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Background Methods Results Conclusion The existing literature regarding the treatment strategy for high‐power short‐duration (HPSD) ablation in patients diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (AF) is currently insufficient. The objective of this study is to perform a comparative analysis evaluating the effectiveness, safety, and procedural efficiency of HPSD versus cryoballoon ablation (CBA) for AF.A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases to identify trials comparing HPSD with CBA for AF from their inception until December 25, 2023. Treatment effect measures were expressed as odds ratio (OR), mean difference (MD), accompanied by a 95% confidence interval (CI).The analysis comprised six eligible trials involving a total enrollment of 2481 patients. No statistically significant disparities were observed in recurrent atrial arrhythmia (OR 0.90; 95% CI, 0.71–1.16) or total complications (OR 0.65; 95% CI, 0.38–1.12) between the two ablation techniques examined in this study. However, HPSD technique exhibited a significantly prolonged procedure time (MD 27.42; 95% CI, 19.03 to 35.81). Conversely, no significant differences were observed between the two modalities in terms of total fluoroscopy duration (MD −4.37; 95% CI −10.70 to 1.96) and ablation time (MD 7.95; 95% CI −3.97 to 19.88). Furthermore, HPSD demonstrated significantly higher odds of extrapulmonary vein (PV) trigger ablation compared to CBA (OR 18.86; 95% CI, 5.12–69.49). The subgroup analyses revealed that CBA continued to exhibit superior procedure time (except for the paroxysmal AF subgroup: [MD 29.52; 95% CI −4.25 to 63.60]), while no significant differences in safety and efficacy (except for the HPSD ≥ 70 W subgroup: [OR 0.44, 95% CI 0.20–0.97]) outcomes were still observed.Among patients undergoing ablation therapy for AF, both HPSD and CBA demonstrate comparable efficacy and safety profiles; however, HPSD is associated with longer procedural time and higher rates of extra‐PV trigger ablation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pivotal problem in reliability analysis is how to use as few actual assessments as possible to obtain an accurate failure probability. Although adaptive Kriging provides a viable method to address this problem, unsatisfied Kriging surrogate accuracy and reliability modeling samples often lead to an unacceptable computing burden. In this paper, an adaptive optimized Kriging combining efficient sampling (AOK‐ES) is proposed: first, to enhance the Kriging approximation ability, a high‐fidelity optimized Kriging model (OKM) is established; further, to ensure the samples quality of OKM modeling and reliability calculation, an improved Latin hypercube sampling method and an optimized importance sampling approach are developed correspondingly. Six different types of case studies demonstrate the superiority of the proposed AOK‐ES. The analysis results demonstrate that the proposed AOK‐ES holds the potential to reduce computing cost while ensuring accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This study investigates the potential utility of IKZF1 deletion as an additional high‐risk marker for paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). The prognostic impact of IKZF1 status, in conjunction with minimal/measurable residual disease (MRD), was evaluated within the MRD‐guided TPOG‐ALL‐2013 protocol using 412 newly diagnosed B‐ALL patients aged 1–18. IKZF1 status was determined using multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification. IKZF1 deletions, when co‐occurring with CDKN2A, CDKN2B, PAX5 or PAR1 region deletions in the absence of ERG deletions, were termed IKZF1plus. Both IKZF1 deletion (14.6%) and IKZF1plus (7.8%) independently predicted poorer outcomes in B‐ALL. IKZF1plus was observed in 4.1% of Philadelphia‐negative ALL, with a significantly lower 5‐year event‐free survival (53.9%) compared to IKZF1 deletion alone (83.8%) and wild‐type IKZF1 (91.3%) (p < 0.0001). Among patients with Day 15 MRD ≥0.01%, provisional high‐risk patients with IKZF1plus exhibited the worst outcomes in event‐free survival (42.0%), relapse‐free survival (48.0%) and overall survival (72.7%) compared to other groups (p < 0.0001). Integration of IKZF1plus and positive Day 15 MRD identified a subgroup of Philadelphia‐negative B‐ALL with a 50% risk of relapse. This study highlights the importance of assessing IKZF1plus alongside Day 15 MRD positivity to identify patients at increased risk of adverse outcomes, potentially minimizing overtreatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon‐based nanoparticles are widely regarded as promising nanofillers in nanocomposites to pursue advanced properties. To date, there has been a lack of systematic investigation into the structural variations of nanofillers and their influences on dispersion characteristics, as well as the resulting mechanical properties of nanocomposites. In this study, nanodiamond (ND), carbon nanotube (CNT), and graphene (GNP) were selected as the representative zero‐, one‐, and two‐dimensional nanofillers, respectively. A novel functionalization technique utilizing carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) was employed to disperse nanofillers. The various characterization techniques and experimental results revealed that CMC functionalization was effective in reducing the agglomeration and improving the distribution uniformity of all three nanofillers. Among the three nanofillers, zero‐dimensional ND exhibited the most homogeneous dispersion quality in epoxy nanocomposites. The strongest abrasion resistance was found in ND‐reinforced epoxy nanocomposites, while CNT‐reinforced epoxy nanocomposites exhibited the best tensile properties. Highlights: Nanodiamond with a spherical structure had better dispersion characteristics.Cylindrical carbon nanotube and planar graphene tended to agglomerate.Nanodiamond reinforced nanocomposites had better abrasion resistance.Carbon nanotube reinforced nanocomposites had better tensile properties.Carboxymethyl cellulose functionalization was valid for all three nanofillers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To explore the clinical factors associated with pathologic complete response (pCR) for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) patients treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) and develop a web‐based dynamic nomogram. Methods: Retrospective analysis of patients with examination confirmed LARC from 2011 to 2022. Patients from the Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University were included as the training cohort (n = 1579) and Zhangzhou Hospital of Fujian Medical University as the external validation cohort (n = 246). Results: In the training cohort, after nCRT, 350 (22.2%) patients achieved pCR. More stomas were avoided in pCR patients (73.9% vs. 69.7%, p = 0.043). After a median follow‐up time of 47.7 months (IQR 2–145) shown OS (5‐year: 93.7% vs. 81.0%, HR = 0.310, 95%CI: 0.189–0.510, p < 0.001) and DFS (5‐year: 91.2% vs. 75.0%, HR = 0.204, 95%CI: 0.216–0.484, p < 0.001) were significantly better among patients with pCR than non‐pCR. Multivariable Logistic analysis shown pCR was significantly associated with Pre‐CRT CEA (HR = 0.944, 95%CI: 0.921–0.968; p < 0.001), histopathology (HR = 4.608, 95%CI: 2.625–8.089; p < 0.001), Pre‐CRT T stage (HR = 0.793, 95%CI: 0.634–0.993; p = 0.043), Pre‐CRT N stage (HR = 0.727, 95%CI: 0.606–0.873; p = 0.001), Pre‐CRT MRI EMVI (HR = 0.352, 95%CI: 0.262–0.473; p < 0.001), total neoadjuvant therapy (HR = 2.264, 95%CI: 1.280–4.004; p = 0.005). Meanwhile, the online version of the nomogram established in this study was publicized on an open‐access website (URL: https://pcrpredict.shinyapps.io/LARC2/). The model predicted accuracy with a C‐index of 0.73 (95% CI: 0.70–0.75), with an average C‐index of 0.73 for the internal cross validation and 0.78 (95% CI: 0.72–0.83) for the external validation cohort, showing excellent model accuracy. Delong test results showed the model has an important gain value for clinical characteristics to predict pCR in rectal cancer. Conclusions: Patients with pCR had a better prognosis, including OS and DFS, and were independently associated with Pre‐CRT CEA, histopathology, Pre‐CRT T/N stage, Pre‐CRT MRI EMVI, and TNT. A web‐based dynamic nomogram was successfully established for clinical use at any time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Methods Results Conclusion The management of the infrapatellar fat pad (IPFP) during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains controversial. This study aimed to evaluate a novel IPFP preservation technique—“the medially pedicled IPFP flap”—for reducing postoperative pain, wound complications, and improving functional recovery after TKA.A retrospective analysis was conducted on TKA cases at our institution from 2018 to 2021, including those with IPFP preservation (medially pedicled flap) versus IPFP complete resection. Patient demographics, perioperative parameters (blood loss, operative time, length of hospital stay, visual analogue scale [VAS] score, white cell count [WBC], C‐reactive protein [CRP], erythrocyte sedimentation rate [ESR], and wound oozing), and postoperative follow‐up data (VAS, Knee Society [KSS], or Knee Society functional assessment [KSFA] scores) were compared between groups. Independent sample t‐tests were used to compare continuous data and chi‐squared tests were used to compare categorical data between groups.Six hundred thirty patients were included, with 278 in the medial pedicled IPFP flap group (preservation group) and 352 in the IPFP resection group (resection group). The operative time was significantly shorter in the preservation versus resection group (125.5 ± 23.2 vs 130.3 ± 28.7 mins, p = 0.03), as was the length of hospital stay (8.4 ± 2.7 vs 9.2 ± 2.3 days, p < 0.01). Regarding pain, the preservation group had significantly lower VAS scores on postoperative day 2 (2.0 ± 0.8 vs 2.4 ± 1.2, p < 0.001) and day 3 (1.5 ± 0.5 vs 1.8 ± 1.0, p < 0.001). CRP and ESR levels on postoperative day 5 were also significantly lower in the preservation group. Wound oozing rates were significantly lower in the preservation versus resection group (0.7% vs 2.8%, p = 0.04). No significant differences existed in VAS, KSS, or KSFA scores at the last follow‐up.The novel IPFP preservation technique significantly improved surgical exposure, shortened operative time and length of hospital stay. It also reduced wound pain and oozing compared to IPFP resection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymer‐clay nanocomposites (PCNs) are commonly applied as multi‐functional structural materials with exceptional thermomechanical properties, while maintaining the characteristics of lightweight and optical clarity. In this study, building upon previously developed coarse‐grained (CG) models for nanoclay and poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), we employ molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to systematically investigate the thermomechanical properties of PCNs when arranged in stacked configurations. Incorporating stacked clay nanofillers into a polymer matrix, we systematically conduct shear and tensile simulations to investigate the influences of variations in weight percentage, system temperature, and nanoclay size on the thermomechanical properties of PCNs at a fundamental level. The weight percentage of nanoclay in nanocomposites proves to have a significant influence on both the shear and Young's modulus (e.g., the addition of 10 Wt% nanoclay leads to an increase of 32.6% in the Young's modulus), with each exhibiting greater mechanical strength in the in‐plane direction compared to the out‐of‐plane direction, and the disparity between these two directions further widens with an increase in the weight percentage of nanoclay. Furthermore, the increase in the size of nanoclay contributes to an overall modulus enhancement in the composite while the growth reaches a saturation point after a certain threshold of about 10 nm. Our simulation results indicate that the overall dynamics of PMMA are suppressed due to the strong interactions between nanoclay and PMMA, where the confinement effect on local segmental dynamics of PMMA decays from the nanoclay‐polymer interface to the polymer matrix. Our findings provide valuable molecular‐level insights into microstructural and dynamical features of PCNs under deformation, emphasizing the pivotal role of clay‐polymer interface in influencing the thermomechanical properties of the composite materials. Highlights: CG modeling is performed to explore the thermomechanical behavior of PCN.Effects of nanoclay weight percentage and size on modulus are studied.Interface leads to nanoconfinement effect on Tg and molecular stiffness.Correlations between molecular stiffness and modulus are identified.Simulations show spatial variation of dynamical heterogeneity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The corneal epithelium is the outermost transparent barrier of the eyeball and undergoes continuous self‐renewal by limbal stem cells (LSCs) during its lifetime; however, the impact of aging on LSCs remains largely unknown. Here, we showed that the healing ability of the cornea in elderly macaques (Macaca fascicularis) was significantly decreased compared to that of younger macaques. This delayed wound closure accompanied a disordered cell arrangement and corneal opacity. A novel cytokine, Secreted and Transmembrane 1 (SECTM1), was found to facilitate corneal healing and was upregulated in young macaques upon wounding. Mechanistically, SECTM1 is essential for LSC migration and proliferation, and may partially function through Cell Division Cycle Associated 7 (CDCA7). Notably, the topical application of SECTM1 to aged wounded corneas dramatically promoted re‐epithelialization and improved corneal transparency in both mice and macaques. Our work suggests that aging may impair the expression of healing response factors and injury repair in non‐human primate corneas, and that SECTM1 application could potentially benefit corneal wound healing in clinical treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While soybean (Glycine max L.) provides the most important source of vegetable oil and protein, it is sensitive to salinity, which seriously endangers the yield and quality during soybean production. The application of Plant Growth‐Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) to improve salt tolerance for plant is currently gaining increasing attention. Streptomycetes are a major group of PGPR. However, to date, few streptomycetes has been successfully developed and applied to promote salt tolerance in soybean. Here, we discovered a novel PGPR strain, Streptomyces lasalocidi JCM 3373T, from 36 strains of streptomycetes via assays of their capacity to alleviate salt stress in soybean. Microscopic observation showed that S. lasalocidi JCM 3373T does not colonise soybean roots. Chemical analysis confirmed that S. lasalocidi JCM 3373T secretes indole‐3‐carboxaldehyde (ICA1d). Importantly, IAC1d inoculation alleviates salt stress in soybean and modulates its root architecture by regulating the expression of stress‐responsive genes GmVSP, GmPHD2 and GmWRKY54 and root growth‐related genes GmPIN1a, GmPIN2a, GmYUCCA5 and GmYUCCA6. Taken together, the novel PGPR strain, S. lasalocidi JCM 3373T, alleviates salt stress and improves root architecture in soybean by secreting ICA1d. Our findings provide novel clues for the development of new microbial inoculant and the improvement of crop productivity under salt stress. Summary statement: Streptomyces lasalocidi JCM 3373T, selected from 36 species of streptomycetes, alleviates salt tolerance and shapes root architecture by secreting a metabolite‐indole‐3‐carboxaldehyde in soybean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Primary pulmonary lymphoepithelioma‐like carcinoma (PLELC) is a subtype of lung carcinoma associated with the Epstein–Barr virus (EBV). The clinical predictive biomarkers of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) in PLELC require further investigation. Methods: We prospectively analysed EBV levels in the blood and immune tumor biomarkers of 31 patients with ICB‐treated PLELC. Viral EBNA‐1 and BamHI‐W DNA fragments in the plasma were quantified in parallel using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Results: Progression‐free survival (PFS) was significantly longer in EBNA‐1 high or BamHI‐W high groups. A longer PFS was also observed in patients with both high plasma EBNA‐1 or BamHI‐W and PD‐L1 ≥ 1%. Intriguingly, the tumor mutational burden was inversely correlated with EBNA‐1 and BamHI‐W. Plasma EBV load was negatively associated with intratumoral CD8+ immune cell infiltration. Dynamic changes in plasma EBV DNA level were in accordance with the changes in tumor volume. An increase in EBV DNA levels during treatment indicated molecular progression that preceded the imaging progression by several months. Conclusions: Plasma EBV DNA could be a useful and easy‐to‐use biomarker for predicting the clinical activity of ICB in PLELC and could serve to monitor disease progression earlier than computed tomography imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backgrounds: The aim of this study was to assess the significant risk factors that predict lymph node metastasis in ypT0 patients with locally advanced rectal cancer following chemoradiotherapy (CRT). Additionally, the study aimed to identify high‐risk groups who would not be suitable candidates for a rectal‐preserving strategy, despite achieving a complete tumour response. Methods: Between 2013 and 2021, 226 ypT0 patients with stages II/III rectal cancer underwent CRT and radical surgery were enrolled. Two groups of patients were evaluated: those with lymph nodes metastasis and those without. The selection of variables for multivariable logistic regression was conducted through bivariate logistic regression analysis. Furthermore, the determination of optimal cutoff values for risk factors was achieved using ROC curve analysis. Results: Nearly 8% (18/226) of patients with ypT0 had positive lymph nodes (LN) on final pathology. Four variables resulted as being independent factors of LN metastasis: pre‐CRT tumour movability (OR = 8.618, P = 0.003), pre‐CRT maximal LN size (OR = 28.474, P = 0.004), post‐CRT tumour vertical length (OR = 1.492, P = 0.050), post‐CRT anaemia (OR = 10.288, P = 0.001). The optimal cutoff point of pre‐CRT maximal LN size and post‐CRT tumour vertical length was 7.50 mm and 3.05 cm, respectively. Conclusion: The prevalence of lymph node metastasis remains at 8% among patients who achieve pathological complete regression of the primary tumour. In instances where patients are considered appropriate candidates for a rectal‐preserving strategy after clinical complete remission, careful consideration should be given to the selection of this strategy if specific risk factors are present. These risk factors encompass a maximal LN size surpassing 7.50 mm prior to CRT, a fixed tumour prior to CRT, a tumour vertical length exceeding 3.05 cm after CRT, and the existence of anaemia subsequent to CRT. This study is the first to utilize detailed MRI parameters in conjunction with clinical examination to predict lymph node metastasis in ypT0 patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) images can capture the atomic‐resolution details of the dynamically changing structure of nanomaterials. Here, we propose a new scheme and an improved reconstruction algorithm to reconstruct the exit wave function for each image in a focal series of HRTEM images to reveal structural changes. In this scheme, the wave reconstructed from the focal series of images is treated as the initial wave in the reconstruction process for each HRTEM image. Additionally, to suppress noise at the frequencies where the signal is weak due to the modulation of the lens transfer function, a weight factor is introduced in the improved reconstruction algorithm. The advantages of the new scheme and algorithms are validated by using the HRTEM images of a natural specimen and a single‐layer molybdenum disulphide. This algorithm enables image resolution enhancement and lens aberration removal, while potentially allowing the visualisation of the structural evolution of nanostructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comprehensive Summary Many industries are plagued by economic losses and product failures caused by counterfeit goods. Therefore, advanced anti‐counterfeiting techniques are continuously needed. In this study, we constructed a series of acid‐base sensitive cyclic chalcone dyes A—F by modifying different electron‐donating groups. Differences in acid sensitivity of different structures are well rationalised by NMR and theoretical calculations. Aniline is difficult to protonate than fatty amines, so there is a difference in fluorescence. Hiding and anti‐counterfeiting of information is achieved by this phenomenon. Powder X and Y are the anti‐counterfeit fluorescent powder containing montmorillonite and cyclic chalcone, which have orange fluorescence and the very similar appearance. However, under the influence of acid the Powder X containing triphenylamine modified cyclic chalcone shows red shifted fluorescence and Powder Y containing morpholino and diethylamino groups modified cyclic chalcone shows blue shifted fluorescence. Therefore, the anti‐counterfeiting strategy based on cyclic chalcone is not only limited to UV‐irradiated fluorescence development, but also has more colorization and pattern variations with the aid of acid developer. Data encryption and decryption of numbers, English alphabets and Chinese characters have been realized using A—F, which have great potential for practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accumulation of abnormal chondroitin sulfate (CS) chains in breast cancer tissue is correlated with poor prognosis. However, the biological functions of these CS chains in cancer progression remain largely unknown, impeding the development of targeted treatment focused on CS. Previous studies identified chondroitin polymerizing factor (CHPF; also known as chondroitin sulfate synthase 2) is the critical enzyme regulating CS accumulation in breast cancer tissue. We then assessed the association between CHPF‐associated proteoglycans (PGs) and signaling pathways in breast cancer datasets. The regulation between CHPF and syndecan 1 (SDC1) was examined at both the protein and RNA levels. Confocal microscopy and image flow cytometry were employed to quantify macropinocytosis. The effects of the 6‐O‐sulfated CS‐binding peptide (C6S‐p) on blocking CS functions were tested in vitro and in vivo. Results indicated that the expression of CHPF and SDC1 was tightly associated within primary breast cancer tissue, and high expression of both genes exacerbated patient prognosis. Transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β) signaling was implicated in the regulation of CHPF and SDC1 in breast cancer cells. CHPF supported CS–SDC1 stabilization on the cell surface, modulating macropinocytotic activity in breast cancer cells under nutrient‐deprived conditions. Furthermore, C6S‐p demonstrated the ability to bind CS‐SDC1, increase SDC1 degradation, suppress macropinocytosis of breast cancer cells, and inhibit tumor growth in vivo. Although other PGs may also be involved in CHPF‐regulated breast cancer malignancy, this study provides the first evidence that a CS synthase participates in the regulation of macropinocytosis in cancer cells by supporting SDC1 expression on cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hematological indicators of chronic systemic inflammation are significant biomarkers for gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP‐NENs). We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis to assess the impact of certain factors on the overall survival (OS), progression‐free survival (PFS), and disease‐free survival (DFS) of patients with GEP‐NENs. These factors include the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lymphocyte/monocyte ratio (LMR), and C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels. After searching the Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases from January 1, 2000 to October 20, 2022 and the American Society of Clinical Oncology conference proceedings from January 1, 2017, hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were extracted. Subgroup analyses were conducted to identify the origins of heterogeneity and examine the impact of factor grouping. The effects of the cut‐off values and sample size were assessed by meta‐regression. The results revealed that higher NLRs, PLRs, and CRP levels were associated with shorter OS (HR = 2.09, 95% CI = 1.55–2.8; HR = 1.79, 95% CI = 1.40–2.28; and HR = 2.88, 95% CI = 2.09–3.95, respectively; all p < 0.001). Higher NLRs and lower LMRs were associated with shorter DFS (HR = 3.34, 95% CI = 2.11–5.29 and HR = 2.71, 95% CI = 2.27–3.24, respectively; both p < 0.001). Higher PLRs and CRP levels were correlated with shorter PFS (HR = 3.48, 95% CI = 1.34–9.03, p = 0.01 and HR = 3.14, 95% CI = 1.63–6.08, p = 0.001). As demonstrated in the research, hematological indicators of systemic inflammation are promising biomarkers for GEP‐NEN assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat‐resistant polymer materials have been widely used in many fields, but their anticounterfeit is still a significant challenge. This work has successfully constructed a heat‐resistant polymer material that can achieve self‐anticounterfeit. In response to changes in the external environment, the color of polymer changes from yellow‐green to red reversibly, which is due to the fact that polymer material's backbone undergoes isomerization. Therefore, this high‐performance polymer material can not only be used in a high‐temperature environment for a long time but also achieve its anticounterfeit and be used in advanced security applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anionic redox activity can trigger structural instability in Li‐rich Mn‐based cathodes. Lattice oxygen activity can be tuned through liquid acid‐induced spinel phases and oxygen vacancies. However, the liquid‐acid‐modified surface is still attacked by the electrolyte. Besides, the underlying mechanism of spinel phase suppression of lattice oxygen activity is controversial. Here, a solid acid strategy for modification is proposed and the underlying mechanism is investigated in detail. Unique solid acid can in situ generate an interface protection layer and remarkably stabilize the structure. Theoretical calculations and experimental characterizations reveal that the spinel phase suppresses the irreversible loss of lattice oxygen by decreasing the O 2p non‐bonding energy level and enriching electrons at the layered/spinel phase interface. The inert layer on the surface prevents highly active On− from being attacked by electrolytes. The obtained material exhibits significantly reduced irreversible lattice oxygen release and improved electrochemical performance. After 300 cycles, a slow capacity fading of 0.177 mAh g−1 per cycle and suppressed voltage fading are achieved. This study reveals the regulation method and mechanism for the anion activity of oxide cathodes in next‐generation Li‐ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Thermage is a monopolar radiofrequency (RF). It has become an indispensable part of facial and body youthful methods. Although the current device is constantly improving in epidermal cooling techniques and even automatically measures the local impedance value, applying surface anesthesia can take some of the pain away caused by thermage, and the patient's severe pain in the jaw and neck areas is still difficult to resolve. Methods: The author describes how he uses the combination of the buccal nerve block (BNB) and the superficial cervical plexus block (SCPB) to improve the comfort of the patient's face and neck treatment of patients. It can improve the quality, elasticity, and texture of the skin. Results: According to the author's knowledge of oral and maxillofacial surgery, the combination of BNB and SCPB is applied to the neck and facial analgesia. Combining the BNB and SCPB effectively provides facial and neck anesthesia. The BNB in this technique provides pain relief to the facial skin in the mandibular area and SCPB offers pain relief to the skin of the neck. RF facial rejuvenation treatment often involves the junction of the face and neck to improve the contour of the mandibular margin. Therefore, Whether the RF treatment is aimed at the face or neck, or the treatment is performed simultaneously, we advocate the block both of the buccal nerve and the superficial cervical plexus nerves to achieve perfect analgesia. Still, the dosage of anesthetic medication for the nerve block can be adjusted according to the treatment area. Conclusion: We applied these two nerve blocks and their combination to improve skin laxity with RF therapy for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Basolateral amygdala (BLA), as a center for stress responses and emotional regulation, is involved in visceral hypersensitivity of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) induced by stress. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the role of EphB2 receptor (EphB2) in BLA and explore the underlying mechanisms in this process. Methods: Visceral hypersensitivity was induced by water avoidance stress (WAS). Elevated plus maze test, forced swimming test, and sucrose preference test were applied to assess anxiety‐ and depression‐like behaviors. Ibotenic acid or lentivirus was used to inactivate BLA in either the induction or maintenance stage of visceral hypersensitivity. The expression of protein was determined by quantitative PCR, immunofluorescence, and western blot. Results: EphB2 expression was increased in BLA in WAS rats. Inactivation of BLA or downregulation of EphB2 in BLA failed to induce visceral hypersensitivity as well as anxiety‐like behaviors. However, during the maintenance stage of visceral pain, visceral hypersensitivity was only partially relieved but anxiety‐like behaviors were abolished by inactivation of BLA or downregulation of EphB2 in BLA. Chronic WAS increased the expression of EphB2, N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptors (NMDARs), and postsynaptic density protein (PSD95) in BLA. Downregulation of EphB2 in BLA reduced NMDARs and PSD95 expression in WAS rats. However, activation of NMDARs after the knockdown of EphB2 expression still triggered visceral hypersensitivity and anxiety‐like behaviors. Conclusions: Taken together, the results suggest that EphB2 in BLA plays an essential role in inducing visceral hypersensitivity. In the maintenance stage, the involvement of EphB2 is crucial but not sufficient. The increase in EphB2 induced by WAS may enhance synaptic plasticity in BLA through upregulating NMDARs, which results in IBS‐like symptoms. These findings may give insight into the treatment of IBS and related psychological distress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the association between disease location and segmental mucosal healing (SMH) following exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) in children with Crohn's disease (CD). Methods: Treatment‐naive pediatric patients with endoscopically active CD treated with EEN alone as induction therapy were retrospectively enrolled from January 1, 2017 to June 30, 2022. The simple endoscopic score for CD (SES‐CD) was employed to score disease activity in the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract (esophagus, stomach, duodenum), rectum, left colon, transverse colon, right colon, and terminal ileum. While the Lewis score assessed that of the small bowel from the jejunum to the proximal ileum (except the terminal ileum). The variation in the total scores for each segment and SES‐CD subscores for each ileocolonic segment from baseline to 1 year after EEN therapy and the segmental endoscopic outcomes and potential predictors associated with SMH for the segments scored by SES‐CD were evaluated. Results: Overall, 82 children with CD were enrolled. Except for the upper GI segment, scores in other segments declined significantly from baseline to EEN completion (all P < 0.001). We analyzed 486 segments (79, 80, 81, 82, 82 and 82 from upper GI tract, terminal ileum, right colon, transverse colon, left colon, and rectum) and found that the segmental SES‐CD at baseline (odds ratio [OR] 0.62, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.55–0.70, P < 0.001) and upper GI location (OR 0.25, 95% CI 0.11–0.55, P = 0.001) were associated with SMH at EEN completion. Conclusion: Disease location of the upper GI segment in pediatric CD was associated with SMH following EEN therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA) is still unclear. Fatty acid binding protein 4 (FABP4), a novel adipokine, has been found to play a role in OA. This study aimed to explore the role of NF‐κB in FABP4‐induced OA. In the in vivo study, four pairs of 12‐week‐old male FABP4 knockout (KO) and wild‐type (WT) mice were included. The activation of NF‐κB was assessed. In parallel, 24 6‐week‐old male C57/Bl6 mice were fed a high‐fat diet (HFD) and randomly allocated to four groups: daily oral gavage with (1) PBS solution; (2) QNZ (NF‐κB‐specific inhibitor, 1 mg/kg/d); (3) BMS309403 (FABP4‐specific inhibitor, 30 mg/kg/d); and (4) BMS309403 (30 mg/kg/d) + QNZ (1 mg/kg/d). The diet and treatment were sustained for 4 months. The knee joints were obtained to assess cartilage degradation, NF‐κB activation, and subchondral bone sclerosis. In the in vitro study, a mouse chondrogenic cell line (ATDC5) was cultured. FABP4 was supplemented to stimulate chondrocytes, and the activation of NF‐κB was investigated. In parallel, QNZ and NF‐κB‐specific siRNA were used to inhibit NF‐κB. In vivo, the FABP4 WT mice had more significant NF‐κB activation than the KO mice. Dual inhibition of FABP4 and NF‐κB alleviated knee OA in mice. FABP4 has no significant effect on the activation of the JNK signaling pathway. In vitro, FABP4 directly activated NF‐κB in chondrocytes. The use of QNZ and NF‐κB‐siRNA significantly alleviated the expression of catabolic markers of chondrocytes induced by FABP4. FABP4 induces chondrocyte degeneration by activating the NF‐κB pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a common and serious complication of diabetes, and its treatment is challenging. Platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) gel and umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC‐MSCs) gel have been concerned as new therapies for DFU in recent years, and comparative studies on the efficacy and mechanisms of these methods, however, are rarely reported. Methods: Thirty patients with DFU were selected and divided into the PRP group and the UC‐MSCs group, and wound healing, foot blood vessels (ABI index), infection index (CRP), neuropathy symptoms (TCSS score), and foot skin temperature before and after treatment were compared between the two groups. SPSS 21.0 was used for statistical analysis. Results: The results showed that the efficacy of the UC‐MSCs gel group was significantly better than that of the PRP group in terms of wound healing rate, time to complete wound closure, ABI index, CRP level and TCSS score. No statistically significant difference in foot skin temperature was observed between the two groups. Conclusion: The efficacy of UC‐MSCs gel is significantly superior to that of PRP gel in the treatment of DFU, with shortened time to complete wound closure, increased wound healing rate, better pain and infection control, and improved vascular and neurological symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of adalimumab (ADA) combined with Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F (TwHF) in the treatment of methotrexate (MTX)‐inadequate response patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods: In this multicenter, open‐label, randomized controlled clinical trial, 64 RA patients with inadequate response to MTX were 1:1 randomly assigned into treatment or control groups. The treatment group was treated with ADA in combination with TwHF, and the control group was treated with ADA in combination with MTX for 24 weeks. The primary endpoint was the percentage of patients having low disease activity (2.6 ≤ DAS28‐ESR < 3.2) and remission rates (DAS28‐ESR < 2.6) at week 24. Results: In total, 53 of the 64 patients (82.8%) completed this 24‐week clinical trial. By intent‐to‐treat (ITT) analysis, a comparable outcome was observed between the two groups. The percentage of patients achieving low disease activity in the treatment group and control group were 43.8% and 46.9% (95% CI, 21.28 to 27.48, p =.802). Percentage of patients achieving low disease activity rates were respectively 28.1% and 31.3% in the treatment group and control group (95% CI, 19.18 to 25.58, p =.784). In per‐protocol (PP) analysis, the results were consistent with the ITT model. The incidence of adverse events was comparable between the two groups. Conclusions: There were no significant differences in efficacy and safety between ADA combined with TwHF versus ADA combined with MTX in the treatment of RA. TwHF might be an alternative treatment for RA patients who are intolerant to MTX. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synsepalum dulcificum is one of the well‐known edible and ornamental plants with its unique flavour changing function of sour taste. In 2021, a new leaf spot disease was observed on S. dulcificum during a field survey in Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, China. The pathogen was isolated and identified using morphological examination and phylogeny based on multi‐gene sequences analysis of the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS), translation elongation factor 1‐alpha (TEF), and beta‐ tubulin (TUB) genes. The isolates were identified as Neopestalotiopsis iberica. The pathogenicity of N. iberica on S. dulcificum was validated fulfilling Koch's postulates, causing leaf spots disease. To our knowledge, this represents the first report of leaf spot disease on S. dulcificum caused by N. iberica worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]