were significantly lower, and that of the anti-inflammatory factor IL-10 was significantly higher. qRT-PCR analyses revealed that the colon expression patterns of IL-6 , IL-1β , TNF-α , and IL-18 were consistent with the serum levels. Western-blotting results indicated significantly lower levels of NLRP3, ASC, and caspase 1 P20 in the HEFPs and PC groups than in the MC group. These findings suggest that HEFPs alleviate UC by suppressing the NLRP3 inflammasome/Caspase-1 pathway. Lachnospiraceae , Clostridiales , Parabacteroides , Oscillibacter , and Clostridium XlVa genera were more abundant in the gut microbiota of the HEFPs group than that of the MC group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Human NaV1.9 (hNaV1.9), encoded by SCN11A, is preferentially expressed in nociceptors, and its mutations have been linked to pain disorders. NaV1.9 could be a promising drug target for pain relief. However, the modulation of NaV1.9 activity has remained elusive. Here, we identified a new candidate NaV1.9-interacting partner, protein arginine methyltransferase 7 (PRMT7). Whole-cell voltage-clamp recordings showed that coelectroporation of human SCN11A and PRMT7 in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons of Scn11a-/- mice increased the hNaV1.9 current density. By contrast, a PRMT7 inhibitor (DS-437) reduced mNaV1.9 currents in Scn11a+/+ mice. Using the reporter molecule CD4, we observed an increased distribution of hLoop1 on the cell surface of PRMT7-overexpressing HKE293T cells. Furthermore, we found that PRMT7 mainly binds to residues 563 to 566 within the first intracellular loop of hNaV1.9 (hLoop1) and methylates hLoop1 at arginine residue 519. Moreover, overexpression of PRMT7 increased the number of action potential fired in DRG neurons of Scn11a+/+ mice but not Scn11a-/- mice. However, DS-437 significantly inhibited the action potential frequency of DRG neurons and relieved pain hypersensitivity in Scn11aA796G/A796G mice. In summary, our observations revealed that PRMT7 modulates neuronal excitability by regulating NaV1.9 currents, which may provide a potential method for pain treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Haploinsufficiency is widely accepted as the pathogenic mechanism of spastic paraplegia type 4 (SPG4). However, there are some cases that cannot be explained by reduced function of the spastin protein encoded by SPAST. Objectives: To identify the causative gene of autosomal dominant hereditary spastic paraplegia in three large Chinese families and explore the pathological mechanism of a spastin variant. Methods: Three large Chinese hereditary spastic paraplegia families with a total of 247 individuals (67 patients) were investigated, of whom 59 members were recruited to the study. Genetic testing was performed to identify the causative gene. Western blotting and immunofluorescence were used to analyze the effects of the mutant proteins in vitro. Results: In the three hereditary spastic paraplegia families, of whom three index cases were misdiagnosed as other types of neurological diseases, a novel c.985dupA (p.Met329Asnfs*3) variant in SPAST was identified and was shown to cosegregate with the phenotype in the three families. The c.985dupA mutation produced two truncated mutants (mutant M1 and M87 isoforms) that accumulated to a higher level than their wild‐type counterparts. Furthermore, the mutant M1 isoform heavily decorated the microtubules and rendered them resistant to depolymerization. In contrast, the mutant M87 isoform was diffusely localized in both the nucleus and the cytoplasm, could not decorate microtubules, and was not able to promote microtubule disassembly. Conclusions: SPAST mutations leading to premature stop codons do not always act through haploinsufficiency. The truncated spastin may damage the corticospinal tracts through an isoform‐specific toxic effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of oxovanadium(V) complexes bearing dianionic [ONNO] chelate ligands 2-[bis(3-R 1 -5-R 2 -2 -hydroxybenzyl) aminomethyl]pyridine ( 2a : R 1 = t Bu, R 2 = H; 2b : R 1 = CF 3 , R 2 = H; 2c : R 1 = OCH 3 , R 2 = H; 2d : R 1 = R 2 = t Bu) and 2-[bis(3-R 1 -5-R 2 -2 -hydroxybenzyl) aminoethyl]pyridine ( 2e : R 1 = R 2 = t Bu) have been synthesized by reacting VO(O n Pr) 3 with 1.0 equiv. of the ligands in CH 2 Cl 2 . All these complexes were characterized by 1 H, 13 C, 51 V NMR spectra and elemental analysis. X-ray structural analysis for 2d revealed a six-coordinate distorted octahedral geometry around the vanadium center in the solid state. It was observed that these complexes existed as a mixture of two isomers, and the main isomer had the oxo moiety in trans configuration to the tripodal nitrogen atom. In the presence of Et 2 AlCl and CCl 3 COOEt, these complexes displayed high catalytic activities for ethylene polymerization even at elevated reaction temperature, depending on ligand structures. The resultant polymers possessed high molecular weights and unimodal molecular weight distributions, indicative of a single active site nature. In addition, copolymerizations of ethylene and norbornene using precatalysts 2a – e were also investigated, and the observed catalytic activity was nearly comparable with that for ethylene homopolymerization. When the concentration of comonomer in the feed amounted to 3.0 mol/L, a NBE incorporation up to 41.5% could be achieved. Other reaction parameters that influenced the polymerization behavior, such as reaction temperature and Al/V (molar ratio), are also examined in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT A series of novel (arylimido)vanadium(V) complexes bearing tridentate salicylaldiminato chelating ligands, V(N-2,6-Me2C6H3)Cl2[(O-2- tBu-4-R-C6H3)CHND] (R = H, D = 2-CH3OC6H4 ( 2a); 2-CH3SC6H4 ( 2b); 2-Ph2PC6H4 ( 2c); 8-C9H6N (quinoline) ( 2d); CH2C5H4N ( 2e); R = tBu, D = 2-Ph2PC6H4 ( 2f)), were prepared from V(NAr)Cl3 by reacting with 1.0 equiv of the ligands in the presence of triethylamine in tetrahydrofuran. These complexes were characterized by 1H, 13C, 31P, and 51V NMR spectra and elemental analysis. The structures of 2c and 2f were further confirmed by X-ray crystallographic analysis. These (arylimido)vanadium(V) complexes are effective catalyst precursors for ethylene polymerization in the presence of Et2AlCl as a cocatalyst and ethyl trichloroacetate as a reactivating agent. Complex 2c with a PPh2 group in the sidearm was found to exhibit an exceptional activity up to 133800 kg polyethylene/molV h for ethylene polymerization at 75 °C, which is one of the highest activities displayed by homogeneous vanadium(V) catalysts at high temperature. Moreover, high molecular weight polymers with unimodal molecular weight distribution can be obtained, indicating the single site behavior of these catalysts. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2014, 52, 2633-2642 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of novel binuclear phenoxyimino organoaluminum complexes of the type [(RN=CH)C6H3OAlMe2]2 [R = C6H5 (2a), 2,6-iPr2C6H3 (2b), 2,6-Ph2C6H3 (2c), adamantyl (2d), tBu (2e)] have been prepared in high yields, and these complexes were identified by 1H, 13C NMR and elemental analysis. Structural analysis for 2a–e revealed that these complexes have a distorted tetrahedral geometry around Al and both the Al–O and the Al–N bond distances were considerably influenced by substituents in the imino groups. The complexes were tested as catalyst precursors for ring-opening polymerisation (ROP) of ε-caprolactone (CL) in the presence of BnOH, and their catalytic activities were strongly affected by the catalyst structures and polymerisation conditions. An efficient living ROP has been achieved using the 2b/BnOH system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A seriesof novel half-sandwich-type chromium complexes bearingphenoxy-phosphine [O,P] ligands (3a–3f) or phenoxy-phosphine oxide [O,PO] ligands (4b–4e) were synthesized in high yields from CpCrCl2(thf) with corresponding ligands in THF. X-ray structure analysesfor 3b, 3c, 3e, and 4crevealed that these complexes adopt a three-legged piano stool geometry.When activated by modified methylaluminoxane, complexes 3a–3fexhibited moderate to high activities towardethylene polymerization, giving high molecular weight polymers withunimodal molecular weight distributions. Excitingly, complex 3ccould efficiently promote ethylene/NBE copolymerization,therefore, high molecular weight copolymers with high NBE contentcould easily be obtained under optimized conditions. The [O,PO]complexes showed higher catalytic activities than [O,P] analoguesbut produced much lower molecular weight polymers. The differencein polymerization behavior might be caused by the change of both thesteric bulk and the electronic effect around the metal center. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of C1-symmetric titanium complexes with both salicylaldiminato and β-enaminoketonato as the ligands have been synthesized and investigated as the catalysts for propylene polymerization. In the presence of dried methylaluminoxane (dMAO), the complex with bulky substituent tert-butyl ortho to alkyl oxygen can promote living polymerization of propylene with improved catalytic activity at ambient temperature, producing high molecular weight syndiotactic polypropylenes ( rrrr 90.2%) with narrow molecular weight distributions ( Mw/ Mn = 1.07-1.22), via a propagation of 1,2-insertion of monomer and chain-end control of stereoselectivity. The propagation of polymer chain is completely different from that mediated by FI catalysts (the titanium complexes with phenoxy-imine chelate ligands) which favor 2,1-insertion of monomer. The interaction between a fluorine and a β-hydrogen of a growing polymer chain, negligible chain transfer to monomer and dMAO without any free AlMe3 were responsible for the achievement of living propylene polymerization. The substituent ortho to alkyl oxygen determined the stereo structure of the resultant polypropylene. In the case of less steric congested complexes with two nonequivalent coordination positions, the growing polymer chain might swing back to the favorite coordination position (site-epimerization), forming m dyads regioirregular units. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Primary familial brain calcification (PFBC) is a rare inheritable neurodegenerative disease characterized by bilateral calcification in different brain regions and by a range of neuropsychiatric symptoms. Six causative genes of PFBC (SLC20A2, PDGFRB, PDGFB, XPR1, MYORG, and JAM2) have been identified. Methods: Sanger sequencing was used to identify the causative genes associated with PFBC in this study. Results: We describe the first PFBC case with both SLC20A2 and PDGFRB heterozygous mutations. Notably, this patient with the digenic mutation (who was only 5 years old) showed severe brain calcification and migraine, whereas the patient's parents, who each carried a heterozygous mutation in SLC20A2 or PDGFRB, exhibited varying degrees of brain calcification but were clinically asymptomatic. Conclusion: This case highlights the digenic influences on the characteristics of PFBC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of heteroligated (salicylaldiminato)(β-enaminoketonato)titanium complexes [3- tBu-2-OC6H3CHN(C6F5)] [PhNC(CF3)CHCRO]TiCl2 [ 3a: R = Ph, 3b: R = C6H4Cl( p), 3c: R = C6H4OMe( p), 3d: R = C6H4Me( p), 3e: R = C6H4Me( o)] were synthesized and characterized. Molecular structures of 3b and 3c were further confirmed by X-ray crystallographic analyses. In the presence of modified methylaluminoxane as a cocatalyst, these unsymmetric catalysts displayed favorable ability to incorporate 5-vinyl-2-norbornene (VNB) and 5-ethylidene-2-norbornene (ENB) into the polymer chains, affording high-molecular weight copolymers with high-comonomer incorporations and alternating sequence under the mild conditions. The comonomer concentration in the polymerization medium had a profound influence on the molecular weight distribution of the resultant copolymer. At initial comonomer concentration of higher than 0.4 mol/L, the titanium complexes with electron-donating groups in the β-enaminoketonato moiety mediated room-temperature living ethylene/VNB or ENB copolymerizations. Polymerization results coupled with density functional theory calculations suggested that the highly controlled living copolymerization is probably a consequence of the difficulty in chain transfer of VNB (or ENB)-last-inserted species and some characteristics of living ethylene polymerization under limited conditions. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A thin endometrium affects the success of assisted reproduction due to low endometrial receptivity. Acupuncture improves endometrial receptivity and promotes the formation of pinopodes, the ultrastructure marker implantation window. However, the specific underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, the efficacy of acupuncture treatment and its underlying mechanism were investigated by analyzing pregnancy rate, pinopode formation, and related molecular markers in thin endometrium model rats. Absolute ethanol (95%) was injected into the uteruses of female Sprague-Dawley rats to construct a thin endometrium model. In this model, acupuncture stimulation at EX-CA1, SP6, and CV4 ameliorated the pregnancy rate. Significantly increased embryo implantation, endometrial thickness, numbers of glands, and blood vessels were observed in the electroacupuncture (EA) group compared to the model group. The number of pinopodes in the EA group was abundant, with a shape similar to that of the control group. Additionally, significantly higher expression levels of pinopode-related markers, including integrin αvβ3, homeobox A10 (HOXA10), heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor (HBEGF), estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), and progesterone receptor (PR), were observed in the EA group than those in the model group. In conclusion, EA had a positive effect on the endometrial receptivity of thin endometrium model rats by improving pinopode formation through multiple molecular targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Embryo implantation requires temporospatial maternal-embryonic dialog. Using single-cell RNA sequencing for the uterus from 2.5 to 4.5 days post-coitum (DPC) and bulk sequencing for the corresponding embryos of 3.5 and 4.0 DPC pregnant mice, we found that estrogen-responsive luminal epithelial cells (EECs) functionally differentiated into adhesive epithelial cells (AECs) and supporting epithelial cells (SECs), promoted by progesterone. Along with maternal signals, embryonic Pdgfa and Efna3/4 signaling activated AECs and SECs, respectively, enhancing the attachment of embryos to the endometrium and furthering embryo development. This differentiation process was largely conserved between humans and mice. Notably, the developmental defects of SOX9-positive human endometrial epithelial cells (similar to mouse EEC) were related to thin endometrium, whereas functional defects of SEC-similar unciliated epithelial cells were related to recurrent implantation failure (RIF). Our findings provide insights into endometrial luminal epithelial cell development directed by maternal and embryonic signaling, which is crucial for endometrial receptivity. [Display omitted] • A transcriptional single-cell census during peri-implantation period in mice • Maternal signals control endometrial epithelial cell differentiation • Embryonic signals activate adhesive and supporting epithelial cells • Epithelial cell defects contribute to thin endometrium and RIF Wang et al. identify maternal and embryonic signals regulating endometrial epithelial cell differentiation and activity during peri-implantation period. They showed that this process is conserved in humans and mice, and defects in endometrial epithelial cells are associated with thin endometrium and recurrent implantation failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this research was to optimize ozone treatment concentration and investigate the one‐time ozone treatment (OOT) and intermittent ozone treatment (IOT) on the physicochemical characteristics and enzyme activity of Shiitake mushroom (Lentinus edodes). The results indicated that the optimal ozone‐treated concentration was 3.21 mg/m3. IOT effectively delayed mushroom browning through the inhibition of polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity, and promotion of phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase (PAL), peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) activities. It also maintained high levels of total phenolic and soluble protein content, and reduced the accumulation of free amino acids in mushrooms. The treatment reduced the total number of colonies, molds, and yeasts. Statistical analysis indicated that L* was remarkably positively correlated with POD, CAT, PAL, SOD activity, total phenolic content, and was negatively correlated with the total number of colonies, yeast, and mold. It was concluded that IOT was effective in maintaining mushroom quality and prolong storage life. Practical applications: Lentinus edodes are one of the most popular edible fungi due to its high nutrition value; however, they are prone to quality deterioration during storage. This study presents the application of one‐time ozone treatment (OOT) and intermittent ozone treatment (IOT) to improve the physicochemical characteristics and antioxidant enzyme activities of mushrooms. The finding revealed that IOT could effectively improve the quality of mushrooms by maintaining high level of nutrients, improving the antioxidant enzyme activities, and inhibiting the growth of the microorganisms. This work may provide a potential preservative for maintaining quality and extending the shelf‐life in the processing and preservation of shiitake mushrooms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mutations in Nav1.9 encoded by SCN11A have been associated with episodic pain, small-fiber neuropathy, and congenital insensitivity to pain. In this study, we collected and characterized one Chinese family with episodic pain. The SCN11A mutation (c.664C>A/p.Arg222Ser) was identified and cosegregated with the episodic pain phenotype. In addition, we found that alcohol intake triggered intense pain attacks and detected the ALDH2 polymorphism (c.1510G>A/p.Glu504Lys) in 3 patients with episodic pain. The alcohol-aggravated pain symptom and this ALDH2 polymorphism were also reconfirmed in our previously reported episodic pain patient with the Nav1.9 mutation (p.Ala808Gly, patient III-2 in HBBJ family). To assess the pathogenicity of the Nav1.9 mutation and the new trigger, we introduced a mutation (p.Ala796Gly) into the mouse (orthologous mutation in human is p.Ala808Gly). The alteration hyperpolarized channel activation, increased the residual current through noninactivating channels, and induced hyperexcitability of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons in Scn11a mice. The Scn11a mice showed increased sensitivity to mechanical, heat, and cold stimuli, and hypersensitivity to acetaldehyde and formalin, which could account for the alcohol intake-induced pain phenotype in patients. Moreover, acetaldehyde increased the mutant mNav1.9 channel current and excitability of Scn11a mouse DRG neurons. Parecoxib (an anti-inflammatory medication) relieved the heat hypersensitivity in Scn11a mice not receiving inflammatory stimuli and significantly decreased the hyperexcitability of DRG neurons in Scn11a mice. These results indicated that Scn11a mice recapitulated many clinical features of patients and suggested that Nav1.9 channel contributes significantly to the inflammatory pain state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Congenital insensitivity to pain (OMIM 243000) is an extremely rare disorder caused by loss-of-function mutations in SCN9A encoding Nav1.7. Although the SCN9A mutations and phenotypes of painlessness and anosmia/hyposmia in patients are previously well documented, the complex relationship between genotype and phenotype of congenital insensitivity to pain remains unclear. Here, we report a congenital insensitivity to pain patient with novel SCN9A mutations. Functional significance of novel SCN9A mutations was assessed in HEK293 cells expressing Nav1.7, the results showed that p.Arg99His significantly decreased current density and reduced total Nav1.7 protein levels, whereas p.Trp917Gly almost abolished Nav1.7 sodium current without affecting its protein expression. These revealed that mutations in Nav1.7 in this congenital insensitivity to pain patient still retained partial channel function, but the patient showed completely painlessness, the unexpected genotypic-phenotypic relationship of SCN9A mutations in our patient may challenge the previous findings "Nav1.7 total loss-of-function leads to painlessness." Additionally, these findings are helpful for understanding the critical amino acid for maintaining function of Nav1.7, thus contributing to the development of Nav1.7-targeted analgesics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endogenous phytohormones auxin (indole-3-acetic acid [IAA]), abscisic acid (ABA), gibberellin (GA3), and brassinosteroid (BR) play a role in responses to drought stress in higher plants. Tea plant is one of the major economic corps worldwide. The tender shoots of tea plants are the main source for tea production. The effects of drought stress on endogenous IAA, ABA, GA3, and BR metabolisms in tender shoots of tea plants need to be illustrated. In this study, a total of 17 IAA-related genes, 17 ABA-related genes, 18 GA3-related genes, and 8 BR-related genes were identified under drought stress in tender shoots of tea plants, respectively. By using a combination of phytohormone determination, phylogenetic tree construction and sequence analysis, gene expression profiles, functional classification, Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes enrichment, and distribution of genes analysis, we have demonstrated that IAA, ABA, GA3, and BR metabolisms might participate in the regulation of the response to drought stress in tender shoots of tea plants. The expression level of CsLYCE negatively correlated with ABA accumulation under drought stress. Our findings could shed new light on the effects of drought stress on the IAA, ABA, GA3, and BR metabolisms in tender shoots of tea plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]