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Being an efficient approach to the utilization of hydrogen energy, the hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) is of particular significance in the current carbon‐neutrality time. Yet the mechanistic picture of the HOR is still blurred, mostly because the elemental steps of this reaction are rapid and highly entangled, especially when deviating from the thermodynamic equilibrium state. Here we report a strategy for decoding the HOR mechanism under operando conditions. In addition to the wide‐potential‐range I–V curves obtained using gas diffusion electrodes, we have applied the AC impedance spectroscopy to provide independent and complementary kinetic information. Combining multidimensional data sources has enabled us to fit, in mathematical rigor, the core kinetic parameter set in a 5‐D data space. The reaction rate of the three elemental steps (Tafel, Heyrovsky, and Volmer reactions), as a function of the overpotential, can thus be distilled individually. Such an undocumented kinetic picture unravels, in detail, how the HOR is controlled by the elemental steps on polarization. For instance, at low polarization region, the Heyrovsky reaction is relatively slow and can be ignored; but at high polarization region, the Heyrovsky reaction will surpass the Tafel reaction. Additionally, the Volmer reaction has been the fastest within overpotentials of interest. Our findings not only offer a better understanding of the HOR mechanism, but also lay the foundation for the development of improved hydrogen energy utilization systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non‐traditional intrinsic luminescent (NTIL) polymer is an emerging field, and its color‐tunable modification is highly desirable but still rarely investigated. Here, a click chemistry approach for the color‐tunable modifications of NTIL polymers by introducing clickable polymerization‐induced emission luminogen (PIEgen), is demonstrated. Through Cu‐catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition click chemistry, a series of PIEgens is successful prepared, which is further polymerized via reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. Interestingly, after clickable modification, these monomers are nonemissive in both solution and aggregation states; while, the corresponding polymers exhibit intriguing aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) characteristics, confirming their PIEgen characteristics. By varying alkynyl substitutions, color‐tunable NTIL polymers are achieved with emission wavelength varying from 448 to 498 nm, revealing a series of PIEgens and verifying the importance of modification of NTIL polymers. Further luminescence energy transfer application is carried out as well. This work therefore designs a series of clickable PIEgens and opens a new avenue for the modification of NTIL polymers via click chemistry, which may cause inspirations to the research fields including luminescent polymer, NTIL, click chemistry, AIE and modification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cervical cancer (CxCa) is the fourth most frequent cancer in women. This study aimed to determine the role and underlying mechanism of fibronectin type III domain‐containing protein 5 (FNDC5) in inhibiting CxCa growth. Experiments were performed in human CxCa tissues, human CxCa cell lines (HeLa and SiHa), and xenograft mouse model established by subcutaneous injection of SiHa cells in nude mice. Bioinformatics analysis showed that CxCa patients with high FNDC5 levels have a longer overall survival period. FNDC5 expression was increased in human CxCa tissues, HeLa and SiHa cells. FNDC5 overexpression or FNDC5 protein not only inhibited proliferation, but also restrained invasion and migration of HeLa and SiHa cells. The effects of FNDC5 were prevented by inhibiting integrin with cilengitide, activating PI3K with recilisib or activating Akt with SC79. FNDC5 inhibited the phosphorylation of PI3K and Akt, which was attenuated by recilisib. PI3K inhibitor LY294002 showed similar effects to FNDC5 in HeLa and SiHa cells. Intravenous injection of FNDC5 (20 μg/day) for 14 days inhibited the tumor growth, and reduced the proliferation marker Ki67 expression and the Akt phosphorylation in the CxCa xenograft mouse model. These results indicate that FNDC5 inhibits the malignant phenotype of CxCa cells through restraining PI3K/Akt signaling. Upregulation of FNDC5 may play a beneficial role in retarding the tumor growth of CxCa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Although the anti‐cancer activity of isoalantolactone (IATL) has been extensively studied, the anti‐melanoma effects of IATL are still unknown. Here, we have investigated the anti‐melanoma effects and mechanism of action of IATL. MTT and crystal violet staining assays were performed to detect the inhibitory effect of IATL on melanoma cell viability. Apoptosis and cell cycle arrest induced by IATL were examined using flow cytometry. The molecular mechanism of IATL was explored by Western blotting, confocal microscope analysis, molecular docking, and cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA). A B16F10 allograft mouse model was constructed to determine the anti‐melanoma effects of IATL in vivo. The results showed that IATL exerted anti‐melanoma effects in vitro and in vivo. IATL induced cytoprotective autophagy in melanoma cells by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling. Moreover, IATL inhibited STAT3 activation both in melanoma cells and allograft tumors not only by binding to the SH2 domain of STAT3 but also by suppressing the activity of its upstream kinase Src. These findings demonstrate that IATL exerts anti‐melanoma effects via inhibiting the STAT3 and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathways, and provides a pharmacological basis for developing IATL as a novel phytotherapeutic agent for treating melanoma clinically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/purpose: Patients with alcohol‐associated cirrhosis and acute decompensation are considered critically ill and have a higher risk of short‐term mortality. This study aimed to establish a nomogram to evaluate their 90‐day survival and identify factors that affect disease progression. Methods: We included patients from September 2008 to December 2016 (n = 387 in the derivation group) and from January 2017 to August 2020 (n = 157 in the validation group). LASSO regression and Cox multivariate risk regression were used to analyze the influencing factors of the 90‐day mortality risk, and a nomogram was constructed. The performance of a model was analyzed based on the C‐index, area under the receiver operating curve, calibration curve, and decision curve analysis. Results: Total bilirubin >10 upper limit of normal, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, lymphocyte and monocyte ratios ≤2.33, white blood cells, and hemoglobin were identified as independent risk factors affecting the 90‐day mortality risk of patients and the nomogram was developed. A nomogram demonstrated excellent model predictive accuracy in both the derivation and validation cohorts (C‐index: 0.976 and 0.945), which was better than other commonly used liver scoring models (p < 0.05). The nomogram also performed good calibration ability and more clinical net benefit. According to the nomogram score, patients were divided into high‐ and low‐risk groups. Mortality was significantly higher in the high‐risk group than in the low‐risk group (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: The nomogram could accurately predict the 90‐day mortality risk in patients with alcohol‐associated cirrhosis and acute decompensation, helping to identify high‐risk patients and personalize treatment at their first admission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constructing heterostructures is an efficient strategy to develop high‐performance and robust electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Herein, an ion‐impregnation method and an environmentally friendly in situ carbonization strategy are successively employed to fabricate a novel Co3Mo/Mo2C heterostructure anchored on nitrogen‐doped carbon (Co3Mo/Mo2C@NC). Thanks to the formation of heterostructure, the obtained Co3Mo/Mo2C@NC exhibits an enhanced catalytic performance toward OER with a low overpotential (282 mV @ 10 mA cm−2, 322 mV @ 50 mA cm−2, and 355 mV @100 mA cm−2) and robust stability (100 mA cm−2 for 200 h) in alkaline media. Detailed experimental results combined with theoretical calculations reveal the formation of a Co3Mo/Mo2C heterojunction interface can decrease the energy barrier of the rate‐determining step for intermediates during the OER process, thereby inherently enhancing the OER performance. This work presents a rational synthetic route for designing high‐performance heterostructures for energy conversion technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The effect of radiotherapy waiting time after last induction chemotherapy (IC‐RT) on prognosis of patients with locally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (LANPC) needs further discussion. Methods: Three hundred and six patients with LANPC diagnosed pathologically by induction chemotherapy (IC) and radiotherapy (RT) from 2013 to 2018 were selected for this study. Results: The IC‐RT was a risk factor for the post‐treatment progression of LANPC (OR = 1.017 95%CI: 1.003–1.031), For patients with LANPC, the IC‐RT > 40 days significantly reduced 5‐year PFS (70% vs. 55%; p = 0.0012), 5‐year OS (84% vs. 73%; p = 0.028), 5‐year DMFS (80% vs. 66%; p = 0.003), 5‐year LRFS (77% vs. 67%; p = 0.012). Indicating that patients with stage IVa who IC‐RT > 40 days were found to be a significant predictor of aggravated PFS (HR = 2.69; 95%CI: 1.57–4.6), OS (HR = 2.55; 95%CI: 1.29–5.03), DMFS (HR = 3.07; 95%CI: 1.64–5.76) and LRFS (HR = 2.26; 95%CI: 1.21–4.21). Conclusion: The prognosis of patients will be adversely affected if the IC‐RT exceeds 40 days, especially for stage IVa patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Asthma is the most common chronic disease among children and poses a significant threat to their health. This study aims to assess the relationship between various plasma proteins and childhood asthma, thereby identifying potential therapeutic targets. Methods: Based on publicly available genome‐wide association study summary statistics, we employed a two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach to elucidate the causal relationship between plasma proteins and asthma. Mediation analysis was then conducted to evaluate the indirect influence of plasma proteins on childhood asthma mediated through risk factors. Comprehensive analysis was also conducted to explore the association between plasma proteins and various phenotypes using the UK Biobank dataset. Results: MR analysis uncovered a causal relationship between 10 plasma proteins and childhood asthma. Elevated levels of seven proteins (TLR4, UBP25, CBR1, Rac GTPase‐activating protein 1 [RGAP1], IL‐21, MICB, and PDE4D) and decreased levels of three proteins (GSTO1, LIRB4 and PIGF) were associated with an increased risk of childhood asthma. Our findings further validated the connections between reported risk factors (body mass index, mood swings, hay fever or allergic rhinitis, and eczema or dermatitis) and childhood asthma. Mediation analysis revealed the influence of proteins on childhood asthma outcomes through risk factors. Furthermore, the MR analysis identified 73 plasma proteins that exhibited causal associations with at least one risk factor for childhood asthma. Among them, RGAP1 mediates a significant proportion (25.10%) of the risk of childhood asthma through eczema or dermatitis. Finally, a phenotype‐wide association study based on these 10 proteins and 1403 diseases provided novel associations between these biomarkers and multiple phenotypes. Conclusion: Our study comprehensively investigated the causal relationship between plasma proteins and childhood asthma, providing novel insights into potential therapeutic targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are few effective therapeutic strategies for temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJOA) due to the unclear pathology and mechanisms. We aimed to confirm the roles of GPX4 and ferroptosis in TMJOA progression. ELISA assay was hired to evaluate concentrations of ferroptosis‐related markers. The qRT‐PCR assay was hired to assess gene mRNA level. Western blot assay and immunohistochemistry were hired to verify the protein level. CCK‐8 assay was hired to detect cell viability. Human fibroblast‐like synoviocytes (FLSs) were cultured to confirm the effects of GPX4 and indicated inhibitors, and further verified the effects of GPX4 and ferroptosis inhibitors in TMJOA model rats. Markers of ferroptosis including 8‐hidroxy‐2‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG) and iron were notably increased in TMJOA tissues and primary OA‐FLSs. However, the activity of the antioxidant system including the glutathione peroxidase activity, glutathione (GSH) contents, and glutathione/oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG) ratio was notably inhibited in TMJOA tissues, and the primary OA‐FLSs. Furthermore, the glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) expression was down‐regulated in TMJOA tissues and primary OA‐FLSs. Animal and cell experiments have shown that ferroptosis inhibitors notably inhibited ferroptosis and promoted HLS survival as well as up‐regulated GPX4 expression. Also, GPX4 knockdown promoted ferroptosis and GPX4 overexpression inhibited ferroptosis. GPX4 also positively regulated cell survival which was the opposite with ferroptosis. In conclusion, GPX4 and ferroptosis regulated the progression of TMJOA. Targeting ferroptosis might be an effective therapeutic strategy for TMJOA patients in the clinic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We determined the genetic association between specific human leucocyte antigen (HLA) loci and autoimmune glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) astrocytopathy. Our results showed that autoimmune GFAP astrocytopathy was associated with HLA‐A*3303 (odds ratio [OR] = 2.02, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.32–3.06, p = 0.00072, padj. = 0.046) and HLA‐DBP1*0501 (OR = 0.51, 95% CI = 0.36–0.71, p = 0.000048, padj. = 0.0062). Moreover, HLA‐A*3303 carriers with the disease had a longer hospital stay (p = 0.0005) than non‐carriers. This study for the first time provides evidence for a role of genetic factor in the development of autoimmune GFAP astrocytopathy. ANN NEUROL 2024;95:901–906 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In next generation semiconductors, metal halide perovskite materials would replace traditional light‐emitting materials since their exceptional photoelectronic characteristics. The future development of perovskite light‐emitting diodes have generated challenges such as abundant surface or interfacial defects and exciton quenching. To overcome these challenges, the light‐emitting layer is modified utilizing benzimidazole/phosphine oxide hybrid 1,3,5‐tris(1‐(4‐(diphenylphenylphosphoryl)phenyl)‐1H‐benzo[d]imidazol‐2‐yl)benzene (TPOB) and 1,3,5‐tris(diphenylphosphoryl)benzene (TPO) with high triple energy state. It is demonstrated by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy results that the oxygen atoms in the P = O functional group of TPOB and TPO provided lone electron pairs coordinate to the unsaturated Pb2+ in turn led to a decrease in the electron cloud density of Pb2+ and Br‐, which can suppress defects. Additionally, this technique improved the morphology of film, reduced surface roughness, and facilitated carrier transport, all of which are crucial for achieving high‐emission efficiency. As a result, the optimal devices has EQEs of 16.20 (TPOB) and 20.48% (TPO), respectively. Furthermore, the devices demonstrated excellent reproducibility. Excitingly, the champion EQE value for the optimal device is 22.64%. Simultaneously, it can increase the stability of the devices and the lifetimes are increased from 1231 s (Pristine) to 5421 (TPOB) and 5631 s (TPO). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ba[(Ca0.2Mg0.2Zn0.2Co0.2Ni0.2)1/3Nb2/3]O3 and Ba[(Mg0.25Zn0.25Co0.25Ni0.25)1/3Nb2/3]O3 perovskite single‐phase ceramics were synthesized by a solid‐state reaction method, and they were annealed at different temperatures in order to investigate the effect of B′‐site configurational entropy on phase stability, ordered domain structure and microwave dielectric characteristics. By comparing the B′‐site high‐entropy composition with B′‐site medium‐entropy and low‐entropy compositions, the entropy‐dominated phase‐stabilization effect and sluggish diffusion effect were observed in Ba[(Ca0.2Mg0.2Zn0.2Co0.2Ni0.2)1/3Nb2/3]O3. These effects enhanced the temperature stability of the B‐site 1:2 ordered structure. Ba[(Ca0.2Mg0.2Zn0.2Co0.2Ni0.2)1/3Nb2/3]O3 even reached a higher Qf value after annealing above the order‐disorder transition temperature (To‐d). This research extends the entropy regulation to ordered complex perovskite and provides a promising way to modify the performances of complex perovskite dielectric ceramics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comprehensive Summary: A novel macrocycle based on conformation‐adaptive and electron‐rich dihydrophenazine was designed and synthesized. On the one hand, the macrocycle showed host‐guest interactions with tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ) driving by charge transfer interaction between them. Meanwhile, host‐guest complexation was accompanied by fluorescence quenching and conformational change of the macrocycle. On the other hand, the oxidation of the macrocycle resulted in its diradical cation analogue and induced the release of the guest molecule TCNQ, thereby accomplishing reversible binding dynamics. Therefore, this work well illustrates the chemical and structural versatility of dihydrophenazine in the synthesis of macrocycles and their host‐guest chemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Homogeneous and heterogeneous reactions wherein the resulting products remain dissolved in solvents generally require complicated separation and purification process, despite the advantage of heterogeneous systems allowing retrieval of catalysts. Herein, we have developed an efficient approach for the one‐pot tandem synthesis of quinazolines, quinazolinones and benzothiadiazine 1,1‐dioxides from alcohols and amines utilizing a bifunctional bipyridinium photocatalyst with redox and Lewis acid sites using air as an oxidant. Through solvent‐modulation strategy, the photocatalytic system exhibits high performance and enables most products to separate spontaneously. Consequently, the homogeneous catalyst can be reused by direct centrifugation isolation of the products. Notably, the method is also applicable to the less active substrates, such as heterocyclic alcohols and aliphatic alcohols, and thus provides an efficient and environmentally friendly photocatalytic route with spontaneous separation of N‐heterocycles to reduce production costs and meet the needs of atomic economy and green chemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cinnamic ester is a common and abundant chemical substance, which can be extracted from natural plants. Compared with traditional esters, cinnamic ester contains α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl structure with multiple reactive sites, resulting in more abundant reactivities and chemical structures. Here, a versatile polymerization‐induced emission (PIE) is successfully demonstrated through Barbier polymerization of cinnamic ester. Attributed to its abundant reactivities of α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl structure, Barbier polymerization of cinnamic esters with different organodihalides gives polyalcohol and polyketone via 1,2‐addition and 1,4‐addition, respectively, which is also confirmed by small molecular model reactions. Meanwhile, these organodihalides dependant polyalcohol and polyketone exhibit different non‐traditional intrinsic luminescence (NTIL) from aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) type to aggregation‐caused quenching (ACQ) type, where novel PIE luminogens (PIEgens) are revealed. Further potential applications in explosive detection are carried out, where it achieves TNT detection sensitivity at ppm level in solution and ng level on the test paper. This work therefore expands the structure and functionality libraries of monomer, polymer and NTIL, which might cause inspirations to different fields including polymer chemistry, NTIL, AIE and PIE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Advance Care Planning Readiness Scale (ACPRS‐C) within the context of community‐dwelling older adults with chronic diseases residing in suburban counties in China. Design: Descriptive, cross‐sectional survey. Method s : The research method employed in this study is characterized as a methodological study. Self‐reported survey data were collected among community‐dwelling older adults with chronic diseases residing in suburban counties in China. Including the following psychometric characteristics, item analysis was performed using the decision value method and Pearson's correlation analysis. Content validity was assessed through expert panel evaluation. The internal consistency of the questionnaire was determined by calculating Cronbach's alpha coefficient and corrected item‐total correlation. Additionally, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was utilized to assess the construct validity of the ACPRS‐C. Results: A total of 228 older adults participated in this psychometric study from August to October 2023. The item content validity index ranged from 0.80 to 1.00, while the scale content validity index was 0.945. The scale demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.931), and the correlation between items and total score was satisfactory. The structural validity was deemed robust (CFA model fit: chi‐square/df = 1.121, comparative fit index = 0.992). Conclusion: The ACPRS‐C is a scale with strong psychometric properties to assess the ACP readiness within the context of community‐dwelling older adults with chronic diseases residing in suburban counties in China. Its reliability and validity hold considerable significance for both research and clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insect chitinases have been proposed as potential targets for pest control. In this work, a novel group IV chitinase gene, MdCht9, from Musca domestica was found to have multiple functions in the physiological activity, including chitin regulation, development and antifungal immunity. The MdCht9 gene was cloned and sequenced, its phylogeny was analysed and its expression was determined in normal and 20E treated larvae. Subsequently, RNA interference (RNAi)‐mediated MdCht9 knockdown was performed, followed by biochemical assays, morphological observations and transcriptome analysis. Finally, the recombinant protein MdCht9 (rMdCht9) was purified and tested for anti‐microbial activity and enzyme characteristics. The results showed that MdCht9 consists of three domains, highly expressed in a larval salivary gland. RNAi silencing of MdCht9 resulted in significant down‐regulation of chitin content and expression of 15 chitin‐binding protein (CBP) genes, implying a new insight that MdCht9 might regulate chitin content by influencing the expression of CBPs. In addition, more than half of the lethality and partial wing deformity appeared due to the dsMdCht9 treatment. In addition, the rMdCht9 exhibited anti‐microbial activity towards Candida albicans (fungus) but not towards Escherichia coli (G−) or Staphylococcus aureus (G+). Our work expands on previous studies of chitinase while providing a potential target for pest management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is a hypertensive heart disease that significantly escalates the risk of clinical cardiovascular events. Its etiology potentially incorporates various clinical attributes such as gender, age, and renal function. From mechanistic perspective, the remodeling process of LVH can trigger increment in certain biomarkers, notably sST2 and NT‐proBNP. This multicenter, retrospective study aimed to construct an LVH risk assessment model and identify the risk factors. A total of 417 patients with essential hypertension (EH), including 214 males and 203 females aged 31–80 years, were enrolled in this study; of these, 161 (38.6%) were diagnosed with LVH. Based on variables demonstrating significant disparities between the LVH and Non‐LVH groups, three multivariate stepwise logistic regression models were constructed for risk assessment: the "Clinical characteristics" model, the "Biomarkers" model (each based on their respective variables), and the "Clinical characteristics + Biomarkers" model, which amalgamated both sets of variables. The results revealed that the "Clinical characteristics + Biomarkers" model surpassed the baseline models in performance (AUC values of the "Clinical characteristics + Biomarkers" model, the "Biomarkers" model, and the "Clinical characteristics" model were.83,.75, and.74, respectively; P <.0001 for both comparisons). The optimized model suggested that being female (OR: 4.26, P <.001), being overweight (OR: 1.88, p =.02) or obese (OR: 2.36, p =.02), duration of hypertension (OR: 1.04, P =.04), grade III hypertension (OR: 2.12, P <.001), and sST2 (log‐transformed, OR: 1.14, P <.001) were risk factors, while eGFR acted as a protective factor (OR:.98, P =.01). These findings suggest that the integration of clinical characteristics and biomarkers can enhance the performance of LVH risk assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non‐healing wounds are one of the chronic complications of diabetes and have remained a worldwide challenge as one of the major health problems. Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy is proven to be very successful for diabetic wound treatment, for which the molecular basis is not understood. Adipocytes regulate multiple aspects of repair and may be therapeutic for inflammatory diseases and defective wound healing associated with aging and diabetes. Endothelial cell‐derived extracellular vesicles could promote wound healing in diabetes. To study the mechanism by which HBO promotes wound healing in diabetes, we investigated the effect of HBO on fat cells in diabetic mice. A diabetic wound mouse model was established and treated with HBO. Haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and immunofluorescence were used for the analysis of wound healing. To further explore the mechanism, we performed whole‐genome sequencing on extracellular vesicles (EVs). Furthermore, we conducted in vitro experiments. Specifically, exosomes were collected from human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) cells after HBO treatment, and then these exosomes were co‐incubated with adipose tissue. The wound healing rate in diabetic mice treated with HBO was significantly higher. HBO therapy promotes the proliferation of adipose precursor cells. HUVEC‐derived exosomes treated with HBO significantly promoted fat cell browning. These data clarify that HBO therapy may promote vascular endothelial cell proliferation and migration, and promote browning of fat cells through vascular endothelial cells derived exosomes, thereby promoting diabetic wound healing. This provides new ideas for the application of HBO therapy in the treatment of diabetic trauma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rational design of Z‐scheme heterojunction photosystems based on covalent organic frameworks (COFs) is a promising strategy for harnessing solar energy for hydrogen conversion. Herein, a direct Z‐scheme single‐atom photocatalyst based on COF and metal‐organic ring has been constructed through the supramolecular interactions of coral‐like COF (S‐COF) and photosensitized Pd2L2 type metal‐organic ring (MAC‐FA1). The MAC‐FA1/S‐COF heterojunction exhibits good light absorption, efficient charge separation and transfer, slow electron‐hole recombination, and highly dispersed Pd active sites, enabling an efficient and stable H2 evolution reaction. The optimized 4% MAC‐FA1/S‐COF achieves an H2 evolution rate of 100 mmol g−1 h−1 within 5 h and obtains a total accumulated turn‐over number relative to Pd (TONPd) of 437,685 within 20 h, far superior to S‐COF, MAC‐FA1, M‐5/S‐COF, Pd/S‐COF, and M‐5/Pd/S‐COF, which is one of the highest records among COF‐based photocatalysts for solar‐driven H2 evolution. This is the first work to incorporate photosensitized metal‐organic rings/cages into porous crystalline COFs to form a supramolecular Z‐scheme heterojunction, which has significant potential as a high‐performance photocatalyst for solar‐driven H2 production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A method was established for the simultaneous determination of furosine, furanone, and four furfural compounds (5‐hydroxymethylfurfural, furfural, furyl methyl ketone, and methyl furfural) in complementary rice, flour, and noodles for infants and young children by high performance liquid chromatography with a diode array detector. The sample was extracted using oxalic acid aqueous solution as a solvent, and the protein was removed using trichloroacetic acid. Then the six Maillard reaction products were separated by an Eclipse XDB‐C18 column with a gradient elution at a flow rate of 0.6 mL/min using acetonitrile‐0.1% trifluoroacetic acid solution as the mobile phase, detected by a diode array detector and quantified by external standard method. The linear ranges of the six Maillard reaction products were 250–20000 μg/100 g with the correlation coefficients greater than 0.999, and the limits of quantification ranged from 250 to 1000 μg/100 g (S/N ≥ 10). The recoveries of the six Maillard reaction products ranged from 71.2% to 100% with a relative standard deviation of 0.9%–4.9%. The real sample analysis results showed that 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural was detected in two cookie samples, the contents of which were 335 μg/100 g and 436 μg/100 g, respectively. There are no studies on the detection of the six Maillard reaction products in rice, flour, and noodles in the previous reports. The established method provided reference for the quantification of expiration date in complementary rice, flour, and noodles for infants and young children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-k dielectric materials were prepared by sintering ZSM-5 zeolite powder compacts at temperatures ranged 1200-1300°C, and the microwave dielectric characteristics were investigated together with the structure evolution during sintering. It was failed to obtain ZSM-5 ceramics by high temperature sintering because the densification could never occur below the tolerable temperature and the ordered porous structure completely collapsed above the tolerable temperature. The structure changed from ZSM-5 zeolite to SiO2-Al2O3 glass at 1240°C, and finally to SiO2-based cristobalite ceramics above 1275°C.Alow dielectric constant (2.63-2.78) combined with low dielectric loss (< 0.0005 at 18GHz) and small temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (varied from -18.6 to -8.1 ppm/°C) was achieved in the present materials, and the value of dielectric loss was the lowest one achieved so far in the dielectric materials with a dielectric constant lower than 3. With the structure evolution fromZSM-5 zeolite to SiO2-Al2O3 glass and finally to SiO2-based cristobalite ceramics, the dielectric constant increased from 2.27 to 2.78, while the Qf value indicated a complicated variation tendency, and the higher Qf values were achieved in the amorphous and crystalline states, while significant drop was determined in the partial amorphous state. It should be a great challenge to prepare dense zeolite ceramicswithout collapse of ordered porous structure, and then the ultra-low dielectric constant materials with high Q could be expected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurodegeneration is linked to the progressive loss of neural function and is associated with several diseases. Hypoxia is a hallmark in many of these diseases, and several therapies have been developed to treat this disease, including gene expression therapies that should be tightly controlled to avoid side effects. Cells experiencing hypoxia undergo a series of physiological responses that are induced by the activation of various transcription factors. Modulation of microRNA (miRNA) expression to alter transcriptional regulation has been demonstrated to be beneficial in treating multiple diseases, and in this study, we therefore explored potential miRNA candidates that could influence hypoxia-induced nerve cell death. Our data suggest that in mouse neuroblasts Neuro-2a cells with hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R), miR-337-3p is downregulated to increase the expression of Potassium channel tetramerization domain containing 11 (KCTD11) and subsequently promote apoptosis. Here, we demonstrate for the first time that KCTD11 plays a role in the cellular response to hypoxia, and we also provide a possible regulatory mechanism by identifying the axis of miR-337-3p/KCTD11 as a promising candidate modulator of nerve cell survival after H/R exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Free‐ranging livestock pose a threat to forest biodiversity, exerting a profound influence on the survival of several endangered species. The mountains of Southwest China represent a biodiversity hotspot enriched with pheasant species of global significance; however, the influence of free‐ranging livestock on the survival and population of forest pheasants remains unclear. We examined the impact of livestock on the habitat suitability of subalpine pheasants and the associated mechanism during the breeding season in Southwest China (forest with and without grazing) over 2 years (2018–2019). Artificial nest experiments monitored by infrared‐triggered cameras showed that the nest failure rate was 2.18 folds higher in livestock‐active areas, where livestock directly accounted for 26.09% of all nest predation events, compared with other areas. Small animal trapping and vegetation quadrat surveys showed a 46% lower abundance of ground invertebrates, a critical food resource for breeding pheasants and their chicks, in grazing areas than in grazing‐free areas. Thus, livestock grazing markedly reduces the habitat suitability of subalpine pheasants during the breeding season. These results highlight the impacts of grazing on endangered pheasant species and the underlying mechanisms, necessitating centralized livestock management in these protected areas from April to July, coupled with livelihood transformation initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biocatalytic oxidations are an emerging technology for selective C−H bond activation. While promising for a range of selective oxidations, practical use of enzymes catalyzing aerobic hydroxylation is presently limited by their substrate scope and stability under industrially relevant conditions. Here, we report the engineering and practical application of a non‐heme iron and α‐ketoglutarate‐dependent dioxygenase for the direct stereo‐ and regio‐selective hydroxylation of a non‐native fluoroindanone en route to the oncology treatment belzutifan, replacing a five‐step chemical synthesis with a direct enantioselective hydroxylation. Mechanistic studies indicated that formation of the desired product was limited by enzyme stability and product overoxidation, with these properties subsequently improved by directed evolution, yielding a biocatalyst capable of >15,000 total turnovers. Highlighting the industrial utility of this biocatalyst, the high‐yielding, green, and efficient oxidation was demonstrated at kilogram scale for the synthesis of belzutifan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of supramolecular templates in aligning atomically precise heterometal arrays is important for pursuing functional materials. Herein, we report that a bilayered supramolecular tri‐deprotonated melamine dimer functions as an effective template in the construction of a heterometallic gold(I)‐silver(I) macrocyclic cluster [μ6‐(C3N6H3)3−]2−AuI6AgI6. X‐ray single crystal structural analysis showed that a crown‐like AuI6AgI6 macrocycle is aligned around two parallelly stacked μ6‐(C3N6H3)3− moieties hold together with π–π interactions. Theoretical calculations revealed that the [μ6‐(C3N6H3)3−]2 motif dominantly contributes to the near‐occupied orbitals in the electronic structure, which is closely related to its luminescence properties. This work demonstrates that the supramolecular templates containing multiple symmetric binding sites may present a facile approach in the construction of functional metal clusters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Glial cell‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) maintains gut homeostasis. Dopamine promotes GDNF release in astrocytes. We investigated the regulation by dopamine of colonic GDNF secretion. Experimental Approach: D1 receptor knockout (D1R−/−) mice, adeno‐associated viral 9‐short hairpin RNA carrying D2 receptor (AAV9‐shD2R)‐treated mice, 6‐hydroxydopamine treated (6‐OHDA) rats and primary enteric glial cells (EGCs) culture were used. Incubation fluid from colonic submucosal plexus and longitudinal muscle myenteric plexus were collected for GDNF and ACh measurements. Key Results: D2 receptor‐immunoreactivity (IR), but not D1 receptor‐IR, was observed on EGCs. Both D1 receptor‐IR and D2 receptor‐IR were co‐localized on cholinergic neurons. Low concentrations of dopamine induced colonic GDNF secretion in a concentration‐dependent manner, which was mimicked by the D1 receptor agonist SKF38393, inhibited by TTX and atropine and eliminated in D1R−/− mice. SKF38393‐induced colonic ACh release was absent in D1R−/− mice. High concentrations of dopamine suppressed colonic GDNF secretion, which was mimicked by the D2 receptor agonist quinpirole, and absent in AAV‐shD2R‐treated mice. Quinpirole decreased GDNF secretion by reducing intracellular Ca2+ levels in primary cultured EGCs. Carbachol (ACh analogue) promoted the release of GDNF. Quinpirole inhibited colonic ACh release, which was eliminated in the AAV9‐shD2R‐treated mice. 6‐OHDA treated rats with low ACh and high dopamine content showed decreased GDNF content and increased mucosal permeability in the colon. Conclusion and Implications: Low concentrations of dopamine promote colonic GDNF secretion via D1 receptors on cholinergic neurons, whereas high concentrations of dopamine inhibit GDNF secretion via D2 receptors on EGCs and/or cholinergic neurons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, the strategy of multielements co‐substitution for BiFeO3 ceramics was adopted to enhance the ferroelectricity and magnetoelectric coupling effect where the effective radius of rare‐earth ions was equivalent to that of Sm3+. Differing from the case of Sm‐substituted BiFeO3 ceramics, the symmetry of the present ceramics changed from R3c to Pbnm directly without the formation of Pna21 with increasing RE‐substitution content. The ferroelectricity was significantly improved, and the saturated polarization−electric field (P‐E) hysteresis loop with Pr = 37.63 μC/cm2 was obtained in Bi0.95(La0.20Nd0.20Sm0.20Gd0.20Lu0.20)0.05FeO3 ceramics. The leakage current was reduced by almost six orders of magnitude in multielements co‐substituted BiFeO3 ceramics, which was much lower than that of BiFeO3 end‐member. Moreover, the magnetoelectric coupling coefficient αME of 0.96 mV/cm Oe was achieved in Bi0.86(La0.20Nd0.20Sm0.20Gd0.20Lu0.20)0.14FeO3 ceramics, which was larger than that of Sm‐substituted BiFeO3 ceramics. The strategy of multielements co‐substitution might provide a new approach to improving ferroelectricity and magnetoelectric coupling effect in BiFeO3 ceramics, which could be physically interpreted as the results of the reduced leakage current and increased local polarization configuration caused by the multiple elements substitution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Australia has demonstrated high efficacy and safety of medical termination of pregnancy (MToP) using a mifepristone–buccal misoprostol regime. The provision of medical termination services in primary care has the potential to alleviate access barriers, particularly in rural and regional populations. Large‐scale data are needed to support the expansion of this model. Aim: The aim was to determine the efficacy and safety of nurse‐led MToP within a regional general practice clinic. Methods: A retrospective cohort study of patients prescribed MToP from October 2014 to April 2020. Clinic nurses assessed patient eligibility and provided information, non‐directive counselling and instructions. The general practitioner then confirmed eligibility, obtained informed consent and prescribed. Patients were administered 200 mg of mifepristone orally in a pharmacy and then self‐administered 800‐μg buccal misoprostol 36–48 h later at home. Results: A total of 998 patients were included in this study, with the median patient age being 27.3 years and 30.3% of patients travelling over 100 km to access the service. MToP was successful in 965 (96.7%) patients. There were 36 (3.6%) complications, of which 33 were incomplete MToP. Haemorrhage requiring transfusion, pain requiring hospital treatment and suspected infection were rare, each having a frequency of one (0.1%). Our follow‐up rate was 74.8%, with a strong correlation identified between increased gestational age and decreased follow‐up (P < 0.001). Conclusion: This study is a large Australian example demonstrating high efficacy and safety of nurse‐led MToP within regional general practice. The establishment of similar services in rural and regional Australia may address geographical and financial barriers to termination access. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The properties of polyethylene are highly dependent on the variety and quantity of substitutions. Generally, polyethylene can only be fully substituted with fluorine atoms, mainly e. g. polytetrafluoroethylene and nafion, because atomic radius of fluorine atom is small enough. The preparation of fully substituted polyethylene analogues (FSPEA) and their non‐traditional intrinsic luminescence (NTIL) are attractive, especially for substitutions with relatively larger atomic radii than a fluorine atom. Here, Barbier polymerization‐induced emission (PIE) is demonstrated as a universal method for the molecular design of NTIL type FSPEAs with intriguing aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) behaviors. Through Barbier polymerization of diphenyldichloromethane and different peroxyesters in the presence of Mg in one pot, a series of FSPEAs, including polytriphenylethanol (PTPE), polydiphenylfurylethanol (PDPFE), polydiphenylthiophenylethanol (PDPTE) and polydiphenylnaphthylethanol (PDPNE) have been successfully prepared. Further potential applications for explosive detection, artificial light‐harvesting system and white phosphor‐converted light‐emitting diode are investigated. Therefore, this work opens up a new approach for the molecular design of FSPEA with non‐conjugated luminescence, which may cause inspirations to different research fields like polyolefin and luminescent materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), mainly comprising ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, is a group of gradually progressive diseases bringing significant mental anguish and imposes serious economic burdens. Interplay of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors have been implicated in its pathogenesis. Nutrients, as crucial environmental determinants, mainly encompassing carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and micronutrients, are closely related to the pathogenesis and development of IBD. Nutrition is essential for maintaining the dynamic balance of intestinal eco‐environments to ensure intestinal barrier and immune homeostasis, while this balance can be disrupted easily by maladjusted nutrition. Research has firmly established that nutrition has the potential to shape the composition and function of gut microbiota to affect the disease course. Unhealthy diet and eating disorders lead to gut microbiota dysbiosis and further destroy the function of intestinal barrier such as the disruption of membrane integrity and increased permeability, thereby triggering intestinal inflammation. Notably, appropriate nutritional interventions, such as the Mediterranean diet, can positively modulate intestinal microecology, which may provide a promising strategy for future IBD prevention. In this review, we provide insights into the interplay between nutrition and gut microbiota and its effects on IBD and present some previously overlooked lines of evidence regarding the role of derived metabolites in IBD processes, such as trimethylamine N‐oxide and imidazole propionate. Furthermore, we provide some insights into reducing the risk of onset and exacerbation of IBD by modifying nutrition and discuss several outstanding challenges and opportunities for future study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyclophosphamide (CTX) is a common anticancer chemotherapy drug, and myelosuppression is the most common serious side effect. Asperuloside (ASP), the active component of Hedyotis diffusa Willd., may have the effect of ameliorating chemotherapy‐induced myelosuppression. This study aimed to explore the effect and possible mechanism of ASP on CTX‐induced myelosuppression. Male SPF C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into five groups: control group, CTX (25 mg/kg) group, CTX + granulocyte‐macrophage‐colony stimulating factor (GM‐CSF) (5 μg/kg) group, CTX + high‐dose ASP (50 mg/kg) group and CTX + low‐dose ASP (25 mg/kg) group, with six mice in each group. The body weight of mice was monitored every other day, the hematopoietic progenitor cell colony number was measured by colony forming unit, and the relevant blood indicators were detected. Femoral bone marrow was observed by hematoxylin‐eosin, C‐kit expression was detected by immunohistochemistry, and autophagy and adenine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway protein expressions were detected by immunohistochemistry and western blotting (WB). Then the AMPK inhibitor dorsomorphin was used to interfere with AMPK/mTOR pathway. Results showed that ASP significantly increased the body weight of CTX‐induced mice, increased the number of hematopoietic progenitor cells, the expression of white blood cells, red blood cells, platelets, GM‐CSF, thrombopoietin and erythropoietin in blood, and the expression of C‐kit in bone marrow. In addition, ASP further promoted the expression of Beclin1 and LC‐3II/I induced by CTX, and regulated the protein expressions in the AMPK/mTOR pathway. The use of dorsomorphin inhibited the alleviation effect of ASP on CTX‐induced myelosuppression and the promotion effect of ASP on autophagy. In conclusion, ASP alleviated CTX‐induced myelosuppression by promoting AMPK/mTOR pathway‐mediated autophagy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: There is a link between laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) and the formation of benign vocal fold lesions (BVFLs). However, previous studies have mainly focused on LPR suggested by symptoms and signs, rather than objectively diagnosed LPR via pharyngeal pH monitoring. We, therefore, conducted a Meta‐analysis to evaluate the association between pharyngeal pH monitoring diagnosed LPR and the odds of BVFLs. Data Sources: Relevant observational studies were identified by searching PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Review Methods: We evaluated between‐study heterogeneity using the Cochrane Q test and estimated the I2 statistic. Random‐effects models were used when significant heterogeneity was observed; otherwise, fixed‐effects models were used. Results: Thirteen datasets from 9 studies were included. Among them, 493 were diagnosed with LPR and 344 had BVFLs. LPR was related to a higher odds of BVFLs (odds ratio: 3.26, 95% confidence interval: 1.84‐5.76, P <.001) with moderate heterogeneity (P for Cochrane Q test =.006, I2 = 57%). Subgroup analyses showed that the association was similar in studies with only pharyngeal pH monitoring (Restech), with double‐probe or 3‐site pH monitoring, and with 24‐hour multichannel intraluminal impedance‐pH monitoring (P for subgroup difference =.15). In addition, subgroup analysis showed consistent results in studies from Asia and Europe (P for subgroup analysis =.12), and the association seemed to be consistent for vocal Reinke's edema, nodules, and polyps (P for subgroup difference =.09). Conclusion: Pharyngeal pH monitoring diagnosed LPR is associated with the formation of BVFLs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMVECs) and microglia play critical roles in regulating cerebral homeostasis during ischemic stroke. However, the role of HBMVECs‐derived exosomes in microglia polarization after stroke remains unknown. We isolated exosomes (Exos) from oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD)‐exposed HBMVECs, before added them into microglia. Microglia polarization markers were tested using RT‐qPCR or flow cytometry. Inflammatory cytokines were measured with ELISA. Endothelial cell damage was assessed by cell viability, apoptosis, apoptosis‐related proteins, oxidative stress, and angiogenic activity using CCK‐8, flow cytometry, western blot, ELISA, and endothelial tube formation assay, respectively. We also established middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) mice model to examine the function of circ_0000495 on stroke in vivo. Our study found that HBMVECs‐Exos reduced M2 markers (IL‐10, CD163, and CD206), increased M1 markers (TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐12), CD86‐positive cells, and inflammatory cytokines (TNF‐α and IL‐1β), indicating the promotion of microglial M1‐polarization. Microglial M1‐polarization induced by HBMVECs‐Exos reduced viability and promoted apoptosis and oxidative stress, revealing the aggravation of endothelial cell damage. However, circ_0000495 silencing inhibited HBMVECs‐Exos‐induced alterations. Mechanistically, circ_0000495 adsorbed miR‐579‐3p to upregulate toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) in microglia; miR‐579‐3p suppressed HBMVECs‐Exos‐induced alterations via declining TLR4; furthermore, Yin Yang 1 (YY1) transcriptionally activated circ_0000495 in HBMVECs. Importantly, circ_0000495 aggravated ischemic brain injury in vivo via activating TLR4/nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) pathway. Collectively, OGD‐treated HBMVECs‐Exos transmitted circ_0000495 to regulate miR‐579‐3p/TLR4/NF‐κB axis in microglia, thereby facilitating microglial M1‐polarization and endothelial cell damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses quaternionic dual Gabor frames under the condition that the products of time‐frequency shift parameters are rational numbers. For a general overcomplete quaternionic Gabor frame with the product of time‐frequency shift parameters not equal to 12$$ \frac{1}{2} $$, we show that its corresponding frame and translation operators do not commute, which leads to its canonical dual frame not having the Gabor structure, but it may have other dual frames with Gabor structure. We characterize when two quaternionic Gabor Bessel sequences form a pair of dual frames, and present a class of quaternionic dual Gabor frames. We also characterize quaternionic Gabor Riesz bases and prove that their canonical dual frames have Gabor structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of cross‐linked AEMs (c‐DQPPO/PVA) are synthesized by using rigid polyphenylene oxide and flexible poly(vinyl alcohol) as the backbones. Dual cations are grafted on the PPO backbone to improve the ion exchange capacity (IEC), while glutaraldehyde is introduced to enhance compatibility and reduce swelling ratio of AEMs. In addition to the enhanced mechanical properties resulting from the rigid‐flexible cross‐linked network, c‐DQPPO/PVA AEMs also exhibit impressive ionic conductivity, which can be attributed to their high IEC, good hydrophilicity of PVA, and well‐defined micro‐morphology. Additionally, due to confined dimension behavior and ordered micro‐morphology, c‐DQPPO/PVA AEMs demonstrate excellent chemical stability. Specifically, c‐DQPPO/PVA‐7.5 exhibits a wet‐state tensile strength of 12.5 MPa and an elongation at break of 53.0 % at 25 °C. Its OH− conductivity and swelling degree at 80 °C are measured to be 125.7 mS cm−1 and 8.2 %, respectively, with an IEC of 3.05 mmol g−1. After 30 days in a 1 M NaOH solution at 80 °C, c‐DQPPO/PVA‐7.5 experiences degradation rates of 12.8 % for tensile strength, 27.4 % for elongation at break, 14.7 % for IEC, and 19.2 % for ion conductivity. With its excellent properties, c‐DQPPO/PVA‐7.5 exhibits a peak power density of 0.751 W cm−2 at 60 °C in an H2‐O2 fuel cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insects are rich in various microorganisms, which play diverse roles in affecting host biology. Although most Drosophila species prefer rotten fruits, the agricultural pest Drosophila suzukii attacks ripening fruits before they are harvested. We have reported that the microbiota has positive and negative impacts on the agricultural pest D. suzukii on nutrient‐poor and ‐rich diets, respectively. On nutrient‐poor diets, microbes provide protein to facilitate larval development. But how they impede D. suzukii development on nutrient‐rich diets is unknown. Here we report that Acetobacter pomorum (Apo), a commensal bacterium in many Drosophila species and rotting fruit, has several detrimental effects in D. suzukii. Feeding D. suzukii larvae nutrient‐rich diets containing live Apo significantly delayed larval development and reduced the body weight of emerged adults. Apo induced larval immune responses and downregulated genes of digestion and juvenile hormone metabolism. Knockdown of these genes in germ‐free larvae reproduced Apo‐like weakened phenotypes. Apo was confirmed to secrete substantial amounts of gluconic acid. Adding gluconic acid to the D. suzukii larval diet hindered larval growth and decreased adult body weight. Moreover, the dose of gluconic acid that adversely affected D. suzukii did not negatively affect Drosophila melanogaster, suggesting that D. suzukii is less tolerant to acid than D. melanogaster. Taken together, these findings indicate that D. suzukii is negatively affected by gluconic acid, which may explain why it prefers ripening fruit over Apo‐rich rotting fruit. These results show an insect's tolerance to microbes can influence its ecological niche. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The crystal structure evaluation of Ba1−xSrxHfO3 and Sr1−yCayHfO3 ceramics with varying composition was determined together with its influence on microwave dielectric characteristics. The variation mechanism of temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (τf) was discussed in details, and the strong correlation between τf and bond valence sum (BVS) and tolerance factor (t) was interpreted from the view point of energy. With increasing Sr‐content, the stable phase of Ba1−xSrxHfO3 at room temperature changed from Pm3¯$\bar{3}$m (x ≤ 0.25) to I4/mcm (0.35 ≤ x ≤ 0.40), then to Imma (0.50 ≤x < 0.75) and finally to Pnma (0.75 ≤ x ≤ 1.0). The peak temperature of dielectric constant changed due to the structure transition, resulting in that τf rapidly declined at first, reached near zero, then slowly decreased, and finally rapidly decreased. Sr1−yCayHfO3 (0 ≤ y ≤ 1.0) belonged to space group Pnma. As the bond lengths and bond angles between B‐atom and O‐atom became more and more changeable (or BVS became smaller), the crystal could store more input heat energy through bond vibrational energy, and consequently τf became closer to zero with increasing Ca‐content, which was consistent with the physical meaning of the rattling effect on τf. With decreasing t, the dominant mechanisms responsible for tuning τf changed from (i) phase transition and (ii) dilution of ion polarizability to (iii) rattling effect. One could investigate what were the dominant mechanisms tuning τf and hopefully predict its trend with the help of τf–t graph. These findings provided a new idea for developing solid solution ceramics with excellent temperature stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the plant development cycle, different types of proteases play essential functions. Plant vacuolar processing enzymes (VPEs) are a group of cysteine proteases localized in the cell vacuoles that process and regulate several larger proprotein precursors. VPEs activate the proteolytic cleavage of proproteins precursors within aspartic acid and asparagine residues to trigger the tightly controlled programmed cell death process induced by different stages of plant development and environmental cues, impacting myriad plant physiological processes. In plants, VPEs are categorized into embryo, vegetative, and seed coat‐types, in which embryo and seed coat‐type VPEs are mainly involved in processing the seed storage protein precursors to provide nutrients for early growth, while the vegetative type induces programmed cell death in a varied range of vegetative tissues. Recently, several plant VPEs exhibited transpeptidase activity, which is essential for the cyclization mechanism during the production of cyclotides. In this review, we explore and understand the complex functions of plant VPEs, which can lead to the production of stress‐tolerant and higher‐yield crops, and provide the recent advances in the application of VPEs in molecular pharming, which highlights the significant implications of VPEs in protein science and agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Butein has shown substantial potential as a cancer treatment, but its precise mechanism of action in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unclear. This study aimed to uncover the underlying mechanisms through which butein operates in CRC and to identify potential biomarkers through a comprehensive investigation. Methods: Target genes associated with butein were sourced from SwissTargetPrediction, CTD, BindingDB and TargetNet. Gene expression data from the GSE38026 dataset and the single‐cell dataset (GSE222300) were retrieved from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The activation of disease‐related pathways was assessed using Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes, Gene Ontology and differential gene analysis. Disease‐associated genes were identified through differential analysis and weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA). The protein–protein interaction network was utilized to pinpoint potential drug targets. Molecular complex detection (MCODE) analysis was employed to uncover relevant genes influenced by butein within key subgroup networks. Machine learning techniques were applied for the screening of potential biomarkers, with receiver operating characteristic curves used to evaluate their clinical significance. Single‐cell analysis was conducted to assess the pharmacological targets of butein in CRC, with validation performed using the external dataset GSE40967. Results: A total of 232 target genes for butein were identified. Functional enrichment analysis revealed significant enrichment of signaling pathways, including mitogen‐activated protein kinase, JAK‐STAT and NF‐κB, among these genes. Differential analysis, in conjunction with WGCNA, yielded 520 disease‐related genes. Subsequently, a disease‐drug‐gene network consisting of 727 targets was established, and a subnetwork containing 56 crucial genes was extracted. Important pathways such as the FoxO signaling pathway exhibited significant enrichment within these key genes. Machine learning applied to the 56 important genes led to the identification of a potential biomarker, UBE2C. Receiver operating characteristic analysis demonstrated the excellent clinical predictive utility of UBE2C. Single‐cell analysis suggested that butein's therapeutic effects might be linked to its influence on epithelial and T cells, with UBE2C expression associated with these cell types. Validation using the external dataset GSE40967 further confirmed the exceptional clinical predictive capability of UBE2C. Conclusion: This study combines network pharmacology with single‐cell analysis to unravel the mechanisms underlying butein's effects in CRC. Notably, UBE2C emerged as a promising biomarker with superior clinical efficacy. These research findings contribute significantly to our understanding of specific molecular mechanisms, potentially shaping future clinical practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To study the relationship between the yield of 1,3‐propanediol (1,3‐PDO) and the flux change of the Clostridium butyricum metabolic pathway, an optimized calculation method based on dynamic flux balance analysis was used by combining genome‐scale flux balance analysis with a kinetic model. A more comprehensive and extensive metabolic pathway was obtained by optimization calculations. The primary extended branches include: the dihydroxyacetone node, which enters the pentose phosphate pathway; the α‐oxoglutarate node, which has synthetic metabolic pathways for glutamic acid and amino acids; and the serine and homocysteine nodes, which produce cystathionine before homocysteine enters the methionine cycle pathway. According to the expanded metabolic network, the flux distribution of key nodes in the metabolic pathway and the relationship between the flux distribution ratio of nodes and the yield of 1,3‐PDO were analyzed. At the dihydroxyacetone node, the flux of dihydroxyacetone converted to dihydroxyacetone phosphate was positively correlated with the yield of 1,3‐PDO. As an important intermediate product, the flux change in the metabolic pathway of α‐oxoglutarate reacting with amino acids to produce glutamic acid is positively correlated with the yield. When pyruvate was used as the central node to convert into lactic acid and α‐oxoglutarate, the proportion of branch flux was negatively correlated with the yield of 1,3‐PDO. These studies provide a theoretical basis for the optimization and further study of the metabolic pathway of C. butyricum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Atrial esophageal fistula (AEF) is a lethal complication that can occur post atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation. Esophageal injury (EI) is likely to be the initial lesion leading to AEF. Endoscopic examination is the gold standard for a diagnosis of EI but extensive endoscopic screening is invasive and costly. This study was conducted to determine whether fecal calprotectin (Fcal), a marker of inflammation throughout the intestinal tract, may be associated with the existence of esophageal injury. Methods: This diagnostic study was conducted in a cohort of 166 patients with symptomatic AF undergoing radiofrequency catheter ablation from May 2020 to June 2021. Fcal tests were performed 1–7 days after ablation. All patients underwent endoscopic ultrasonography 1 or 2 days after ablation. Results: The levels of Fcal were significantly different between the EI and non‐EI groups (404.9 µg/g (IQR 129.6–723.6) vs. 40.4 µg/g (IQR 15.0–246.2), p <.001). Analysis of ROC curves revealed that a Fcal level of 125 µg/g might be the optimal cut‐off value for a diagnosis of EI, giving a 78.8% sensitivity and a 65.4% specificity. The negative predictive value of Fcal was 100% for ulcerated EI. Conclusions: The level of Fcal is associated with EI post AF catheter ablation. 125 µg/g might be the optimal cut‐off value for a diagnosis of EI. Negative Fcal could predict the absence of ulcerated EI, which could be considered a precursor to AEF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Autoimmune glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) astrocytopathy is a novel autoimmune disease of central nervous system (CNS). It is unclear whether Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is related to autoimmune GFAP astrocytopathy. Objective: To describe the clinical, laboratory, and imaging characteristics of patients with autoimmune GFAP astrocytopathy. Methods: The clinical, laboratory, and imaging findings of patients are presented. The levels of GFAP in CSF were detected by ELISA. T and B cell subsets in CSF were detected by flow cytometry. GFAP‐IgG in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were tested by cell‐based assay (CBA) and tissue‐based assay (TBA). Results: All three patients had fever, cognitive dysfunction, limb weakness, and positive GFAP‐IgG with EBV infection in CSF. Enteric glia cells may involve in this disease. Typical imaging findings include the gadolinium enhancement of linear perivascular radial perpendicular to the ventricle, meningeal enhancement (especially in midbrain interpeduncal fossa), longitudinally extensive lesions involving spindle cords, and more T2/Flair‐hyperintense lesions in the periventricular white matter at late stage. The patients had poor response to antiviral treatment and strong response to steroid pulse therapy. Conclusion: EBV could induce CNS autoimmune response in autoimmune GFAP astrocytopathy. The detection of GFAP‐IgG and EBV may facilitate the early diagnosis in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Luminochromic gold clusters have potential applications in sensing due to the unique optical properties arising from their geometric and electronic structures. However, the rational design of such clusters is extremely challenging, especially when the goal is to impart reversible stimuli‐responsive properties to gold clusters. Herein, the reversible multi‐stimuli responsiveness of a carbon‐centered hexagold(I) CAuI6 cluster protected by N,N'‐dibenzylbenzimidazolylidene (BIBn) ligands is reported. Two types of crystals emitting blue (λemmax = 479 nm) and turquoise (λemmax = 497 nm) photoluminescence (PL) are obtained and found to be interconvertible by the addition and removal of solvent. Single‐crystal X‐ray structure analysis has revealed significant differences between the crystal structures, including the conformation of the BIBn ligands. Theoretical calculations suggest that these conformational differences directly affect the photophysical properties and that the flexibility of the BIBn ligands attached to the CAuI6 core makes this possible. Furthermore, when these crystals are grounded with a spatula, they are found to emit green PL (λemmax = 520 nm) following a partial loss of crystallinity. This is a remarkable example of both vapoluminochromism and mechanoluminochromism in an N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC)‐protected gold cluster and holds promise as a model compound for understanding the principles governing stimuli‐responsiveness in metal clusters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The endosymbiont Wolbachia manipulates host reproduction by several strategies, one of the most important of which is cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI). CI can be rescued when Wolbachia‐infected males mate with females infected with the same Wolbachia strain. However, the potential rescue mechanism of CI in the small brown planthopper Laodelphax striatellus is unclear. In this study, comparative transcriptome analysis was applied to explore the effect of Wolbachia on L. striatellus eggs. A total of 1387 differentially expressed genes were identified. RNA interference of 7 Wolbachia‐upregulated key planthopper genes reduced egg reproduction, suggesting that Wolbachia might improve fecundity in L. striatellus by affecting these 7 genes. Suppressing the expression of another upregulated gene, NDUFA8 (encoding NADH dehydrogenase [ubiquinone] 1 α subcomplex subunit 8‐like) by RNA interference significantly increased the mortality of early embryos without affecting the number of deposited eggs. Wolbachia infection upregulated the mRNA level of NDUFA8, and dsNDUFA8 treatment of Wolbachia‐infected females recreated CI‐like symptoms, suggesting that NDUFA8 is associated with the rescue phenotype. Because all L. striatellus populations worldwide are infected with Wolbachia, NDUFA8 is a potential pest control target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the clinicopathological and prognostic significance of intestinal metaplasia (IM) in endoscopically resected early gastric carcinoma (EGC). Methods: Altogether 136 consecutive cases with EGC resected by endoscopic submucosal dissection over 5 years were included and divided into the early gastric cardiac (EGCC; n = 60) and non‐cardiac carcinoma (EGNCC; n = 76) groups. Goblet cell IM and subtypes were determined with histology and immunostaining. Recurrence‐free survival (RFS) was compared among various IM groups. Results: IM was identified in 128 (94.1%) EGC cases, including complete IM (n = 39), incomplete IM (n = 27), and mixed IM (n = 62). Incomplete IM was significantly more common in EGCC and exhibited a lower frequency of en bloc resection than the complete subtype. The frequency of synchronous or metachronous gastric tumor was significantly more common in EGCC with complete IM than in those with incomplete IM. Compared to EGC without IM, EGC with IM showed a significantly higher frequency of non‐poorly cohesive carcinoma, en bloc resection, and non‐eCuraC‐1 grade. EGNCC with IM was significantly associated with negative resection margins and en bloc resection. The 5‐year RFS was significantly lower in EGNCC patients with incomplete IM compared with those with mixed IM. The independent risk factors for RFS included tumor size >2 cm and eCuraC‐1 grade. Conclusions: Subtyping IM in EGC helped predict endoscopic resectability, prognosis, and risk of synchronous or metachronous gastric tumor. The significance of IM differed between EGCC and EGNCC. Large studies with longer follow‐up are warranted to validate our findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]