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[Display omitted] • A-site fluorinated D-A polymer PxF-T hybridized CdS photocatalyst are prepared. • Photocatalytic activity of the hybrid catalyst has been enhanced by ca. 30 times. • Carrier lifetimes in hybrid catalyst has been prolonged over 200 ps. • D-A polarity shows direct impact on photocatalytic performance. • Trade-off effect of fluorination on D-A polarity is discovered. Conventional inorganic semiconducting photocatalysts are facing insufficient light harvesting as well as severe charge recombination problems. Constructing heterostructures is a well-known strategy for accelerating charge separation, especially when hybridizing with donor–acceptor (D-A) conjugated polymers, which features tunable bandgap and high absorption coefficient, these problems can be simultaneously eased. However, the singlet exciton binding energy of D-A polymers is too high for efficient exciton dissociation. In this work, we designed fluorine substituted D-A polymer PxF-T (x = 1, 2, 4) and studied polarity effect on the interfacial charge transfer in CdS/PxF-T. By adjusting the numbers of F substitutions in the acceptor unit, the electron-withdrawing ability of A site can be improved while the polarity of the whole organic molecules is tuned. Among 1, 2, 4 substitutions, the photocatalytic hydrogen production results show that the single F substitution induces the most efficient hydrogen production activity of 6327.7 μmol·g−1·h−1, which is 30.1 times higher than that of pristine CdS. In addition, electrochemical test and time-resolved transient absorption study further confirmed the improved charge transfer activity. Density functional theory calculations reveal that the F introduction induced polarity change is responsible for the improved interfacial charge transfer efficiency, however the increased number of substitutions is not necessarily favorable for improved polarity. This work uncovers the effect of fluorine substitution on the intramolecular polarity of D-A semiconductor for the fabrication of efficient hybrid photocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The memristive effect become a bio-electronics research focus with the development of sustainable systems and the application of multifunctional electronic devices. In this paper, the natural Lophatherum gracile Brongn (LGB) was employed as active layer to prepare Ag/LGB/fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) bio-memristor. Further, different doping ratios nano silver powders (Ag nanoparticle) were doped into LGB functional layers at 0 wt%, 0.2 wt%, 0.33 wt%, 1.0 wt%, 2.0 wt%, 10.0 wt% and 20.0 wt%. It is found that the capacitive-coupled memristive performance of the Ag/Ag-doped-LGB/FTO devices was markedly changed. Finally, it is confirmed that Ag ions transferring and Ag filament formation under the applied voltage are responsible for capacitive-coupled memristive behavior. This research has revealed the realization of capacitive-coupled memristive effect of bio-memristor, which opens a new way to achieve multifunctional performance for electronic device. Image 1 • Natural LGB can be used as a functional layer for preparation of bio-memristor. • The Ag/Ag-doped-LGB/FTO devices were prepared by spin-coating method. • A capacitive-coupled memristive effect is observed in Ag/Ag-doped-LGB/FTO device. • The Ag/Ag-2.0 wt% doped-LGB/FTO device display largest HRS/LRS resistance ratio. • This work reveals that the natural LGB is a useful functional layer in bio-memristor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared with a disordered network, the ordered framework is more beneficial to improving the multifunctional properties (including thermal, electrical, and mechanical properties) of epoxy-based composites. However, current methods for building aligned structures are both energy and time-consuming on account of the tedious and lengthy lyophilization process. Herein, a new strategy is proposed to obtain low-density graphene aerogels (GAs) with long-range oriented structures through a lyophilization-free processes. Due to the minimum thermal boundary resistance, the prepared aligned graphene/epoxy composite exhibits an ultrahigh thermal conductivity of ∼11.6 W/(m·K) at a graphene content of 1.84 vol%, i.e., an enhancement efficiency of 3640% per 1 vol%. In addition, the compressive strength of the composite is increased by 2.6 times compared to epoxy (from 0.29 MPa to 0.76 MPa). Because the composite shows a modulus as low as 0.5–1.0 MPa, it has excellent deformability and compression performance. Moreover, the obtained 3-mm-thick composite achieves an electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness (EMI SE) of 40 dB due to the interconnected graphene network structure, which meets the requirements of commercial EMI shielding applications. Hence, this strategy can be used to synthesize aligned graphene/epoxy composites with excellent multifunctional performances, which can be simultaneously used as elastic thermal interface materials (TIMs) and EMI shielding materials in the fields of advanced electronic packaging. [Display omitted] • Aligned graphene aerogel (GA) was fabricated by a lyophilization-free approach. • The compressive strength of the composite is increased by 2.6 times compared to epoxy (0.29 MPa to 0.76 MPa) and the composite shows a modulus as low as 0.48–1.0 MPa, exhibiting excellent deformability and compression performance. • The vertical pathways and high-quality give composite an ultrahigh thermal conductivity (∼11.6 W/m·K) with ultralow graphene loading (1.84 vol%), i.e., an enhancement efficiency of 3640% per 1 vol%. • The obtained 3-mm-thick composite achieves an electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness of 40 dB due to the interconnected network structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This study evaluated the long-term benefits of atezolizumab in NSCLC in China. • Clinically meaningful benefits and no new safety concerns were observed. • Gene mutations that were enriched in atezolizumab responders were identified. • Patient subgroups with higher rates of atezolizumab-related SAEs were identified. To evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of atezolizumab monotherapy in Chinese patients with previously treated, locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In this open-label, single-arm, multicenter study, patients received atezolizumab 1200 mg intravenously on Day 1 of each 21-day cycle. The primary endpoint was incidence of atezolizumab-related serious adverse events (SAEs). Secondary endpoints included other safety and efficacy measures. Patients with available tumor tissue and blood samples underwent biomarker analyses. Patients with available tumor biopsies underwent exome sequencing. The safety and evaluable populations included 101 and 97 patients, respectively. Exome sequencing data were available for 31 patients. Median follow-up time was 27.43 months. Atezolizumab-related SAEs and immune-related adverse events occurred in 25.7% and 47.5% of the safety population, respectively, and in the following subgroups: central nervous system metastases (n = 14), 35.7% and 35.7%; squamous NSCLC (n = 39), 33.3% and 53.8%. The 24-month overall survival rate was 37.4%. Median overall survival and progression-free survival by RECIST v1.1 were 15.31 and 2.86 months, respectively; objective response rate was 16.5% in the evaluable population. PRRC2C (odds ratio: 12.780, P = 0.014) and ZMYND8 (odds ratio: 19.963, P = 0.016) gene mutations were significantly enriched in atezolizumab responders vs non-responders. Patients with CD8+ TILs > 10% vs ≤ 10% were significantly more likely to be atezolizumab responders. No new safety concerns were raised, and clinically meaningful benefits of atezolizumab monotherapy were shown. The results of the biomarker analyses may guide future therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Infection is one of the main reasons for hospitalization worldwide, and is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular mortality. It is unclear whether this association is modified by the presence of reduced renal function. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and cardiovascular mortality in patients hospitalized with infection. Methods This cohort study included all adult, incident patients who were hospitalized at one of four hospitals in China between 2012 and 2015, had a discharge diagnosis of infection, and had a serum creatinine measurement at admission. Patients receiving renal replacement therapy were excluded. Hospital data were linked to death registry data. All-cause and cardiovascular mortality were evaluated according to admission eGFR [≥60 (reference), 30–59 and < 30 mL/min/1.73m2] using multivariable Cox regression and competing risk analyses. Results During a median follow-up period of 2.39 years, 40,524 patients were hospitalized with infection (mean age 61 years, 54.3% female 18.4% diabetic). Of these, 4781 died. Lower admission eGFR was associated with progressively increased risks of cardiovascular mortality (≥60 mL/min/1.73m2 reference; 30–59 mL/min/1.73m2 subdistribution hazard ratio [SHR] 2.15, 95% CI 1.85–2.50, P<.01; <30 mL/min/1.73m2 SHR 3.19, 95% CI 2.68–3.80, P <.01). The proportion of deaths due to cardiovascular disease increased as the eGFR decreased, predominantly due to ischemic heart disease. Conclusions Patients hospitalized with infections and reduced renal function have significantly increased risks of cardiovascular mortality. Heart status should be carefully monitored following infections, especially for those with reduced renal function. Highlights • Infections increase cardiovascular mortality in patients with reduced eGFR. • Cardiovascular death after infections are predominantly due to ischemic heart disease. • Heart status should be monitored following infections, especially for those with reduced eGFR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Recent research has paid little attention to the difference in shear strength between discontinuities with different joint wall material (DDJM) and discontinuities with identical joint wall material (DIJM) and what are the controlling factors of shear properties of DDJM. Bedding planes between argillaceous limestone and mudstone in the Badong formation in the Three Gorges area of China were investigated using physical model tests. The effect of joint wall material combination on the shear properties of DDJM was first revealed by conducting tests on a series of artificial joint specimens that were made of different joint wall materials and with varying joint surface topographies under different normal stresses. The results indicate that: the peak shear strength of DDJM is not equal to the lower peak shear strength of DIJM for two joint wall materials of the DDJM, even so it is closer to the lower peak shear strength than to the higher one; effect of joint roughness and normal stress on peak shear strength of DDJM is similar with DIJM; effect of joint wall material combination on peak shear strength of DDJM is greater with larger roughness and higher normal stresses. Based on the data acquired from the physical model tests, a new empirical equation to estimate the peak shear strength of DDJM was developed. The capability of the equation was validated by comparing estimates with data from direct shear tests on natural DDJM samples gained from the Badong formation. Finally, the proposed empirical equation was applied to the stability analysis of a rock slope in the Badong formation. Highlights • Discontinuities with different joint wall material (DDJM) were studied. • Physical model tests were performed to investigate shear properties of DDJM. • Effect of joint material combination was first revealed. • A new equation to estimate shear strength of DDJM was proposed and validated. • The proposed equation was applied in the stability analysis of a rock slope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The creep behavior of bagasse-based composites with virgin and recycled polyvinyl chloride (B/PVC) and high density polyethylene (B/HDPE) as well as a commercial wood and HDPE composite decking material was investigated. The instantaneous deformation and creep rate of all composites at the same loading level increased at higher temperatures. At a constant load level, B/PVC composites had better creep resistance than B/HDPE systems at low temperatures. However, B/PVC composites showed greater temperature-dependence. Several creep models (i.e., Burgers model, Findley’s power law model, and a simpler two-parameter power law model) were used to fit the measured creep data. Time–temperature superposition (TTS) was attempted for long-term creep prediction. The four-element Burgers model and the two-parameter power law model fitted creep curves of the composites well. The TTS principle more accurately predicted the creep response of the PVC composites compared to the HDPE composites. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The working models of LCoS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon) were optimized in parameter space by simulation. Two modes were selected, which were suitable for phase modulation. One was the RTN-52° mode, the other was parallel alignment ECB mode. Phase changes were measured when various voltages are applied to LCoS. In addition, we showed some results when the LCoS was used as a Fresnel lens. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Photocatalytic ozonation offers a potential approach for highly efficient organic degradation by in-situ generation of reactive •OH via electron reduction of ozone. Herein, we synthesized a Mn single atom photocatalyst for promoting the •OH generation from O 3 activation under visible light irradiation. Theoretical calculation and experimental studies reveal that Mn single atoms on carbon nitride significantly promote the excitation and transfer of photo-generated electrons, making charge carriers enriched around MnN 4 sites and shortening their migration path to participate in surface reactions. Meanwhile, Mn single atoms serve as adsorption and catalytic sites for O 3 , favoring a fast one-electron-reduction reaction kinetics. More importantly, the trade-off between the number of available electrons and active sites in photocatalytic performance was observed from regulating the density of Mn single atoms. This work offers an intriguing regulation strategy for enriching surface charges on single atom catalyst interface toward efficient •OH production and removal of aqueous organics. [Display omitted] • Mn single atom catalysts demonstrate high performance in photocatalytic ozonation. • The anchored Mn single atoms enrich photo charge carriers for promoting O 3 adsorption. • One-electron reduction path ensures efficient O 3 activation to hydroxyl radicals. • A higher Mn single atom density favors higher photocatalytic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Magnetic nanoplatform was developed to overcome tumor hypoxia. • The enhanced SDT plays a great role in the alleviation of thermotolerance. • The synergistic effect between SDT/MHT was revealed via modulating ROS and HSPs. As a promising treatment modality with spatial and temporal control, alternating magnetic field (AMF) triggered magnetic hyperthermal therapy (MHT) shows broad and promising applications to overcome the drawbacks of traditional focal therapies in combating cancer. However, the MHT efficacy is still not satisfactory with the presence of heat shock proteins (HSPs). In addition, sustained tumor hypoxia haunts practical implications for the treatment of solid tumors. Herein, a novel magnetic nanosystem composed of hollow iron oxide nanoparticles (HIONs), Fe 3 O 4 , and sonosensitizers, hematoporphyrin (HP) was rationally designed and successfully synthesized. The hollow HIONs show a large inner cavity for loading sonosensitizer molecules and possess nanozyme activity for catalyzing decomposition of endogenous overexpressed hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) to produce molecular oxygen (O 2) that can overcome tumor hypoxia, thus augmenting the sonodynamic therapy (SDT)-induced highly toxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) production for efficient cancer cell apoptosis. Importantly, the generated ROS can also activates the cleavage of HSPs that further eliminate themotolerance and facilitates MHT efficacy. The synergistic catalysis-enhanced SDT efficiency and MHT effect realized most potent tumor suppression efficacy. This work develops a versatile nanoplatform for a multifunctional strategy and broadens the biological applications by rationally designing their structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insecticidal proteins from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can provide safe and effective control of some major pests, but evolution of resistance by pests diminishes these benefits. Better understanding of the genetics and mechanisms of resistance is urgently needed to improve methods for monitoring, managing, and countering pest resistance to Bt toxins. Here we used CRISPR-mediated knockouts to evaluate the role of five genes encoding candidate Bt toxin receptors in Spodoptera exigua (beet armyworm), a devastating pest of vegetable, field and flower crops. We compared susceptibility to Bt toxins Cry1Ac, Cry1Fa, and Cry1Ca between the parent susceptible strain and each of five strains homozygous for the knockout of one of the candidate genes (SeAPN1, SeCad1, SeABCC1, SeABCC2 or SeABCC3). The results from the 15 pairwise comparisons reveal that SeABCC2 has a major role and SeCad1 a minor role in mediating toxicity of Cry1Ac and Cry1Fa. SeABCC2 also has a minor role in toxicity of Cry1Ca. In addition, the results imply little or no role for the other three candidate receptors in toxicity of Cry1Ac or Cry1Fa; or for the four candidate receptors other than SeABCC2 in toxicity of Cry1Ca. Image 1 • CRISPR-mediated knockouts used to evaluate the role of five genes encoding candidate Bt receptors in Spodoptera exigua. • SeABCC2 has a major role and SeCad1 a minor role in mediating toxicity of Cry1Ac and Cry1Fa. • SeABCC2 also has a minor role in toxicity of Cry1Ca. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The small naphthoquinone molecules modified reduced-graphene oxide with chemical absorption of polysulfides based on the abundant keto functional groups, leads to the significantly improved cycling performance for Li-S batteries. • Organic NQ molecule-decorated rGO was applied as host for Li-S batteries. • Chemical absorption of polysulfides/sulfur can be achieved. • The S/NQ-rGO electrode delivers outstanding electrochemical performance. Graphene-based materials are explored to be promising candidates for lithium-sulfur batteries based on their unique two-dimensional geometry structure and excellent electric conductivity. However, the inferior ability to confine polysulfides results in quick capacity fading and poor cycling stability of graphene-related electrode materials. Herein, small organic naphthoquinone (NQ) molecules with redox active properties are introduced to the reduced graphene oxide (rGO) as an advanced sulfur host to significantly prolong cycle life for Li-S batteries. The effective combination between small NQ organic molecules and rGO successfully leads to the conductive composite network, where the keto groups from NQ play the key role in promoting the chemical absorption of polysulfides/sulfur by forming the S O interaction. Notably, the NQ-rGO composite shows superior lithium polysulfides absorptivity with a sulfur loading of 65.3%. The S/NQ-rGO displays outstanding electrochemical performances for lithium-sulfur batteries, in terms of large reversible capacities with excellent cycling stability (936 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 0.1C and 670 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at 1C) and superior rate ability (525 mAh g−1 at 5C). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The World Health Organization sets up the Ambient Air Quality Guidelines mainly based on short-term and long-term health effects of air pollution. Previous studies, however, have generally revealed a non-threshold concentration-response relationship between air pollution and health, making it difficult to determine a concentration, below which no obvious health effects can be observed. Here we proposed a novel approach based on the concept of "number needed to treat", specifically, we calculated the reduction in air pollution concentrations needed to avoid one death corresponding to different hypothetical concentration standards; the one with the smallest value would be the most practical concentration standard. As an example, we applied this approach to the daily standard of ambient PM 2.5 (particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter ≤2.5 μm) in four Chinese cities. The calculation was based on the association between daily mortality and ambient PM 2.5 , which was examined by a generalized additive model with adjustment of important covariates. Significant associations were observed between PM 2.5 and mortality. Our analyses suggested that it is appropriate to have 50 μg/m3 as the daily standard of ambient PM 2.5 for the study area, compared to the current standard of which were directly adopted from the national standard of 75 μg/m3. This novel approach should be considered when planning and/or revising the ambient air quality guidelines/standards. Highlights • There is limited method for air pollution standard formulation. • The "number needed to treat" was proposed as one potential method. • We examined the acute association between PM 2.5 and mortality in four Chinese cities. • We then calculated the reduction in air pollution concentrations needed to avoid one death. • Finally, we suggested that 50 μg/m3 should be considered as daily standard of ambient PM 2.5 in the study area. Capsule This study proposes a new "number needed to treat" approach to help establish or revise daily ambient air quality standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Activated graphene oxide lamellar nanofilm was first synthesized by PSA/AOSD method. • Unstable interlayer structure of GO nanofilm was fixed by functionalized nanosheets. • Nanofilms had prominent anti-swelling ability and stability in cross-flow filtration. • Circuit board-like structure with highly interconnected microporosity was constructed. • Ultrahigh performance in separation of small organic molecules and salts was achieved. The assembly of 2D nanosheets into graphene nanofilm is attracting great interests because of their distinctive properties. However, it remains a big challenge to break through the unfixed interlayer channels caused by swelling for selective separation. In this study, novel activated graphene oxide lamellar nanofilms fixed by functionalized heterostructured MEA-C3N4 nanosheets with superior anti-swelling ability were successfully synthesized via post-synthesis activation (PSA) and alignment oriented slow deposition (AOSD). Different from traditional cross-linking by random packing, the structure-directed g-C3N4 nanosheets can not only be immobilized on activated GO to eliminate unstable interlayer structures by forming strong ionic and covalent bondings, but also act as building block to organize circuit board-like structure with highly interconnected microporosity by varying the thickness of electrical layer and the deposition rate. The strong interactions generated between building blocks reinforced the stability of interlayer sub-nanochannels and greatly suppressed swelling during cross-flow filtration for at least 120 h, in which the difference of interlayer spacing in dry condition and in water was as low as 0.2 Å. The prepared nanofilms with unique structure exhibited ultrahigh rejection (≥99.5%) toward low molecular weight organic matters. Meanwhile, due to the unique circuit board-like structure, very high water permeance (25.6 L m-2h-1 bar-1) and competitive rejection (91.0 %) for Na2SO4 were achieved, surpassing most reported GO-based or commercial nanofiltration membranes. Importantly, the permselectivity of constructed nanofilms can easily be adjusted by varying the space and type of intercalated nanosheets. The results indicate that this promising route will offer more opportunities in the synthesis of various 2D membranes with oriented structure for versatile applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diamide insecticides selectively activate insect ryanodine receptors (RyRs), inducing uncontrolled release of calcium ions, and causing muscle contraction, paralysis and eventually death. The RyR G4946E substitution associated with diamide resistance has been identified in three lepidopteran pests, Plutella xylostella , Tuta absoluta and Chilo suppressalis . Recently, the T. absoluta RyR G4946V mutation was knocked into the model insect Drosophila melanogaster by CRISPR/Cas9 mediated genome editing and provided in vivo functional confirmation for its role in diamide resistance. In the present study, we successfully introduced the RyR G4946E mutation with CRISPR/Cas9 technology into a lepidopteran pest of global importance, Spodoptera exigua . The genome-edited strain (named 4946E) homozygous for the SeRyR G4946E mutation exhibited 223-, 336- and >1000-fold resistance to chlorantraniliprole, cyantraniliprole and flubendiamide, respectively when compared to the wild type strain (WHS) of S. exigua . Reciprocal crossing experiments revealed that the target-site resistance in strain 4946E underlies an autosomal and almost recessive mode of inheritance for anthranilic diamides, whereas it was completely recessive for flubendiamide. Our results not only provided in vivo functional validation of the RyR G4946E mutation in conferring high levels of resistance to diamide insecticides for the first time in a controlled genetic background of a lepidopteran pest, but also revealed slight differences on the level of resistance between anthranilic diamides (chlorantraniliprole and cyantraniliprole) and flubendiamide conferred by the SeRyR G4946E mutation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ongoing climatic warming is obvious and has significantly affected the ecosystem of the Qinling Mountains, the highest mountain region in mainland of Eastern China. Putting the progressive warming into a long-term perspective is challenging in the region due to the shortness of instrumental records. Here, we present an annual (December–November) minimum temperature reconstruction for the western Qinling Mountains from 1675 CE. The study area has experienced a continuous warming since the 1860s, and the temperature after the 1980s is unprecedented over the past three centuries. The similar variations between our reconstruction and temperature reconstructions for Asia and Northern Hemisphere indicate the close linkage between the thermal variation in the western Qinling Mountains and large-scale climate systems. Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO) may be the primary driver influencing regional climate during the past three centuries. In addition, solar activity, strong volcanic eruption and greenhouse gas forcing have potential effects on temperature variations in the western Qinling Mountains. This study provides a long-term context for observed warming, which may have implications for warming prediction and adaptation in the western Qinling Mountains. • Tree rings provide an annual Tmin record of western Qinling Mountains since 1675 CE. • The warming after the 1980s is unprecedented over the past three centuries. • AMO may be the key factor for regional long-term temperature variations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] MiR-215 is frequently up-regulated in gastric cancer and may serve as a biomarker for diagnosis. [•] Inhibition of miR-215 suppresses gastric cancer cell proliferation via G1 arrest. [•] MiR-215 targets RB1 through its 3′-UTR in gastric cancer cells. [•] RB1 is involved in the role of miR-215 in modulating gastric cancer cell proliferation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Third-generation EGFR-TKIs show significant benefits in EGFR-mutated NSCLC and LM. • High-dose third-generation EGFR-TKIs are effective treatments regardless of prior EGFR-TKI exposure. • High-dose third-generation EGFR-TKIs and intrathecal chemotherapy are independent predictors of OS. Leptomeningeal metastasis (LM) is associated with an extremely poor prognosis in patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mutated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The third-generation EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), currently the preferred drug of choice, have significantly improved treatment outcomes in these patients. However, the optimal dose of third-generation EGFR-TKIs for clinical use remains undetermined in NSCLC patients with LM. We retrospectively analyzed the clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes of 105 patients with EGFR-mutated NSCLC and cytologically confirmed LM who had received third-generation EGFR-TKI treatment after LM diagnosis. Patients were stratified into high- and standard-dose groups based on the treatment dose of third-generation EGFR-TKI. Subsequent treatments for LM were collected, particularly the efficacy of different doses of third-generation EGFR-targeted drugs. The median follow-up period was 28.7 months (range 0.6–40.2) at the cut-off date of August 27, 2023. The 105 included patients who received third-generation EGFR-TKI treatment had a clinical response rate (CRR) of 54.3 % (57/105), and the median overall survival (OS) from LM diagnosis was 12.3 months (95 % confidence interval [CI] = 10.0–15.0). Among them, 46 (43.8 %) patients received a high-dose regimen, and the remaining 59 (56.2 %) patients were treated with standard-dose drugs. Patients treated with high-dose third-generation EGFR-TKIs showed a higher CRR and longer OS than those treated with standard-dose therapy (65.2 % vs. 45.8 %, p = 0.047; 15.0 vs. 10.2 months, p = 0.014). Importantly, high-dose third-generation EGFR-TKI showed superior OS than standard-dose treatment in all subgroups (prior first-/second-generation EGFR-TKI resistance group, 19.5 vs. 9.8 months, p = 0.047; third-generation EGFR-TKI resistance group, 10.0 vs. 4.3 months, p = 0.045; EGFR-TKI naive group, not reach vs. 15.6 months, p = 0.031). Multivariate analysis revealed that high-dose third-generation EGFR-TKIs, intrathecal chemotherapy, previous TKI treatment history, and Karnofsky Performance Status score were independent predictors of OS (all p < 0.05). High-dose third-generation EGFR-TKIs are effective treatments for NSCLC patients with EGFR mutations and LM, regardless of previous EGFR-TKI exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Currently flower color in Hosta is limited to purple and white with some variation across species and cultivars in patterning of the two colors. This study was undertaken to determine the contributions of anthocyanins to current Hosta flower colors and to investigate the potential for increasing color diversity. Eighty-six hostas (6 species and 80 cultivars) were used in this study to investigate the composition and content of anthocyanins by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD) and high-performance liquid chromatographic with electro spray ionization and mass spectrometry (HPLC–ESI–MS). The results showed that the color variation was low in the tepals of the genus of Hosta. Nine anthocyanins were initially identified using a typical purple cultivar (H. ‘Nakaimo’) and a white species (Hosta montana) The anthocyanins were delphinidin 3,5-O-diglucoside (Dp3G5G), cyanidin 3,5-O-diglucoside(Cy3G5G), petunidin 3,5-O-diglucoside (Pt3G5G), peonidin 3-O-rutinoside-5-O-glucoside (Pn3Ru5G), malvidin 3-O-rutinoside-5-O-glucoside (Mv3Ru5G), malvidin 3,5-O-diglucoside (Mv3G5G), petunidin 3-O-rutinoside (Pt3Ru), peonidin 3-O-rutinoside (Pn3Ru) and malvidin 3-O-rutinoside (Mv3Ru). Anthocyanin types and content were different between the purple flowered hostas (PFH) and the white flowered hostas (WFH, including white flower with purple spots or streaks): PFH had higher levels of anthocyanins and were correlated with the pigments Mv3Ru5G, Mv3G5G, Pt3G5G and Dp3G5G; WFH had lower levels of anthocyanins and were correlated with the pigments Pt3Ru, Pn3Ru, Mv3Ru and Pn3Ru5G. The dominance of Mv3G5G and Mv3Ru5G was responsible for flowers of simplex purple. Path analysis showed that Mv3G5G had the highest direct effect on lightness (L*), and color balance (a* and b*), while Pt3G5G had the highest direct effect on saturation (C*). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Concise synthesis of a 6-deoxy-α-l-talose tetrasaccharide, 6-deoxy-α-l-Talp-(1→3)-6-deoxy-α-l-Talp-(1→2)-6-deoxy-α-l-Talp-(1→3)-6-deoxy-α-l-Talp, the dimer of the disaccharide repeating unit of the OPS from Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans serotype c, has been accomplished through suitable protecting group manipulations and stereoselective glycosylation starting from commercially available l-rhamnose. The target oligosaccharide in the form of its p-methoxyphenyl glycoside is suitable for further glycoconjugate formation via selective cleavage of this group. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Three bacterial strains capable of transforming pyrazosulfuron-ethyl, designated as D61, D66, and D713, were isolated from pyrazosulfuron-ethyl contaminated soils. According to the sequence analysis of the partial 16S rRNA gene, it is found that the strains D61 and D66 belong to Pseudomonas sp., and the strain D713 belongs to Bacillus sp. The effects of pyrazosulfuron-ethyl concentration, pH and temperature on biodegradation were examined. At a concentration of 10.0mgL−1, pyrazosulfuron-ethyl was completely degraded by Pseudomonas sp. D61 after 2d and by Pseudomonas sp. D66 after 5d. At a concentration of 90.0mgL−1, pyrazosulfuron-ethyl can be completely degraded by Pseudomonas sp. D66 and D61 after 12d. More than 85.9% degradation rate was observed with Bacillus sp. D713 after 12d. The growth of these three strains was inhibited at low pH buffers. The abiotic degradation occurs much faster at low pH than at neutral and basic pH conditions. The degradation rate of pyrazosulfuron-ethyl at 28°C was faster than those at 20°C and 37°C by these strains, except the highest degradation rate of Bacillus sp. D713 was obtained at 37°C. The pyrazosulfuron-ethyl biodegradation products were identified by liquid chromatography–mass spectroscopy with positive/negative modes and tandem MS–MS techniques. The main degradation product was detected and identified as 5-(N-(4,6-dimethoxypyrimidin-2-ylcarbamoyl)sulfamoyl)-1-methyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylic acid based on mass spectral data and fragmentation patterns. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The hypothesis for this research is that only in some brain areas, regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) after tobacco smoking is correlated with arterial plasma nicotine concentrations. Twenty-one healthy adult tobacco smokers of both genders were studied after overnight tobacco abstinence. H215O water was used to measure rCBF. Six separate scans were taken about 12 min apart with the subjects'' eyes closed and relaxed. Research tobacco cigarettes smoked were of average (1.0 mg) and low (0.08 mg) nicotine but similar tar yield (9.5 and 9.1 mg). Increases in normalized rCBF were obtained in the occipital cortex, cerebellum, and thalamus, and decreases in the anterior cingulate, nucleus accumbens, amygdala, and hippocampus immediately after smoking the first average nicotine yield cigarette of the morning. After smoking the second average nicotine yield cigarette, the effects were less than smoking the first. Low-nicotine cigarettes produced fewer changes in rCBF than those after the first average cigarette. As expected, statistically significant correlations were found between increases in arterial plasma nicotine and HR. Correlations with arterial nicotine on rCBF were statistically significant in brain areas with the greatest changes in relative blood flow such as the cerebellum and occipital cortex. Nicotine delivery by tobacco smoking is only one of the factors, which contribute to changes in rCBF. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Although the effect of ambient temperature on cardiovascular disease (CVDs) has been well explored, studies using years of life lost (YLLs) as the outcome especially evaluating the average life loss per death attributable to temperatures were rare. We examine the associations between ambient temperature and YLLs of CVDs, and further quantify temperature-related life loss per death. Daily YLL rates were calculated using death data from 364 locations across China during 2006–2017, and meteorological data were collected for the same period. A distributed-lag nonlinear model and meta-regression were applied to examine the relationships between temperature and YLL rates of CVDs. Subgroup analyses by age, gender, region, and cause-specific CVDs were investigated. The total YLLs and average YLLs per death attributable to temperature were further quantified to assess life loss caused by non-optimal temperature. Both high and low temperatures significantly increased YLL rates of CVDs, with greater effects for cold than heat. Cerebrovascular diseases (CEDs) account for the largest proportion (47.17%) of total YLLs of CVDs attributable to non-optimal temperature. On average, life loss per CVD death attributable to non-optimal temperatures was 1.51 (95% eCI: 1.33, 1.69) years, with 1.07 (95% eCI: 1.00, 1.15) years from moderate cold. Average life losses per death were observed higher for males (1.71, 95% eCI: 1.43, 1.99), younger population (3.82, 95% eCI: 2.86, 4.75), central China (1.62; 95% eCI: 1.41, 1.83) and hemorrhagic stroke (2.86, 95% eCI: 2.63, 3.10) than their correspondents. We found that non-optimal temperature significantly aggravated premature death of CVD, with CEDs being the most affected, and most of temperature-related life loss of CVD was attributed to moderate cold. Our findings imply that peoples with CEDs in moderate cold days are vulnerable populations, which may contribute to a better understanding the adverse effects and pathogenesis of temperature on CVDs. Unlabelled Image • This study examines the health effects of non-optimal temperature, and quantify temperature-related life loss per death. • Life loss per CVD death attributable to non-optimal temperatures was 1.51. • Most of temperature-related life loss of CVD was attributed to moderate cold. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are functional RNA molecules that play crucial regulatory roles in many fundamental biological processes. The dysregulation of ncRNAs is significantly associated with the progression of human cancers, including gastric cancer. In this review, we have summarized the oncogenic or tumor-suppressive roles and the regulatory mechanisms of lncRNAs, miRNAs, circRNAs and piRNAs, and have discussed their potential as biomarkers or therapeutic targets in gastric cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous research has reported the effects of long-term fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) pollution on years of life lost (YLL), but these effects may not represent the full impact. This study aims to estimate potential benefits in life time from adhering to daily ambient PM 2.5 concentration standards/guidelines. This study evaluated the relationship between daily ambient PM 2.5 level and YLL using a two-stage approach with generalized additive models and meta-analysis. Potential life expectancy gains were then estimated by presuming that daily PM 2.5 levels were in compliance with the Chinese and WHO standards. In addition, the attributable fraction of YLL due to excess PM 2.5 exposure was also calculated. During 2013–2016, 459,468 non-accidental deaths were recorded in the six cities of Pearl River Delta, China. Each 10 μg/m3 increment in four-day average (lag 03) level of PM 2.5 was related to an increment of 13.31 [95% confidence interval (CI): 5.74, 20.87] years of life lost. Implementation of the WHO guidelines might avoid 180,980.83 YLLs (95% CI: 78,116.07, 283,845.60), which corresponded to 0.39 (95% CI: 0.17, 0.62) years of increased life time per death. Additionally, an estimated 0.15% (95% CI: 0.06%, 0.23%) or 2.04% (95% CI: 0.88%, 3.20%) of YLLs could be attributed to PM 2.5 exposures higher than the Chinese or WHO guidelines, respectively. This study suggests that people might live longer by controlling daily PM 2.5 concentration and highlights the need to adopt stricter standards in China. • We estimated the life time gain by attaining daily PM 2.5 standards. • Life time might increase by 0.39 years for each death by attaining WHO's guideline. • Up to 2.04% of YLL could be ascribed to PM 2.5 exposure higher than WHO's guideline. • More ambitious target for PM 2.5 control should be employed to improve public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phased arrays are increasingly employed in clinical high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) systems for treatment of uterine fibroids. However, the electronic steering range of current phased arrays is insufficient to cover a symptomatic uterine fibroid. This study proposes a method to augment the focal steering range for HIFU treatment of uterine fibroids. Geometric focus can be shifted by tilting HIFU phased array around two orthogonal axes with a rotating platform, and both rotating angles can be adjusted up to 15° with tilt radius of 277 mm according to the shift of geometric focus. A three-layer (skin, fat and muscle) tissue model was used as the beam propagation path. The acoustic fields with and without tilting HIFU phased array were characterized by numerical simulation and hydrophone measurement. Focal accuracy was evaluated in phantoms and targeting areas were ablated in in vivo pigs' thighs. In combination with the electronic focal steering, the steering range in the focal plane has been augmented to ±53 mm from ±6 mm. In the phantoms, the mean focal error has been increased from 0.2 mm to 0.9 mm with the geometric focus shift ranged from 10 mm to 40 mm. In vivo experimental results have proved that it is safe and effective to ablate the 25 mm × 25 mm square area. Tilting the HIFU phased array is feasible to safely augment the focal steering range, which can potentially improve the efficacy of HIFU treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A novel wood flour (WF)-filled composite based on the microfibrillar high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and Nylon-6 co-blend, in which both in situ formed Nylon-6 microfibrils and WF acted as reinforcing elements, was successfully developed using a two-step extrusion method. At the 30wt.% WF loading level, WF-filled composite based on the microfibrillized HDPE/Nylon-6 blend exhibited higher strengths and moduli than the corresponding HDPE-based composite. The incorporation of WF reduced short-term creep response of HDPE matrix and the presence of Nylon-6 microfibrils further contributed to the creep reduction. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Experimental studies have indicated that alterations in the gut microbiota might play a role in the pathway of diabetes induction resulting from particulate matter pollution with aerodynamic diameters < 2.5 μm (PM 2.5). However, few human studies have examined such experimental findings. Here, we examine the mediating effects of gut microbial dysbiosis on the associations between PM 2.5 and particulate matter pollution with aerodynamic diameters < 1 μm (PM 1) on diabetes using the Guangdong Gut Microbiome Project (GGMP) dataset. A multistage cluster sampling method was employed to recruit adult participants from communities in Guangdong. Each participant was interviewed using a questionnaire, fasting blood and stool samples were collected, and the exposure to air pollutants was assessed using a spatiotemporal land-use regression model. The mediation analysis was conducted to estimate the associations among air pollutants, gut microbiota diversity and diabetes. Both PM 2.5 and PM 1 were positively associated with the risks of impaired fasting glucose (IFG) or type 2 diabetes and negatively associated with alpha diversity indices of the gut microbiota. The mediation analyses indicated that the associations of PM 2.5 and PM 1 with the risk of type 2 diabetes were partially mediated by the decrease in gut microbiota diversity. Moreover, we found that 79 (PM 2.5 on IFG), 84 (PM 2.5 on type 2 diabetes), 83 (PM 1 on IFG) and 89 (PM 1 on type 2 diabetes) bacterial taxa could partially mediate the associations of PM 2.5 and PM 1 with IFG and type 2 diabetes, respectively. The relative abundance of most Firmicutes , Proteobacteria and Verrucomicrobia bacteria were negatively associated with particulate matter (PM) concentrations and the risks of diabetes. Long-term exposure to PM may increase the risk of diabetes, and alterations in the gut microbiota partially explained these associations. Unlabelled Image • Long-term exposure to PM may increase the risks of IFG and T2DM, and decrease the diversity of gut microbiota. • The alternations of gut microbiota diversity could partially mediate the associations of PM with diabetes risk. • Bacterial taxa could partially mediate the effects of PM 2·5 and PM 1 on IFG and T2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The tumor immune microenvironment in uncommon EGFR -mutated NSCLC was determined. • Uncommon EGFR -mutant tumors had a high frequency of PD-L1 and CD8 dual positivity. • Uncommon EGFR -mutated NSCLC had preliminary therapeutic sensitivity to PD-1 blockade. The efficacy of immunotherapy in epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) -activating non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is limited. However, a series of patients with uncommon EGFR alterations was reported to derive clinical benefit from PD-1 blockade. To characterize the tumor immune microenvironment, we retrospectively evaluated tumor PD-L1 expression and T cells infiltration among NSCLC patients with uncommon EGFR mutations. Immunohistochemistry was used to analyze the expression of PD-L1 and the abundance of CD4+ and CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). Chi-square test and Cox proportional hazards regression were conducted to investigate the correlations between the immune microenvironment features and clinicopathological variables and survival, as well as to explore the potential of immunotherapy in this patient population. Among 600 NSCLC patients with EGFR alterations, we identified 49 (8.2 %) bearing uncommon mutations, including G719X, L861Q, S768I, and Ex20 ins. In total, 49.0 % (24/49) of these patients showed positive PD-L1 expression in tumor cells, markedly higher than the proportion in patients with classic sensitive mutations (19del and L858R, 12.2 % [67/551], P < 0.05). Furthermore, PD-L1 expression was associated with relatively short overall survival (OS; 15.2 vs 29.3 months, P = 0.006) and was identified as an independent predictor of OS (hazard ratio=2.57, 95 % confidence interval: 1.03–7.12, P = 0.045). Additionally, PD-L1 positivity was predominantly observed among tumors with CD8+ TILs infiltration (P = 0.001). Uncommon EGFR -mutant tumors had a high frequency (36.7 %) of concurrent PD-L1 expression and abundant CD8 + TILs infiltration. Moreover, this dual-positive group exhibited the most unfavorable prognosis (P = 0.023). Notably, patients with PD-L1 and CD8 dual positivity showed a favorable response to PD-1 inhibitors. High rates of concomitant PD-L1 expression and CD8 + TILs within the tumor microenvironment were observed in NSCLC patients with uncommon EGFR mutations. Further investigations are needed to confirm the therapeutic sensitivity to PD-1 blockade in this subgroup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • DS-GPA and Lung-molGPA could predict outcomes of NSCLC patients with brain metastases. • Lung-molGPA demonstrated discriminatory capability in patients with gene variations. • A modified Lung-molGPA index was developed. Abstract Objectives The Lung-molGPA index is based on the original diagnosis-specific graded prognostic assessment (DS-GPA) and incorporates recently reported gene alteration data, predicting the outcomes of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with brain metastases (BM). However, the prognostic values of both DS-GPA and Lung-molGPA remain undetermined, especially for patients with different molecular types. Materials and Methods A total of 1184 NSCLC patients with BM were analyzed for clinical factors and outcomes at Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, China. All prognostic factors were weighted for significance by hazard ratios. The applicability of DS-GPA and Lung-molGPA were reappraised in NSCLC patients with BM and various genetic profiles. Additionally, a modified Lung-molGPA was newly developed for NSCLC patients with gene variations. Results NSCLC patients in the present study had a median survival time of 14.0 months from BM diagnosis. Both the DS-GPA and Lung-molGPA models could effectively predict the outcomes of NSCLC patients with BM (P < 0.001), and the Lung-molGPA model appeared to deliver more accurate predictions. Furthermore, Lung-molGPA scores demonstrated discriminatory capability in patients with gene variations (P < 0.001), and no significant difference was reached in wild-type patients (P = 0.133). Regarding oncogene-positive NSCLC patients with BM, a modified Lung-molGPA index was established based on the prognostic factors with a C-index of 0.73 (95% CI: 0.68-0.80) to accurately calculate survival probability (P < 0.001). Conclusions In the era of precision medicine, Lung-molGPA accurately predicted the prognosis of NSCLC patients with mutant genotypes and BM, although it did not perform well in wild-type patients. Thus, it is worthwhile to explore the prognostic model for patients with positive driving genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a common polymer, poly (dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) (PDMAEMA) is mainly used to synthesize medical materials. However, there are few reports about the related polymer fluorescent probes. Moreover, as far as we know, no one has studied the effect of its molecular weight on the performance of polymer probes. In this work, polymer probes (NapNH 2 (1) -PDM (4) , NapNH 2 (1) -PDM (9) , NapNH 2 (1) -PDM (23) , NapNH 2 (1) -PDM (34) ) with different molecular weights were accurately constructed based on 1,8-naphthalimide fluorophore and poly(N , N -dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) and their photophysical properties were systematically studied. The test results showed that they all showed good photophysical properties. Moreover, the polymer probe NapNH 2 (1) -PDM (23) , which had the best self-assembly effect and good cell permeability, was successfully screened by confocal fluorescence imaging technology. Not only that, the probe NapNH 2 (1) -PDM (23) could also label lysosomes in cells quickly and accurately. Therefore, this work provided important reference to construct relevant polymer probes with good cell permeability in the future. [Display omitted] • A series of polymer probes with different molecular weights were accurately constructed by simple synthesis method. • A series of polymer probes exhibited good photophysical properties. • The polymer probe NapNH 2 -PDM-C could perfectly self-assemble into nanoparticles in water. • The influence of different molecular weights on the cell permeability of polymer probe was studied. • The polymer probe NapNH 2 (1) -PDM (23) could realize rapid and accurate targeted imaging of lysosomes in cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Daily mean concentration cannot fully address the hourly variations of air pollution within one day. As such, we proposed a new indicator, daily exceedance concentration hours (DECH), to explore the acute cardiovascular effects of ambient PM 2.5 (particles with aerodynamic diameters less than 2.5 μm). The DECH in PM 2.5 was defined as daily total concentration-hours > 25 μg/m 3 . Methods A generalized additive model with a quasi-Poisson link was applied to estimate the associations between day-to-day variation in PM 2.5 DECH and day-to-day variation in cardiovascular mortality in six subtropical cities in Guangdong Province, China. Results The analysis revealed significant associations between PM 2.5 DECHs and cardiovascular mortality. A 500 μg/m 3 ∗ h increase in PM 2.5 DECHs at lag 03 was associated with an increase of 4.55% (95% confidence interval (CI): 3.59%, 5.52%) in cardiovascular mortality, 4.45% (95% CI: 2.81%, 6.12%) in ischemic cardiovascular mortality, 5.02% (95% CI: 3.41%, 6.65%) in cerebrovascular mortality, and 3.00% (95% CI: 1.13%, 4.90%) in acute myocardial infarction mortality. We further observed a greater mortality burden using PM 2.5 DECHs than daily mean PM 2.5 (6478 (95% CI: 5071, 7917) VS 5136 (95% CI: 3990, 6305)). Conclusion This study reveals that PM 2.5 DECH is one important exposure indicator of ambient PM 2.5 to measure its cardiovascular mortality effects in Pearl River Delta region; and that using daily mean concentration could under-estimate the mortality burden compared with this new indicator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highly ordered mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) with pore diameter of 2.754 nm and particle size of 115 ± 15 nm were prepared with etching method. Homogeneous PEGylated lipid bilayer with 10–15 nm thickness was coated around the surface of MSNs using film hydration method. Systematic optimization and characterization of co-encapsulation process of paclitaxel (Tax) and curcumin (Cur) into PEGylated lipid bilayer coated mesoporous silica nanoparticles (PLMSNs) were performed carrying out single factor test, associated with Box-Behnken Design. The concentration of encapsulated drugs was measured by reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method. Optimal factor settings were as follows: 50 mg MSNs, ratio of MSNs to lipid (w/w) = 1:1.11, and ratio of lipid to CHO (w/w) = 3.93:1. The average experimental EE Tax , EE Cur and stability score value were (77.48 ± 2.73) %, (30.70 ± 3.56) % and 4 point respectively based on the conditions mentioned above. Morphology determination of Tax-Cur-PLMSNs revealed that the composite nanoparticles were spherical particals with uniform dispersion. In vitro release experiment indicated that PLMSNs improved dissolution of Tax compared to Tax powder suspension and exhibited sustained release property. Tax-Cur-PLMSNs manifested definite and persistently promoted cytotoxic effect against canine breast cancer cells. This prolonged and enhanced activity of Tax-Cur-PLMSNs might contribute to its sustained release effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The effects of CPPU on metabolism and nutrients of kiwifruit were investigated. • 29 key metabolites were correlated with CPPU controlling kiwifruit development. • Response of kiwifruits to CPPU was dynamic, and related network was established. • The negative effects on nutrient substances became mild at harvest. • CPPU promoted kiwifruit development with more sucrose and fewer organic acids. Forchlorfenuron (CPPU) is a plant growth regulator widely applied on kiwifruit to improve yield, however, there are rarely reports on its effects on the nutrients of kiwifruits. Based on UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS, the effects of CPPU on metabolism profile and nutrient substances of two kiwifruit varieties during development were investigated by non-targeted metabolomics. A total of 115 metabolites were identified, and 29 differential metabolites were confirmed and quantified using certified reference standards. Metabolic profile indicated that CPPU promoted kiwifruit development during the main expansion stages at the molecular level, and the effects varied slightly for different varieties. In the early and middle stages of kiwifruit development, the anthocyanin, flavone and flavonol biosynthesis were down-regulated in both varieties, and flavanols biosynthesis was down-regulated only in Hayward variety. Arginine biosynthesis was down-regulated at all stages till the harvest. Although the synthesis of these nutrient substances in kiwifruits was mostly down-regulated by CPPU, the negative effects became mild at harvest time, and positively, the significant increase of sucrose and decrease of organic acids at harvest time could help to improve the taste of kiwifruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared with daily mean concentration of air pollution, hourly peak concentration may be more directly relevant to the acute health effects due to the high concentration levels, however, few have analyzed the acute mortality effects of hourly peak levels of air pollution. We examined the associations of hourly peak concentration of fine particulate matter air pollution (PM 2.5 ) with mortality in six cities in Pearl River Delta, China. We used generalized additive Poisson models to examine the associations with adjustment for potential confounders in each city. We further applied random-effects meta-analyses to estimate the regional overall effects. We further estimated the mortality burden attributable to hourly peak and daily mean PM 2.5 . We observed significant associations between hourly peak PM 2.5 and mortality. Each 10 μg/m3 increase in 4-day averaged (lag 03 ) hourly peak PM 2.5 corresponded to a 0.9% [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.7%, 1.1%] increase in total mortality, 1.2% (95% CI: 1.0%, 1.5%) in cardiovascular mortality, and 0.7% (95% CI: 0.2%, 1.1%) in respiratory mortality. We observed a greater mortality burden using hourly peak PM 2.5 than daily mean PM 2.5 , with an estimated 12915 (95% CI: 9922, 15949) premature deaths attributable to hourly peak PM 2.5 , and 7951 (95% CI: 5067, 10890) to daily mean PM 2.5 in the Pearl River Delta (PRD) region during the study period. This study suggests that hourly peak PM 2.5 might be one important risk factor of mortality in PRD region of China; the finding provides important information for future air pollution management and epidemiological studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We evaluated the safety and efficacy of a live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV) product in ferrets. The BCHT LAIV product was significantly less virulent than wild-type H1N1 virus, when evaluated by comparing virus shedding and histopathologic lesions. The data indicated strong evidence for an attenuated phenotype of LAIV. Furthermore, the vaccine induced robust humoral immune responses in seronegative ferrets, and protected ferrets against development of fever, weight loss and turbinate inflammatory lesions after challenging with H3N2 wide-type influenza virus. Thus, the BCHT LAIV product was safe in healthy seronegative ferrets and protected ferrets against infection of H3N2 influenza virus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Epidemiological studies have reported significant association between ambient fine particulate matter air pollution (PM 2.5 ) and mortality, however, few studies have investigated the relationship of mortality with PM 2.5 and associated mortality burden in China, especially in a multicity setting. Methods We investigated the PM 2.5 -mortality association in six cities of the Pearl River Delta region from 2013 to 2015. We used generalized additive Poisson models incorporating penalized smoothing splines to control for temporal trend, temperature, and relative humidity. We applied meta-analyses using random-effects models to pool the effect estimates in the six cities. We also examined these associations in stratified analyses by sex, age group, education level and location of death. We further estimated the mortality burden (attributable fraction and attributable mortality) due to ambient PM 2.5 exposures. Results During the study period, a total of 316,305 deaths were recorded in the study area. The analysis revealed a significant association between PM 2.5 and mortality. Specifically, a 10 μg/m 3 increase in 4-day averaged (lag 03 ) PM 2.5 concentration corresponded to a 1.76% (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.47%, 2.06%) increase in total mortality, 2.19% (95% CI: 1.80%, 2.59%) in cardiovascular mortality, and 1.68% (95% CI: 1.00%, 2.37%) in respiratory mortality. The results were generally robust to model specifications and adjustment of gaseous air pollutants. We estimated that 0.56% (95% CI: 0.47%, 0.66%) and 3.79% (95% CI: 3.14%, 4.45%) of all-cause mortalities were attributable to PM 2.5 using China's and WHO's air quality standards as the reference, corresponding to 1661 (95% CI: 1379, 1946) and 11,176 (95% CI: 9261, 13,120) attributable premature mortalities, respectively. Conclusion This analysis adds to the growing body of evidence linking PM 2.5 with daily mortality, and mortality burdens, particularly in one Chinese region with high levels of air pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various edible berries widely accessible in nature in Northeast China are poorly exploited. The compositions and contents of anthocyanins in black ( Padus maackii , Padus avium , Lonicera caerulea , and Ribes nigrum ) and red ( Ribes rubrum , Sambucus williamsii , Rubus idaeus , and Ribes procumbens ) wild berries in Northeast China were firstly characterized by HPLC–DAD/ESI-MS 2 . Twenty-three anthocyanins were detected and identified. Cyanidin glycosides were dominant in both berries. Six anthocyanins were reported for the first time in P . avium , R . rubrum , and Sambucus . Total anthocyanin content (TAC) ranged from 10 mg/100 g fresh weight (FW) ( R . procumbens ) to 1058 mg/100 g FW ( P . maackii ) among berries. The TACs and antioxidant activities assessed by DPPH and FRAP assays were much higher in black than in red berries. Black–red berries, especially P . maackii and P . avium , can be used in developing functional foods and in improving breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2012, Chinese Environmental Bureau modified its National Ambient Air Quality Standards to include fine particulate matter (PM 2.5 ). Recent air pollution monitoring data shows that numerous locations have exceeded this standard, which may have resulted in avoidable adverse health effects. For example, among the 74 Chinese cities with PM 2.5 monitoring data in 2013, only three cities attained the annual air quality standard (35 μg/m 3 ). This study aimed to quantify the potential short- and long-term health benefits from achieving the Chinese ambient air quality standard and WHO’s air quality objectives. A generalized additive model was used to estimate the short-term association of mortality with changes in daily PM 2.5 concentrations, based on which we estimated the potential premature mortality reduction that would have been achieved during the period of 2012–2015 if the daily air quality standard had been met in Guangzhou, China; we also estimated the avoidable deaths if attaining the annual air quality standard using the relative risk obtained from a previous cohort study. During the study period, there were 160 days exceeding the national daily PM 2.5 standard (75 μg/m 3 ) in Guangzhou, and the annual average concentration (47.7 μg/m 3 ) was higher than the air quality standard of 35 μg/m 3 . Significant associations between PM 2.5 and mortality were observed. An increase of 10 μg/m 3 in PM 2.5 was associated with increases in daily death counts of 0.95% (95% CI: 0.56%, 1.34%) in natural mortality, 1.31% (95% CI: 0.75%, 1.87%) in cardiovascular mortality, and 1.06% (95% CI: 0.19%, 1.94%) in respiratory mortality. The health benefits of attaining the national daily air quality standard of PM 2.5 (75 μg/m 3 ) would have prevented 143 [95% confidence interval (CI): 84, 203] fewer natural deaths, including 84 (95% CI: 48, 121) fewer cardiovascular deaths and 27 (95% CI: 5, 49) fewer respiratory deaths. Had the annual PM 2.5 levels been reduced to 35 μg/m 3 , an estimated 3875 (95% CI: 1852, 6074) natural deaths, 2378 (95% CI: 800, 4230) cardiovascular deaths, and 227 (95% CI: -437, 1033) respiratory deaths could have been prevented. Even greater substantial mortality reductions could be achieved if the WHO’s air quality objectives were met. Our study suggests that air pollution is significantly associated with mortality in Guangzhou, and more stringent air quality standards would significantly reduce air pollution-related premature mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Though increasing evidence supports significant association between particulate matter (PM) air pollution and stroke, it remains unclear what characteristics, such as particle size and chemical constituents, are responsible for this association. A time-series model with quasi-Poisson function was applied to assess the association of PM pollution with different particle sizes and chemical constituents with mortalities from ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes in Guangzhou, China, we controlled for potential confounding factors in the model, such as temporal trends, day of the week, public holidays, meteorological factors and influenza epidemic. We found significant association between stroke mortality and various PM fractions, such as PM10, PM2.5 and PM1, with generally larger magnitudes for smaller particles. For the PM2.5 chemical constituents, we found that organic carbon (OC), elemental carbon (EC), sulfate, nitrate and ammonium were significantly associated with stroke mortality. The analysis for specific types of stroke suggested that it was hemorrhagic stroke, rather than ischemic stroke, that was significantly associated with PM pollution. Our study shows that various PM pollution fractions are associated with stroke mortality, and constituents primarily from combustion and secondary aerosols might be the harmful components of PM2.5 in Guangzhou, and this study suggests that PM pollution is more relevant to hemorrhagic stroke in the study area, however, more studies are warranted due to the underlying limitations of this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals play an important role in inducing fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) related cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, most of the past researches concerned the associations between CVD mortality and the PM 2.5 mass, which may not reveal the CVD mortality risk contributed by heavy metals in PM 2.5. This study explored the correlations between individual heavy metals in PM 2.5 and CVD mortality, identified the heavy metals that significantly contribute to PM 2.5 -related CVD, heart disease (HD), and cerebrovascular disease (CEV) mortality, and attempted to establish corresponding source control measures. Over a 2-year study period, PM 2.5 was sampled daily in Guangzhou, China and analyzed for heavy metals. The airborne pollution and weather data, along with CVD, HD, and CEV mortality, were obtained at the same time. The excess risk (ER) of mortality was linked to the individual heavy metals using a distributed lag non-linear model. PM 2.5 and most heavy metals showed significant correlations with the CVD, HD, and CEV mortality; the largest cumulative ER (LCER) values of CVD mortality associated with an interquartile range increase in the levels of lead, cadmium, arsenic, selenium, antimony, nickel, thallium, aluminum, iron, and PM 2.5 were 2.43%, 2.23%, 1.66%, 2.39%, 1.19%, 1.21%, 2.69%, 3.29%, 1.74%, and 2.40%, respectively. Most heavy metals showed comparable LCER values of HD and CEV mortality. Heavy metals with the addition of PM 2.5 were divided into three groups following their LCER values; lead, cadmium, arsenic, antimony, thallium, zinc, aluminum, and iron, whose contributions were greater than or equal to the average effect of the PM 2.5 components, should be limited on a priority basis. These findings indicated that heavy metals play roles in the CVD, HD, and CEV mortality risk of PM 2.5 , and specific control measures which aimed at the emission sources should be taken to reduce the CVD mortality risk of PM 2.5. [Display omitted] • Daily levels of heavy metals in PM 2.5 were analyzed from a 2-year sampling. • Nine heavy metals in PM 2.5 were significantly associated with CVD mortality. • Precise source control of Pb, Cd, Se, Sb, Tl, Zn, Al, and Fe should be conducted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The key role for bioactivity retention of the 1'-OH group of ABA was clarified. • 1'-OMe analogs showed selective bioactivity to different physiological processes. • PYL5 is a selective receptor closely responded to plant growth process. • The hydrogen bond network between PYL5 and 1'-OMe analogs was destructed. Abscisic acid (ABA) is an essential phytohormone involved in many physiological processes, including plant growth inhibition and abiotic stress responses. Its signal transduction pathway is mediated by a genetically redundant family of ABA receptors (PYLs). In this work, 1′-O methyl ethers of ABA and its analogs were designed for chemically probing PYLs. The results suggested that 1′-OH is a crucial functional group correspondence to seed germination and development of plants, but has little relation on the stomatal movement and the response to drought stress regulated by ABA and its analogs. The methylation of 1′-OH significantly reduced their binding ability to monomer receptor PYL5 and slightly enhanced their binding to dimer receptor PYL2. The decrease of inhibition activities of 2a-2c was most probably assigned to the decrease of binding affinity with PYL5, which was due to the destruction of hydrogen bond network. This indicated that PYL5 was a selective receptor closely responded to plant growth process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Though increased particulate air pollution has been consistently associated with elevated mortality, evidence regarding whether diminished particulate air pollution would lead to mortality reduction is limited. Citywide air pollution mitigation program during the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou, China, provided such an opportunity. Daily mortality from non-accidental, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases was compared for 51 intervention days (November 1–December 21) in 2010 with the same calendar date of baseline years (2006–2009 and 2011). Relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were estimated using a time series Poisson model, adjusting for day of week, public holidays, daily mean temperature and relative humidity. Daily PM10 (particle with aerodynamic diameter less than 10 μm) decreased from 88.64 μg/m3 during the baseline period to 80.61 μg/m3 during the Asian Games period. Other measured air pollutants and weather variables did not differ substantially. Daily mortality from non-accidental, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases decreased from 32, 11 and 6 during the baseline period to 25, 8 and 5 during the Games period, the corresponding RR for the Games period compared with the baseline period was 0.79 (95% CI: 0.73–0.86), 0.77 (95% CI: 0.66–0.89) and 0.68 (95% CI: 0.57–0.80), respectively. No significant decreases were observed in other months of 2010 in Guangzhou and intervention period in two control cities. This finding supports the efforts to reduce air pollution and improve public health through transportation restriction and industrial emission control. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: Heat waves have been reported to be associated with increased mortality; however, fewer studies have examined the effect modification by heat wave characteristics, individual characteristics and community characteristics. Methods: This study investigated the effect of extreme heat on mortality in 2 urban and 2 rural communities in Guangdong Province, China during 2006–2010. The effect of extreme heat was divided into two parts: main effect due to high temperature and added effect due to prolonged heat for several consecutive days. A distributed lag non-linear model was used to calculate the relative risk with consideration of lag days and potential confounding factors. Separate models were further fit by individual characteristics (cause of death, age and gender) and heat wave characteristics (intensity, duration and timing), and potential effect modification of community characteristics was examined using a meta-regression, such as educational levels, percentage of the elderly, Gross Regional Domestic Product (GDP). Results: The overall main effects (ER=8.2%, 95% CI: 3.4%, 13.2%) were greater than the added effects (ER=0.0%, 95% CI: −3.8%, 4.0%) on the current day. The main effect peaked at lag0–2, and was higher for the two rural areas compared to the two cities, for respiratory compared to cardiovascular mortality, for those ≥75years old and for females. The modifying effects of heat wave characteristics and community characteristics on mortality were not statistically significant. Conclusion: This study suggests the effects of extreme heat were mainly driven by high temperature, which can be modified by some individual characteristics. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Our previously reported carboxyl-containing DPP-4 inhibitors were highly potent but were poorly bioavailable. Esters of the carboxyl analogs exhibited a significant DPP-4 potency loss albeit with enhanced oral absorption. Herein, we described identification and structure–activity relationship (SAR) exploration of a novel series of benzoic acid and ester derivatives as low single-digit nanomolar DPP-4 inhibitors. Importantly, the esters displayed comparable activities to the acids counterparts. Molecular simulation revealed that ester adopts a similar binding mode to acid. Moreover, the selected esters and acids demonstrated high selectivity and low cytotoxicity, as well as good metabolic stability. And more importantly, the esters possessed excellent pharmacokinetic profiles for oral administration. The best compound ester 19b demonstrated long DPP-4 inhibition in vivo, and robustly improved the glucose tolerance in normal and db/db mice while ensuring glucose-lowering potency in chronic treatment. Our results supported that the compound 19b can be served as a potential candidate for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. [Display omitted] • The designed benzoic acid and ester derivatives showed low single-digit nanomolar potency. • Esters displayed comparable activities to the acids counterparts. • Ester possessed excellent pharmacokinetic profiles for oral administration. • Ester 19b demonstrated long in vivo DPP-4 inhibition. • Ester 19b robustly improved the glucose tolerance in normal and db/db mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Numerous studies have reported the association between ambient temperature and mortality. However, few multicity studies have been conducted in subtropical regions in developing countries. The present study assessed the health effects of temperature on mortality in four subtropical cities of China. Methods: We used “double threshold-natural cubic spline” distributed lag non-linear model (DLNM) to investigate the cold and hot effects on mortality at different lags in four subtropical cities. Then we conducted a meta-analysis to estimate the overall cold and hot effects on mortality at different lag days. Results: A U-shaped relationship between temperature and mortality was found in the four cities. Cold effect was delayed and persisted for about 27days, whereas hot effect was acute and lasted for 3days. In Changsha, Kunming, Guangzhou and Zhuhai, a 1°C decrease of temperature under the low threshold was associated with a lag0–27 cumulative relative risk (RR) of 1.061 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.023–1.099), 1.044 (95% CI: 1.033–1.056), 1.096 (95% CI: 1.075–1.117) and 1.111 (95% CI: 1.078–1.145) for total mortality, respectively. And RR for 1°C increase of temperature above the hot threshold at the lag0 was 1.020 (95% CI: 1.003–1.037), 1.017 (95% CI: 1.004–1.030), 1.029 (95% CI: 1.020–1.039) and 1.023 (95% CI: 1.004–1.042), respectively. The cold and hot effects were greater among the elderly in Changsha, Guangzhou and Zhuhai. Meta analysis showed that the hot effect decreased gradually with lag days, with the greatest effect at current day (RR=1.023, 95% CI: 1.015–1.031); while the cumulative cold effect increased gradually with lag days, with the highest effect at lag0–27 (RR=1.076, 95% CI: 1.046–1.107). Conclusion: Both low and high temperatures were associated with increased mortality in the four subtropical Chinese cities, and cold effect was more durable and pronounced than hot effect. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this paper, ultralong MnOOH nanowires were first synthesized via a facile solution method without using any organic surfactants. A novel non-enzymatic hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) sensor was then developed on the base of MnOOH nanowire composite film modified glass carbon electrode (GCE). The resulted biosensor exhibited excellent performance for H2O2 determination with a wide linear range (1.5×10−4–1.6mM), a highly reproducible response (R.S.D. of 2.7%) and long-term stability. The good analytical performance, low cost and straightforward preparation method made this novel electrode material promising for the development of effective non-enzymatic hydrogen peroxide sensor. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: An efficient copper iodide-catalyzed aziridination of a variety of alkenes with sulfonamides and sulfamate esters as the nitrogen source and iodosylbenzene (PhI oxidant is reported herein. The reaction is operationally straightforward, applicable to a variety of alkenes containing electron-withdrawing, electron-donating, and sterically encumbered substrate combinations, and proceeds under mild conditions at room temperature in good to excellent yields. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Composite panels using virgin and recycled high-density polyethylene (VHDPE and RHDPE) and five types of natural fibers including four rice straw components (i.e., rice husk, rice straw leaf, rice straw stem, and whole rice straw) and wood fiber as control were made by melt compounding and compression molding. Fiber characteristics and the influences of fiber type and loading rate on HDPE crystallization behavior and composite mechanical properties were investigated. Fiber length and aspect ratio distributions for all fibers followed a lognormal distribution after milling with two parameters defining the curve location (i.e., mean fiber length/aspect ratio) and shape (i.e., mean fiber length/aspect ratio distribution). For both VHDPE and RHDPE, rice straw fiber systems had comparable mechanical properties with those of wood composites. Increase in fiber loading led to increased moduli and decreased tensile and impact strength. Composite panels with rice husk had the smallest storage moduli, but their impact strength was comparable or better than that of other straw fibers. Very little difference in mechanical properties existed among leaf, stem, and whole straw fibers. The particular recycled HDPE resin and its composites had significantly better moduli and strength properties compared to the virgin HDPE systems due to additives used during initial processing. X-ray diffraction experiments showed that introducing fiber to HDPE matrix did not change characteristic peak position, but the fiber increased crystalline thickness of HDPE system. Differential scanning calorimetry experiments showed that VHDPE had significantly larger peak heat flow during cooling run than the RHDPE, indicating higher crystallization rates for VHDPE. The use of fiber in both resin systems led to the reduced peak heat flow rate. The study showed that rice straw fibers can work well with both VHDPE and RHDPE as reinforcing filler. Future work will deal with effect of coupling treatments of the straw fibers in single phase or commingled plastics composite systems. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]