Polymorphisms of Ionotropic Glutamate Receptor-Related Genes and the Risk of Autism Spectrum Disorder in a Chinese Population

Xinyan Xie,Fang Hou,Li Li,Yanlin Chen,Lingfei Liu,Xiu Luo1,Huaiting Gu,Xin Li,Jiajia Zhang,Jianhua Gong,Ranran Song 대한신경정신의학회 2019 PSYCHIATRY INVESTIGATION Vol.16 No.5

Objective: To evaluate the association of GRIK2 and NLGN1 with autism spectrum disorder in a Chinese population. Methods: We performed spatio-temporal expression analysis of GRIK2 and NLGN1 in the developing prefrontal cortex, and examined the expression of the genes in ASD cases and healthy controls using the GSE38322 data set. Following, we performed a case-control study in a Chinese population. Results: The analysis using the publicly available expression data showed that GRIK2 and NLGN1 may have a role in the development of human brain and contribute to the risk of ASD. Later genetic analysis in the Chinese population showed that the GRIK2 rs6922753 for the T allele, TC genotype and dominant model played a significant protective role in ASD susceptibility (respectively: OR=0.840, p=0.023; OR=0.802, p=0.038; OR=0.791, p=0.020). The NLGN1 rs9855544 for the G allele and GG genotype played a significant protective role in ASD susceptibility (respectively: OR=0.844, p=0.019; OR=0.717, p=0.022). After adjusting p values, the statistical significance was lost (p>0.05). Conclusion: Our results suggested that GRIK2 rs6922753 and NLGN1 rs9855544 might not confer susceptibility to ASD in the Chinese population.

An efficient linear second order unconditionally stable direct discretization method for the phase-field crystal equation on surfaces

Li, Yibao,Luo, Chaojun,Xia, Binhu,Kim, Junseok Butterworths [etc.] 2019 Applied mathematical modelling Vol.67 No.-

<P><B>Abstract</B></P> <P>We develop an unconditionally stable direct discretization scheme for solving the phase-field crystal equation on surfaces. The surface is discretized by using an unstructured triangular mesh. Gradient, divergence, and Laplacian operators are defined on triangular meshes. The proposed numerical method is second-order accurate in space and time. At each time step, the proposed computational scheme results in linear elliptic equations to be solved, thus it is easy to implement the algorithm. It is proved that the proposed scheme satisfies a discrete energy-dissipation law. Therefore, it is unconditionally stable. A fast and efficient biconjugate gradients stabilized solver is used to solve the resulting discrete system. Numerical experiments are conducted to demonstrate the performance of the proposed algorithm.</P> <P><B>Highlights</B></P> <P> <UL> <LI> An efficient method for phase-field crystal equation on surfaces is proposed. </LI> <LI> The proposed scheme is second-order accurate in time and space. </LI> <LI> The unconditional stability of the proposed scheme is analytically proved. </LI> <LI> The resulting system of discrete equations is easy to implement. </LI> </UL> </P>

An Ideal Two-dimensional Porous B4O2 as Anode Material for Enhancing Ion Storage Performance

Chen Li,Yangtong Luo,Zhangyan Wang,Chengyong Zhong,Shuo Li 대한금속·재료학회 2024 ELECTRONIC MATERIALS LETTERS Vol.20 No.3

The utilization of two-dimensional porous materials as anodes in ion batteries has garnered signifi cant interest within thefi eld of clean energy because of their fl exible architecture, high conductivity, rapid diff usion process and high specifi c ioncapacity. Herein, we developed a new metal-free 2D porous compound, namely, B 4 O 2 . The stability of the B 4 O 2 monolayerwas verifi ed through the ab-initio molecular dynamics simulations and phonon spectrum calculations. The results demonstratethat the adsorption of K, Na, and Li atoms onto the B 4 O 2 monolayer surface is remarkably stable, with all three speciesexhibiting a shared diff usion path. Specifi cally, we found that the adsorption of K atoms on the B 4 O 2 monolayer surpassesthat of Na and Li atoms, and the diff usion of K atoms occurs at a faster rate than Na and Li atoms on the same monolayersurface. The maximum theoretical specifi c capacity of K + , Na + and Li + is calculated to be 626.1 mAh/g. In addition, the B 4 O 2monolayer retains good electronic conductivity and electron activity during the atomic adsorption processes. Based on ourfi ndings, the B 4 O 2 monolayer exhibits signifi cant potential as anode material for ion batteries. This study paves the way fora novel approach in designing new 2D porous materials specifi cally tailored for energy storage and conversion applications.

Development of the ASHRAE Global Thermal Comfort Database II

Fö,ldvá,ry Lič,ina, Veronika,Cheung, Toby,Zhang, Hui,de Dear, Richard,Parkinson, Thomas,Arens, Edward,Chun, Chungyoon,Schiavon, Stefano,Luo, Maohui,Brager, Gail,Li, Peixian,Kaam, Soazig Elsevier 2018 Building and environment Vol.142 No.-

<P><B>Abstract</B></P> <P>Recognizing the value of open-source research databases in advancing the art and science of HVAC, in 2014 the ASHRAE Global Thermal Comfort Database II project was launched under the leadership of University of California at Berkeley's Center for the Built Environment and The University of Sydney's Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) Laboratory. The exercise began with a systematic collection and harmonization of raw data from the last two decades of thermal comfort field studies around the world. The ASHRAE Global Thermal Comfort Database II (Comfort Database), now an online, open-source database, includes approximately 81,846 complete sets of objective indoor climatic observations with accompanying “<I>right-here-right-now</I>” subjective evaluations by the building occupants who were exposed to them. The database is intended to support diverse inquiries about thermal comfort in field settings. A simple web-based interface to the database enables filtering on multiple criteria, including building typology, occupancy type, subjects' demographic variables, subjective thermal comfort states, indoor thermal environmental criteria, calculated comfort indices, environmental control criteria and outdoor meteorological information. Furthermore, a web-based interactive thermal comfort visualization tool has been developed that allows end-users to quickly and interactively explore the data.</P> <P><B>Highlights</B></P> <P> <UL> <LI> The scope, development, contents, and accessibility of the Comfort Database is documented. </LI> <LI> The Comfort Database II includes approximately 76,000 complete sets of thermal comfort data. </LI> <LI> The Comfort Database provides access to the collected raw data. </LI> <LI> Web-based interactive visualization tool was developed that allows end-users to interactively explore the data. </LI> </UL> </P>

Advances in CRISPR-Cas systems for RNA targeting, tracking and editing

Wang, Fei,Wang, Lianrong,Zou, Xuan,Duan, Suling,Li, Zhiqiang,Deng, Zixin,Luo, Jie,Lee, Sang Yup,Chen, Shi Elsevier 2019 BIOTECHNOLOGY ADVANCES Vol.37 No.5

<P><B>Abstract</B></P> <P>Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein (Cas) systems, especially type II (Cas9) systems, have been widely used in gene/genome targeting. Modifications of Cas9 enable these systems to become platforms for precise DNA manipulations. However, the utilization of CRISPR-Cas systems in RNA targeting remains preliminary. The discovery of type VI CRISPR-Cas systems (Cas13) shed light on RNA-guided RNA targeting. Cas13d, the smallest Cas13 protein, with a length of only ~930 amino acids, is a promising platform for RNA targeting compatible with viral delivery systems. Much effort has also been made to develop Cas9, Cas13a and Cas13b applications for RNA-guided RNA targeting. The discovery of new RNA-targeting CRISPR-Cas systems as well as the development of RNA-targeting platforms with Cas9 and Cas13 will promote RNA-targeting technology substantially. Here, we review new advances in RNA-targeting CRISPR-Cas systems as well as advances in applications of these systems in RNA targeting, tracking and editing. We also compare these Cas protein-based technologies with traditional technologies for RNA targeting, tracking and editing. Finally, we discuss remaining questions and prospects for the future.</P> <P><B>Highlights</B></P> <P> <UL> <LI> RNA targeting and editing are becoming increasingly important </LI> <LI> CRISPR-Cas systems are advancing for RNA targeting, tracking and editing </LI> <LI> The type VI CRISPR-Cas systems are useful for RNA-guided RNA targeting </LI> <LI> Use of Cas9 and Cas13 will advance RNA-targeting technologies </LI> </UL> </P>

Selective harmonic active tuning control method for hybrid active power filters

Luo, Zhaoxu,Liu, Yang,Li, Shengqing,Luo, Qin The Korean Institute of Power Electronics 2021 JOURNAL OF POWER ELECTRONICS Vol.21 No.6

This paper proposes a selective harmonic active tuning control method for hybrid active power filters (HAPFs). A HAPF is composed of a voltage source inverter (VSI) and an LC filter. With this method, the VSI in the HAPF is controlled as a virtual capacitance that varies with the dominant harmonic frequencies. Thus, the LC filter can be forced to be tuning at these frequencies, which significantly improves the harmonic filtering characteristic of the LC filter. Meanwhile, to enhance the filtering performance in the case of a small power grid impedance or to damp the resonances between an LC filter and the grid impedance, the harmonics in the grid source current are detected and proportionally fed back to the controller, which brings about an effect equivalent to adding a series harmonic resistance on the grid source side. The proposed control method has the advantages of a simple control structure and easy implementation. Simulation and experimental results confirm the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed method.

Vγ1+ γδT Cells Are Correlated With Increasing Expression of Eosinophil Cationic Protein and Metalloproteinase-7 in Chronic Rhinosinusitis With Nasal Polyps Inducing the Formation of Edema

Luo-ying Yang,Xia Li,Wen-ting Li,Jian-cong Huang,Zhi-yuan Wang,Zi-zhen Huang,Li-hong Chang,Ge-hua Zhang 대한천식알레르기학회 2017 Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Research Vol.9 No.2

Purpose: We have found that expression of γδT cells is increased in pathological mucosa of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) compared with normal nasal mucosa. This increase is correlated with the infiltration of eosinophils in CRSwNP. Here, we investigated the expression of γδT cells, inflammation and tissue remodeling factors as well as their probable relationships in different types of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) in China. Methods: A total of 76 surgical tissue samples that included 43 CRSwNP samples (15 eosinophilic and 28 non-eosinophilic), 17 CRS samples without nasal polyps (CRSsNP), and 16 controls were obtained. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to measure the mRNA expression levels of Vγ1+ γδT cells, Vγ4+ γδT cells, eosinophil cationic protein (ECP), interleukin (IL)-8, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β2, metalloproteinase (MMP)-7, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-4 and hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to measure the protein level of ECP and MMP-7 in CRSwNP. The eosinophils were counted and the level of edema was analyzed with HE staining. Results: The mRNA expression levels of the Vγ1 subset, ECP and MMP-7 were significantly increased in CRSwNP with histological characteristics of eosinophilic infiltration and edema. The expression of the Vγ1 gene in CRSwNP correlated positively with the expression of both ECP and MMP-7. No significant decreases in the mRNA expression levels of TGF-β2, TIMP-4 or HIF-1α were observed in the CRSwNP samples. The expression levels of Vγ1 gene, ECP and MMP-7 were significantly increased in eosinophilic CRSwNP compared to non-eosinophilic CRSwNP. Conclusions: Our results suggest the associations between Vγ1+ γδT cells, ECP and MMP-7 in CRSwNP, indicating that Vγ1+ γδT cells can induce the eosinophilic inflammation, which has a further effect on the formation of edema.

Research Paper : Effects of phosphorus and light intensity on the growth and competition of the two weed species Veronica persica and Chorispora tenella

( Li Chu Yin ),( Jian Xin Luo ),( Lan Fang Luo ),( Gui Xian Xie ) 한국잡초학회 2012 Weed Biology and Management Vol.12 No.1

Veronica persica Poir. (Persian speedwell) is an invasive alien weed species in the upland soils throughout China. Its dominance in weed flora could be alleviated by Chorispora tenella (Pall.) (tender chorispora) in P-poor soils and in an intense light environment. Here, three experiments in growth chambers were carried out in order to explore the effect of P and light intensity on the growth and competition of V. persica and C. tenella, the pH value in their rhizospheres, and the kinetic parameters (Km and Vmax) of the H2PO4 - uptake by the two weed species. The ANOVA results showed that the light intensity and P level in the soil obviously influenced the growth of the two weed species. However, the effect of the P level in the soil was greater for V. persica and the effect of the light intensity was greater for C. tenella. The restriction of the growth of V. persica by a low P level in the soil was much more than that of C. tenella, but it was reversed in the two species in relation to a low light intensity. In addition, the pH was lower in the rhizosphere of C. tenella after the P-deficient treatment and there was a lower Km in the uptake of H2PO4 - than for V. persica, suggesting that C. tenella could adapt to a low-P environment more easily. In conclusion, C. tenella growing together with V. persica had a competitive advantage under high-light-intensity and low-P-level conditions, but it lost its advantage with an increase in P fertilization and a decrease in light intensity.

A Kinetic Consideration on the Selective Adsorption and Molecular Recognition by Molecularly Imprinted Polymer

Li, Wuke,Li, Songjun,Luo, Gang,Ding, Kerong Korean Chemical Society 2007 Bulletin of the Korean Chemical Society Vol.28 No.8

This article presents an original work on kinetically studying the selective adsorption and recognition by molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP). With S-naproxen as template, the imprinted polymer was prepared. The result indicates that the prepared polymer shows a more complicated sorption toward S-naproxen than toward its enantiomer R-naproxen. The rate constant in the case of template appears to be a variable. There are also significant deviations from the idealized Langmuir model. Related information indicates that these, in logic, can be a result of biomimic structural and functional complements between imprint and the template, which makes the polymer capable of selectively recognizing the imprint species.

Genetic parameter estimation for reproductive traits in QingYu pigs and comparison of carcass and meat quality traits to Berkshire×QingYu crossbred pigs

Luo Jia,Yang Yiting,Liao Kun,Liu Bin,Chen Ying,Shen Linyuan,Chen Lei,Jiang An’an,Liu Yihui,Li Qiang,Wang Jinyong,Li Xuewei,Zhang Shunhua,Zhu Li 아세아·태평양축산학회 2020 Animal Bioscience Vol.33 No.8

Objective: The QingYu pig is well known for its excellent meat quality attributes in Sichuan province, China. In order to improve its production efficiency, the determination of genetic factors contributing to quantifiable economic traits of livestock is important. Moreover, the cross-breeding of QingYu pigs with western breeds possessing strong growth attributes is an efficient way to improve the performance of this breed. Methods: Here, the genetic parameters of several important reproductive traits of QingYu pigs were estimated, include total number born (TNB), number born alive, litter birth weight, individual birth weight, number of piglets weaned, litter weaning weight, and individual weaning weight. The data was analyzed using the ASReml 3.0 software (NSW Inc., Sydney, Australia). Furthermore, the effects of crossing Berkshire with QingYu (BQ) pigs on carcass and meat quality traits, as well as the effects of slaughter weight on carcass and meat quality of BQ were characterized. Results: QingYu pigs exhibited superior reproductive traits. The TNB available to QingYu pigs was more than 8 per parity. The observed repeatability of the reproductive traits of the QingYu pigs was between 0.10 and 0.23. The significantly correlated genetic and phenotypic of reproduction traits were consistent. Interestingly, the BQ pigs exhibited improved carcass quality, with a significant increase in loin muscle area, lean percentage and reduction in sebum percentage. As a result, BQ had higher L45min, lower cooking scores, and lower drip loss. In addition, the loin muscle area, body length, and sebum percentage were significantly higher in 90 and 100 kg animals. Cooking loss showed a significant increase at 80 kg, and marbling increased significantly from 90 kg. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that QingYu pigs exhibit excellent reproductive properties and heritability of these traits. Crossing with Berkshire is an efficient strategy to improve the carcass and meat quality of QingYu pigs for commercial operations. Furthermore, it appears as though the optimal slaughter weight of BQ pigs is at approximately 90 kg.