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Purpose: This review aims to comprehensively summarize, compare, and evaluate screeners used to identify risk for developmental language disorder (DLD), a common learning disability that is underidentified. Screening for DLD is a cost-effective way to identify children in need of further assessment and, in turn, provides much needed supports. Method: We identified 15 commercially available English language DLD screeners in North America. We then characterized each screener on 27 aspects in three domains, including (a) accessibility information (acronym, subtest, website, cost, materials included, publish year, examiner qualification, age range, administration time, and administration format), (b) usability features (dialect compatibility, progress monitoring function, actionable follow-up instruction, group assessment capability, and online administration availability), and (c) technical standards (the availability of a technical manual, conceptual definition, the sample size used in classification accuracy calculation, sample distribution, year of sample collection, outcome measure, sample base rate, cutoff score, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value). Results: We obtained sufficient accessibility information from 14 out of 15 (93%) screeners. In contrast, none of the screeners (0%) included comprehensive usability features. Ten screeners (67%) included a range of classification accuracy (70%–100% sensitivity and 68%–90% specificity). We provided areas of strength and weakness for each screener as a quick reference for users and generated screener recommendations for five practical scenarios. Conclusions: Our findings presented some DLD screeners that meet most standards and highlight numerous areas for improvement, including improving classification accuracy and clarifying follow-up instructions for children who are identified with DLD risk. Screening for DLD is critical to provide timely early identification, intervention, and classroom support, which in turn facilitates student outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the CNN-LSTM fusion deep neural network, this paper proposes a seismic velocity model building method that can simultaneously estimate the root mean square (RMS) velocity and interval velocity from the common-midpoint (CMP) gather. In the proposed method, a convolutional neural network (CNN) Encoder and two long short-term memory networks (LSTMs) are used to extract spatial and temporal features from seismic signals, respectively, and a CNN Decoder is used to recover RMS velocity and interval velocity of underground media from various feature vectors. To address the problems of unstable gradients and easily fall into a local minimum in the deep neural network training process, we propose to use Kaiming normal initialization with zero negative slopes of rectified units and to adjust the network learning process by optimizing the mean square error (MSE) loss function with the introduction of a freezing factor. The experiments on testing dataset show that CNN-LSTM fusion deep neural network can predict RMS velocity as well as interval velocity more accurately, and its inversion accuracy is superior to that of single neural network models. The predictions on the complex structures and Marmousi model are consistent with the true velocity variation trends, and the predictions on field data can effectively correct the phase axis, improve the lateral continuity of phase axis and quality of stack section, indicating the effectiveness and decent generalization capability of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For reverse-time migration, high-resolution imaging mainly depends on the accuracy of the velocity model and the imaging condition. In practice, however, the small-scale components of the velocity model cannot be estimated by tomographical methods; therefore, the wavefields are not accurately reconstructed from the background velocity, and the imaging process will generate artefacts. Some of the noise is due to cross-correlation of unrelated seismic events. Interferometric imaging condition suppresses imaging noise very effectively, especially the unknown random disturbance of the small-scale part. The conventional interferometric imaging condition is extended in this study to obtain a new imaging condition based on the pseudo-Wigner distribution function(WDF).Numerical examples showthat themodified interferometric imaging condition improves imaging precision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Construction of high performance flame-retardant engineering plastics is of particular interest both in academia and industrial circles for years. Herein, a novel organic-inorganic hybrid (BM@Al-BuPPi) with unique core-shell structure was prepared based on the reaction of isobutyl-phenylphosphinic acid (Bu-PPiA) and boehmite (BM) via analogue suspension in aqueous solution. The core from the self-aggregated microrod of Al-BuPPi brought a high flame-retardant efficiency to the hybrid, where the V-0 rating in UL-94 burning test and 42.5% of limiting oxygen index (LOI) were achieved. The shell composed of BM nanoparticles was responsible for the improvement of the compatibility between hybrid and semi-aromatic polyamide matrix by increasing the surface polarity and the wettability of the hybrid. Compared with the original Al-BuPPi, the hybrid was homogeneously wrapped by the matrix, and the tensile strength of semi-aromatic polyamide/hybrid composite was over twice higher than that of the flame-retardant composite containing Al-BuPPi. At last, cone calorimetric results revealed the hybrid combines both advantages of the organic phosphinate and the inorganic boehmite in flame inhibition and smoke suppressing activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dynamic global vegetation models are useful tools for the simulation of global carbon cycle. However, most models are hampered by the poor availability of global aboveground biomass (AGB) data, which is necessary for the model calibration process. Here, taking the integrated biosphere simulator model (IBIS) as an example, we evaluated the modeled carbon dynamics, including gross primary production (GPP) and potential AGB, at the global scale. The IBIS model was constrained by both in situ GPP and plot-level AGB data collected from the literature. Model results showed that IBIS could reproduce GPP with acceptable accuracy in monthly and annual scales. At the global scale, the IBIS-simulated total AGB was similar to those obtained in other studies. However, discrepancies were observed between the model-derived and observed AGB for pan-tropical forests. The bias in modeled AGB was mainly caused by the unchanged parameters over the global scale for a specific plant functional type. This study also showed that different meteorological inputs can introduce substantial differences in modeled AGB in the global scale, although this difference is small compared with parameter-induced differences. The conclusions of our research highlight the necessity of considering the heterogeneity of key model physiological parameters in modeling global AGB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many technologies have been developed to help improve spatial resolution of observational images for ground-based solar telescopes, such as adaptive optics (AO) systems and post-processing reconstruction. As any AO system correction is only partial, it is indispensable to use post-processing reconstruction techniques. In the New Vacuum Solar Telescope (NVST), a speckle-masking method is used to achieve the diffractionlimited resolution of the telescope. Although the method is very promising, the computation is quite intensive, and the amount of data is tremendous, requiring several months to reconstruct observational data of one day on a high-end computer. To accelerate image reconstruction, we parallelize the program package on a high-performance cluster. We describe parallel implementation details for several reconstruction procedures. The code is written in the C language using the Message Passing Interface (MPI) and is optimized for parallel processing in a multiprocessor environment. We show the excellent performance of parallel implementation, and the whole data processing speed is about 71 times faster than before. Finally, we analyze the scalability of the code to find possible bottlenecks, and propose several ways to further improve the parallel performance. We conclude that the presented program is capable of executing reconstruction applications in real-time at NVST. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nicotinic acetylcholine receptor β1 subunit gene of the most imidacloprid-susceptible (OK) strain and the most imidacloprid-resistant (TS7) strain of Thrips palmi encoded a susceptible amino acid, Arg, at amino acid position 81. The OK and TS7 strains showed LC50 values of 9.4 mg/L and 115.0 mg/L, respectively. The synergist, piperonyl butoxide, decreased the resistance ratio to one-third in the TS7 strain. These results suggest that the imidacloprid resistance in T. palmi is conferred mainly by cytochrome P450-mediated detoxification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a flame-retardant polypropylene (PP)/ramie fiber (RF) composite was prepared. The ramie fibers were wrapped chemically by a phosphorus- and nitrogen-containing flame retardant (FR) produced via in situ condensation reaction so as to suppress their candlewick effect. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) demonstrated that the ramie fibers wrapped chemically by FR (FR-RF) were obtained successfully. Thermogravimatric test showed that the PP/FR-RF composite had more residue and better thermal stability at high temperatures than the PP/RF composite. Cone calorimeter (CC) results indicated that the peak of heat release rate (PHRR) and total heat release (THR) correspondingly decreased by 23.4% and 12.5% compared with the values of neat PP/RF. The PP/FR-RF composite created a continuous and compact char layer after the combustion. Combining FTIR analysis of char residue after CC test with heat conduction coefficient results, it could be concluded that the charring of FR on RF greatly weakened the candlewick effect of RF, and more char residue in the RF domain facilitated the formation of more continuous and compact char layer in the whole combustion zone, consequently protected PP composites during combustion, resulting in the better flame retardancy of PP/FR-RF composite than that of PP/RF composite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Interleukin-22 (IL-22) is a member of the IL-10 family of anti-inflammatory cytokines that mediates epithelial immunity. IL-22 expression was found to be increased in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). Whether genetic polymorphisms of IL-22 also influence UC risk is still unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between the IL-22 gene polymorphisms (-429 C/T, +1046 T/A and +1995 A/C) and the risk of UC in Chinese Han patients. Methods This hospital-based case-control study comprised 180 patients with UC and 180 age- and gender-matched controls. Genotypes of 3 common polymorphisms of the IL-22 gene were determined by fluorogenic 5' exonuclease assays (TaqMan). Results Patients with UC had a significantly higher frequency of IL-22 -429 TT genotype [odds ratio (OR) =2.43, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.35, 4.37; P = 0.003] and -429 T allele (OR =1.54, 95% CI = 1.14, 2.07; P = 0.004) than controls. The findings are still emphatic by the Bonferroni correction. The IL-22 + 1046 T/A and IL-22 + 1995 A/C gene polymorphisms were not associated with a risk of UC. When stratifying by clinical type, location and disease severity of UC, no significant differences were found in any groups. Conclusion This is the first study to provide evidence for an association of IL-22 -429 C/T gene polymorphisms with UC risk. Additional well-designed large studies were required for the validation of our results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Firstly, an efficient verifier-based three-party password-authenticated key exchange protocol previously proposed is analyzed. The protocol is vulnerable to security threats such as server key disclosure attack and so on, and has a lack of forward secrecy. Secondly, on the basis of the analysis, in order to solve the problem that most of existing verifier-based 3PAKE protocols cannot resist server key disclosure attack, a novel 3PAKE protocol is proposed. Through security analysis, the new protocol can be proved to be more secure than the old one, and has the ability to resist all known attacks. In addition, compared with existing protocols, it is more efficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Heterogeneous CaFe2O4–Ca2Fe2O5-based catalyst with weak magnetism was prepared by co-precipitation and calcination. It was characterized by various techniques including X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and temperature programmed desorption method. Its active components were identified as mainly Ca–Fe composite oxides such as CaFe2O4 for transesterification. The magnetism was further strengthened by reducing its component of Fe2O3 to Fe3O4–Fe under H2 atmosphere for better magnetic separation. Both catalysts were used for the catalytic transesterification of soybean and Jatropha oils to biodiesel. The highest biodiesel yields for soybean oil of 85.4% and 83.5% were obtained over the weak and strong magnetic catalysts, respectively under the optimized conditions (373 K, 30 min, 15/1 methanol/oil molar ratio and 4 wt% catalyst). The catalysts could be recycled three times. Biodiesel production from pretreated Jatropha oil was tested with the magnetic CaFe2O4–Ca2Fe2O5–Fe3O4–Fe catalyst, and 78.2% biodiesel yield was obtained. The magnetic CaFe2O4–Ca2Fe2O5-based catalyst shows a potential application for the green production of biodiesel. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] We used the water balance method to estimate the evapotranspiration for two basins in Tibetan Plateau. [•] We evaluated several global evapotranspiration products for the two basins in Tibetan Plateau. [•] We suggested the improvements of the evapotranspiration products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Variation in the position of CF3 groups in several aromatic Group-14 compounds was studied by 19F-NMR spectroscopy. In these compounds R nECl4− n ( n=1 or 2; E=Si, Ge, or Sn; R=2,4,6-(CF3)3C6H2 (=Ar), 2,6-(CF3)2C6H3 (=Ar′), or 2,4-(CF3)2C6H3 (=Ar″)), Ar, Ar′, and Ar″ are all bulky, strongly electron-withdrawing ligands. The 19F-NMR studies of the variation in position of the CF3 substituents in these compounds as revealed by chemical shifts could be correlated with the electronegativities of the central elements E, and with intramolecular E-F interactions derived from single-crystal X-ray diffraction data. These interactions are considered to play an important role in the stabilization of these compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boreal forests play an important role in the global balance of energy and CO2. Our previous study of elaborate eddy covariance observations in a Siberian boreal larch forest, conducted both above the forest canopy and at the forest floor, revealed a significant contribution of latent heat flux (LE) from the cowberry understory to the whole ecosystem LE. Thus, in the present study, we examined what factors control the partitioning of whole ecosystem LE and CO2 flux into the understory and overstory vegetation, using detailed leaf-level physiology (for both understory and overstory vegetation) and soil respiration property measurements as well as a multilayer soil-vegetation-atmosphere transfer (SVAT) model. The modeling results showed that the larch overstory's leaf area index (LAI) and vertical profile of leaf photosynthetic capacity were major factors determining the flux partitioning in this boreal forest ecosystem. This is unlike other forest ecosystems that tend to have dense LAI. We concluded that control of the larch overstory's LAI had a relationship with both the coexistence of the larch with the cowberry understory and with the water resources available to the total forest ecosystem. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To investigate whether the high expression levels of actin-depolymerizing factor genes are related to pollen development, three GhADF genes (cDNAs) were isolated and characterized in cotton. Among them, GhADF6 and GhADF8 were preferentially expressed in petals, whereas GhADF7 displayed the highest level of expression in anthers, revealing its anther specificity. The GhADF7 transcripts in anthers reached its peak value at flowering, suggesting that its expression is developmentally-regulated in anthers. The GhADF7 gene including the promoter region was isolated from the cotton genome. To demonstrate the specificity of the GhADF7 promoter, the 5′-flanking region, including the promoter and 5′-untranslated region, was fused with the GUS gene. Histochemical assays demonstrated that the GhADF7:GUS gene was specifically expressed in pollen grains. When pollen grains germinated, very strong GUS staining was detected in the elongating pollen tube. Furthermore, overexpression of GhADF7 gene in Arabidopsis thaliana reduced the viable pollen grains and, consequently, transgenic plants were partially male-sterile. Overexpression of GhADF7 in fission yeast (Schizosaccharomyces pombe) altered the balance of actin depolymerization and polymerization, leading to the defective cytokinesis and multinucleate formation in the cells. Given all the above results together, it is proposed that the GhADF7 gene may play an important role in pollen development and germination. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Microsporogenesis, associated with the functional expression of many genes, is a highly programmed and regulated process in flowering plants. To elucidate the roles of genes during anther development, two anther-specific cDNAs (designated GhACS1 and GhACS2) encoding acyl-CoA synthetases (ACSs) were isolated from a cotton ( Gossypium hirsutum) flower cDNA library. Subsequently, the corresponding GhACS1 gene was isolated from a cotton genomic DNA library. Real-time quantitative RT-PCR and northern blot analyses revealed that GhACS1 transcripts were predominantly accumulated in the developing anthers of cotton. The specificity of GhACS1 expression in primary sporogenous cells (PSCs), pollen mother cells (PMCs), microspores, and tapetal cells was demonstrated by in situ hybridization as well as histochemical assay of GUS expression controlled under the GhACS1 promoter. High levels of GhACS1 activity are crucial for fatty acid metabolism in PSCs, PMCs, microspores and particularly tapetal cells. Reduction of ACS enzymatic activity by suppressing GhACS1 expression severely affected the tapetal cells and consequently blocked normal microsporogenesis in early anther development. Aberrant and defective microspores were generated in the transgenic anthers. As a result, the transgenic plants failed to produce functional pollen grains and were male-sterile, suggesting that the GhACS1 gene is required for normal microsporogenesis in early anther development of cotton. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single-celled cotton fiber (Gossypium hirsutum) provides a unique experimental system to study cell elongation. To investigate the role of the actin cytoskeleton during fiber development, 15 G. hirsutum ACTIN (GhACT) cDNA clones were characterized. RNA gel blot and real-time RT-PCR analysis revealed that GhACT genes are differentially expressed in different tissues and can be classified into four groups. One group, represented by GhACT1, is expressed predominantly in fiber cells and was studied in detail. A 0.8-kb GhACT1 promoter sufficient to confirm its fiber-specific expression was identified. RNA interference of GhACT1 caused significant reduction of its mRNA and protein levels and disrupted the actin cytoskeleton network in fibers. No defined actin network was observed in these fibers and, consequently, fiber elongation was inhibited. Our results suggested that GhACT1 plays an important role in fiber elongation but not fiber initiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examines Skinner's (1953) atoms-of-behavior hypothesis using an `in vitro reinforcement' paradigm. Reinforcement of the bursting response of hippocampal units in a brain-slice preparation; Effect of dopamine injections on the bursting responses of individual CA1 pyramidal neurons.

Attempts to model operant conditioning in vitro by reinforcing pyramidal cell bursting responses with local micropressure applications of transmitters and drugs. Use of hippocampal-slice preparation; Independent administration of injections; Suggestion that the bursting responses of individual CA1 pyramidal neurons may be reinforced in a dose-related manner by response contingent; Result's consistency with suggestion.

Epilepsy is a neurological disease recognized as the consequence of excessive neuronal excitability. Endocannabinoid system, the critical regulator of synaptic inhibition in brain, was supposed to be closely involved in epilepsy. Cannabinoid receptors mostly locate on presynaptic terminals of both excitatory and inhibitory neurons, but with characteristic distribution varying in different brain areas and synapses. Endocannabinoids are synthesized in postsynaptic neurons and retrogradely act on presynaptic cannabinoid receptors. Accumulating evidence suggest that the expression of cannabinoid receptors and synthesis or breakdown of endocannabinoids were cell-type specifically altered and spatiotemporally regulated in seizures, and intervention of the expression of cannabinoid receptors or the level of endocannabinoids could affect seizure actions. Further in clinic, cannabidiol as an add-on treatment could reduce seizures in patients with treatment-resistant epilepsy, but the underlying mechanisms are still unclear and independent of the endocannabinoid system. Therefore, we review recent advances from bench to bedside, to address the cannabinoid control on seizures, discuss the existing confusion in current studies and provide directions for further research, which may be clinically important for the design of cannabinoid-based precise therapeutic interventions for epilepsy. • Cannabinoid control modulate neural excitability through presynaptic inhibition. • Endocannabinoid system was spatiotemporally perturbed in epilepsy. • Intervention of cannabinoid receptors or endocannabinoids could affect seizures. • Cannabidiol as an add-on treatment could reduce seizures in clinic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here zinc borate@ZIF-8 (ZB@ZIF-8) hybrid nanorods were constructed through self-template strategy using zinc borate as the template, so as to realize the multifunctionalization of epoxy resins. By virtue of this smart design, it rationally combined the structural and functional advantages of the curing capability of ZIF-8 and the flame-retardant efficiency of ZB into core-shell nanoarchitecture, which could facilitate the curing of epoxy resins, improve the fire safety and enhance the physical-mechanical property of epoxy thermosets. Benefiting from this design, the apparent activation energy for ZB@ZIF-8 nanorods to cure epoxy resins is lower than ZIF-8, and epoxy thermosets cured by ZB@ZIF-8 presented lower flammability and higher mechanical properties as compared to epoxy thermosets cured by ZIF-8 individually. Image 1 • ZB@ZIF-8 core-shell nanorods were constructed through self-sacrifice strategy. • ZB@ZIF-8 nanorods were used as the curing agent and modifier of epoxy resins. • EP/ZB@ZIF-8 nanocomposite exhibited higher fire safety than EP/ZIF-8. • The tensile strength and modulus of EP/ZB@ZIF-8 were higher than EP/ZIF-8. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Upland cotton, the mainly cultivated cotton species in the world, provides over 90% of natural raw materials (fibers) for the textile industry. The development of cotton fibers that are unicellular and highly elongated trichomes on seeds is a delicate and complex process. However, the regulatory mechanism of fiber development is still largely unclear in detail. In this study, we report that a homeodomain‐leucine zipper (HD‐ZIP) IV transcription factor, GhHOX4, plays an important role in fiber elongation. Overexpression of GhHOX4 in cotton resulted in longer fibers, while GhHOX4‐silenced transgenic cotton displayed a "shorter fiber" phenotype compared with wild type. GhHOX4 directly activates two target genes, GhEXLB1D and GhXTH2D, for promoting fiber elongation. On the other hand, phosphatidic acid (PA), which is associated with cell signaling and metabolism, interacts with GhHOX4 to hinder fiber elongation. The basic amino acids KR‐R‐R in START domain of GhHOX4 protein are essential for its binding to PA that could alter the nuclear localization of GhHOX4 protein, thereby suppressing the transcriptional regulation of GhHOX4 to downstream genes in the transition from fiber elongation to secondary cell wall (SCW) thickening during fiber development. Thus, our data revealed that GhHOX4 positively regulates fiber elongation, while PA may function in the phase transition from fiber elongation to SCW formation by negatively modulating GhHOX4 in cotton. Significance Statement: GhHOX4 promotes fiber elongation by directly regulating expressions of GhEXLB1D and GhXTH2D genes in cotton, but phosphatidic acid interacts with GhHOX4 to alter the nuclear localization of GhHOX4, thereby suppressing transcriptional regulation of GhHOX4 to downstream genes in the transition from fiber elongation to secondary cell wall (SCW) thickening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought stress impairs crop growth and development. BEL1-like family transcription factors may be involved in plant response to drought stress, but little is known of the molecular mechanism by which these proteins regulate plant response and defense to drought stress. Here we show that the BEL1-like transcription factor GhBLH5-A05 functions in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) response and defense to drought stress. Expression of GhBLH5-A05 in cotton was induced by drought stress. Overexpression of GhBLH5-A05 in both Arabidopsis and cotton increased drought tolerance, whereas silencing GhBLH5- A05 in cotton resulted in elevated sensitivity to drought stress. GhBLH5-A05 binds to cis elements in the promoters of GhRD20-A09 and GhDREB2C-D05 to activate the expression of these genes. GhBLH5- A05 interacted with the KNOX transcription factor GhKNAT6-A03. Co-expression of GhBLH5-A05 and GhKNAT6-A03 increased the transcription of GhRD20-A09 and GhDREB2C-D05. We conclude that GhBLH5-A05 acts as a regulatory factor with GhKNAT6-A03 functioning in cotton response to drought stress by activating the expression of the drought-responsive genes GhRD20-A09 and GhDREB2C-D05. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • An in-situ one-step protocol to prepare MB-encapsulated Mn 3 O 4 was first developed. • MB@Mn 3 O 4 displayed unique response to thiol against other materials. • Homogeneous electrochemical analysis of diazinon with LOD of 0.03 ng/mL was achieved. • It overcomes the interference from food matrix and electrode's immobilization. Electrochemical sensor can address interferences of color and luminescence from matrix, and then is considered a powerful candidate for food hazard factors analysis. Nevertheless, most of the known sensors for pesticides are limited to tedious and harsh electrode's immobilization procedures. Herein, an in-situ one-step strategy to prepare methylene blue-encapsulated trimanganese tetroxide nanocomposites (MB@Mn 3 O 4) was proposed for homogeneous detection of pesticide with high sensitivity (using diazinon as model). Experimental characterizations showed MB was encapsulated inside Mn 3 O 4 with high load and good stability, and MB@Mn 3 O 4 exhibited a specific response to thiol because of reduction reaction between –SH and Mn 3 O 4. Given acetylcholinesterase (AChE)-switched hydrolysis of acetylthiocholine into thiocholine, MB@Mn 3 O 4 was explored for homogeneous electrochemical determination of diazinon based on its depression on AChE, where the recognition of MB@Mn 3 O 4 by thiocholine promoted the collapse of Mn 3 O 4 , allowing MB to be free. Thus, a greatly decreased signal was measured and the peak current showed a linear relationship to diazinon ranging from 0.1 ng/mL to 20 ng/mL with a limit of detection of 0.03 ng/mL. The strategy on preparing MB-encapsulated Mn 3 O 4 and developing homogeneous electrochemical sensor will open up a new avenue to improve the sensing performance for pesticide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytohormones play indispensable roles in plant growth and development. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying phytohormone-mediated regulation of fiber secondary cell wall (SCW) formation in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) remain largely underexplored. Here, we provide mechanistic evidence for functional interplay between the APETALA2/ethylene response factor (AP2/ERF) transcription factor GhERF108 and auxin response factors GhARF7-1 and GhARF7-2 in dictating the ethylene–auxin signaling crosstalk that regulates fiber SCW biosynthesis. Specifically, in vitro cotton ovule culture revealed that ethylene and auxin promote fiber SCW deposition. GhERF108 RNA interference (RNAi) cotton displayed remarkably reduced cell wall thickness compared with controls. GhERF108 interacted with GhARF7-1 and GhARF7-2 to enhance the activation of the MYB transcription factor gene GhMYBL1 (MYB domain-like protein 1) in fibers. GhARF7-1 and GhARF7-2 respond to auxin signals that promote fiber SCW thickening. GhMYBL1 RNAi and GhARF7-1 and GhARF7-2 virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) cotton displayed similar defects in fiber SCW formation as GhERF108 RNAi cotton. Moreover, the ethylene and auxin responses were reduced in GhMYBL1 RNAi plants. GhMYBL1 directly binds to the promoters of GhCesA4-1, GhCesA4-2, and GhCesA8-1 and activates their expression to promote cellulose biosynthesis, thereby boosting fiber SCW formation. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that the collaboration between GhERF108 and GhARF7-1 or GhARF7-2 establishes ethylene–auxin signaling crosstalk to activate GhMYBL1, ultimately leading to the activation of fiber SCW biosynthesis. Transcription factors GhERF108 and GhARF7 interact to establish ethylene–auxin crosstalk, which activates downstream secondary cell wall (SCW)–related genes to facilitate fiber SCW formation in cotton. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: HER2/ErbB2 is a member of the epidermal growth factor receptor family. It is widely used as a tumor marker, but it also has recently been associated with insulin resistance. Both ErbB2 and diabetes have been associated with cancer; however, the relationship between ErbB2 and diabetes has not been well explored. The aim of this population-based cohort study was to assess the association between plasma ErbB2 and incidence of diabetes.Research Design and Methods: The study population included participants from the Malmö Diet and Cancer-Cardiovascular Cohort (age range 46-68 years). After excluding participants with a history of diabetes and those missing data for ErbB2 and other covariates, the final study population consisted of 4,220 individuals. Incidence of diabetes was followed through linkages to local and national registers. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to assess the incidence of diabetes in relation to quartiles of ErbB2, adjusted for potential confounders.Results: Plasma ErbB2 was significantly and positively associated with glucose, insulin, and HbA1c after being adjusted for potential confounding factors. During a mean ± SD follow-up period of 20.20 ± 5.90 years, 615 participants (14.6%) were diagnosed with new-onset diabetes. Individuals with high levels of ErbB2 had a significantly higher risk of diabetes than those with low levels of ErbB2. The multivariable-adjusted hazard ratio was 1.31 (95% CI 1.03-1.66; P < 0.05) for the highest versus the lowest quartile of ErbB2 and was 1.15 (95% CI 1.05-1.25; P < 0.05) per 1-SD increase in ErbB2.Conclusions: Elevated levels of ErbB2 are associated with increased incidence of diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton fiber elongation is a critical growth phase that affects final fiber length. Morphological analysis indicated an asynchronous fiber elongation pattern between two cotton varieties, J7-1 and J14-1. Through phosphoproteomic analysis, a total of 89 differentially-phosphorylated proteins (DPPs) were identified in elongating fibers between J7-1 and J14-1. Gene ontology (GO) analysis showed that these DPPs were mainly enriched in sucrose synthase activity, transferase activity, and UDP-glycosyltransferase activity. In J14-1, the phosphorylation level of GhSUS2, a key sucrose synthase in the sucrose metabolism pathway, was significantly higher than that in J7-1. We further revealed that GhSUS2 positively regulates fiber elongation, and GhSUS2 -silenced transgenic cotton displayed the phenotype of 'short fibers' compared with the controls. During fiber development, the residue Ser11 in the GhSUS2 protein is phosphorylated by the Ca2+-dependent protein kinases GhCPK84 and GhCPK93. Phosphorylated GhSUS2 is localized in the cytoplasm, whereas unphosphorylated GhSUS2 is localized in the plasma membrane. Moreover, abscisic acid (ABA) could promote the transcription and translation of GhCPK84 and GhCPK93 , thereby enhancing the phosphorylation of GhSUS2 to impede fiber elongation. Thus, our data demonstrates that GhSUS2 plays a positive role in fiber development, but its phosphorylation by GhCPK84 and GhCPK93 hinders fiber elongation of cotton. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A variety of nereidid species have been reported from the South China Sea, although little is known about the deep-sea species in this area. Recently, two specimens belonging to a novel nereidid polychaete were collected from a sedimentary habitat during an environmental survey to a deep-sea basin where cold seeps occur. This new species, Nereis tricirrata sp. nov., is described herein, based on morphological and molecular analyses. The most noteworthy feature is the absence of eyes on the prostomium; it can be distinguished from other eyeless Nereis species by the arrangement of conical paragnaths on the pharynx, the nature of homogomph falcigers and the shape of notopodial lobes in posterior chaetigers. The reconstructed phylogenetic tree, using concatenated sequences of mtCOI, 16S, and 18S rRNA, showed that all Nereis species included in this study form a monophyletic clade with full support. The mtCOI-based interspecific comparisons revealed a high genetic divergence (23.1%-37.3% K2P) from four-eyed Nereis species with the available sequences. This is the first record of an eyeless Nereis species in the South China Sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil salinization is an important factor contributing to the deterioration of soil environment and low crop yield in arable land. In this study, the effects of five fulvic acid applications (0 (CK), 150 (T1), 300 (T2), 450 (T3), and 600 (T4) kg·ha−1) on soil physicochemical properties, humus content of each component, and cotton (Xinluzao No. 82) growth were investigated. It was confirmed that fulvic acid improved soil water-stable macroaggregates, moisture distribution, and desalinization. 0–20 cm soil relative desalinization rate was significantly increased by 2–11.75%. The pH value decreased by 0.09–0.21. The soil organic matter content was significantly increased compared to CK (p < 0.05), with 7.5–26.93% increase in organic matter content in 0–20 cm soil layer. Soil humification was increased to different degrees, with the most significant increase in humic carbon content in T3 treatment (p < 0.05). There was a significant increase in leaf area index (LAI), stem diameter, and plant height of cotton (p < 0.05). Cotton yield increased by 3.64–8.36% compared to CK (p < 0.05). Correlation analysis showed that cotton yield was significantly correlated with the soil textures of saline soils. The best improvement was achieved with 450 kg·ha−1 fulvic acid. The results of this study can provide a theoretical basis for the improvement of saline soils in arid zones to enhance crop growth and yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several Group 15 trivalent chlorides with CF 3 -substituted aromatic groups R present, including at least one ortho -CF 3 substituent, R n ECl 3-n ( n = 1 or 2; E = P, As, Sb or Bi) have been studied by 19 F solution-state NMR spectroscopy. In compounds with both ortho - and para -CF 3 groups, the chemical shifts of the para -CF 3 fluorines are very similar, irrespective of the central element E. Much more variation is found in the shifts of the ortho -CF 3 fluorines, which may be correlated with the nature of the aromatic group, the electronegativity of E and the occurrence of short E–F contacts, as demonstrated by previous crystallographic studies of some of these compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basic helix-loop-helix/helix-loop-helix (bHLH/HLH) transcription factors play important roles in cell elongation in plants. However, little is known about how bHLH/HLH transcription factors antagonistically regulate fiber elongation in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum). In this study, we report that two bHLH/HLH transcription factors, fiber-related protein 2 (GhFP2) and ACTIVATOR FOR CELL ELONGATION 1 (GhACE1), function in fiber development of cotton. GhFP2 is an atypical bHLH protein without the basic region, and its expression is regulated by brassinosteroid (BR)-related BRASSINAZOLE RESISTANT 1 (GhBZR1). Overexpression of GhFP2 in cotton hindered fiber elongation, resulting in shortened fiber length. In contrast, suppression of GhFP2 expression in cotton promoted fiber development, leading to longer fibers compared with the wild-type. GhFP2 neither contains a DNA-binding domain nor has transcriptional activation activity. Furthermore, we identified GhACE1, a bHLH protein that interacts with GhFP2 and positively regulates fiber elongation. GhACE1 could bind to promoters of plasma membrane intrinsic protein 2;7 (GhPIP2;7) and expansions 8 (GhEXP8) for directly activating their expression, but the interaction between GhFP2 and GhACE1 suppressed transcriptional activation of these target genes by GhACE1. Taken together, our results indicate that GhACE1 promotes fiber elongation by activating expressions of GhPIP2;7 and GhEXP8, but its transcription activation on downstream genes may be obstructed by BR-modulated GhFP2. Thus, our data reveal a key mechanism for fiber cell elongation through a pair of antagonizing HLH/bHLH transcription factors in cotton. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Activated FFAR1 and FFAR4 promote fatty acid metabolism and M2 macrophage polarization, alleviating dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis. • Combining FFAR1 and FFAR4 agonists drives polarization toward M2 macrophage and reduces intracellular lipid accumulation by promoting fatty acid oxidation. To investigate the mechanism of action of fatty acid receptors, FFAR1 and FFAR4, on ulcerative colitis (UC) through fatty acid metabolism and macrophage polarization. Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced mouse model of UC mice was used to evaluate the efficacy of FFAR1 (GW9508) and FFAR4 (GSK137647) agonists by analyzing body weight, colon length, disease activity index (DAI), and histological scores. Real-time PCR and immunofluorescence analysis were performed to quantify the levels of fatty acid metabolizing enzymes and macrophage makers. FFA-induced lipid accumulation in RAW264.7 cells was visualized by Oil Red O staining analysis, and cells were collected to detect macrophage polarization by flow cytometry. The combination of GW9508 and GSK137647 significantly improved DSS-induced UC symptoms, caused recovery in colon length, and decreased histological injury. GW9508 + GSK137647 treatment upregulated the expressions of CD206, lipid oxidation enzyme (CPT-1α) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-10, IL-13) but downregulated those of CD86, lipogenic enzymes (ACC1, FASN, SCD1), and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α). Combining the two agonists decreased FFA-induced lipid accumulation and increased CD206 expression in cell-based experiments. Activated FFAR1 and FFAR4 ameliorates DSS-induced UC by promoting fatty acid metabolism to reduce lipid accumulation and mediate M2 macrophage polarization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton which produces natural fiber materials for the textile industry is one of the most important crops in the world. Class II KNOX proteins are often considered as transcription factors in regulating plant secondary cell wall (SCW) formation. However, the molecular mechanism of the KNOX transcription factor‐regulated SCW synthesis in plants (especially in cotton) remains unclear in details so far. In this study, we show a cotton class II KNOX protein (GhKNL1) as a transcription repressor functioning in fiber development. The GhKNL1‐silenced transgenic cotton produced longer fibers with thicker SCWs, whereas GhKNL1 dominant repression transgenic lines displayed the opposite fiber phenotype, compared with controls. Further experiments revealed that GhKNL1 could directly bind to promoters of GhCesA4‐2/4‐4/8‐2 and GhMYB46 for modulating cellulose synthesis during fiber SCW development in cotton. On the other hand, GhKNL1 could also suppress expressions of GhEXPA2D/4A‐1/4D‐1/13A through binding to their promoters for regulating fiber elongation of cotton. Taken together, these data revealed GhKNL1 functions in fiber elongation and SCW formation by directly repressing expressions of its target genes related to cell elongation and cellulose synthesis. Thus, our data provide an effective clue for potentially improving fiber quality by genetic manipulation of GhKNL1 in cotton breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basic helix-loop-helix/helix-loop-helix (bHLH/HLH) transcription factors play substantial roles in plant cell elongation. In this study, two bHLH/HLH homologous proteins leaf related protein 1 and leaf-related protein 2 (AtLP1 and AtLP2) were identified in Arabidopsis thaliana. LP1 and LP2 play similar positive roles in longitudinal cell elongation. Both LP1 and LP2 overexpression plants exhibited long hypocotyls, elongated cotyledons, and particularly long leaf blades. The elongated leaves resulted from increased longitudinal cell elongation. lp1 and lp2 loss-of-function single mutants did not display distinct phenotypes, but the lp1lp2 double mutant showed decreased leaf length associated with less longitudinal polar cell elongation. Furthermore, the phenotype of lp1lp2 could be rescued by the expression of LP1 or LP2. Expression of genes related to cell elongation was upregulated in LP1 and LP2 overexpression plants but downregulated in lp1lp2 double mutant plants compared with that of wild type. LP1 and LP2 proteins could directly bind to the promoters of Longifolia1 (LNG1) and LNG2 to activate the expression of these cell elongation related genes. Both LP1 and LP2 could interact with two other bHLH/HLH proteins, IBH1 (ILI1 binding BHLH Protein1) and IBL1 (IBH1-like1), thereby suppressing the transcriptional activation of LP1 and LP2 to the target genes LNG1 and LNG2. Thus, our data suggested that LP1 and LP2 act as positive regulators to promote longitudinal cell elongation by activating the expression of LNG1 and LNG2 genes in Arabidopsis. Moreover, homodimerization of LP1 and LP2 may be essential for their function, and interaction between LP1/LP2 and other bHLH/HLH proteins may obstruct transcriptional regulation of target genes by LP1 and LP2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Human rhinovirus (HRV) is one of the major viruses of acute respiratory tract disease among infants and young children. This work aimed to understand the epidemiological and phylogenetic features of HRV in Guangzhou, China. In addition, the clinical characteristics of hospitalized children infected with different subtype of HRV was investigated. Methods: Hospitalized children aged < 14 years old with acute respiratory tract infections were enrolled from August 2018 to December 2019. HRV was screened for by a real-time reverse-transcription PCR targeting the viral 5′UTR. Results: HRV was detected in 6.41% of the 655 specimens. HRV infection was frequently observed in children under 2 years old (57.13%). HRV-A and HRV-C were detected in 18 (45%) and 22 (55%) specimens. All 40 HRV strains detected were classified into 29 genotypes. The molecular evolutionary rate of HRV-C was estimated to be 3.34 × 10–3 substitutions/site/year and was faster than HRV-A (7.79 × 10–4 substitutions/site/year). Children who experienced rhinorrhoea were more common in the HRV-C infection patients than HRV-A. The viral load was higher in HRV-C detection group than HRV-A detection group (p = 0.0148). The median peak symptom score was higher in patients with HRV-C infection as compared to HRV-A (p = 0.0543), even though the difference did not significance. Conclusion: This study revealed the molecular epidemiological characteristics of HRV in patients with respiratory infections in southern China. Children infected with HRV-C caused more severe disease characteristics than HRV-A, which might be connected with higher viral load in patients infected with HRV-C. These findings will provide valuable information for the pathogenic mechanism and treatment of HRV infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sugar is considered as the primary regulator of plant apical dominance, whereby the outgrowth of axillary buds is inhibited by the shoot tip. However, there are some deficiencies in this theory. Here, we reveal that Fatty Acid Export 6 (BnFAX6) functions in FA transport, and linoleic acid or its derivatives acts as a signaling molecule in regulating apical dominance of Brassica napus. BnFAX6 is responsible for mediating FA export from plastids. Overexpression of BnFAX6 in B. napus heightened the expression of genes involved in glycolysis and lipid biosynthesis, promoting the flow of photosynthetic products to the biosynthesis of FAs (including linoleic acid and its derivatives). Enhancing expression of BnFAX6 increased oil content in seeds and leaves and resulted in semi-dwarf and increased branching phenotypes with more siliques, contributing to increased yield per plant relative to wild-type. Furthermore, decapitation led to the rapid flow of the carbon from photosynthetic products to FA biosynthesis in axillary buds, consistent with the overexpression of BnFAX6 in B. napus. In addition, free FAs, especially linoleic acid, were rapidly transported from leaves to axillary buds. Increasing linoleic acid in axillary buds repressed expression of a key transcriptional regulator responsible for maintaining bud dormancy, resulting in bud outgrowth. Taken together, we uncovered that BnFAX6 mediating FA export from plastids functions in lipid biosynthesis and in axillary bud dormancy release, possibly through enhancing linoleic acid level in axillary buds of B. napus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton, one of the most important crops in the world, produces natural fiber materials for the textile industry. WRKY transcription factors play important roles in plant development and stress responses. However, little is known about whether and how WRKY transcription factors regulate fiber development of cotton so far. In this study, we show that a fiber-preferential WRKY transcription factor, GhWRKY16, positively regulates fiber initiation and elongation. GhWRKY16 -silenced transgenic cotton displayed a remarkably reduced number of fiber protrusions on the ovule and shorter fibers compared to the wild-type. During early fiber development, GhWRKY16 directly binds to the promoters of GhHOX3 , GhMYB109 , GhCesA6D-D11 , and GhMYB25 to induce their expression, thereby promoting fiber initiation and elongation. Moreover, GhWRKY16 is phosphorylated by the mitogen-activated protein kinase GhMPK3-1 at residues T-130 and S-260. Phosphorylated GhWRKY16 directly activates the transcription of GhMYB25 , GhHOX3 , GhMYB109 , and GhCesA6D-D11 for early fiber development. Thus, our data demonstrate that GhWRKY16 plays a crucial role in fiber initiation and elongation, and that GhWRKY16 phosphorylation by GhMPK3-1 is essential for the transcriptional activation on downstream genes during the fiber development of cotton. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This study aims to investigate the effect of adenoviral vector-mediated neurotrophine-3 (NT-3) gene transfer and retinoic acid (RA) pretreatment on inducing neuronal differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in vitro. MSCs could be efficiently transduced by NT-3 gene via recombinant adenoviral vectors (Adv). Combination of AdvNT-3 and RA significantly promoted MSCs to differentiate into cell types associated with phenotypes of neural lineages, which included neural markers nestin, NF, MAP2 and PSD95 as detected by immunocytochemistry. But the expressions of GFAP in these cells were not obvious. RT-PCR analysis revealed that AdvNT-3 in combination with RA pretreatment could initiate the transcription of TrkC mRNA. These results demonstrate that the combination of AdvNT-3 and RA pretreatment may promote neuronal differentiation of MSCs, which may serve as ideal seed cells for the repair of spinal cord injury. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: This study aimed to retrospectively analyze clinical data of a series of patients with severe open fractures of extremities (Gustilo IIIb or IIIc), who achieved a satisfactory outcome through radical orthoplastic surgery, so as to provide a reference for determining the treatment of severe open fractures of extremities. Methods: The clinical data of 41 consecutive patients with severe open fracture (Gustilo IIIb or IIIc) of the limb, who underwent successful surgical debridement, fixation, and soft tissue reconstruction in one stage between January 2008 and January 2019, were retrospectively reviewed. Postoperative indicators, including infection rate and union time, were acquired by a regular follow-up and analyzed. Results: The mean (±SD) age of the patients was 38 ± 16 years. A total of 90 open fractures and severe soft tissue damages were analyzed. The soft tissue cover was achieved within 72 h. The overall rate of infection was 14.6% (6/41). Sex and the Mangled Extremity Severity Score were associated with infection. The median union time of 40 patients (one amputation) was 32 weeks. Conclusion: The overall rate of infection exhibited a lower tendency in this study compared with previous studies on high-grade open fractures following a two-stage orthopedic approach. The consequence of infection rate and union time was similar to that in previous studies. These results indicated that the single-stage radical orthoplastic treatment was an effective and reliable option for reconstructing severe open fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spatiotemporally regulated callose deposition is an essential, genetically programmed phenomenon that promotes pollen development and functionality. Severe male infertility is associated with deficient callose biosynthesis, highlighting the significance of intact callose deposition in male gametogenesis. The molecular mechanism that regulates the crucial role of callose in production of functional male gametophytes remains completely unexplored. Here, we provide evidence that the gradual upregulation of a previously uncharacterized cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) pollen-specific SKS-like protein (PSP231), specifically at the post pollen-mitosis stage, activates callose biosynthesis to promote pollen maturation. Aberrant PSP231 expression levels caused by either silencing or overexpression resulted in late pollen developmental abnormalities and male infertility phenotypes in a dose-dependent manner, highlighting the importance of fine-tuned PSP231 expression. Mechanistic analyses revealed that PSP231 plays a central role in triggering and fine-tuning the callose synthesis and deposition required for pollen development. Specifically, PSP231 protein sequesters the cellular pool of RNA-binding protein GhRBPL1 to destabilize GhWRKY15 mRNAs, turning off GhWRKY15-mediated transcriptional repression of GhCalS4/GhCalS8 and thus activating callose biosynthesis in pollen. This study showed that PSP231 is a key molecular switch that activates the molecular circuit controlling callose deposition toward pollen maturation and functionality and thereby safeguards agricultural crops against male infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinases (MAPKKKs) are significant components in the MAPK signal pathway and play essential roles in regulating plants against drought stress. To explore MAPKKK gene family functioning in cotton response and resistance to drought stress, we conducted a systematic analysis of GhMAPKKKs. Results: In this study, 157 nonredundant GhMAPKKKs (including 87 RAFs, 46 MEKKs and 24 ZIKs) were identified in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum). These GhMAPKKK genes are unevenly distributed on 26 chromosomes, and segmental duplication is the major way for the enlargement of MAPKKK family. Furthermore, members within the same subfamily share a similar gene structure and motif composition. A lot of cis-elements relevant to plant growth and response to stresses are distributed in promoter regions of GhMAPKKKs. Additionally, these GhMAPKKKs show differential expression patterns in cotton tissues. The transcription levels of most genes were markedly altered in cotton under heat, cold and PEG treatments, while the expressions of some GhMAPKKKs were induced in cotton under drought stress. Among these drought-induced genes, we selected GhRAF4 and GhMEKK12 for further functional characterization by virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) method. The experimental results indicated that the gene-silenced cotton displayed decreased tolerance to drought stress. Malondialdehyde (MDA) content was higher, but proline accumulation, relative leaf water content and activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD) were lower in the gene-silenced cotton, compared with those in the controls, under drought stress. Conclusion: Collectively, a systematic survey of gene structure, chromosomal location, motif composition and evolutionary relationship of MAPKKKs were performed in upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum). The following expression and functional study showed that some of them take important parts in cotton drought tolerance. Thus, the data presented here may provide a foundation for further investigating the roles of GhMAPKKKs in cotton response and resistance to drought stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The actual fluid form of an electrolyte in a molecular electronic converter is an important factor that causes a decrease in the accuracy of a molecular electronic transducer (MET) liquid motion sensor. To study the actual fluid morphology of an inertial electrolyte in molecular electron transducers, an inlet effect is defined according to the fluid morphology of turbulent-laminar flow, and a numerical simulation model of turbulent-laminar flow is proposed. Based on the turbulent-laminar flow model, this paper studies the variation of the inlet effect intensity when the thickness of the outermost insulating layer is 50 µm and 100 µm, respectively. Meanwhile, the changes of the inlet effect intensity and the error rate of central axial velocity field are also analyzed when the input signal intensity is different. Through the numerical experiment, it verifies that the thickness of the outermost insulating layer and the amplitude of the input signal are two important factors which can affect the inlet effect intensity and also the accuracy of the MET. Therefore, this study can provide a theoretical basis for the quantitative study on the performance optimization of a MET liquid sensor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH) proteins are involved in transcriptional networks controlling a number of biological processes in plants. However, little information is known on the roles of bHLH proteins in cotton fibre development so far.Here, we show that a cotton bHLH protein (GhFP1) positively regulates fibre elongation. GhFP1 transgenic cotton and Arabidopsis plants were generated to study how GhFP1 regulates fibre cell elongation.Fibre length of the transgenic cotton overexpressing GhFP1 was significantly longer than that of wild‐type, whereas suppression of GhFP1 expression hindered fibre elongation. Furthermore, overexpression of GhFP1 in Arabidopsis promoted trichome development. Expression of the brassinosteroid (BR)‐related genes was markedly upregulated in fibres of GhFP1 overexpression cotton, but downregulated in GhFP1‐silenced fibres. BR content in the transgenic fibres was significantly altered, relative to that in wild‐type. Moreover, GhFP1 protein could directly bind to the promoters of GhDWF4 and GhCPD to activate expression of these BR‐related genes.Therefore, our data suggest that GhFP1 as a positive regulator participates in controlling fibre elongation by activating BR biosynthesis and signalling. Additionally, homodimerisation of GhFP1 may be essential for its function, and interaction between GhFP1 and other cotton bHLH proteins may interfere with its DNA‐binding activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To advance our current knowledge of singer physiology by using ultrasonography in combination with acoustic measures to compare physiological differences between musical theater (MT) and opera (OP) singers under controlled phonation conditions. Primary objectives addressed in this study were (a) to determine if differences in hyolaryngeal and vocal fold contact dynamics occur between two professional voice populations (MT and OP) during singing tasks and (b) to determine if differences occur between MT and OP singers in oral configuration and associated acoustic resonance during singing tasks. Method: Twenty-one singers (10 MT and 11 OP) were included. All participants were currently enrolled in a music program. Experimental procedures consisted of sustained phonation on the vowels /i/ and /α/ during both a low-pitch task and a high-pitch task. Measures of hyolaryngeal elevation, tongue height, and tongue advancement were assessed using ultrasonography. Vocal fold contact dynamics were measured using electroglottography. Simultaneous acoustic recordings were obtained during all ultrasonography procedures for analysis of the first two formant frequencies. Results: Significant oral configuration differences, reflected by measures of tongue height and tongue advancement, were seen between groups. Measures of acoustic resonance also showed significant differences between groups during specific tasks. Both singer groups significantly raised their hyoid position when singing high-pitched vowels, but hyoid elevation was not statistically different between groups. Likewise, vocal fold contact dynamics did not significantly differentiate the two singer groups. Conclusions: These findings suggest that, under controlled phonation conditions, MT singers alter their oral configuration and achieve differing resultant formants as compared with OP singers. Because singers are at a high risk of developing a voice disorder, understanding how these two groups of singers adjust their vocal tract configuration during their specific singing genre may help to identify risky vocal behavior and provide a basis for prevention of voice disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: The protective effect of garlic against nonalcoholic fatty live r disease (NAFLD) has been reported in animal studies. However, in humans, the association between garlic consumption and NAFLD is unclear. The study sought to explore the association between habitual raw garlic i ntake and newly diagnosed NAFLD among Chinese adults. Methods: We performed a study of 11,326 men and 12,780 women aged 20-90 years. Habitual food intake was assessed using a validated and standardized 100-item food frequ ency questionnaire. Diagnosis of NAFLD was based on the liver ultrasonography and self-reported alcohol intake. Multiple logistic regression was used to evaluate the association of raw garlic intake with newly diagnosed NAFLD. Results: The prevalence of newly diagnosed NAFLD was 28.9% in men and 1 0.1% in women, respectively. In men, the fully adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence interval) of having N AFLD across increasing frequency of raw garlic intake were 1.00 (reference) for <1 time/week, 0.81 (0.73, 0.90) for 1-3 times/week, 0.66 (0.54, 0.80) for 4-6 times/week, and 0.71 (0.55, 0.90) for =7 times/week (P for trend <0.0001). The odds ratio for NAFLD associated with each 1 g of raw garlic/1000 kcal was 0.93 (0.90, 0.97) in men. In women, no significant association between raw garlic intake and NAFLD was identified. These associations between raw garlic inta ke and NAFLD were consistent in several sensitivity analyses. Conclusions: Frequent consumption of raw garlic is inversely associated wit h NAFLD in Chinese men. Further investigations are needed to confirm this finding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethylene insensitive 3 (EIN3), a key transcription factor in ethylene signal transduction, play important roles in plant stress signaling pathways. In this study, we isolated and characterized an EIN3 -like gene from cotton (Gossypium hirsutum), designated as GhEIN3. GhEIN3 is highly expressed in vegetative tissues, and its expression is induced by 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) and NaCl. Ectopic expression of GhEIN3 in Arabidopsis elevated plants' response to ethylene, which exhibit smaller leaves, more root hairs, shorter roots and hypocotyls. The germination rate, survival rate and root length of GhEIN3 transgenic plants were significantly improved compared to wild type under salt stress. GhEIN3 transgenic plants accumulated less H 2 O 2 and malondialdehyde (MDA), while higher superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD) activities were detected under salt stress. In addition, expression of several genes related to reactive oxygen species (ROS) pathway and ABA signaling pathway was increased in the GhEIN3 transgenic plants under salt stress. In contrast, virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) of GhEIN3 in cotton enhanced the sensitivity of transgenic plants to salt stress, accumulating higher H 2 O 2 and MDA and lower SOD and POD activities compared to control plants. Collectively, our results revealed that GhEIN3 might be involved in the regulation of plant response to salt stress by regulating ABA and ROS pathway during plant growth and development. • EIN3 as a transcription factor has conserved functions from Arabidopsis (AtEIN3/EIL1), rice (OsEIL1) to cotton (GhEIN3). • Ectopic expression of the GhEIN3 gene significantly enhances salt tolerance in Arabidopsis by regulating the expression of genes encoding ROS scavengers and ABA signaling pathway. • Silencing the GhEIN3 by VIGS in cotton seedling increases the sensitivity to salt stress by accumulating higher H2O2 and MDA, while lower SOD and POD activities compared to WT plants under salt stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoarthritis (OA) is generally considered to be characterized by progressive articular cartilage destruction. Increasing evidence demonstrates that CDK9, which is a member of cyclin-dependent kinase family, plays a significant role in the regulation of acute and chronic inflammatory diseases. IL-1β, a major proinflammatory cytokine, was used to establish a model of OA in vitro after stimulating chondrocytes. We found that CDK9 was highly expressed in in vitro and in vivo models of inflammation. The role of LDC000067 (abbreviated as LDC067), a specific inhibitor of CDK9, in protecting articular cartilage from immune response has not been fully clarified. Intriguingly, in this study, we demonstrated that LDC067 prevented IL-1β-induced production of metalloproteinases (MMPs) and inflammatory cytokines, including MMP3, MMP9, MMP13, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-ɑ. Furthermore, we revealed that LDC067 inhibited IL-1β-induced NF-κB signaling pathway activation in chondrocytes. The inhibition of CDK9 could also delay cartilage degeneration in an anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) mouse model in vivo. Taken together, these results highlighted the significance of this CDK9 inhibitor in preventing cartilage destruction and indicated that LDC067 might serve as a potential therapeutic agent for OA. • CDK9 is upregulated in osteoarthritis cartilage and is correlated with the severity of OA. • The specific inhibitor of CDK9, LDC067 attenuates the catabolism and hypertrophic changes of chondrocytes in vitro. • LDC067 suppresses the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway. • LDC067 ameliorates OA cartilage destruction in vivo and may be a novel therapeutic agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anther/pollen development is a highly programmed process in flowering plants. However, the molecular mechanism of regulating anther/pollen development is still largely unclear so far. Here, we report a cotton WRKY transcription factor (GhWRKY22) that functions in anther/pollen development. Quantitative RT-PCR and GUS activity analyses revealed that GhWRKY22 is predominantly expressed in the late developing anther/pollen of cotton. The transgenic Arabidopsis plants expressing GhWRKY22 displayed the male fertility defect with the fewer viable pollen grains. Expression of the genes involved in jasmonate (JA) biosynthesis was up-regulated, whereas expression of the JA-repressors (JAZ1 and JAZ8) was down-regulated in the transgenic Arabidopsis plants expressing GhWRKY22 , compared with those in wild type. Yeast one-hybrid and ChIP-qPCR assays demonstrated that GhWRKY22 modulated the expression of JAZ genes by directly binding to their promoters for regulating anther/pollen development. Yeast two-hybrid assay indicated that GhMYB24 could interact with GhJAZ8-A and GhJAZ13-A. Furthermore, expression of AtMYB24 , AtPAL2 and AtANS2 was enhanced in the transgenic Arabidopsis plants, owing to GhWRKY22 overexpression. Taking the data together, our results suggest that GhWRKY22 acts as a transcriptional repressor to regulate anther/pollen development possibly by modulating the expression of the JAZ genes. • GhWRKY22 is localized to the nucleus and may act as a transcriptional repressor. • GhWRKY22 transcripts are predominantly accumulated in late developing pollen. • GhWRKY22 overexpression transgenic Arabidopsis displayed the male fertility defect. • GhWRKY22 directly binds to the JAZ promoters to regulate expression of JAZ genes. • GhMYB24 could interact with GhJAZ8-A and GhJAZ13-A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel phosphorus-nitrogen flame retardant named as melamine phenyl phosphate (MAPPO) was synthesized successfully via the neutralization reaction between phenylphosphonic acid (PPOA) and melamine (MA). The chemical structure of MAPPO was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectra (FT-IR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and element analysis (EA). MAPPO was introduced into epoxy resin by blending to improve the flame retardancy. Flame retardancy and combustion behavior of EP/MAPPO were investigated by limiting oxygen index (LOI) test, vertical burning (UL-94) test and cone calorimeter test. UL-94 and LOI tests results showed EP containing 18 wt% MAPPO passed the UL-94 V-0 rating and got a high LOI value of 33%. In the cone calorimeter test, compared with that of EP, the values of peak of heat release rate (HRR), total heat release (THR), peak of smoke production rate (PSPR) and total smoke production (TSP) of modified EP were reduced by 58.7%, 40%, 49% and 61.6%, respectively. By analyzing the volatile pyrolysis products of MAPPO, it was known that MAPPO mainly produced CO 2 , NH 3 , H 2 O and other nitrogen-containing compounds, which diluted the concentration of fuel gases and oxygen during combustion. Meanwhile, the char residue of EP/MAPPO system after combustion was also analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM), FT-IR and Raman tests, and the results showed MAPPO was able to promote the crosslinking of EP leading to the formation of compact char layer containing P–O–C, P O and C C, etc. In a word, the enhancement in flame retardancy was attributed to both dilution effect of non-combustible gases and barrier effect of compact char. • A novel organic intumescent flame retardant (MAPPO) was synthesized successfully. • MAPPO greatly enhanced the flame retardancy and smoke suppression of EP. • MAPPO mainly played a flame-retardant role in condense phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary : LIM domain proteins are cysteine‐rich proteins, and are often considered as actin bundlers and transcription factors in plants. However, the roles of XLIM proteins in plants (especially in cotton) remain unexplored in detail so far. In this study, we identified a cotton XLIM protein (GhXLIM6) that is preferentially expressed in cotton fiber during whole elongation stage and early secondary cell wall (SCW) synthesis stage. The GhXLIM6‐silenced transgenic cotton produces shorter fibers with thinner cell walls, compared with wild‐type (WT). GhXLIM6 protein could directly bind F‐actin and promote actin polymerization both in vitro and in vivo. It also acts as a transcription factor to suppress GhKNL1 expression through binding the PAL‐box element of GhKNL1 promoter, and subsequently regulate the expression of CesA genes related to cellulose biosynthesis and deposition in SCWs of cotton fibers. The cellulose content in fibers of GhXLIM6RNAi cotton is lower than that in WT. Taken together, these data reveal the dual roles of GhXLIM6 in fiber development. On one hand, GhXLIM6 functions in fiber elongation through binding to F‐actin to maintain the dynamic F‐actin cytoskeleton. On the other hand, GhXLIM6 fine‐tunes fiber SCW formation, probably through directly suppressing transcription of GhKNL1 to promote cellulose biosynthesis. Significance Statement: GhXLIM6 plays dual roles in fiber development: GhXLIM6 functions in fiber elongation through binding to F‐actin to maintain the dynamic F‐actin cytoskeleton, and it also fine‐tunes fiber secondary cell wall formation probably through directly suppressing transcription of GhKNL1 to promote cellulose biosynthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]