Percolation transitions in edge-coupled interdependent networks with directed dependency links

We propose a model of edge-coupled interdependent networks with directed dependency links(EINDDLs)and develop the theoretical analysis framework of this model based on the self-consistent probabilities method.The phase transition behaviors and parameter thresholds of this model under random attacks are analyzed theoretically on both random regular(RR)networks and Erd¨os-Renyi(ER)networks,and computer simulations are performed to verify the results.In this EINDDL model,a fractionβof connectivity links within network B depends on network A and a fraction(1-β)of connectivity links within network A depends on network B.It is found that randomly removing a fraction(1-p)of connectivity links in network A at the initial state,network A exhibits different types of phase transitions(first order,second order and hybrid).Network B is rarely affected by cascading failure whenβis small,and network B will gradually converge from the first-order to the second-order phase transition asβincreases.We present the critical values ofβfor the phase change process of networks A and B,and give the critical values of p andβfor network B at the critical point of collapse.Furthermore,a cascading prevention strategy is proposed.The findings are of great significance for understanding the robustness of EINDDLs.

Gut commensal bacteria, Paneth cells and their relations to radiation enteropathy

In steady state, the intestinal epithelium forms an important part of the gut barrier to defend against luminal bacterial attack. However, the intestinal epithelium is compromised by ionizing irradiation due to its inherent selfrenewing capacity. In this process, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth is a critical event that reciprocally alters the immune milieu. In other words, intestinal bacterial dysbiosis induces inflammation in response to intestinal injuries, thus influencing the repair process of irradiated lesions. In fact, it is accepted that commensal bacteria can generally enhance the host radiation sensitivity. To address the determination of radiation sensitivity, we hypothesize that Paneth cells press a critical "button" because these cells are central to intestinal health and disease by using their peptides, which are responsible for controlling stem cell development in the small intestine and luminal bacterial diversity. Herein,the most important question is whether Paneth cells alter their secretion profiles in the situation of ionizing irradiation. On this basis, the tolerance of Paneth cells to ionizing radiation and related mechanisms by which radiation affects Paneth cell survival and death will be discussed in this review. We hope that the relevant results will be helpful in developing new approaches against radiation enteropathy.

Recurrent primary spontaneous pneumothorax in a large Chinese family: a clinical and genetic investigation

Background:Primary spontaneous pneumothorax(PSP)is a common manifestation of Birt-Hogg-Dubé(BHD)syndrome,which is an autosomal dominant disorder caused by mutation of the folliculin(FLCN)gene.This study was established to investigate the mutation of the FLCN gene and the phenotype in a family with PSP.Methods:We investigated the clinical and genetic characteristics of a large Chinese family with recurrent spontaneous pneumothorax.Genetic testing was performed by Sanger sequencing of the coding exons(4-14 exons)of the FLCN gene.Results:Among ten affected members in a multi-generational PSP kindred,with a total of 18 episodes of spontaneous pneumothorax,the median age for the initial onset of pneumothorax was 42.5 years(interquartile range:28.8-57.2 years).Chest computed tomography scan of the proband showed pulmonary cysts and pneumothorax.A novel nonsense mutation(c.1273C>T)in exon 11 of FLCN gene that leads to a pre-mature stop codon(p.Gln425*)was identified in the family.The genetic analysis confirmed the diagnosis of BHD syndrome in this family in the absence of skin lesions or renal tumors.Conclusions:A novel nonsense mutation of FLCN gene was found in a large family with PSP in China.Our results expand the mutational spectrum of FLCN gene in patients with BHD syndrome.