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To investigate the effect of low temperature on body mass, thermogenic activity, and Uncoupling protein-1 (UCP1) content of brown adipose tissue (BAT) in Chevrier's field mouse (Apodemus chevrieri), 50 healthy adult mice with similar body mass were used in our experiment. They were divided into five groups of ten individuals as follows: a control group (0 d), where animals were maintained under 25 ± 1°C and a 12L:12D (light:dark, lights on 08:00) photoperiod; the other groups were maintained under 5 ± 1°C and a 12L:12D photoperiod for 7 d, 14 d, 21 d and 28 d, respectively. At the end of the experiment, the changes in body mass, resting metabolic rate (RMR), nonshivering thermogenesis (NST), BAT mass, mitochondrial protein (MP) content, cytochrome c oxidase (COX) activity, and UCP1 content were measured. The results showed that compared with the control group (0 d), the body mass of the cold acclimation groups decreased significantly. In contrast, RMR, NST, BAT mass, MP content, COX activity, and UCP1 content of the cold acclimation group increased significantly. After cold acclimation for 28 days, RMR increased by 89.4%, NST increased by 50.4%, BAT mass increased by 44.6%, and UCP1 content increased by 36.0%. The ratio of (NST − RMR)/RMR was 1.03 after seven days and then dropped to 0.59 on day 21, and remained at a steady level thereafter. Evidently, NST was significantly positively correlated with BAT mass and UCP1 content. The results indicated that under continuous cold exposure, A. chevrieri could take appropriate measures to reduce body mass, increase RMR, induce BAT tissue proliferation, and unregulated UCP1 expression, thereby enhancing BAT thermogenic activity to cope with a low-temperature environment. In the early stage of cold acclimation, NST was dominant in thermogenesis, but as time continued, it reduced. This may represent a unique energy adaptation strategy of small rodents originating from the north and spreading southward toward the Hengduan Mountain regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optical approaches are useful for studying the electronic and spin structure of materials. Here, based on the tight-binding model and linear response theory, we investigate the magneto-optical Kerr and Faraday effects in two-dimensional second-order topological insulators (SOTI) with external magnetization. We find that orbital-dependent Zeeman term induces band crossings for SOTI phase, which are absent for trivial phase. In the weak-magnetization regime, these crossings give rise to giant jumps (peaks) of Kerr and Faraday angles (ellipticity) for SOTI phase. In the strong-magnetization regime, we find that two nearly flat bands are formed at the high-symmetry point of Brillouin zone of SOTI phase. These flat bands give rise to two successive giant jumps (peaks) of Kerr and Faraday angles (ellipticity). These phenomena provide new possibilities to characterize and detect the two-dimensional SOTI phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optical approaches are useful for studying the electronic and spin structure of materials. Here, based on the tight-binding model and linear response theory, we investigate the magneto-optical Kerr and Faraday effects in two-dimensional second-order topological insulators (SOTI) with external magnetization. We find that orbital-dependent Zeeman term induces band crossings for SOTI phase, which are absent for trivial phase. In the weak-magnetization regime, these crossings give rise to giant jumps (peaks) of Kerr and Faraday angles (ellipticity) for SOTI phase. In the strong-magnetization regime, we find that two nearly flat bands are formed at the high-symmetry point of Brillouin zone of SOTI phase. These flat bands give rise to two successive giant jumps (peaks) of Kerr and Faraday angles (ellipticity). These phenomena provide new possibilities to characterize and detect the two-dimensional SOTI phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Albino tea cultivars have a much higher flowering capacity than green leaf cultivars, and the sensory qualities of the flowers of albino tea cultivars are also unique. Whereas, the relationship of metabolic differences with taste quality in flowers of albino tea cultivars (temperature-sensitive cultivars Baiye 1 Hao and light-sensitive cultivars Huangjinya and Yujinxiang) (BY1H, HJY and YJX) are not clear currently. In this study, taste profiles and metabolic differences of flowers of three albino tea cultivars were analyzed by quantitative analysis, widely targeted metabolomics and sensory quantitative descriptive analysis. The taste of flowers of three tea cultivars has a certain bitter, astringency and slightly numbing, but also an umami and sweetness, making the overall flavor harmonious. BY1H has a slightly bitter taste and possesses higher levels of catechins, quercetin glycosides, myricetin glycosides and alkaloids, while YJX and HJY have a sweeter and more umami taste with higher levels of amino acids, nucleotides and their derivatives and organic acids. Notably, quercetin glycosides were found to be the specific compounds that distinguish Baiye 1 Hao from other flowers of tea cultivars. These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the sensory and metabolic characteristics of flowers in two types of albino tea cultivars. [Display omitted] • Metabolites notably differed in flowers of two types of albino tea cultivars. • Key taste metabolites in flowers of two types of tea cultivars were screened. • Quercetin glycosides were specific constituents of the flowers of Baiye 1 Hao. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To evaluate the ability of artificial neural network- (ANN-) based ultrasound radiomics to predict large-volume lymph node metastasis (LNM) preoperatively in clinical N0 disease (cN0) papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) patients. Methods. From January 2020 to April 2021, 306 cN0 PTC patients admitted to our hospital were retrospectively reviewed and divided into a training (n = 183) cohort and a validation cohort (n = 123) in a 6 : 4 ratio. Radiomic features quantitatively extracted from ultrasound images were pruned to train one ANN-based radiomic model and three conventional machine learning-based classifiers in the training cohort. Furthermore, an integrated model using ANN was constructed for better prediction. Meanwhile, the prediction of the two models was evaluated in the papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) and conventional papillary thyroid cancer (CPTC) subgroups. Results. The radiomic model showed better discrimination than other classifiers for large-volume LNM in the validation cohort, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.856 and an area under the precision-recall curve (AUPR) of 0.381. The performance of the integrated model was better, with an AUROC of 0.910 and an AUPR of 0.463. According to the calibration curve and decision curve analysis, the radiomic and integrated models had good calibration and clinical usefulness. Moreover, the models had good predictive performance in the PTMC and CPTC subgroups. Conclusion. ANN-based ultrasound radiomics could be a potential tool to predict large-volume LNM preoperatively in cN0 PTC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Layer-by-layer stripping was used to uncover aroma formation mechanism of GFWT. • Fungal-flower fungus presented the fungal flower aroma of GFWT. • Stale aroma came from LEAF, while jujube and sweet aroma came from LEAF and STEM. • EC-mediated fermentation is a potential natural rapid aging process. Golden-flower fungus (Eurotiwm Cristatum , EC) is widely inoculated in dark tea to endow a typical fungal floral aroma. Recently, Golden Flower White Tea (GFWT), prepared by transplanting EC-mediated fermentation to white tea (Shoumei, SM) to reform the roughness and coarseness, has attracted much attention attributed to coordinated flavor. However, the bio-chemistry reactions between EC and SM, along with origination of composited aroma are still unclear. Thus, the rejected EC, GFWT leaves and stems after EC removal were separated by layer-by-layer stripping following sensory evaluation, volatiles and microstructure analysis to uncover aroma formation mechanism. In GFWT, EC presents fungal flower aroma rather than contribution of extracellular enzymes secreted by fungus in Fu brick tea. Moreover, the short "flowering process" (7 days) endows SM with a stale, jujube, and sweet aroma, which is regarded as the typical characteristic of aged white tea. This inspires EC-mediated fermentation as a promising rapid aging process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Vitamin A isomer separation in RP mode on CSPs is superior to existing methods. • Screening of CSPs provides ideal stationary phase. • Molecular planarity recognition is the predominant retention mechanism. • Method optimization and considerations for a better suited stationary phase design. The separation of vitamin A acetate isomers is essential for quality assurance of e.g. nutrition supplements, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical ingredients. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is currently the most suitable analytical method for tackling this challenging separation task. However, the existing methods based on normal phase chromatography (NPC) are poorly reproducible due to the typical disadvantages of NPC, such as long equilibration times and fluctuation in retention factors. A new reversed phase method developed in our labs allows the separation of the isomers applying a chiral stationary phase (CSP). This phase consists of an immobilized polysaccharide which can be used in every chromatographic mode. However, they are not typically used in reversed phase mode. Through the screening of various stationary phases with different polysaccharide based chiral selectors, the choice of the ideal stationary phase could be confirmed, allowing to draw conclusions about the retention mechanism. The CSP Chiralpak IG-3 was found to be the most suitable among the examined. Regarding the separation mechanism, the spatial helical structure of the polysaccharide derivatives was confirmed to be of particular significance. In addition to the stationary phase, the mobile phase was tested for optimization regarding composition, gradient parameters as well as temperature using chromatographic method optimization software for the sake of method robustness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the potential risk of the retropharyngeal internal carotid artery (RICA) during nasotracheal intubation (NTI). Methods: We retrospectively surveyed 2028 patients and 90 healthy controls (HC) with neck computed tomography angiography (CTA). The incidence of RICA was analyzed, as well as the correlation between the average minimum carotid-pharyngeal distance (CPD) and the carotid-median plane distance (CMD). We also compared CPD between RICA and HC. Results: RICA was observed in 91 out of the 2028 patients, reaching an incidence of 4.5% (91/2028). RICA in female patients was 65.9% (60/91) compared to 34.1% (31/91) in male patients. The incidence of RICA at nasopharynx (NP), oropharynx (OP), and hypopharynx (HP) was 31.9% (29/91), 61.5% (56/91), and 6.6% (6/91), respectively. The incidence of the mucosal eminence of the posterior wall of the pharynx in RICA was 30.8% (28/91). In 15 cases, RICA caused the pharyngeal cavity to become narrow, with an incidence of 16.5% (15/91). Moreover, CPD and CMD was positively correlated (r = 0.56, p < 0.01). The average minimum CPD of RICA was only 2.25 ± 1.26 mm, which was much shorter than HC (17.62 ± 1.98 mm) (t = 62.46, p < 0.01). Some CPD of RICA was even less than 1 mm, with an incidence of 20.9% (19/91). Conclusion: RICA is not uncommon in asymptomatic adults. It is very close to the midline and posterior wall of the pharynx and is more likely to occur in the nasopharynx (NP) and oropharynx (OP). RICA tear is likely to occur during NTI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolution of a controllable vortex anomalous hollow beam (CVAHB) in free space is studied theoretically and numerically. Based on the Collins integral, the analytical formula of its propagation under free space paraxial approximation is derived. The corresponding beams with different parameters are simulated numerically, and the influence of each beam parameter on the beam type and intensity distribution during beam propagation is studied. Through the parameter control, the CVAHB can present a variety of intensity modes, such as hollow, three-segment, boat, etc. It is obvious that the evolution of CVAHB is different from that of the controllable anomalous hollow beam (CAHB). By changing the value of the topological charge (TC), the role of the orbital angular momentum (OAM) in the transverse distribution and propagation of light intensity is studied in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We explored changes in clinical features and neuropathological mechanisms underlying olfactory dysfunction (OD) in 60 patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Olfactory function was evaluated using the Sniffin' Sticks test and a threshold discrimination identification (TDI) score. Based on the TDI score, we divided patients according to the presence or absence of OD (AD-OD and AD-NOD, respectively). Cognitive and neuropsychiatric symptoms were evaluated by a series of rating scales. The volumes and cortical thickness of the thalamus, hippocampus, and amygdala were measured using structural magnetic resonance imaging. Neuropathological protein levels in cerebrospinal fluid were measured. The frequency of OD was 50%. TDI scores were lower in the AD-OD group than in the AD-NOD group (p < 0.001). Compared with the AD-NOD group, the AD-OD group showed greater cognitive function impairments (p < 0.001), and daily living activities were more severely compromised (p = 0.019). The AD-OD group had lower hippocampal and amygdala volumes (p = 0.025, p = 0.030, respectively) and a more pronounced reduction in cortical thickness (p = 0.010). The total tau level was lower in the AD-OD group than the AD-NOD group (p = 0.040). Lower Mini-Mental State Examination scores and thinner AD-signature cortices were associated with lower TDI scores (OR = 0.826, p < 0.001; OR = 1.433, p = 0.008). Overall, in AD patients, the impairments in olfactory discrimination and identification seem to be more correlated with cognitive levels. OD in AD may be an indicator of pathological cognitive decline and structural changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Verticillium wilt caused by the soil-borne fungus Verticillium dahliae is a serious problem for the sustainable production of cotton. The mechanism of cotton resistance to V. dahliae is unclear, which makes it is difficult to improve cotton resistance breeding. In this study, we characterized an umecyanin-like gene GhUMC1 in cotton, which is homologous to the AtBCB gene in Arabidopsis. It is predominantly expressed in roots and responds to pathogen infection. Knock-down of GhUMC1 increases plant susceptibility to V. dahliae. Expression levels of genes in the JA and SA signaling pathways in roots were down-regulated in GhUMC1 -silenced plants. The transcripts of lignin synthesis genes, such as C4H, HCT, CCoAOMT and CAD , were also decreased in GhUMC1 knock-down seedlings, as was lignin content. Interestingly, knock-down of the GhUMC1 also decreased the contents of H 2 0 2 compared with the control. Our results suggest that GhUMC1 is involved in cotton resistance to V. dahliae by the regulation of the JA signaling pathway and lignin metabolism. Highlights • Knock-down of GhUMC1 attenuates the cotton immune response. • GhUMC1 has a spatio-temporal regulation in cotton disease resistance. • GhUMC1 acts upstream of lignin synthesis and is involved in cell wall remodeling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To select a more appropriate cooling method for a reflection mirror of Spatial and Spin (S 2 ) beam-line at SSRF (Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility), both of the internal cooling method and side cooling method were proposed and compared at various selected energy points (the most important: 50 eV, 80 eV, 100 eV and 867 eV) based on finite element analysis (FEA). For the internal cooling mode, several internal rectangular channels were drilled under the irradiation surface of mirror. For the side cooling mode, two pieces of perforated copper blocks in contact with two side surfaces of mirror were employed. Moreover, a series of side cooling modes with different tube lengths (145 mm, 200 mm, 225 mm, 248 mm and 250 mm) were analyzed. It was found that the side cooling mode with tube length of 248 mm indicated the best slope error results in all of the side cooling methods. By comparing the temperature, thermal stress distribution and slope error between the internal cooling mode and side cooling mode with tube length of 248 mm, it showed that all of the above mentioned indicators for both cooling modes were consistent with the design standards. However, the internal cooling mode presented the better results than this specific side cooling mode. In particular, by comparing some critical important influencing factors, such as the commercial cost, manufacturing process difficulty, manufacturing period and micro vibration issues, the side cooling mode with tube length of 248 mm presented better engineering operability, thus it was selected as the final cooling method for the reflection mirror of Spatial and Spin (S 2 ) beam-line at SSRF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnopharmacological relevance Ficus hispida L.f. (Moraceae) has been used as alternative for traditional medicine in the treatment of various ailments including cancer-cure. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cancer chemopreventive and anticancer activities of crude extracts of F. hispida , with the objective to screen the inhibition of Epstein–Barr virus early antigen, and cytotoxic active components, and provide foundation for potential applications of this promising medical plant. Materials and methods Compounds were isolated from the MeOH extract of F. hispida fruits, and their structure elucidation was performed on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analysis. The isolated compounds were evaluated for their inhibitory activities against the Epstein–Barr virus early antigen (EBV-EA) activation induced by 12- O -tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA) in Raji cells, and cytotoxic activities against human cancer cell lines (HL60, A549, SKBR3, KB, Hela, HT29, and HepG2) and a normal cell (LO2) using MTT method. For the compound with potent cytotoxic activity, its apoptosis inducing activity was evaluated by the observation of ROS generation level expression, and membrane phospholipid exposure and DNA fragmentation in flow cytometry. The mechanisms of the apoptosis induction were analyzed by Western blotting. Results Nineteen compounds, 1 – 19 , including two new isoflavones, 3′-formyl-5,7-dihydroxy-4′-methoxyisoflavone ( 2 ) and 5,7-dihydroxy-4′-methoxy-3′- (3-methyl-2-hydroxybuten-3-yl)isoflavone ( 3 ), were isolated from the MeOH extract of F. hispida fruits. Five compounds, isowigtheone hydrate ( 1 ), 2 , 3 , 9 , and 19 , showed potent inhibitory effects on EBV-EA induction with IC 50 values in the range of 271–340 molar ratio 32 pmol −1 TPA. In addition, five phenolic compounds, 1 – 3 , 10 , and 13 , exhibited cytotoxic activity against two or more cell lines (IC 50 2.5–95.8 μM), as well as compounds 1 and 3 were also displayed high selectivity for LO2/HepG2 (SI 23.5 and 11.8, respectively), while the compound 1 -induced ROS generation leads to activated caspases-3, −8, and −9 apoptotic process in HL60 cells. Conclusion This study has established that the MeOH extract of F. hispida fruits contains isoflavones, coumarins, caffeoylquinic acids, along with other compounds including phenolics and steroid glucoside as active principles, and has demonstrated that the chemical constituents of F. hispida may be valuable as potential chemopreventive and anticancer agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic variation accounts for much of the risk for developing a substance use disorder, but the underlying genetic factors and their genetic effector mechanisms are mostly unknown. Inbred mouse strains exhibit substantial and heritable differences in the extent of voluntary cocaine self-administration. Computational genetic analysis of cocaine self-administration data obtained from twenty-one inbred strains identified Nav1, a member of the neuron navigator family that regulates dendrite formation and axonal guidance, as a candidate gene. To test this genetic hypothesis, we generated and characterized Nav1 knockout mice. Consistent with the genetic prediction, Nav1 knockout mice exhibited increased voluntary cocaine intake and had increased motivation for cocaine consumption. Immunohistochemistry, electrophysiology, and transcriptomic studies were performed as a starting point for investigating the mechanism for the Nav1 knockout effect. Nav1 knockout mice had a reduced inhibitory synapse density in their cortex, increased excitatory synaptic transmission in their cortex and hippocampus, and increased excitatory neurons in a deep cortical layer. Collectively, our results indicate that Nav1 regulates the response to cocaine, and we identified Nav1 knockout induced changes in the excitatory and inhibitory synaptic balance in the cortex and hippocampus that could contribute to this effect. Mice lacking neuron navigator 1 (Nav1) exhibit increased voluntary cocaine intake, potentially due to altered excitatory and inhibitory synaptic balance in the cortex and hippocampus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new 3-D Zn 2 + coordination polymer (CP) [(CH 3 ) 2 NH 2 ] 3 [Zn 6 (ox) 4.5 (trz) 6 ]⋅ 4H 2 O (ox = oxalate; trz = 1,2,4-triazolate) 1 was obtained by a simple solvothermal self-assembly. The crystal structural analysis demonstrates that the trz molecules link the Zn 2 + ions into a two-dimensional (2-D) layer network, which is based on the trinuclear Zn 3 (trz) 6 clusters. The ox molecules serve as the linkers to propagate the 2-D layers into a three-dimensional (3-D) network of 1 . The thermogravimetry (TG) behavior, photoluminescence property, and the sensing ability of 1 are investigated. The sensing experiment on nitrobenzene (NB) reveals that 1 can serve as a fluorescence probe to detect NB at the ppm concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vapor–liquid equilibrium data for the ternary mixture of 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (HFC-134a) + 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-1-ene (HFO-1234yf) + isobutane (HC-600a) were measured at temperatures from 283.15 K to 323.15 K using a recirculation apparatus. The uncertainties of the experimental data are estimated within 5 mK, 0.5 kPa, and 0.003 for the temperature, pressure, and the equilibrium liquid and vapor mole fractions, respectively. The experimental data were compared with the predicted data by the Peng Robinson equation of state with the vdW mixing rule and the Wong Sandler mixing rule, respectively. The binary interaction parameters of each binary mixture were determined from the experimental data in literature. The results show that the predicted data agree well with the experimental data. It indicates that the PR equation can be used to predict VLE data of ternary mixture of HFC-134a + HFO-1234yf + HC-600a. The proposed ternary mixture has potential to be refrigerant with low GWP and excellent thermodynamic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiming at the problem of permanent magnet synchronous motor(PMSM) sensorless starting at low speed, the method of open-loop speed and closed current loop was researched, which drives motor by given current vector. After the analysis of the transition from single current loop to speed closed loop control based on the startup of single current loop control, a method that d-axis current control was brought to increase " torque-power angle balance" area was presented to optimize startup and transition. The current and power angle changes of transition in the proposed method were tested by digital AC control system using DSP. The results indicate that the proposed method is feasible to start and switch, the motor can start smoothly from zero speed. The current and power angle changes of transition are decreased rapidly, and the transition from single current loop to speed closed loop is smooth. Finally, the motor can be accelerated to normal operating mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

FoxO proteins are important regulators in cellular metabolism and are recognized to be nodes in multiple signaling pathways, most notably those involving PI3K/AKT and mTOR. FoxO proteins primarily function as transcription factors, but recent study suggests that cytosolic FoxO1 participates in the regulation of autophagy. In the current study, we find that cytosolic FoxO1 indeed stimulates cellular autophagy in multiple cancer cell lines, and that it regulates not only basal autophagy but also that induced by rapamycin and that in response to nutrient deprivation. These findings illustrate the importance of FoxO1 in cell metabolism regulation independent of its transcription factor function. In contrast to FoxO1, we find the closely related FoxO3a is a negative regulator of autophagy in multiple cancer cell lines, a previously unrecognized function for this protein, different from its function in benign fibroblast and muscle cells. The induction of autophagy by the knockdown of FoxO3a was found not to be mediated through the suppression of mTORC1 signaling; rather, the regulatory role of FoxO3a on autophagy was determined to be through its ability to transcriptionally suppress FoxO1. This complicated interplay of FoxO1 and FoxO3a suggests a complex checks- and balances-relationship between FoxO3a and FoxO1 in regulating autophagy and cell metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elevated oxidative stress ( OS) is associated with severe cardiovascular disease and premature death among patients treated with hemodialysis ( HD). Oxidative stress is enhanced by contact between blood and dialysis membranes during HD sessions. This study aimed to clarify whether hydrogen ( H2), which is a known antioxidant, is capable of suppressing increased OS induced during HD sessions. Eight patients on regular HD treatment were studied. Two HD sessions were performed in a cross-over design trial using standard and hydrogen-enriched solutions (mean of 50 p.p.b. H2; H2- HD). Blood samples were obtained from the inlet and outlet of the dialyzer during HD to determine changes in plasma levels of glutathione, hydrogen peroxide, and albumin redox state as a marker of OS. Comparison of inlet and outlet blood revealed significant decreases in total glutathione and reduced glutathione, as well as significant increases in hydrogen peroxide in both HD treatments. However, the mean proportion of reversibly oxidized albumin in outlet serum was significantly lower than that in inlet serum following the H2- HD session, whereas no significant changes were found in the standard solution session, suggesting that 'intra-dialyzer' OS is reduced by H2- HD. In conclusion, the application of H2-enriched solutions could ameliorate OS during HD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Root canal treatment forms an essential part of general dental practice. Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) is the most commonly used irrigant in endodontics due to its ability to dissolve organic soft tissues in the root canal system and its action as a potent antimicrobial agent. Although NaOCl accidents created by extrusion of the irrigant through root apices are relatively rare and are seldom life-threatening, they do create substantial morbidity when they occur.Methods: To date, NaOCl accidents have only been published as isolated case reports. Although previous studies have attempted to summarise the symptoms involved in these case reports, there was no endeavour to analyse the distribution of soft tissue distribution in those reports. In this review, the anatomy of a classical NaOCl accident that involves facial swelling and ecchymosis is discussed.Results: By summarising the facial manifestations presented in previous case reports, a novel hypothesis that involves intravenous infusion of extruded NaOCl into the facial vein via non-collapsible venous sinusoids within the cancellous bone is presented.Conclusions: Understanding the mechanism involved in precipitating a classic NaOCl accident will enable the profession to make the best decision regarding the choice of irrigant delivery techniques in root canal débridement, and for manufacturers to design and improve their irrigation systems to achieve maximum safety and efficient cleanliness of the root canal system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mammals, including rodents, are able to maintain a stable body mass, which is a result of balance between energy intake and energy expenditure. Exercise training can increase energy expenditure and is considered one of the most important factors affecting energy balance in mammals. In order to understand the effect of exercise on body mass regulation and energy metabolism, changes of body mass, metabolic rate, energy intake, serum leptin levels and body composition were measured inApodemus chevrieriduring an 8-week forced exercise training with a treadmill. The results showed that exercise training had no significant effects on body mass, but the metabolic rate and energy intake were increased during the 8-week exercise training. Body fat mass and serum leptin levels decreased in the exercise group compared to the control group. There was a positive relationship between serum leptin levels and body fat mass in the control group, but no relationship in the exercise group. Mass of liver and digestive tracts increased significantly, while wet carcass mass and water of carcass decreased significantly in the exercise group compared to the control group. The results indicated thatA. chevrierimobilized body fat mass, and increased the metabolic rate and energy intake to regulate the body mass and energy balance during long-term forced exercise training. Serum leptin levels would be potentially involved in the body mass regulation and thermogenesis during the long-term forced exercise training. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

• Based on variable metabolism exponent and the non-instantaneous change of growth rate with size, we developed an iterative growth model (IGM). • The existing metabolism growth models (e.g., the ontogenetic growth model (OGM) and its extensions) are only a special form of the IGM. • The model suggests that the true growth dynamics may lie somewhere between two continuous approximations the Richards and Gompertz equations, and reveal the mathematical details of the final biomass of organisms. • The model predicts the resulting effect of temperature on organism maximum biomass will depend on the sensitivities of the average growth rate and maintenance respiration coefficient to temperature. Organism growth underlies numerous ecological processes. However, existing growth models from the von Bertalanffy family do not consider variable growth states (e.g., changes in resource uptake) and/or non-instantaneous changes in the growth rate of an organism along its size gradient. To address the above two points, we derived an iterative growth model (IGM) based on the necessary respiration allocation (i.e., maintenance and growth respiration), the intrinsic growth rate of tissue, and the von Bertalanffy paradigm. Some of the model parameters not only reflect the change of growth state, but also maintain a strict relationship with other parameters of biological and/or thermodynamic significance, making the model more basic and flexible. We then tested the basic performance of the IGM and its extension, and found that they are supported by some data, with different orders of magnitude, involving animals and plants. Starting with the IGM, we found that the existing metabolic growth models (e.g., the ontogenetic growth model (OGM) and its extensions) can be characterized as a special form of IGM. Not only that, the IGM also suggests true growth dynamics should have not an explicit analytic solution in most cases and lie somewhere between the Richards and Gompertz equations. Finally, the IGM revealed that the maximum biomass of an organism (M) is determined by organism average growth rate (D / T), maintenance respiration coefficient (m r) and resting metabolism exponent (b). The resulting effect of temperature on M will depend on the sensitivity to the temperature of both D / T and m r. If the former is the more sensitive of the two, M will increase. If not, it will decrease. The IGM displays great potential for the modeling and prediction of plants, endotherms and exotherms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many small mammals respond to seasonal changes in photoperiod by altering body mass and adipos-ity. These animals may provide valuable models for understanding the regulation of energy balance. In the present study, we examined the effect on body mass, resting metabolic rate, food intake and body composition in cold-acclimated Apodemus draco by transferring them from a short to long day photoperiod. During the first 4 weeks of exposure to short days, A. draco's, body mass decreased. After the next 4 weeks of exposure to long days, body mass increased in the long day group compared to the short day group. This increase in body mass reflected significant increases in absolute amounts of body components, including wet carcass mass, dry carcass mass and body fat mass. Liver, kidney, and small intestine were enlarged due to longer photoperiod during cold exposure. A. draco increased its resting metabolic rate and energy intake after exposure to long days. Serum leptin levels were posi-tively correlated with body mass, body fat mass, resting metabolic rate as well as energy intake. All of the results indicate that A. draco may provide an attractive novel animal model for investigation of the regulation of body mass and energy balance at the organismal levels. Leptin is potentially involved in the photoperiod-induced body mass regulation and thermogenesis of A. draco during cold exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Environmental factors play an important role in the seasonal adaptation of body mass and thermogenesis in small, wild mammals. To determine the contributions of photoperiod and cold on seasonal changes in energy metabolism and body mass, the resting metabolic rates (RMR), nonshivering thermogenesis (NST), energy intake and gut morphology of the tree shrews were determined in winter and summer and in laboratory acclimated animals. Body mass, RMR and NST increased in winter, and these changes were mimicked by exposing animals to short-day photoperiod or cold in the animal house. Energy intake and digested energy also increased significantly in winter, and also during exposure of housed animals to both short-day photoperiod and cold. The lengths and weights of small intestine increased in winter. These results indicated that Tupaia belangeri overcomes winter thermoregulatory challenges by increasing energy intake and thermogenesis, and adjusted gut morphology to balance the total energy requirements. Short-day photoperiod and cold can serve as environmental cues during seasonal acclimatization. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Environmental cues play important roles in the regulation of an animal's physiology and behavior. The purpose of the present study was to test the hypothesis that ambient temperature was a cue to induce adjustments in body mass, energy intake and thermogenic capacity, associated with changes in serum leptin levels in Eothenomys miletus. We found that E. miletus increased resting metabolic rate (RMR) and energy intake and decreased body mass when exposed to cold while it showed a significant increase in body mass after rewarming. The increase in body mass after rewarming was associated with the higher energy intake compared with the control. Uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) content in brown adipose tissue (BAT) increased in the cold and reversed after rewarming. Serum leptin levels decreased in the cold while increased after rewarming, associated with the opposite changes in energy intake. Further, serum leptin levels were positively correlated with body mass and body fat mass. Together, these data supported our hypothesis that ambient temperature was a cue to induce changes in body mass and metabolism. Serum leptin, as a starvation signal in the cold and satiety signal in rewarming, was involved in the processes of thermogenesis and body mass regulation in E. miletus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental cues play important roles in the regulation of an animal's physiology and behaviour. The purpose of the present study was to test the hypothesis that ambient temperature was a cue to induce adjustments in body mass, body temperature and thermogenic capacity, associated with changes in serum leptin levels in the tree shrew (Tupaia belangeri chinensis). The results showed that the tree shrew increased resting metabolic rate (RMR), nonshivering thermogenesis (NST) and body mass when exposed to the cold. Uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) content of brown adipose tissue (BAT) increased in the cold exposure. Also serum leptin levels were positively correlated with body mass. Together, these data supported our hypothesis that ambient temperature was a cue to induce changes in body mass and metabolism. Serum leptin participated in the regulation of energy balance and body weight in the tree shrew. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Environmental factors play an important role in the seasonal adaptation of body mass and thermogenesis in small mammals. The purpose of the present study was to test the hypothesis that ambient temperature triggers adjustments in body mass, body temperature, energy intake, digestible energy intake, metabolic energy intake, and the length and weight of the digestive tract, in Apodemus draco during 42 days of cold exposure. Body mass and body temperature of the cold-acclimated group decreased during the first 28 days and then stabilized at the lower levels. After 14 days of cold acclimation, the body mass of the cold-exposed group was significantly lower and the energy intake, digestible energy intake, and metabolic energy intake were significantly elevated relative to control animals. The differences were maximal after 21 days. The length and weight of the digestive tract (both wet and dry mass of the stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and cecum) changed significantly in response to decreasing temperature. During cold exposure, A. draco was able to maintain physiological functions and reduce its absolute energy demands by reducing the body mass, increasing energy intake, and adjusting the length of the digestive tract. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The present study was designed to examine whether photoperiod alone was effective to induce seasonal changes in physiology in voles (Eothenomys.) from the Hengduan Mountain region. Eothenomys miletus were randomly assigned into either long photoperiod (LD; 16L: 8D) or short photoperiod (SD; 8L: 16D) for 4 weeks at constant temperature (25°C). At the end of acclimation, SD voles showed lower body mass and body fat coupled with higher energy intake than LD voles. SD greatly enhanced the thermogenic capacity of E. miletus, as indicated by an elevated nonshivering thermogenesis (NST), mitochondrial protein in brown adipose tissue (BAT); basal metabolic rate (BMR) was also raised. Although no variations in serum leptin levels were found between SD and LD voles, serum leptin levels were positively correlated with body mass and body fat mass, and negatively correlated with energy intake and UCP1 content in BAT, respectively. To summarize, SD alone is effective in inducing higher thermogenic capacities and energy intake coupled with lower body mass and body fat mass in root voles. Leptin is potentially involved in the photoperiod induced body mass regulation and thermogenesis in E. miletus. Our study shows that SD alone is effective. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background. Hydrogen (H2) reportedly produces an antioxidative effect by quenching cytotoxic oxygen radicals. We studied the biological effects of water with dissolved H2 on ischemia-induced cardio-renal injury in a rat model of chronic kidney disease (CKD).Methods. Dahl salt-sensitive rats (7 weeks old) were allowed ad libitum drinking of filtered water (FW: dissolved H2, 0.00 ± 0.00 mg/L) or water with dissolved H2 produced by electrolysis (EW: dissolved H2, 0.35 ± 0.03 mg/L) for up to 6 weeks on a 0.5% salt diet. The rats then underwent ischemic reperfusion (I/R) of one kidney and were killed a week later for investigation of the contralateral kidney and the heart.Results. In the rats given FW, unilateral kidney I/R induced significant increases in plasma monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, methylglyoxal and blood urea nitrogen. Histologically, significant increases were found in glomerular adhesion, cardiac fibrosis, number of ED-1 (CD68)-positive cells and nitrotyrosine staining in the contralateral kidney and the heart. In rats given EW, those findings were significantly ameliorated and there were significant histological differences between rats given FW and those given EW.Conclusion. Consumption of EW by ad libitum drinking has the potential to ameliorate ischemia-induced cardio-renal injury in CKD model rats. This indicates a novel strategy of applying H2 produced by water electrolysis technology for the prevention of CKD cardio-renal syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Environmental factors play an important role in the seasonal adaptation of body mass and thermogenesis in small, wild mammals. The purpose of the present study was to test the hypothesis that ambient temperature was a cue to trigger the adjustments in body mass, energy intake, and serum leptin level in Apodemus chevrieri during 42 days of cold exposure. Our data demonstrated that cold acclimation induced a decrease in body mass and a significant increase in energy intake in A. chevrieri. Serum leptin levels were positively correlated with body mass and fat mass. These data suggest that A. chevrieri reduced the body mass and increased energy intake and thermogenic capacity under cold acclimation. Further, serum leptin appears to be involved in the energy intake regulation and thermoregulation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Environmental factors play an important role in the seasonal adaptation of body mass and thermogenesis in small, wild mammals. The purpose of the present study was to test the hypothesis that ambient temperature was a cue to trigger the seasonal adjustments in body mass, energy intake, uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) in brown adipose tissue (BAT), and other biochemical characteristics of Eothenomys miletus during 49 days of cold exposure. Our data demonstrated that cold acclimation induced a remarkable decrease in body mass, a significant increase in energy intake and metabolic rate, and high expression of UCP1 in BAT of E. miletus. Biochemical characteristics of BAT and liver respiration were also increased following cold acclimation. These data suggest that E. miletus reduced the body mass and increased energy intake and expenditure under cold acclimation. Increased expression of UCP1 was potentially involved in the regulation of energy metabolism and thermogenic capacity following cold acclimation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential of serum CYFRA21-1 and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) as prognostic markers in patients with undifferentiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Sixty-one patients who received definitive radiotherapy/chemoradiotherapy were analysed retrospectively. We investigated the association of the follow-up results with pretreatment level, post-treatment level and change of serum CYFRA21-1 and CEA, respectively. Patients with low pretreatment CYFRA21-1 had a significantly better overall survival. There were no significant associations among the remaining serum markers, and the survival and recurrence rates on multivariate analysis. The present study shows that pretreatment CYFRA21-1 level is a potential factor for predicting long-term survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Thermogenic characteristics and evaporative water loss were measured at different temperatures in Tupaia belangeri. The thermal neutral zone (TNZ) of T. belangeri was 30–35°C. Mean body temperature was 39.76±0.27°C and mean body mass was 100.86±9.09g. Basal metabolic rate (BMR) was 1.38±0.03ml O2/gh. Average minimum thermal conductance (C m) was 0.13±0.01ml O2/gh°C. Evaporative water loss in T. belangeri increased when the temperature rose; the maximal evaporative water loss was 3.88±0.41mgH2O/gh at 37.5°C. The results may reflect features of small mammals in the sub-tropical plateau region: T. belangeri had high basal metabolic rate and high total thermal conductance, compared with the predicted values based on their body mass whilst their body temperatures are relatively high; T. belangeri has high levels of evaporative water loss and poor water-retention capacity. Evaporative water loss plays an important role in temperature regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Eothenomys miletus is an important species inhabiting Hengduan mountains region. In order to study adaptive strategy and the role of serum leptin level in response to a 49d cold exposure, body mass, energy intake, basal metabolic rate (BMR), nonshivering thermogenesis (NST) in E. miletus were measured. During cold exposure (5±1 oC), body mass decreased; serum leptin levels decreased significantly and were positively correlated with body mass and fat mass; energy intake, BMR and NST were higher at 5°C than that of controls. These results suggest that E. miletus enhanced thermogenic capacity and increased maintenance cost during cold acclimation, resulting in increased energy intake. Serum leptin participated in the regulation of energy balance and body mass in E. miletus. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Evaporative water loss (EWL) and energy metabolism were measured at different temperatures in Eothenomys miletus and Apodemus chevrieri in dry air. The thermal neutral zone (TNZ) of E. miletus was 22.5–30°C and that of A. chevrieri was 20–27.5°C. Mean body temperatures of the two species were 35.75±0.5 and 36.54±0.61°C. Basal metabolic rates (BMR) were 1.92±0.17 and 2.7±0.5mlO2/gh, respectively. Average minimum thermal conductance (C m) were 0.23±0.08 and 0.25±0.06mlO2/gh°C. EWL in E. miletus and A. chevrieri increased with the increase in temperature; the maximal EWL at 35°C was 4.78±0.6mgH2O/gh in E. miletus, and 5.92±0.43mgH2O/gh in A. chevrieri. Percentage of evaporative heat loss to total heat production (EHL/HP) increased with the increase in temperature; the maximal EHL/HP was 22.45% at 30°C in E. miletus, and in A. chevrieri it was 19.96% at 27.5°C. The results may reflect features of small rodents in the Hengduan mountains region: both E. miletus and A. chevrieri have high levels of BMR and high levels of total thermal conductance, compared with the predicted values based on their body masses, while their body temperatures are relatively low. EWL plays an important role in temperature regulation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Melittin (ME), a non-cell-selective antimicrobial peptide, contains the leucine zipper motif, wherein every seventh amino acid is leucine or isolucine. Here, we attempted to generate novel cell-selective peptides by substituting amino acids in the leucine zipper sequence of ME with peptoid residues. We generated a series of ME analogues by replacing Leu-6, Lue-13 and Ile-20 with Nala, Nleu, Nphe, or Nlys, and we examined their secondary structure, self-association activity, cell selectivity and mode of action. Circular dichroism spectroscopy indicated that the substitutions disrupt the α-helical structure of ME in micelles of sodium dodecyl sulfate and on negatively charged and zwitterionic phospholipid vesicles. Substitution by Nleu, Nphe, or Nlys but not Nala disturbed the self-association in an aqueous environment, interaction with zwitterionic membranes, and toxicity to mammalian cells of ME but did not affect the interaction with negatively charged membranes or antibacterial activity. Notably, peptides with Nphe or Nlys substitution had the highest therapeutic indices, consistent with their lipid selectivity. In addition, all of peptoid residue-containing ME analogues had little or no ability to induce membrane disruption, membrane depolarization and lipid flip-flop. Taken together, our studies indicate that substitution of the leucine zipper motif in ME with peptoid residues increases its selectivity against bacterial cells by impairing self-association activity and changes its mode of antibacterial action from membrane-targeting mechanism to possible intracellular targeting mechanism. Furthermore, our ME analogues especially those with Nleu, Nphe, or Nlys substitutions, may be therapeutically useful antimicrobial peptides. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Here, we report the successful design of a novel bacteria-selective antimicrobial peptide, Pep-1-K (KKTWWKTWWTKWSQPKKKRKV). Pep-1-K was designed by replacing Glu-2, Glu-6, and Glu-11 in the cell-penetrating peptide Pep-1 with Lys. Pep-1-K showed strong antibacterial activity against reference strains (MIC=1–2μM) of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria as well as against clinical isolates (MIC=1–8μM) of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In contrast, Pep-1-K did not cause hemolysis of human erythrocytes even at 200μM. These results indicate that Pep-1-K may be a good candidate for antimicrobial drug development, especially as a topical agent against antibiotic-resistant microorganisms. Tryptophan fluorescence studies indicated that the lack of hemolytic activity of Pep-1-K correlated with its weak ability to penetrate zwitterionic phosphatidylcholine/cholesterol (10:1, w/w) vesicles, which mimic eukaryotic membranes. Furthermore, Pep-1-K caused little or no dye leakage from negatively charged phosphatidylethanolamine/phosphatidylglycerol (7:3, w/w) vesicles, which mimic bacterial membranes but had a potent ability to cause depolarization of the cytoplasmic membrane potential of intact S. aureus cells. These results suggested that Pep-1-K kills microorganisms by not the membrane-disrupting mode but the formation of small channels that permit transit of ions or protons but not molecules as large as calcein. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Proteinase-activated receptors (PARs) are members of the superfamily of G-protein coupled receptors that initiate intracellular signaling by the proteolytic activity of extracellular serine proteases. Three member of this family (PAR-1, PAR-3, and PAR-4) are considered thrombin receptors, whereas PAR-2 is activated by trypsin and tryptase. Recently, activation of PAR-2 signal was identified as a pro-inflammatory factor that mediates peripheral sensitization of nociceptors. Activation of PAR-1 in the periphery is also considered to be a neurogenic mediator of inflammation that is involved in peptide release. Here, we investigated the expression of these four members of PARs in the adult rat dorsal root ganglia (DRG) using radioisotope-labeled in situ hybridization histochemistry. We detected mRNA for all subtypes of PARs in the DRG. Histological analysis revealed the specific expression patterns of the PARs. PAR-1, PAR-2, and PAR-3 mRNA was expressed in 29.0 ± 4.0%, 16.0 ± 3.2%, and 40.9 ± 1.3% of DRG neurons, respectively. In contrast, PAR-4 mRNA was mainly observed in non-neuronal cells. A double-labeling study of PARs with NF-200 and alpha calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) also revealed the distinctive expression of PARs mRNA in myelinated or nociceptive neurons. This study shows the precise expression pattern of PARs mRNA in the DRG and indicates that the cells in DRG can receive modulation with different types of proteinase-activated receptors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Coronary post-mortem computed tomography angiography (coronary PMCTA) is a non-invasive method to evaluate the coronary artery in the forensic practice. A traditional method is to insert a urinary catheter through the carotid artery. In this study, we performed the coronary PMCTA by inserting a pigtail catheter through the femoral artery and connecting the catheter to a high-pressure syringe. We report the efficacy of this technique and factors influencing its performance, including the position of the catheter tip, aortic gas, high-pressure injector, and location of skin puncture. A total of 14 cadavers were included in our study. Two cadavers with coronary artery occlusions were identified in the PMCTA, which were confirmed by the autopsy reports. In addition, we found that adequate imaging of all the branches of the left and right coronary arteries could be achieved when the catheter tip was located in the ascending aorta around the aortic valve. Gas in the aorta could affect the image acquisitions, which could be avoided by priming the catheter with normal saline and changing the cadaver positions. The femoral artery insertion of the pigtail catheter with a high-pressure injector could achieve satisfactory images without causing obvious disfiguration of the cadavers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Numerous studies have established that foreign language anxiety (FLA) has a significant impact on learners' language acquisition and performance. FLA is a unique form of anxiety that occurs in response to a certain circumstance. Even though a growing amount of research has extended to the examination of skill-based anxiety in specific, such as listening, speaking, reading, and writing, little used corresponding skilled-based FLA scales to assess learners' skill-based FLA at one group of learners. To fill a void in this line of research, the study aimed to explore learners' primary FLA by comparing their four language skill-specific FLAs with four different skill-based FLA scales. Additionally, we wished to investigate the variables that influence learners' FLA. Methods: All participants in the study were first-year medical students. Individual instructors delivered and collected a total of 1023 questionnaires using an open questionnaire platform during normal English lessons in the mid-semester. SPSS 24.0 (Statistical Package for Social Science 24 version) was used to analyze all statistics. Internal validity tests were undertaken on each scale to ascertain the component structure of certain modified scales. The study employed the independent sample t-test and a statistical description to investigate students' major FLA and its variables. Results: With a mean value of 106.863, the predominant FLA arouses from English listening anxiety. English reading anxiety was the lowest, with a mean score of 62.726. Male and female students both demonstrated the greatest degree of FLA in English listening and the least anxiety in English reading. However, their mean difference was not statistically significant (t = 1.220). By comparing the mean scores for four skill-based FLAs across language proficiency groups, it became clear that the scores for the medium were much higher than the average, with average scores of ESA: 91.988, ELA: 106.864, EWA: 74.157, ERA: 62.726, respectively, and the higher-level group scored lower than the average. Students' prior English learning achievements are negatively connected with their FLA, with r values of −.207 (ELA), −.143 (EWA), and −.204 (ERA). The self-evaluation of students' English listening, writing, and reading abilities was considerably adversely connected with FLA, but the self-evaluation of their English-speaking abilities was favorably correlated with FLA. Conclusion: A comparison of students' FLA revealed that the primary skill-based FLA is related to English listening anxiety. Regardless of gender or language proficiency level, FLA was mainly driven by foreign language listening anxiety in all individuals. Prior language achievement and students' self-evaluation are associated with their FLA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Bemisia tabaci Middle East–Asia Minor I (MEAM1) is a widely distributed invasive agricultural pest that causes extensive damage to agricultural, horticultural, and ornamental crops. Laccase2 (Lac2), a phenol oxidase, plays an important role in cuticle tanning of some insects. However, the function of Lac2 in whitefly remains unclear. In this study, we identified a BtLac2 gene in MEAM1 that is expressed in all developmental stages, and its expression in the cuticle is especially high. Knockdown of BtLac2 in nymphs produced thinner and fragile cuticles, which significantly increased the mortality rate and extended the development duration of nymphs, as well as further decreasing the emergence rate of adults. Overall, BtLac2 plays an important role in cuticle hardening of whitefly, suggesting a potential management strategy using RNAi to knock down BtLac2 expression. Cuticle sclerotization is critical for insect survival. Laccase2 (Lac2) is a phenol oxidase that plays a key role in cuticle formation and pigmentation in a variety of insects. However, the function of Lac2 in whitefly, Bemisia tabaci, remains unclear. In this study, we identified a BtLac2 gene in B. tabaci MEAM1 and found that BtLac2 was expressed in all stages. It was highly expressed in the egg stage, followed by nymph and adult. Moreover, the expression of BtLac2 was higher in the cuticle than in other tissues. Knockdown of BtLac2 in nymphs produced thinner and fragile cuticles, which significantly increased the mortality rate, extended the development duration of nymphs, and decreased the emergence rate of adults. This result demonstrates that BtLac2 plays an important role in the cuticle hardening of B. tabaci and suggests a potential management strategy using RNAi to knock down BtLac2 expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytochemical investigation of the roots of Streblus asper Lour. resulted in the isolation of six previously undescribed cardiac glycosides, designated 2′-de- O -methylstrebloside (1), cannogenol-3 α - O - β -D-gluopyranosyl-(1 → 4)-6-deoxy −2,3-dimethoxyl- β -D-fucopyranoside (2), periplogenin-3- O - α -L-rhamnopyranosyl -(1 → 4)-6-deoxy- β -D-allopyranoside (3), 5-de- O -hydroxylstrebloside (4), 5 β H-16 β -hydroxylkamaloside (5), and 17 S , 21 R -21-hydroxylstrebloside (6), and three known analogues (7 – 9). The structures were elucidated using NMR spectroscopic techniques, mass spectrometry, and comparison of the spectroscopic data with previously reported data. Compound 6 is a novel C-21 hydroxyl cardiac glycoside, its absolute configuration was established from the analysis of computational ECD calculations and NMR spectroscopic data. The effects of the cardiac glycosides on apoptosis and cytotoxicity were examined in human A549 lung cancer cells. All the compounds showed remarkable inhibitory activities, with IC 50 values in the range of 0.01–6.08 μM. Furthermore, compound 3 was able to significantly inhibit A549 cell growth proliferation via the induction of apoptosis, due to the activation of caspases-3, -8 and -9 in A549 cells, as revealed by Western blot analysis. Image 1 • Six previously undescribed cardiac glycosides were isolated from Streblus asper Lour. • Their structures were determined by NMR spectroscopic data and ECD calculations. • The isolated compounds were screened for their in vitro cytotoxicity against human A549 lung cancer cells. • An previously undescribed cardiac glycoside significantly inhibited A549 cells growth proliferation via induction of apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gong, X.; Zhu,W.C., and Liu, S., 2020. The strategy of eco-agriculture economic development along the coast based on improving the rural eco-tourism environment. In: Guido Aldana, P.A. and Kantamaneni, K. (eds.), Advances in Water Resources, Coastal Management, and Marine Science Technology. Journal of Coastal Research, Special Issue No. 104, pp. 652–655. Coconut Creek (Florida), ISSN 0749-0208. China is a big tourism country, in the past, when people travel, they will mainly choose famous scenic spots and buildings. But with the gradual progress of China's urbanization construction work, people living in the city, began to yearn for a comfortable and comfortable life in the countryside, eager to feel the idyllic scenery in the countryside on a leisure holiday, breathe fresh air, taste the original taste of farm food. Therefore, the rural eco-tourism industry has gradually developed, loved by many people, but also for the local level of economic development brought great help. However, with the increasing number of people entering the countryside to travel, eco-tourism environment has gradually changed, the local eco-agriculture economic development has been limited. Therefore, this paper analyzes the problems of eco-tourism environment in the development of eco-agriculture economy, and puts forward some strategies to help the development of eco-agriculture economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Roses are among the most economically important ornamental plants worldwide. But prickles on the stem and leaves cause difficulties for cultivation or inconveniences during harvest and transportation, thus are an undesirable horticultural character. However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms of prickle development. In this study, we sought to develop Rosa multiflora (in the family Rosaceae) as a model plant to study prickle formation. The morphology, structure, and ontogeny of prickles were characterized, and transcriptome analysis of prickly and prickleless R. multiflora genotypes was performed. Morphological observation and microscopic analyses revealed that prickles of R. multiflora were non‐glandular prickles (NGPs) and their maturation went through five developmental stages, which was accompanied by the accumulation of secondary metabolites such as lignin and anthocyanins. Comparative transcriptome analysis identified key pathways and hub genes potentially involved in prickle formation. Interestingly, among the differentially expressed genes (DEGs), several notable development and secondary metabolism‐related transcription factors (TFs) including NAC, TCP, MYB, homeobox, and WRKY were up‐regulated in prickly internodes. KEGG enrichment analysis indicated that DEGs were enriched in the pathways related to biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, flavonoids, and phenylpropanoids in the prickly R. multiflora. Our study provides novel insights into the molecular network underlying the regulation of prickle morphogenesis in R. multiflora, and the identified candidates might be applied to the genetic improvement of roses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Isolation of two new limonoids from Azadirachta indica var. siamensis. • X-ray crystallographic analysis of new compound. • Anti-tumor activities and mechanism of the isolated compounds. The chemical constituents of the roots, seeds, and bark of Azadirachta indica var. siamensis were investigated, leading to the isolation of six tricyclic diterpenoids and five limonoids, including two new compounds (2 , 5). The structures were elucidated based on NMR spectroscopic techniques, mass spectrometry and single-crystal X-ray diffraction as well as comparison with the literature. Moreover, the cytotoxicity activities of the isolates were evaluated. The results indicated that the compounds 1 – 3 , 5 – 9 exhibited cytotoxicities against one or more cancer cell lines tested, with IC 50 values in the range of 1.7–88.1 μM. The mechanism of action studies indicated that the most active compound, compound 5 , could induce the apoptosis of AZ521 cells. Furthermore, the Western blot analysis showed that compound 5 could reduce the expression levels of procaspases-3, -8, -9 and promote the expression of Bid and AIF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep learning has been applied to many areas in health care, including imaging diagnosis, digital pathology, prediction of hospital admission, drug design, classification of cancer and stromal cells, doctor assistance, etc. Cancer prognosis is to estimate the fate of cancer, probabilities of cancer recurrence and progression, and to provide survival estimation to the patients. The accuracy of cancer prognosis prediction will greatly benefit clinical management of cancer patients. The improvement of biomedical translational research and the application of advanced statistical analysis and machine learning methods are the driving forces to improve cancer prognosis prediction. Recent years, there is a significant increase of computational power and rapid advancement in the technology of artificial intelligence, particularly in deep learning. In addition, the cost reduction in large scale next-generation sequencing, and the availability of such data through open source databases (e.g., TCGA and GEO databases) offer us opportunities to possibly build more powerful and accurate models to predict cancer prognosis more accurately. In this review, we reviewed the most recent published works that used deep learning to build models for cancer prognosis prediction. Deep learning has been suggested to be a more generic model, requires less data engineering, and achieves more accurate prediction when working with large amounts of data. The application of deep learning in cancer prognosis has been shown to be equivalent or better than current approaches, such as Cox-PH. With the burst of multi-omics data, including genomics data, transcriptomics data and clinical information in cancer studies, we believe that deep learning would potentially improve cancer prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate common antimicrobial regimens used in eradicating Acinetobacter baumannii in Shenyang, China. Monte Carlo simulation was conducted to estimate the probability target attainment (PTA) and cumulative fraction of response (CFR) for imipenem, cefoperazone/sulbactam (2:1), tigecycline and colistin methanesulfonate. For the results of PTAs, imipenem following administration of 0.5 g q6 h, 1 g q8 h, and 1 g q6 h for both 0.5 h and 2 h infusion achieved＞90% PTAs when MIC was 8 μg/ml; cefoperazone/ sulbactam (2:1) following administration of 4.5 g q6 h and 6 g q6 h achieved＞90% PTAs when MIC was 64μg/ml; tigecycline following administration of 50 mg q12 h and 100 mg q12 h achieved＞90% PTAs when MIC was 1 μg/ml; colistin methanesulfonate with high dosages (3MU q8 h) could provide high PTA (95.13%) in patients with CL Cr ＜60 ml/min when MIC was 2 μg/ml. As for CFR values of four antibiotics, imipenem achieved the lowest CFR values. For cefoperazone/sulbactam (2:1) and tigecycline, with simulated regimens improvement, the CFR values were both increased, and there were obviously increasing CFR values against Acinetobacter baumannii. For colistin methanesulfonate, the most aggressive dosage of 3MU q8 h could provide satisfactory CFR values (≥86.94%) against Acinetobacter baumannii in patients at various CL Cr. This study suggested that measurement of MICs, individualized therapy and therapeutic drug-level monitoring should be considered together to achieve the optimal drug exposure. That will provide the best chance of achieving the highest probability of a successful clinical or microbiological response, and avoiding the induced resistance. • Our research described the disposition of four commonly used antimicrobials of various dosage regimens in terms of PTA and CFR against Acinetobacter baumannii. • The resistant rates of imipenem, cefoperazone/sulbactam, tigecycline and colistin against Acinetobacter baumannii were 77.8%, 72.8%, 41.9% and 2.5%, respectively. • Increased dosage of tigecycline, cefoperazone/sulbactam (2:1), and CMS could increase the likelihood of obtaining population bactericidal exposures. • Making full use of the antibacterial PK/PD model is of great value for the treatment of severe infections and the management of antimicrobial stewardship. • The consideration of MIC distribution, antibiotic regimens and pharmacokinetic parameter derived from human studies with Monte Carlo simulation offers a more useful tool for clinicians to predict successful outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhancing the thermostability of (R)-selective amine transaminases (AT-ATA) will expand its application in the asymmetric synthesis of chiral amines. In this study, mutual information and coevolution networks of ATAs were analyzed by the Mutual Information Server to Infer Coevolution (MISTIC). Subsequently, the amino acids most likely to influence the stability and function of the protein were investigated by alanine scanning and saturation mutagenesis. Four stabilized mutants (L118T, L118A, L118I, and L118V) were successfully obtained. The best mutant, L118T, exhibited an improved thermal stability with a 3.7-fold enhancement in its half-life (t1/2) at 40 °C and a 5.3 °C increase in T5010 compared to the values for the wild-type protein. By the differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF) analysis, the best mutant, L118T, showed a melting temperature (Tm) of 46.4 °C, which corresponded to a 5.0 °C increase relative to the wild-type AT-ATA (41.4 °C). Furthermore, the most stable mutant L118T displayed the highest catalytic efficiency among the four stabilized mutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper details the invention of a tensioning and anchoring device based on the "wedge‐cutting effect" that can tension and anchor multi‐layer carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) fabric. To achieve a high active confinement effect on an RC column, the device is characterized by its capability to lift the applied prestress to the greatest extent and minimize prestress loss. All eight RC columns with identical structural dimensions were designed and fabricated, including three unstrengthened and five strengthened columns. The seismic performance test and finite element simulation were conducted under a low cyclic reciprocating load. The test parameters include active confinement force and axial compression ratio, with active confinement force varying as a function of the number of layers of CFRP fabric. The results indicate that the seismic performance of RC columns with high active confinement can be significantly improved. Under a high axial compression ratio, the maximum displacement ductility coefficient and ultimate drift ratio of specimens strengthened with four layers of prestressed CFRP fabrics can increase by 87% and 152%, respectively, while the energy consumption can increase by 4.3 times. Additionally, the ultimate horizontal bearing capacity can be raised by 41%. The seismic performance of strengthened columns increases with the increase of active confinement, particularly under high axial compression. The finite element model is in good accord with the experiment. With an increase in active confinement force, the properties of confined concrete and CFRP are utilized to a greater extent, and more energy is dissipated by the opening and closing of numerous micro cracks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]