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Background: No research report has been conducted to investigate the impact of oxidation balance score (OBS) on the estimated pulse wave velocity(ePWV).We aimed to examine the association between OBS and ePWV. Method: We evaluated data for 13,073 patients from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). The exposure variable was OBS. The outcome variables was combination of ePWV and arterial stiffness. Results: We observed a significant negative correlation between OBS (Per 1SD increase) and ePWV in the gradually adjusted models. Based on the aforementioned results, a two-piecewise logistic regression adjusted model was subsequently employed to establish the association between OBS and elevated ePWV, and the inflection point was determined as 5. The increased risk of elevated ePWV (OR:0.70; 95%CI:0.51–0.94) gradually decreases with the increase of OBS on the left side of the inflection point; however, when OBS exceeds 5, this decrease in risk of elevated ePWV(OR:1.00; 95%CI:0.96–1.04) is no longer observed (P for log likelihood ratio test = 0.028). Conclusions: There exists a significant association between OBS and ePWV in the context of American adults. Specifically, OBS exhibits a negative correlation with ePWV; however, when considering an elevated ePWV, a saturation effect is observed in relation to OBS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: While previous population studies have shown that higher triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index values are associated with an increased risk of congestive heart failure (CHF), the relationship between TyG and CHF in patients with abnormal glucose metabolism remains understudied. This study aimed to evaluate the association between TyG and CHF in individuals with diabetes and prediabetes. Methods: The study population was derived from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning from 1999 to 2018. The exposure variable, TyG, was calculated based on triglyceride and fasting blood glucose levels, while the outcome of interest was CHF. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was employed to assess the association between TyG and CHF. Results: A total of 13,644 patients with diabetes and prediabetes were included in this study. The results from the fitting curve analysis demonstrated a non-linear U-shaped correlation between TyG and CHF. Additionally, linear logistic regression analysis showed that each additional unit of TyG was associated with a non-significant odds ratio (OR) of 1.03 (95%CI: 0.88–1.22, P = 0.697) for the prevalence of CHF. A two-piecewise logistic regression model was used to calculate the threshold effect of the TyG. The log likelihood ratio test (p < 0.05) indicated that the two-piecewise logistic regression model was superior to the single-line logistic regression model. The TyG tangent point was observed at 8.60, and on the left side of this point, there existed a negative correlation between TyG and CHF (OR: 0.54, 95%CI: 0.36–0.81). Conversely, on the right side of the inflection point, a significant 28% increase in the prevalence of CHF was observed per unit increment in TyG (OR: 1.28, 95%CI: 1.04–1.56). Conclusions: The findings from this study suggest a U-shaped correlation between TyG and CHF, indicating that both elevated and reduced levels of TyG are associated with an increased prevalence of CHF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rapid progressive interstitial lung disease (RP-ILD) is the leading cause of anti-melanoma differentiation associated protein 5 antibody positive dermatomyositis (anti-MDA5+DM) related death. Elevated serum B-cell activating factor (BAFF) levels have been implicated in connective tissue diseases associated ILD. Here, we evaluate whether BAFF could be a prognostic biomarker for predicting RP-ILD in anti-MDA5+DM patients. Methods: Serums were collected from 39 patients with anti-MDA5+DM (20 with RP-ILD and 19 with non-RP-ILD), 20 antisynthase syndrome (ASS) patients and 20 healthy controls (HC). BAFF concentration was measured by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: Serum BAFF level was higher in anti-MDA5+DM patients than those in ASS patients and HC (3882.32 ± 1880.09 vs. 2540.89 ± 1403.04 and 2486.28 ± 767.97 pg/mL, p = 0.0056 and 0.0038, respectively). Within anti-MDA5+DM groups, RP-ILD patients exhibited higher BAFF concentration than non-RP-ILD group (4549.78 ± 1839.97 vs. 3297.28 ± 1794.69 pg/mL, p = 0.04). The BAFF concentration was positively correlated with levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), dehydrogenase (LDH) and cytokeratin (CK) in anti-MDA5+DM patients (r = 0.350, p = 0.035; r = 0.393, p = 0.016; r = 0.518, p = 0.001; respectively). The best cut-off value of BAFF concentration was 2971.5 pg/mL by ROC curve (AUC area = 0.690, p = 0.045) and BAFF > 2971.5 pg/mL was an independent risk factor for RP-ILD using multivariate analysis (OR = 9.389, 95% CI = 1.609—54.769; p = 0.013). Conclusions: Serum BAFF could be a useful prognostic biomarker for early detecting RP-ILD risk in anti-MDA5+DM patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Daily diet represents a potentially modifiable factor in the development of depression. However, to date, no studies have investigated the impact of dietary active microorganisms on depressive symptoms. The aim of this study is to explore the relationship between these two factors. Population data from NHANES 2005–2018 indicated that the exposure variable was dietary intake of active microbes, while the outcome variable was depression as defined by a 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) score. A multivariate logistic regression model was employed to assess the impact of dietary living microbe intake on depression symptoms. A total of 19,169 American adults with a mean age of 46.89 years (SD = 16.97) were included in this cross-sectional analysis; among them, 53.84 % were male and 8.11 % (n = 1555) met the criteria for depression symptoms. In the fully adjusted model, patients with medium and high dietary living microbe intake exhibited a significant reduction in depression symptoms prevalence by 28 % (OR, 0.72; 95 % CI: 0.64–0.81) and 26 % (OR, 0.74; 95 % CI: 0.63–0.85), respectively, compared to those with low dietary living microbe intake. Subgroup analyse indicate that no significant interaction was observed between dietary living microbe intake group and subgroups. Higher intake of active microbes in the diet was found to have a negative correlation with depression. • This study is the first to investigate the association between dietary live microbes and depression, addressing a gap in related research on the impact of dietary intake on depression. • When compared with participants who had a low intake of live microorganisms in their diet, those who consumed medium and high levels experienced a significant reduction in depression prevalence. • High consumption of live microbes agents through diet was found to reduce the prevalence of depression by 57 % among stroke patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ectopia lentis is a hallmark of Marfan syndrome (MFS), a genetic connective tissue disorder affecting 1/5000 to 1/10 000 individuals worldwide. Early detection in ophthalmology clinics and timely intervention of cardiovascular complications can be lifesaving. In this study, a modified proteomics workflow with liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS)‐based data‐independent acquisition (DIA) and field asymmetric ion mobility spectrometry (FAIMS) to profile the proteomes of aqueous humor (AH) and lens tissue from MFS children with ectopia lentis is utilized. Over 2300 and 2938 comparable proteins are identified in AH and the lens capsule, respectively. Functional enrichment analyses uncovered dysregulation of complement and coagulation‐related pathways, collagen binding, and cell adhesion in MFS. Through weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) and machine learning, distinct modules associated with clinical traits are constructed and a unique biomarker panel (Q14376, Q99972, P02760, Q07507; gene names: GALE, MYOC, AMBP, DPT) is defined. These biomarkers are further validated using advanced parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) in an independent patient cohort. The results provide novel insights into the proteome characterization of ectopia lentis and offer a promising approach for developing a valuable biomarker panel to aid in the early diagnosis of Marfan syndrome via AH proteome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Current evidence on the relationship between dietary carotenoids intake (DCI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are limited. Moreover, whether there is an association between DCI and prevalence of CKD and how this association might be impacted by sex is not clear. Methods and results: Overall, 4507 women and 4396 men were included for analysis. The study used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), a cross-sectional survey carried out in the USA. The exposure factor for this analysis was DCI. The outcome was CKD, defined as eGFR < 60mL/min/1.73 m2. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyzed the associations of DCI and prevalence of CKD both in men and women. There was a significant inverse association between higher DCI and prevalence of CKD only among females. Per LgDCI unit increment, the multivariable adjusted odd ratio (OR) (95% confidence interval) for prevalence of CKD was 0.72 (0.58, 0.90) in females and 0.95 (0.77, 1.18) in males. When compared with the lowest quartile, the ORs of the highest quartile of DCI for prevalence of CKD were 0.59 (0.40, 0.87) in females and 0.87 (0.60, 1.26) in males. The associations remained similar in the subgroup analyses. Conclusions: The findings suggest that a higher intake of dietary carotenoids is associated with a lower prevalence of CKD in women, but not in men. Highlights: The present study provides evidence that a higher DCI is specifically associated with a reduced prevalence of CKD in women, regardless of other potential confounding factors for CKD. In clinical practice, female patients can be encouraged to eat more foods rich in carotenoids to prevent the occurrence and development of CKD and related cardiovascular diseases, while for men, it is still the main risk factor for the control of CKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Issue Addressed: More attention to the diet and nutritional status of international students in Australian universities is indicated. This qualitative research aimed to provide an in‐depth understanding of dietary changes among international students after they arrived in Australia. Methods: Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with international students from China and India who were studying at a large urban Australian university. An approach of interpretative phenomenological analysis was employed for coding and data analysis. Results: A total of 14 interviews were included. International students were able to consume more international foods, dairy products and animal proteins in Australia as a result of increased exposure to a larger variety of these foods compared with their home countries. However, they experienced some difficulties in eating vegetables and authentic traditional foods due to limited availability and higher prices in Australia. It was challenging for these students to live independently and cook for themselves for the first time and with a limited food budget and time, but many students improved their cooking skills over time. Less frequent main meals with more snacking sessions were reported. Weight fluctuations were commonly experienced and craving for traditional foods no longer accessible may negatively impact mental health. Conclusions: International students adapted to the Australian food environment but believed the food choices available did not meet their food preferences or perhaps nutritional requirements. So What: Some intervention from universities and/or government may be needed to ease the barriers to consumption of affordable and desirable meals in a time‐saving manner for international students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although a great deal of scientific evidence on the epidemiological risk factors for diabetes and prediabetes has been accumulated, there is still insufficient evidence to explore sex-related differences. The aim of this study was to examine sex-specific differences in the effect of the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) on prediabetes and diabetes. Methods: This cross-sectional study included data from 10099 American adults. The exposure variable was the AIP, which was defined as log10 (triglycerides/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol). The outcome variables included prediabetes and diabetes defined by the 2013 American Diabetes Association guidelines. Results: The median age (mean ± SD) was 48.51 ± 18.42 years, and the average value (SD) of the AIP was − 0.09 (0.34). The prevalence of prediabetes was 40.24%, and that of diabetes was 21.32%. Overall, there was a significant positive association between the AIP and prediabetes and diabetes (per 1-unit increment in the AIP: OR, 2.49; 95% CI 1.75, 3.54). The multivariate logistic regression model demonstrated that for each unit increment in the AIP, the prediabetes and diabetes prevalence increased 4.96-fold among female participants (OR 4.96, 95% CI 2.68, 9.18) but not among male participants. We found that the AIP was not related to the prevalence of prediabetes or diabetes (OR 1.41; 95% CI 0.87, 2.29) among males. There was an interaction between sex and the AIP (P for interaction < 0.0001). Conclusions: This study showed that a higher AIP was significantly associated with an increased prevalence of prediabetes and diabetes, and the above relationships occurred only among women and not men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coreopsis tinctoria Nutt. (family Asteraceae) is a popular medicine‐food plant, which improves chronic diseases such as hyperlipemia, hypertension, and diabetes. Flavanomarein is the main active component of Coreopsis tinctoria Nutt, in which the blood concentration of volunteers is low and bioavailability is poor. Thus, the understanding of flavanomarein metabolites and metabolic pathways is significant to clarify its effectiveness. This study systematically studied the metabolites of flavanomarein by oral and injection. The biological samples (feces, urine, and plasma) were analyzed by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry in negative ion mode. The metabolic law of flavanomarein in the liver was further verified by a liver microsomal incubation experiment in vitro. A total of 12 metabolites were identified by oral administration while 15 metabolites were detected by injection. It was shown that metabolic pathways include acetylation, hydroxylation, glucuronidation, methylation, dehydrogenation, and so forth. The liver extraction rate of flavanomarein was 0.08, which means the metabolic stability of flavanomarein is well in rats' liver microsomes. It is a systematic study on the metabolism of flavanomarein and provides a metabolic rationale for further in‐depth in vivo biotransformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Studies on the association between urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR) and diabetes are limited. We aimed to examine the association between uACR and diabetes among adults in the United States, with particular interest in sex differences. Methods: Overall, 5307 participants were included in this study. The exposure variable was uACR, where uACR = urine albumin/urine creatinine. The primary outcome of this study was diabetes, defined as self-reported physician diagnosis of diabetes, fasting plasma glucose concentration ≥ 7.0 mmol/L, or use of glucose-lowering drugs. Results: The average age of the participants in this study was 46.37 ± 17.38 years, 818 (15.41%) had diabetes and the median uACR was 7 mg/g (interquartile range, 4–12 mg/g). There was a significant positive association between uACR and diabetes (per natural log [uACR] increment: OR, 1.81; 95% CI 1.39–2.34). A multivariate logistic regression model demonstrated that per unit increment in LguACR, the diabetes prevalence increased 2.26-fold among male participants (OR 2.26, 95% CI 1.59–3.21). However, in female participants, we observed that uACR was not related to the prevalence of diabetes (odds ratio [OR], 1.28; 95% CI 0.82–2.01). Our findings showed that there was an interaction between sex and uACR (P for interaction = 0.049). Conclusions: A higher uACR is significantly associated with an increased prevalence of diabetes, and sex can modify the relationship between them. Highlights: This study evaluated the relationship between urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR) and diabetes among adults in the United States of American for the first time, and found that a positive correlation between uACR and diabetes only existed among male participants but not in female participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Plasticizers released from vehicle dismantling were systematically characterized; • Dust-containing phthalate plasticizers far exceeded those of non-phthalate; • Elevated levels of DiNP and TOTM were involved with vehicle dismantling activity; • Occupational exposure to plasticizers for workers is currently within safety limit; • The disruption potential of some NPAEs appears to be comparable to that of DEHP; Automotive interiors have been identified as significant sources of various chemicals, yet their occupational hazards for end-of-life vehicle (ELV) dismantlers remain poorly characterized. Herein, eight classes of plasticizers, including 11 phthalates esters (PAEs) and 16 non-phthalates esters (NPAEs), were detected in dust samples from inside and outside ELV dismantling workshops. Moreover, indoor dust from ordinary households and university dormitories was compared. The indoor dust from the ELV dismantling workshops contained the highest concentrations of plasticizers (median: 594 μg/g), followed by ordinary households (296 µg/g), university dormitories (186 µg/g), and outdoor dust (157 µg/g). PAEs remained the dominant plasticizers, averaging 11.7-fold higher than their NPAE alternatives. Specifically, diisononyl phthalate and trioctyl trimellitate were notably elevated in workshop dust, being 15.5 and 4.78 times higher, respectively, than in ordinary household dust, potentially indicating their association with ELV dismantling activities. The estimated daily intake of occupational ELV dismantling workers was up to five times higher than that of the general population. Moreover, certain dominant NPAEs demonstrated nuclear receptor interference abilities comparable to typical PAEs, suggesting potential toxic effects. This study is the first to demonstrate that ELV dismantling activities contribute to the co-emission of PAEs and NPAEs, posing a substantial risk of exposure to workers, which warrants further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogel beads have been explored to be normal platform for nutrition encapsulation and delivery. However, hydrogel beads are naturally denser than water, which make hydrogel beads limite in some floating applications such as gastric floating systems. Here, we designed alginate-based floating beads featuring a core-shell structure, which were composed of a vegetable oil core encapsulated within an alginate network shell, utilizing coaxial co-extrusion microfluidic devices. The shell thickness and core size of the core-shell beads (with the size of 2.80–3.40 mm) can be controlled by simply adjusting the inner phase flow rate (Q in) and outer phase flow rate (Q out). Notably, the fabrication of floating core-shell beads was achievable with Q in ≥ 40 μ L/min and Q out set at 300 μ L/min. The Hen's egg test – chorioallantoic membrane (HET-CAM) test showed the floating core-shell beads were non-irritant, indicating their safety and biocompatibility properties. Given their floating properties and biocompatibility, these floating core-shell beads hold great potential for applications in the fields of gastric-retentive nutrition delivery. Following that, the floating core-shell beads were further encapsuled with pepsin. They displayed possessed satisfactory pepsin activity (90%) even after 15 days, suggesting that floating core-shell beads can protect the enzyme ingredients against damage. Interestingly, the floating core-shell beads exhibited both efficient sustained-release of pepsin and floating ability in simulated gastric solution. This work sheds light on the design and development of controllable floating core-shell hydrogel beads for various floating system applications. [Display omitted] • Alginate-based floating bead with core-shell structure was successfully prepared. • Floating beads were composed a vegetable oil core and a crosslinked alginate shell. • The shell thickness and core size can be adjusting by flow rate. • Floating beads showed possessed satisfactory pepsin activity (90%) after 15 days. • Floating beads exhibited efficient sustained-release of pepsin and floating ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous studies on the relationship between the visceral adiposity index (VAI) and peripheral arterial disease (PAD) are limited. Therefore, this study explored the relationship between VAI and PAD in normal-weight patients with hypertension. Methods: A total of 6615 normal-weight patients with hypertension were included in the current study. The VAI, a simple index calculated using blood lipid and waist circumference (WC), can be used as a simple biomarker of body fat distribution. The outcome was PAD, which was defined as present when each side's ankle–brachial index (ABI) was ≤ 0.90. Results: A significant positive association was observed between VAI and PAD prevalence. For per unit increment in LnVAI, the adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of PAD for the total participants and males were 1.55 (95% CI 1.15–2.10) and 2.12 (95% CI 1.46–3.07), respectively. However, the VAI was not associated with PAD in female patients with hypertension (OR 1.28; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.85–1.95). There was no interaction between sex and VAI (P for interaction = 0.128). Accordingly, in total participants, when VAI was assessed in quartiles and compared with quartile 1 (< 0.84), the PAD prevalence was higher than that of quartiles 2 (0.84 to < 1.36: OR 1.49; 95% CI 0.92–2.44), 3 (1.36 to < 2.25: OR 1.95; 95% CI 1.14–3.32), and 4 (≥ 2.25: OR 1.93; 95% CI 1.04–3.57). There were no significant interactions with the other confounders. Conclusion: This study showed a positive association between VAI and PAD in normal-weight adults with hypertension among men but not among women. Highlights: This study is the first to find a significant positive association between the baseline visceral adiposity index (VAI) and peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in normal-weight adults with hypertension. The present study is also the first to indicate a stronger linear positive relationship between VAI and PAD in male participants but not in females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oleogels have been explored as a new lipid-based delivery system, however, their insolubility and unsuitable shape severely limit their application in food systems. Herein, core-shell oleogel capsules with high monodispersity (coefficient variation (CV) < 5%)) were prepared via gravity-assisted co-flowing microfluidic device and simply air-drying. The oleogel capsules with oleogel core and ultrathin calcium-alginate shell were prepared. Oleogel capsules maintained their original shape at pH = 2.0 but swelled rapidly at pH = 6.8 and 7.4. The swelling ratio of shell can be adjusted by inner fluid flow rate (Q in). Notably, the core with beeswax (BW) crystal network, effectively improved the stability performances and also could provide thermal response. Finally, the oleogel capsules demonstrated excellent sustained release and UV protection of lipophilic bioactives. This work sheds light on development of novel oleogel capsules, making them ideal candidates for smart food encapsulation applications. [Display omitted] • Oleogel capsule exhibited both pH- and thermal responsive properties. • The shell thickness and core size can be adjusting by inner phase flow rate. • Oleogel capsule exhibited efficient sustained-release of carvacrol ability. • Oleogel capsule retained higher level of β -carotene (68%) after 24 h UV irradiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The COVID‐19 pandemic has disrupted the Australian food supply with potential ramifications on food security. This scoping review aimed to synthesise current evidence on the prevalence of food insecurity and changes to factors related to food insecurity during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Australia. Methods: A comprehensive search strategy was used to search seven databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, Global Health, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, PsycINFO, Informit Online) and Google Scholar. Included studies were written in English, published in 2020–2021 and examined food security status in Australia during the COVID‐19 pandemic and/or factors associated with food insecurity in free‐living Australian residents. Articles with participants residing in institutional settings, where meals were supplied, were excluded. Results: A total of 700 records were identified from database, grey literature and hand searching, and nine articles were included. All studies indicated that the prevalence of food insecurity had increased due to negative changes to food availability, accessibility, usability and stability. The downturn in employment and economic circumstances following the onset of the COVID‐19 pandemic appeared to create a new group of food‐insecure Australians consisting of newly unemployed, and international students. Conclusion: COVID‐19 has exacerbated vulnerabilities in the Australian food supply and food security. Suggested actions include ongoing data collection on the long‐term impact of COVID‐19 on food supply and security in addition to coordinated national and community responses that improve the stability of the local food supply and address underlying determinants of food insecurity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pumpkin seed proteins with desirable nutritional properties have attracted great interest as an innovative source of bioactive peptides with beneficial effects in recent years. The current study aimed to screen novel ACE inhibitory peptides from pumpkin seed proteins by in silico approach and further elucidate the underlying inhibition mechanisms. A novel tripeptide, IAF (Ile-Ala-Phe) with acceptable bioavailability properties exhibited considerable ACE inhibitory ability with an IC50 of 19.87 ± 0.50 μM. Molecular docking study showed that IAF could bound with key residues in the active site of ACE. Further molecular dynamics (MD) simulation suggested that the simulation systems reached equilibrium after 5 ns and that ACE and IAF can form complex in stabilization. Moreover, MD analysis revealed that the hydrogen bonds interactions between IAF and two key residues (His513 and Glu162) of ACE and the chelation between O3 atom of IAF and Zn2+ play more important roles in the stabilization for ACE–IAF complex, which might contribute significantly to the ACE inhibitory activity. Our study indicated that the novel and potential ACE inhibitory peptide IAF from pumpkin seed proteins can be considered as a promising candidate for controlling hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Two-dimensional (2D) transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides (MXenes) have been synthesized and developed into a wide range of applications including energy storage, optoelectronics, electromagnetic interference shielding, biomedicine, and sensors, etc. Compared to other 2D materials, MXenes possess a unique set of properties such as superior mechanical strength, outstanding hydrophily, and excellent dispersion quality, making them particularly suitable for fabricating films/membranes featuring designed microstructures and tunable nanochannels. 2D MXene-based films (MBFs) have demonstrated excellent ion storage, electron transport and ionic selectivity properties for electrochemical energy storage and have received enormous interest in recent years. Compared with conventional electrode materials and structures, MBFs show great advantages in the aspects of flexibility, tailorability and functionality, which are suitable for flexible, portable, and highly integrated energy storage systems. This review summarizes recent advances and well-developed strategies of the MBFs design and fabrication toward applications of metal-ion batteries (MIBs, including Li, Na, K-ions), lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries and supercapacitors (SCs). Special attentions are given to the design principles of MBFs based microstructures, inter-layer nanochannels and in-plane nanochannels for energy storage. Finally, the current challenges and promising perspectives of the MBFs for energy storage devices are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Breakfast consumption may be associated favourably with cardiometabolic health. Most studies only measure breakfast consumption at one timepoint, whereas repeated measures allow for associations to be explored from a life course perspective. This systematic review assessed evidence from cohort studies on associations between breakfast consumption from childhood to adulthood and cardiometabolic health. Methods: Seven databases were searched; eligible records included analyses assessing breakfast consumption in childhood and adulthood, and type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity or associated clinical risk factors. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist for cohort studies. Results: Six eligible articles were reviewed, representing four cohort studies from two countries. Body composition was the only outcome investigated by five articles; the sixth article investigated body composition as well as a metabolic syndrome score and serum cardiometabolic risk markers. Most articles found significant associations between breakfast consumption in childhood and adulthood and cardiometabolic benefits, however the quality of evidence was poor. Childhood and adulthood breakfast consumption were each associated with cardiometabolic benefits, and breakfast consumption over both life stages was associated with greater benefits. An increase in breakfast consumption from childhood to adulthood was also associated with cardiometabolic benefits. Conclusions: We evaluated the available literature and found limited studies of low quality to suggest that more frequent breakfast consumption across both childhood and adulthood may be associated with the greatest cardiometabolic benefits. Further research is needed to develop an understanding of the relationship between breakfast and cardiometabolic health from a cross‐lifestage perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims. To investigate the long-term efficacy and rotational stability of toric intraocular lenses (IOLs) implanted for the correction of moderate-to-high corneal astigmatism. Methods. A total of 57 cataract patients (57 eyes) with regular corneal astigmatism (≥2.57 D) were enrolled in this retrospective cohort study. Phacoemulsification with toric IOL implantation was performed for all patients. The uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were recorded before and one year after surgery, and statistical analysis of preoperative corneal astigmatism, postoperative residual astigmatism, aberrations, IOL rotation, and related factors was performed to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and stability of toric IOLs in correcting moderate-to-high corneal astigmatism. Results. One year after surgery, visual acuity was significantly improved compared with that before surgery (preoperative log MAR 0.87 ± 0.34 vs. postoperative log MAR 0.31 ± 0.26, p < 0.001), and the self-reported spectacle independence rate was 68.42%. The total residual astigmatism was 1.18 ± 0.85 D, which was significantly less than the preoperative value (3.41 ± 0.99 D) (p < 0.001). The degree of toric IOL rotation was 4.93 ± 3.02°, and 54.39% of patients had a lens rotation of less than 5°. The IOLs of 5.26% (3 eyes) of patients rotated more than 10°, and these patients received glasses instead of undergoing IOL repositioning. Conclusions. Toric IOL implantation provided optimal vision outcomes and low spectacle dependence during a one-year follow-up period. The results from our study show that toric IOL implantation is a safe and effective option for cataract patients with moderate-to-high corneal astigmatism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to evaluate the relation of the ankle–brachial index (ABI) with the prevalence of stroke and to examine any possible effect modifiers among hypertensive patients without atrial fibrillation. A total of 10 750 subjects with hypertension aged 27‐96 years were included in the current study. The outcome was a stroke. Odds ratios of stroke concerning ABI were calculated using multivariate logistic regression models. Among 10 750 hypertensive participants, 690 (6.42%) had a stroke. Multivariate logistic analyses showed that ABI was negatively correlated with the prevalence of stroke (per SD increment; adjusted OR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.82‐0.94). Compared with participants in Q 1, the odds ratios (95% CI) for those in the Q2 (1.05 to 1.10), Q3 (1.10 to 1.15), and Q4 (≥1.15) were 0.71 (0.56, 0.90), 0.87 (0.70, 1.08), and 0.81 (0.65, 1.01), respectively. However, compared with higher ABI value, lower ABI value (<1.05) would significantly increase the odds of stroke (OR: 1.26, 95% CI [1.05‐1.50]), especially in the elderly over 65 years old. A generalized additive model and a smooth curve fitting showed that there existed an L‐shaped association between ABI and the prevalence of stroke. Our results suggest that an L‐shaped association between ABI and the prevalence of stroke was found in general hypertensive patients, with a turning point at about 1.05. Compared with higher ABI value, lower ABI value (<1.05) would significantly increase the prevalence of stroke (OR: 1.26, 95% CI [1.05‐1.50]), especially in the elderly over 65 years old. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although carbon itself acts as a catalyst in various reactions, the classical carbon materials (e.g., activated carbons, carbon aerogels, carbon black, carbon fiber, etc.) usually show low activity, stability, and oxidation resistance. With the recent availability of nanocarbon catalysts, the application of carbon materials in catalysis has gained a renewed momentum. The research is concentrated on tailoring the surface chemistry of nanocarbon materials, since the pristine carbons in general are not active for heterogeneous catalysis. Surface functionalization, doping with heteroatoms, and creating defects are the most used strategies to make efficient catalysts. However, the nature of the catalytic active sites and their role in determining the activity and selectivity is still not well understood. Herein, the types of active sites reported for several mainstream nanocarbons, including carbon nanotubes, graphene‐based materials, and 3D porous nanocarbons, are summarized. Knowledge about the active sites will be beneficial for the design and synthesis of nanocarbon catalysts with improved activity, selectivity, and stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

E-waste dismantlers' occupational exposure to plasticizers, particularly non-phthalate (NPAE) plasticizers, is poorly understood. This study monitored 11 phthalates (PAEs) and 16 NPAEs in dust and hand wipe samples from Central China e-waste workplace and ordinary homes. Concentrations of plasticizers in dust from e-waste dismantling workshops (median: 217 μg/g) were significantly lower than that from ordinary homes (462 μg/g; p < 0.01), however, the trend was similar but not significant in hand wipes from these two scenarios (50.2 vs. 72.3 μg/m2; p = 0.139). PAEs were still the dominant plasticizers, which is, on average, 5.46 and 3.58-fold higher than NPAEs. In all samples, di-(2ethylhexyl) phthalate (65.4%) and tri-octyl trimellitate (44.9%) were the most common PAE and NPAE plasticizers. Increasing dust concentrations of di-iso-nonyl ester 1,2-cyclohexane dicarboxylic acid, citrates and sebacates were significantly associated with their levels in worker's hand wipe, by contrast, this trend was not found in general population. Dust ingestion was the main channel, followed by hand-to-mouth contact, all participants' daily plasticizer intakes (median: 154 ng/kg bw/day) are within safety limits. Our work highlights knowledge gaps about co-exposure to PAEs and NPAEs by multiple pathways in occupational e-waste workers, which could provide baseline data in the future. [Display omitted] • Eight plasticizer classes were monitored in e-waste dust and hand wipes. • Phthalates were the dominant plasticizers in e-waste and routine environments. • The main alternative plasticizers were tri-octyl trimellitate and oleates. • Dust can act as an indicator to mirror specific plasticizer levels on human hands. • Exposure to plasticizers by inadvertent ingestion routes is well within safe limit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limited data exists on the association between Direct bilirubin (DBIL) and Indirect bilirubin (IBIL) with the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) among patients with hypertension. This study aimed to assess the relationship between DBIL and IBIL with the risk of CKD in a cohort of Chinese adults diagnosed with hypertension. This study included 14 182 Chinese patients with hypertension between the ages of 27 and 96. CKD, the outcome variable, was defined by an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min/1.73 m2. The study employed multivariate linear and multivariate logistic regression analysis to evaluate the correlation between DBIL and IBIL with the risk of CKD. The prevalence of CKD in the study population was 9.77%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the increase in DBIL (OR: 0.66; 95% CI: 0.61, 0.71) and IBIL (OR: 0.75; 95% CI: 0.71, 0.81) were independently and negatively correlated with CKD. Further analyses using a restricted cubic spline (smooth‐fitting curve) confirmed the linearly negative association between DBIL and IBIL with the risk of CKD. The subgroup analysis showed that the correlation between IBIL and CKD was stronger among men and populations <65 years of age (p for interaction <.05). DBIL and IBIL were independently and negatively associated with CKD. Furthermore, the correlation between DBIL and IBIL with CKD in the hypertensive population is more significant in those under 65 years of age. These findings may inform future strategies for the management of CKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Being a representative candidate from the two-dimensional (2D) materials family, graphene has been one of the most intensively researched candidates because of its ultrahigh carrier mobility, quantum Hall effects, excellent mechanical property and high optical transmittance. Unfortunately, the lack of a band gap makes graphene a poor fit for digital electronics, where the current on/off ratio is critical. Huge efforts have been advocated to discover new 2D layered materials with wonderful properties, which complements the needs of 2D electronics. Appropriately designed graphene based hybrid structure could perform better than its counterpart alone. The graphene hybrid structure soon become one of the most exciting frontiers in advanced 2D materials, and many efforts have been made to create artificial heterostructures by assembling of graphene with various layered materials. In this review, we present the recent development in synthesis and applications of graphene based 2D heterostructures. Although 2D transition metal dichalcogenide semiconductors have been demonstrated as strong candidates for next-generation electronics and optoelectronics, by combining advantages of various properties of 2D materials together with graphene, it is highly possible to build entire digital circuits using atomically thin components, and create many novel devices that can be utilized in different areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apigenin is a vital flavonoid that has attracted considerable attention in recent years due to its potent health benefits. Pumpkin seed protein (PSP) is a valuable by-product after pumpkin seed processing. However, the non-covalent interaction mechanism between apigenin and PSP remains to be explored. Here, the structural and conformational changes and molecular mechanisms underlying their interaction were investigated using multi-spectroscopic analysis integrated with molecular simulation approaches. The experimental results indicated that apigenin statically quenched the intrinsic fluorescence of PSP, indicating that the interaction between them did occur. Thermodynamic analysis and computational simulation results showed that the driving forces between apigenin and PSP were the hydrophobic interactions that predominated. The binding of apigenin resulted in changes in the conformation, microenvironment, and surface hydrophobicity of PSP. Furthermore, it was revealed by molecular docking and molecular dynamic (MD) simulations that apigenin maintained binding stability in the hydrophobic pockets of the protein through its interaction with several key residues. Additionally, it was found that the movement strength and directions of individual resides were altered after apigenin binding, which is the molecular basis of protein structural and conformational changes induced by apigenin. This study may provide theoretical evidence for the potential application of PSP and apigenin complex products in the food industry. [Display omitted] • The non-covalent binding for pumpkin seed protein (PSP) and apigenin was explored. • The fluorescence quenching of PSP by apigenin was mainly static quenching. • The binding of apigenin changed the conformation of PSP. • The dominant driving forces for PSP and apigenin were hydrophobic interactions. • Apigenin could keep stable in the binding pocket during molecular dynamic simulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extensive use of nitrogen-based flame retardants (NFRs) has resulted in their widespread environmental occurrence. To investigate human exposure to NFRs on a national scale, the abundance and spatial distribution of NFRs were assessed in urine specimens collected from 13 cities in China. Six out of eight target NFRs were detectable in more than half of the urine samples, and the total concentrations of NFRs ranged from 3.22 to 880 ng/mL with a median of 46.7 ng/mL. Cyanuric acid was the most abundant chemical, accounting for 66.2%, followed by melamine (16.3%), ammelide (10.8%), and ammeline (6.11%). Regional differences in concentrations and composition profiles of NFRs were observed within China as a result of different production and application profiles. In addition, we found that urinary NFRs levels were much higher than but statistically correlated with that of organophosphates (r 2 = 0.69, p < 0.05), another class of phosphorus-based flame retardant, implying similar emission sources and/or human exposure pathways. Furthermore, the estimated daily intakes and hazard quotients revealed that the Chinese population's exposure to NFRs is within safe limits. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to document the ubiquitous occurrence and region-specific variations of human exposure to NFRs in China. [Display omitted] • Chinese residents are widely exposed to NFRs with a slight region-specific variation. • Cyanuric acid and melamine were the most abundant chemicals of NFRs. • Significant positive correlation was found between urinary NFRs and OPEs. • Hazard quotient implies safe exposure levels of Chinese residents to NFRs currently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogenous flame retardants (NFRs) have aroused worldwide public concern as their nephrotoxic effect. However, knowledge regarding the pathogenesis mechanism of their exposure to induce kidney injury remains largely unknown. In this study, eight NFRs, four oxidative stress biomarkers (OSBs), and one kidney injury biomarker, namely neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), were measured in urine specimens collected from residents living around e-waste disassembly and reference areas, representing two exposure scenarios. Significant higher concentrations of Σ 8 NFR (median: 70.6 vs. 33.8 μg/g Cre) and five biomarkers (124 vs. 97.4 μg/g Cre) were found in urines of populations living in e-waste site compared to those in the reference site (p < 0.05). Primary NFRs exhibited significant positive associations with OSBs and NGAL regardless of the population examined, implying that chronic NFRs exposure could induce oxidative stress and kidney damage. By using structure equation model, we found that oxidative stress, particularly DNA and RNA oxidation mediated 16.1% of the total effect of NFRs on NGAL in e-waste related people, but not on the general population. Overall, this study suggests long-term chronic exposure to NFRs can induce oxidative stress and renal injury in humans but the pathogenesis mode may be scenario-specific. [Display omitted] • Residents from e-waste site had significant higher urinary NFR and biomarker levels. • Cyanuric acid was the major compound in urines from e-waste and reference areas. • Urinary NFR levels were positively associated with those of kidney injury biomarker. • Oxidative stress may be involved in renal injury in people residing in e-waste site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Inulin supplementation could alleviate high-fat diet-induced hepatic steatosis, mediated through increasing ATGL on liver lipid droplets. • The beneficial effects of inulin, such as increasing energy expenditure, alleviating adiposity, and improving glucose intolerance, could only be achieved in mice fed with high-fat diet for 1 month, not for 4 months. • Gut microbiota in the short- and long-term fat-loaded mice was shown to be modulated in a different way, which may mediate the differential effects of inulin. Increased consumption of high-fat low-fiber foods has been shown to contribute to the development of metabolic syndromes, such as fatty liver, obesity, diabetes, et al. Fermentable dietary fiber, such as inulin, is broadly used to mitigate host metabolic abnormalities. In this work, we studied systematically the effect of inulin on mice with metabolic disorders, induced by either short- or long-term high-fat feeding. As expected, inulin reduced the body weight of mice in both groups. However, it was found that inulin feeding could only increase energy expenditure, alleviate adiposity, and improve glucose intolerance in mice fed with high-fat diet (HFD) for 1 month but not for 4 months. Surprisingly, inulin supplementation could alleviate HFD-induced hepatic steatosis, mediated through increasing adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) on liver lipid droplets, in both groups. Gut microbiota in the short- and long-term fat-loaded mice were shown to be modulated differently, which may mediate the differential effects of inulin. These results may help in understanding the role and mechanism of fermentable fiber regulating host metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is often accompanied by a common extra-articular manifestation known as RA-related usual interstitial pneumonia (RA-UIP), which is associated with a poor prognosis. However, the mechanism remains unclear. To identify potential mechanisms, we conducted bioinformatics analysis based on high-throughput sequencing of the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Results: Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) analysis identified 2 RA-positive related modules and 4 idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF)-positive related modules. A total of 553 overlapped differentially expressed genes (DEG) were obtained, of which 144 in the above modules were further analyzed. The biological process of "oxidative phosphorylation" was found to be the most relevant with both RA and IPF. Additionally, 498 up-regulated genes in lung tissues of RA-UIP were screened out and enriched by 7 clusters, of which 3 were closely related to immune regulation. The analysis of immune infiltration showed a characteristic distribution of peripheral immune cells in RA-UIP, compared with IPF-UIP in lung tissues. Conclusions: These results describe the complex molecular and functional landscape of RA-UIP, which will help illustrate the molecular pathological mechanism of RA-UIP and identify new biomarkers and therapeutic targets for RA-UIP in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years there have been many breakthroughs in two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials, among which the transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) attract significant attention owing to their unusual properties associated with their strictly defined dimensionalities. TMD materials with a generalized formula of MX2, where M is a transition metal and X is a chalcogen, represent a diverse and largely untapped source of 2D systems. Semiconducting TMD monolayers such as MoS2, MoSe2, WSe2 and WS2 have been demonstrated to be feasible for future electronics and optoelectronics. The exotic electronic properties and high specific surface areas of 2D TMDs offer unlimited potential in various fields including sensing, catalysis, and energy storage applications. Very recently, the chemical vapour deposition technique (CVD) has shown great promise to generate high-quality TMD layers with a scalable size, controllable thickness and excellent electronic properties. Wafer-scale deposition of mono to few layer TMD films has been obtained. Despite the initial success in the CVD synthesis of TMDs, substantial research studies on extending the methodology open up a new way for substitution doping, formation of monolayer alloys and producing TMD stacking structures or superlattices. In this tutorial review, we will introduce the latest development of the synthesis of monolayer TMDs by CVD approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following the restriction of bisphenol A (BPA) in certain products, a number of bisphenol analogues (BPs) have been used as BPA replacements in different applications, raising environmental and health concerns. The present study determined a total of 13 bisphenol analogues in house dust and children urine from South China families (n = 46). Among all BPs, BPA, bisphenol S (BPS) and bisphenol F (BPF) were frequently detected in house dust, with concentrations ranging from 0.54 to 26.2 μg/g (median: 2.60 μg/g), 0.07–11.5 μg/g (median: 0.32 μg/g) and 0.02–2.4 μg/g (median: 0.29 μg/g), respectively. BPA (median: 2.43 ng/mL) was also the dominant BP in children urine samples, accounting for 75.2 ± 27.4% of the total concentrations of urinary BPs, followed by BPS (0.23 ng/mL), whereas BPF was only detected in less than 30% of urine samples. Children's daily intake of bisphenols through dust ingestion and total daily intakes were estimated based on the dust and urine concentrations, respectively. The estimated intake of BPA, BPS and BPF via house dust ingestion accounted for 9%, 12% and 38% of the total intakes predicted based on urinary concentrations, respectively, and exhibited very low exposure risks. [Display omitted] • Thirteen bisphenol analogues were determined in paired house dust and child urine. • BPA was the dominant analogue both in dust and urine samples. • No association was found between urinary and house dust BPs. • Dust intake contributed a small proportion to the overall exposure of children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel method for fabricating all-solid flexible microsupercapacitors (MSCs) was proposed and developed by utilizing screen printing technology. A typical printed MSC is composed of a printed Ag electrode, MnO2/onion-like carbon (MnO2/OLC) as active material and a polyvinyl alcohol:H3PO4 (PVA:H3PO4) as solid electrolyte. A capacity of 7.04 mF cm−2 was achieved for the screen printed MnO2/OLC MSCs at a current density of 20 μA cm−2. It also showed an excellent cycling stability, with 80% retention of the specific capacity after 1000 cycles. The printed all-solid flexible MSCs exhibited remarkably high mechanical flexibility when the devices were bent to a radius of 3.5 mm. In addition, all-solid MSCs were successfully demonstrated by screen printing technique on various substrates, such as silicon, glass and conventional printing paper. Moreover, the screen printing technique can be extended to other active materials, such as OLC and carbon nanotubes. This method provides a general route for printable all-solid flexible MSCs, which is compatible with the roll-to-roll process for various high performance active materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

University students may experience a high prevalence of food insecurity. The impacts of food insecurity on dietary intake and meal patterns of students have not been fully researched. This systematic review aimed to examine the association between food insecurity and dietary outcomes among university students. Nine electronic databases and gray literature were searched from their inception to July 2020. Studies that reported dietary outcomes in both food-secure and -insecure students or the association between food insecurity and dietary outcomes among current students in tertiary education settings in any country were included. All study designs were eligible for inclusion, except qualitative studies. Two reviewers completed the screening, data extraction, and quality assessment independently. Study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute appraisal tools. Sixteen studies were included in the final qualitative synthesis of this review. Most studies were cross-sectional designs and of fair quality. The prevalence of food insecurity among university students ranged from 21% to 82% across studies. Lower intakes of healthy foods (eg, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) and higher intakes of unhealthy foods (eg, fast foods, added sugars, and sugar-sweetened beverages) were observed in food-insecure students, and studies with the most representative samples of the student body found these trends. Some food-insecure students consumed breakfast and evening meals less frequently than food-secure students but the evidence was limited. Validated food security and dietary assessment tools were inconsistently used to assess diet quality among students with differing food security status. The heterogeneity of student sampling and data collection may contribute to inconsistent findings. Poorer dietary outcomes were found in university students with food insecurity compared with food-secure students, but statistical significance was only observed in a small number of studies. Future longitudinal studies using food security and dietary assessment tools validated in this population are recommended to confirm the observed associations between food insecurity and diet quality among university students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a method for synthesizing MoS2/Graphenehybridheterostructures with a growth template of graphene-covered Cu foil.Compared to other recent reports,(1, 2) a much lowergrowth temperature of 400 °C is required for this procedure.The chemical vapor deposition of MoS2on the graphene surfacegives rise to single crystalline hexagonal flakes with a typical lateralsize ranging from several hundred nanometers to several micrometers.The precursor (ammonium thiomolybdate) together with solvent was transportedto graphene surface by a carrier gas at room temperature, which wasthen followed by post annealing. At an elevated temperature, the precursorself-assembles to form MoS2flakes epitaxially on the graphenesurface via thermal decomposition. With higher amount of precursordelivered onto the graphene surface, a continuous MoS2filmon graphene can be obtained. This simple chemical vapor depositionmethod provides a unique approach for the synthesis of graphene heterostructuresand surface functionalization of graphene. The synthesized two-dimensionalMoS2/Graphene hybrids possess great potential toward thedevelopment of new optical and electronic devices as well as a widevariety of newly synthesizable compounds for catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The work functions of two commonly used electrodes, Au and indium-tin-oxide (ITO), can be modified by surface-electropolymerization of ethylenedioxythiophenes (EDOT) or its derivatives. The resulting work function is tunable continually by varying the electropolymerization condition. The value of work function of ITO (or Au) electrodes can be adjusted to decrease by 0.6eV (or increase by 0.4eV) when the deposited EDOT film is thin (<40nm). By contrast, when the EDOT film deposited with thickness greater than 40nm, the work function is controlled by the intrinsic property of the polymers regardless of the electrode materials. A diode devices with EDOT–COOH modified on ITO surface demonstrates the possibility of improving contact property in organic electronics using the proposed method. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The photovoltaic performance of inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is often hindered by trap‐induced non‐radiative recombination and photochemical degradation occurring at the upper interfaces and the grain boundaries of perovskite films. Herein, ortho‐, meta‐, and para‐isomers of fluorophenylethylammonium iodine (F‐PEAI) organic spacer molecules are evaluated for the construction of perovskite quantum wells (2D or quasi‐2D, PQWs) to encapsulate 3D perovskites. Among the three variants, p‐F‐PEAI leads to the most symmetric charge distribution and the weakest steric hindrance which resulting in reinforced interactions with PbI2 and perovskite, the enhanced out‐of‐plane orientation is confirmed by Grazing incidence wide‐angle X‐ray scattering (GIWAXS) results. Density functional theory and crystal orbital Hamilton population (COHP) calculations further confirm that p‐F‐PEAI engages most strongly with the perovskite structure. Moreover, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) characterization is used to illustrate that p‐F‐PEAI‐assisted 2D PQWs effectively passivate both the grain boundaries and surfaces of perovskites. This configuration facilitates effective surface passivation, improves charge carrier transport, and significantly suppresses non‐radiative recombination. The resultant inverted PSCs achieve an excellent power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 25.03% with a fill factor (FF) of 85.11%. The unencapsulated devices exhibit enhanced long‐term stability under ambient environments and continuous light illumination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large size high‐quality perovskite single‐crystals are highly desirable for investigating their fundamental materials properties and realizing state of the art electronic/optoelectronic device performance. Herein, a novel single‐crystal growth method is reported by recrystallization of perovskites in oversaturated solutions. Perovskite single crystals including both organic–inorganic hybrid metal halides and their all‐inorganic counterparts can be obtained in large amounts by this method. All of the synthesized perovskite single crystals exhibit large crystal sizes (centimeter level) and exceptional light emission properties. Meanwhile, the single‐crystal growth can be well controlled and the solvent can be reused for cycles of single‐crystal growth, which sheds light on the preparation of perovskite materials in a way of green chemistry. In addition, thermodynamic growth principles for the single‐crystal growth are proposed, providing a universal approval for metal halide single‐crystal synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cathode interface layers (CILs) play a crucial role in enhancing the performance of organic solar cells (OSCs). However, challenges arise due to the high work function of CIL and inadequate contact with the active layer, leading to high interface trap recombination and poor charge extraction. In this study, a novel approach is proposed to improve charge injection and extraction in CILs by incorporating polyphenols, trihydroxybenzoic acid (TBA). Focusing on the CIL PDINN, its work function is successfully reduced from 4.14 eV to 3.80 eV and obtained charge collection efficiency of 91.23% through TBA regulation. These enhancements can be ascribed to improved contact between the active layer and the CILs, and enhanced the formation of a fine fiber phase width and inhibited interface recombination. As a result, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the binary OSCs comprising PM6: BTP‐ec9 exhibits an increase from 18.2% to 19.3%, placing it among the one of the highest PCE values. Moreover, this approach demonstrated notable applicability for another CILs, as well as various OSCs systems. Overall, this research underscores the importance of regulating and modifying CILs to fully exploit their potential in OSCs devices, while laying the groundwork for optimizing their efficiency and stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synergistic utilization of low‐dimensional perovskites with 3D perovskite architectures represents a pervasive approach for fabrication of high‐performance and enduring perovskite solar cells (PSCs). In this work, four distinct ionic liquids (ILs) with distinct cations, were introduced on the surface of 3D perovskite to induce the formation of 1D perovskite.Starting with the analysis of 1D/3D heterojunction structures, the assessment foucsed on the binding energies in four ILs‐induced 1D/3D heterojunctions, comparing electron cloud density within 1D/3D structures, and calculating the formation energies associated with iodine and lead defects within these four 1D/3D perovskite structures via DFT calculations. Furthermore, the time‐resolved grazing‐incidence wide‐angle X‐ray scattering technique, as employed in this study, offers real‐time insights into the phase‐transition occurring during the process of ILs coating and the formation of 1D/3D heterojunctions. The well‐designed and optimized 1D perovskite layer significantly reduces the residual lead iodide (PbI2), modulates the work function of the perovskite, and passivates defects in the 3D perovskite, thereby reducing non‐radiative recombination and enhancing charge transport. With the assistance of 1D/3D hybrid films, we achieved an exceptional power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 24.75% in the generated PSCs with remarkable stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a promising anode material for Na‐metal batteries, the practical application of Na metal is severely hindered due to the formation of the notorious dendrite and unstable solid‐electrolyte interface (SEI). To address these issues, a direct‐ink writing (DIW) 3D printing technology is proposed to construct an artificial 3D hierarchical porous sodiophilic Nb2CTx/reduced graphene‐oxide (Nb2CTx/rGO) aerogel monolith, which is employed as the matrix of Na metal anode. Benefiting from the homogeneous ion flux and exceptional sodiophilic features, the Nb2CTx nanoflakes embedded within the 3D scaffold regulate the uniform deposition of metallic Na with a stable SEI layer, achieving an ultralong cycle lifespan of 3000 h at 1 mA cm−2 with 1 mAh cm−2 and an impressive Coulombic efficiency of 99.68% over extended lifespan of 7064 h. Further, the in‐depth characterization analysis proves that the formed stable SEI layer consists of an inorganic NaF accumulated in the inner layer and loosely‐bound organic species in the outer layer. Remarkably, when integrated into a Na metal full cell, the reversible capacity reaches 90.22 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 100 mA g−1. The work provides a promising strategy to utilize Na metal anodes with long cycle lifespan for next‐generation sodium metal batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aims: Vascular dementia (VD) results in cognition and memory deficit. Exosomes and their carried microRNAs (miRs) contribute to the neuroprotective effects of mesenchymal stromal cells, and miR-132-3p plays a key role in neuron plasticity. Here, we investigated the role and underlying mechanism of MSC EX and their miR-132-3p cargo in rescuing cognition and memory deficit in VD mice. Methods: Bilateral carotid artery occlusion was used to generate a VD mouse model. MiR-132-3p and MSC EX levels in the hippocampus and cortex were measured. At 24-h post-VD induction, mice were administered with MSC EX infected with control lentivirus (EXCon), pre-miR-132-3p-expressing lentivirus (EXmiR-132-3p), or miR-132-3p antago lentivirus (EXantagomiR-132-3p) intravenously. Behavioral and cognitive tests were performed, and the mice were killed in 21 days after VD. The effects of MSC EX on neuron number, synaptic plasticity, dendritic spine density, and Aβ and p-Tau levels in the hippocampus and cortex were determined. The effects of MSC EX on oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD)-injured neurons with respect to apoptosis, and neurite elongation and branching were determined. Finally, the expression levels of Ras, phosphorylation of Akt, GSK-3β, and Tau were also measured. Results: Compared with normal mice, VD mice exhibited significantly decreased miR-132-3p and MSC EX levels in the cortex and hippocampus. Compared with EXCon treatment, the infusion of EXmiR-132-3p was more effective at improving cognitive function and increasing miR-132-3p level, neuron number, synaptic plasticity, and dendritic spine density, while decreasing Aβ and p-Tau levels in the cortex and hippocampus of VD mice. Conversely, EXantagomiR-132-3p treatment significantly decreased miR-132-3p expression in cortex and hippocampus, as well as attenuated EXmiR-132-3p treatment-induced functional improvement. In vitro, EXmiR-132-3p treatment inhibited RASA1 protein expression, but increased Ras and the phosphorylation of Akt and GSK-3β, and decreased p-Tau levels in primary neurons by delivering miR-132-3p, which resulted in reduced apoptosis, and increased neurite elongation and branching in OGD-injured neurons. Conclusions: Our studies suggest that miR-132-3p cluster-enriched MSC EX promotes the recovery of cognitive function by improving neuronal and synaptic dysfunction through activation of the Ras/Akt/GSK-3β pathway induced by downregulation of RASA1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Rule of Halves (ROH) is a theoretical framework which states that roughly half of all people with a condition are diagnosed; half of those diagnosed receive care; half of those who receive care achieve their treatment targets; and half of those who reach their targets achieve the desired treatment outcomes. This review examined the applicability of the ROH to diabetes in Australia. Five databases were searched for articles and government reports published between January 2000 and August 2019. Data was extracted for each level of the framework, and pooled sample proportions calculated for the total population and sub-group analysis by ethnicity and type of diabetes. The results showed that 72% of people with diabetes are diagnosed. Approximately 50% are receiving standard care, and 40-60% are meeting treatment targets for HbA1c, blood pressure and lipid levels. Overall, Australia is doing better than the ROH when it comes to achieving treatment outcomes; prevalence of microvascular complications was 20-30% and cardiovascular disease 62%. Indigenous people were less likely to meet treatment targets and more likely to experience adverse complications of diabetes. This review indicates the ROH does generally apply for diabetes care and management in Australia, highlighting the need for further improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article introduces a new type of on-site non-destructive testing instrument for the impermeability measurement of walls. The research and development of this instrument is based on the water drenching method. The influence of symmetry is mainly considered in the design process, and it has on-site testing functions such as water pressure adjustment and wind pressure simulation. The water seepage of the four types of masonry walls under the combined working conditions of three levels of spray strength and wind pressure strength was tested by using instruments. The results show that the weak location regarding the impermeability of the masonry wall is the junction of mortar joints. Parameters such as wall leakage time, seepage area and water seepage amount are significantly affected by wind pressure. Furthermore, during on-site inspection, the influence of wind pressure on water seepage conditions must be considered when simulating the real wind-driven rain conditions. The testing instrument will be promoted and used according to the compiled industry regulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To illustrate the expression profile of lncRNAs and mRNAs in diabetic cataract (DC) and explore their potential role in the pathogenesis of DC. LncRNA and mRNA microarray were conducted using the lens epithelium of DC patients (n = 3) and controls from eye bank (n = 3). Further, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were employed to unveil their underlying biological function and signaling pathway. The co-expression network was constructed to explore the relationship between lncRNAs and mRNAs. Then, lens epithelial cells (LECs) were cultured in vitro under high glucose (HG) and normal glucose (NG) groups to further verified the expression profiles of mRNAs. At last, quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) was performed to confirm the microarray results for the aberrantly expressed lncRNAs, and to unveil the expression prolife of mRNAs in LECs. Eight thousand three hundred and twenty-six lncRNAs and 3303 mRNAs were dysregulated in DC. GO analysis unveiled that the upregulated mRNAs, highest enrichment score of the GO term belonged to oxidation-reduction process, while the highest for downregulated mRNAs went to protein lipidation. In the CC category, the most significant terms for upregulated and downregulated mRNAs appeared in intracellular part and intrinsic component of membrane, respectively. As to MF category, the most significant term for upregulated mRNAs was protein binding, and for downregulated mRNAs was catecholamine binding. KEGG pathways analysis demonstrated that the major enrichment score of pathways in upregulated mRNAs included Glycolysis/Gluconeogenesis, lysosome, carbon metabolism and AGE-RAGE signaling pathway. For the downregulated mRNAs, the glycosphingolipid biosynthesis-lacto and neolacto series pathway was included. Three lncRNAs (LINC01508, MAFA-AS1, MIAT) and the Sirtuin 2 are positively related in the co-expression network. This study provided an overview of the lncRNAs and mRNAs expression, and suggesting that several aberrantly expressed lncRNAs might participate in the pathogenesis of DC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Elevated interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) levels in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have B cell–promoting effects, contributing to autoantibody production and tissue damage. We aimed to characterize up‐regulated IL‐10+ B cell subsets and dysregulated IL10 expression in SLE B cells for new therapeutic options. Methods: Proportions of Th10 and IL‐10+ B cell subsets in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were assessed using flow cytometry. The IL10 3′‐untranslated region (3′‐UTR) dual‐luciferase vector was constructed and cotransfected with small interfering RNA (siRNA), microRNA (miRNA) mimics, or miRNA inhibitors into Raji cells. Transcript levels were quantified using TaqMan assays. Results: Culture conditions that induced IL‐10+ Breg cells in healthy controls resulted in expansion of IL‐10+ double‐negative 2 (DN2; IgD−CD27−CD21−CD11c+) B cells in SLE PBMCs. Proportions of IL‐10+ DN2, but not those of IL‐10− DN2, correlated with disease activity and levels of antibodies to double‐stranded DNA (dsDNA) (r = 0.60, P = 0.03 for cohort 1; r = 0.38, P = 0.03 for cohort 2), and were associated with high levels or seropositivity of anti‐Sm (P = 0.03 for cohort 1; P = 0.01 for cohort 2) and IgG anticardiolipin (P < 0.01 for cohort 1; P = 0.02 for cohort 2) in SLE patients from 2 cohorts, of mainly African American subjects (cohort 1) and of Asian subjects (cohort 2). Proportions of Th10 (CD45RA−CXCR5−CXCR3+PD‐1highCD4+) cells correlated with IL‐10+ DN2 frequencies (r = 0.60, P < 0.01 for cohort 2), antinuclear antibody titers (r = 0.52, P = 0.01 for cohort 2), and proteinuria levels (r = 0.72, P < 0.01 for cohort 2) in SLE patients. Screening of predicted IL10 3′‐UTR–targeting miRNAs in SLE B cells identified miRNA‐17‐5p (miR‐17‐5p) and miR‐20a‐5p, with their levels inversely correlated with IL10 (r = −0.47, P < 0.01 for miR‐17‐5p; r = −0.37, P = 0.03 for miR‐20‐5p) and transcription factor E2F2 (r = −0.48, P = 0.04 for miR‐17‐5p; r = −0.45, P = 0.05 for miR‐20‐5p). In Raji cells, knockdown of E2F2 expression resulted in increased levels of miR‐17‐5p and miR‐20a‐5p and decreased IL10 messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels, and overexpression and inhibition of miR‐17‐5p down‐regulated and up‐regulated, respectively, IL10 mRNA levels, suggesting regulation of IL10 expression by an E2F2‐miR‐17‐5p loop. Conclusion: IL‐10 promotes extrafollicular autoimmune responses in patients with active SLE, which might be dampened by targeting the E2F2–miR‐17‐5p circuitry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon nanotube field effect transistor has attracted much attention recently and is a promising candidate for next generation nanoelectronics. Here, we report our study on a transistor using single wall carbon nanotube network as the channel and a ferroelectric film as the gate dielectric. The spontaneous polarization of ferroelectric materials offers nonvolatility and controllability of the surface charges. Modulation of >102 in the channel conductivity has been observed in the network-based transistor. Voltage pulses are used to control the transistor states; no continuous gate bias is needed. Furthermore, n-type behavior of the network channel is observed, which is attributed to a change in the Schottky barrier at the carbon nanotube-metal interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A solution processable method for employing single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) as bottom contact source/drain electrodes for a significant reduction of contact resistance in poly(3,3‴-didodecylquarterthiophene) based organic field effect transistors (OFETs) is proposed. A two order of magnitude reduction in contact resistance and up to a threefold improvement in field effect mobilities were observed in SWCNT contacted OFETs as opposed to similar devices with gold source/drain electrodes. Based on Kelvin probe measurements, this improvement was attributed to a reduction in the Schottky barrier for hole injection into organic semiconductor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increased plasma homocysteine (Hcy) has been identified as one of the important risk factors for cardiovascular disease. However, the association between plasma Hcy and peripheral artery disease (PAD) is still controversial. This study aimed to investigate the association between plasma Hcy and PAD and the potential modifier factors in Chinese hypertensive adults. A total of 25 300 hypertensive patients aged 18 years or older were included in the analysis in this cross‐sectional study. The outcome was PAD, which defined as an ankle‐brachial index ≤0.90 in either limb. Multiple logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between plasma Hcy and PAD. The median plasma Hcy was 14.00 (interquartile range: 11.60–17.80) μmol/L. There was a significant positive association between plasma Hcy and PAD (per SD increment; OR: 1.13; 95% CI: 1.06–1.19). Patients in the upper plasma Hcy tertile (≥16.16 μmol/L) were associated with a 53% increased risk of PAD compared with patients in the lower tertile (<12.33 μmol/L) after adjustment for multiple potential confounders. Subgroup analyses showed the association between Hcy and PAD was robust among various strata. Among Chinese adults with hypertension, plasma Hcy is an independent risk factor for PAD. This finding may improve the risk stratification of PAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Few layered transition metal dichalcogenides (TMD), with an absence of crystal inversion symmetry and outstanding optical characteristics, are frequently applied in studies of nonlinear optics (NLO) for harmonic generation. Related materials are regarded as potential candidates for many optoelectronics applications. In order to enhance and manipulate the intrinsically weak NLO responses, TMD's have been fabricated into heterostructures in recent years. The basic physics of harmonic generation and of TMD optical responses, as well as the interactions in TMD hybrid structures are introduced briefly, and the current state-of-the-art in the performance of TMDs in harmonic generation are reviewed. A particular focus is made on heterostructure studies to enhance and manipulate the response, which represent the core issues for devices and applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]