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ABSTRACT Previous observational studies focused on the association of tea intake and allergic diseases. However, it is not known whether these associations are causal. We used a bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) study to assess the causal relationship of tea intake with the risk of allergic diseases, such as atopic dermatitis (AD), allergic rhinitis (AR), and allergic asthma (AA). Single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) which had genetic statistical significance with tea intake were used as instrumental variables (IVs). We employed heritable IVs of tea intake from the UK Biobank, which included 447,485 samples. Sensitivity analyses were further performed using MR Egger and MR‐PRESSO. Inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was used as the main approach. In this MR study, 40 independent SNPs were selected for tea intake. The MR analysis revealed that an increase in genetically predicted tea intake was associated with a lower risk of AD (OR = 0.709, 95% CI = 0.546–0.919, p = 0.009). Furthermore, we observed a causal effect of genetically predicted tea intake on the risk of AA (OR = 0.498, 95% CI = 0.320–0.776, p = 0.002). However, no significant causal relationship was found between genetically predicted tea intake and AR (OR = 1.008, 95% CI = 0.998–1.017, p = 0.115). Our MR analysis suggested that increased tea intake may reduce the risk of AD and AA in European population. This suggests that tea intake is likely a trigger or a prevention strategy for AD and AA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon fiber (CF)‐reinforced epoxy resin (EP) composites are lightweight materials with excellent comprehensive performance. However, the flammability of EP and the poor interfacial bonding between CF and EP are two key disadvantages that limit their further applications. Here, a kind of water‐soluble lignin‐based CF sizing agent (ELBEDK) is prepared through hydrophilic modification of enzymatic lignin, which can significantly enhance the interfacial interaction between CF and EP. Additionally, a highly efficient intumescent flame retardant (LMA) is prepared. The EP, enzymatic lignin, LMA and CF sized ELBEDK are compounded to obtain the fire‐safety CF reinforced composites (SCF/FEP/L). The flame retardancy of SCF/FEP/L with 7% LMA (SCF/FEP7) reached V‐0 rating. Moreover, SCF/FEP/L with 7% LMA and 15% lignin (SCF/FEP7/L15) present an limiting oxygen index (LOI)of 30.2% and V‐0 of UL‐94. Specifically, the total smoke production and the heat release rate are 47.8% and 46.81% lower than that of SCF/EP, respectively, indicating the improved smoke suppression and flame retardancy. The IFSS and flexural strength of SCF/FEP7/L15 are improved to be 59.4 MPa and 511.1 MPa, respectively. This study presents a simple approach to fabricate low‐cost high performance lignin‐based flame retardant CF/EP biocomposites with wide application potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous zinc‐metal batteries are prospective energy storge devices due to their intrinsically high safety and cost effectiveness. Yet, uneven deposition of zinc ions in electrochemical reduction and side reactions at the anode interface significantly hinder their development and application. Here, we propose a solvation‐interface attenuation strategy enabled by a frustrated tertiary amine amphiphilic dipolymer electrolyte additive. The configuration of superhydrophilic segments with covalently bonded lipophilic spacers enables coupled steric hindrance/coordination, which establishes a balanced push‐pull dynamic of dipolymer‐H2O‐Zn2+. Such interplay reconstructs the solvation structure of Zn2+ and allows the formation of a stable dipolymer‐inorganic hybrid solid electrolyte interface (SEI) layer. This SEI layer effectively shields the zinc‐metal anode from water and anions, significantly reducing side reactions. In addition, the dipolymer adsorbed at the zinc‐metal anode interface regulates the interfacial electrochemical reduction kinetics and ensures uniform zinc deposition. As a result, the Zn−Zn symmetric cells with dipolymer‐containing electrolyte exhibit remarkable cycling stability exceeding 5800 h (242 days). The Zn‐NVO batteries and Zn‐AC hybrid ion supercapacitors also deliver stable cycling for up to 1440 h (60 days) with high‐capacity retention over 80 %. This research demonstrates the potential to facilitate the development and commercialization of zinc‐based energy storage devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limnoperna fortunei (L. fortunei) (Dunker, 1857), the golden mussel, is an invasive species possessing exceptional environmental adaptability and a destructive impact on water systems and artificial structures. To better conservation of freshwater ecosystems by controlling this mussel, it is essential to study its distribution, potential for invasion, environmental tolerance and biological traits.This paper outlines the distribution of L. fortunei in Asia and South America, as well as its potential for future invasion in freshwater habitats, along with the research methods employed.We find that the mussel had a temperature tolerance range of 8–35 °C and a pH range was 5–10, with some individuals surviving in extreme conditions for extended periods.We find that temperature was a decisive factor for success at reproductive stages, larval development and adult growth.The biological traits of L. fortunei are discussed, focusing on feeding habits, attachment characteristics and locomotion, with an emphasis on byssus structure, foot proteins and adhesion mechanisms. The study elucidates the impact of flow velocity, light exposure and substrate material on their attachment, with the optimal attachment being identified at a flow velocity of 0.3–0.9 m/s. Additionally, the mussel exhibits strong light avoidance performances and a preference for rough surfaces.Extensively‐researched control strategies are classified and summarized, primarily categorized into physical, chemical and biological control, with an outline of their respective strengths and limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nature‐inspired supramolecular self‐assemblies are attractive photocatalysts, but their quantum yields are limited by poor charge separation and transportation. A promising strategy for efficient charge transfer is to enhance the built‐in electric field by symmetry breaking. Herein, an unsymmetric protonation, N‐heterocyclic π‐conjugated anthrazoline‐based supramolecular photocatalyst SA‐DADK‐H+ was developed. The unsymmetric protonation breaks the initial structural symmetry of DADK, resulting in ca. 50‐fold increase in the molecular dipole, and facilitates efficient charge separation and transfer within SA‐DADK‐H+. The protonation process also creates numerous active sites for H2O adsorption, and serves as crucial proton relays, significantly improving the photocatalytic efficiency. Remarkably, SA‐DADK‐H+ exhibits an outstanding hydrogen evolution rate of 278.2 mmol g−1 h−1 and a remarkable apparent quantum efficiency of 25.1 % at 450 nm, placing it among the state‐of‐the‐art performances in organic semiconductor photocatalysts. Furthermore, the versatility of the unsymmetric protonation approach has been successfully applied to four other photocatalysts, enhancing their photocatalytic performance by 39 to 533 times. These findings highlight the considerable potential of unsymmetric protonation induced symmetry breaking strategy in tailoring supramolecular photocatalysts for efficient solar‐to‐fuel production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Targeting cancer‐specific metabolic processes is a promising therapeutic strategy. Here, this work uses a compound library that directly inhibits metabolic enzymes to screen the potential metabolic targets in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). SHIN1, the specific inhibitor of serine hydroxymethyltransferase 1/2 (SHMT1/2), has a highly specific inhibitory effect on LUAD cells, and this effect depends mainly on the overexpression of SHMT2. This work clarifies that mitogen‐activated protein kinase 1 (MAPK1)‐mediated phosphorylation at Ser90 is the key mechanism underlying SHMT2 upregulation in LUAD and that this phosphorylation stabilizes SHMT2 by reducing STIP1 homology and U‐box containing protein 1 (STUB1)‐mediated ubiquitination and degradation. SHMT2‐Ser90 dephosphorylation decreases S‐adenosylmethionine levels in LUAD cells, resulting in reduced N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) levels in global RNAs without affecting total protein or DNA methylation. Methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP‐Seq) and RNA sequencing (RNA‐Seq) analyses further demonstrate that SHMT2‐Ser90 dephosphorylation accelerates the RNA degradation of oncogenic genes by reducing m6A modification, leading to the inhibition of tumorigenesis. Overall, this study elucidates a new regulatory mechanism of SHMT2 during oncogenesis and provides a theoretical basis for targeting SHMT2 as a therapeutic target in LUAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With no lysine/K kinases (WNKs) promote vasocontraction and vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation. In the prostate, smooth muscle contraction and growth may be critical for the development and medical treatment of voiding symptoms in benign prostatic hyperplasia. Here, we examined the effects of isoform‐specific WNK silencing and of the WNK inhibitor WNK463 on growth‐related functions and contraction in prostate stromal cells, and in human prostate tissues. Impacts of WNK silencing by transfection of cultured stromal cells with isoform‐specific siRNAs were qualitatively and quantitatively similar for each WNK isoform. Effects of silencing were largest on cell death (3–5 fold increase in annexin V‐positive/7‐AAD‐positive cells), on proliferation rate, Ki‐67 mRNA expression and actin organization (reduced around two‐thirds). Contraction in matrix contraction assays and viability were reduced to a lower degree (approximately half), but again to a similar extent for each WNK isoform. Effects of silencing were quantitatively and qualitatively reproduced by 10 μM WNK463, while 1 μM still induced cell death and breakdown in actin organization, without affecting proliferation or viability. Using 500 nM and 10 μM, WNK463 partly inhibited neurogenic and U46619‐induced contractions of human prostate tissues (around half), while inhibition of α1‐adrenergic contractions (around half) was limited to 10 μM. All four WNK isoforms suppress cell death and promote proliferation in prostate stromal cells. WNK‐driven contraction of stromal cells appears possible, even though to a limited extent. Outcomes of isoform‐specific WNK silencing can be fully reproduced by WNK463, including inhibition of smooth muscle contraction in human prostate tissues, but require high concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The crystal phases of metals are important factors to tune the properties of metals, and therefore received extensive attention. Traditionally, phase control is performed within limited numbers of elements by harsh conditions, such as face‐centered cubic Fe by high temperature. This review summarizes most reports in metal phase control area, including elements of Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Ru, Pd, Rh, Os and Au. For every metallic element, the facile phase control methods are systematically introduced, such as epitaxial growth, ball milling, chemical reduction, etc. Their corresponding applications and the mechanisms for phase control are thoroughly discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the self‐assembled lignin‐based flame retardant (LMA) was grafted with γ‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) to obtain a novel type of silicon‐containing intumescent flame retardant (LK), which can be applied on polypropylene (PP) to obtain flame retardant PP (PP‐LK). Furthermore, low cost flame retardant PP biocomposite (PP/M/L) with high lignin content were prepared by compounding lignin, LK and PP. The developed PP‐LK and PP/M/L exhibited significant excellent flame retardancy, smoke suppression and mechanical properties. In particular, the UL‐94 test achieved V‐0, and the limit oxygen index (LOI) increased from 17.9% of PP to 28.3% of PP‐LK, and 27.2% of PP/M/L, respectively. Meanwhile, tensile strength and Young's modulus increased by 6.3% and 19.64% for PP‐LK and PP/M/L, respectively. Especially, the tensile strength of PP with 15% LK and 25% lignin achieved 30.88 MPa, and the Young's modulus reached 1415 MPa. The excellent carbonization properties of PP‐LK illustrated that the lignin component of LK had excellent carbonization ability. The prepared LK provided a novel strategy to improve the fire safety and cost of PP, and wide the applications of lignin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amidst global climate warming, the urgency to enhance crop drought resistance has reached unprecedented levels. However, the achievement of superior drought‐resistant crop varieties, despite substantial research investments, remains constrained. This limited success in transitioning from the laboratory to the field can be partly attributed to the disparity between evaluating biological and agronomic drought resistance (ADR). ADR places emphasis on minimizing yield losses during drought conditions and maintaining robust performance under normal circumstances. Here, we present a comprehensive overview of ADR genes reported during the past decades, categorized based on their yield performance under both drought and standard growth conditions. We highlight 23 genes from grain and legume crops, providing insight into their working mechanisms. Particularly, we delve into their efficacy in improving yields predominantly through transgenic approaches in field conditions. Furthermore, we briefly touch upon the adoption of emerging phenomics technologies, which can streamline the discovery and application of ADR genes. This review is poised to serve the breeding community, aiding in the selection of appropriate target genes to augment crop drought resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To accelerate the clinical translation of tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) biomarkers for guiding chemotherapy de‐escalation in early‐stage triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC), cost‐effectiveness evidence is essential but has not been investigated. We intend to evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of using TILs to guiding chemotherapy de‐escalation in patients with early‐stage TNBC from the perspective of the Chinese health service system. Methods: The hybrid decision‐tree‐Markov model was designed to compare the cost‐effectiveness of cytotoxic chemotherapy guided by whether TILs assay was performed in 50‐year‐old female patients with early‐stage TNBC over a lifetime horizon. In Strategy (1), if TILs testing was performed, patients with TILs values exceeding 30% could be spared from chemotherapy. In Strategy (2), where no TILs testing was performed, all patients were administered chemotherapy following China's clinical practices. Based on the algorithm built by Guyot, the individual patient data were reconstructed from the published Kaplan–Meier curves, and the survival functions were calculated by parametric methods. Cost estimates were valued in Chinese yuan (as per rates in 2022). Results: In 50‐year‐old female patients with early‐stage TNBC, Strategy (1), which employs TILs testing to guide cytotoxic chemotherapy yielded an additional 0.47 quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs) and saved 40,976 yuan, with an incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio (ICER) of −87,182.98 yuan per QALY gained compared with Strategy (2). This indicates that compared with Strategy (2), Strategy (1) is the dominant scheme. The results were sensitive to utility parameters, discount rates, and treatment costs after relapse. At a willingness‐to‐pay threshold of 85,700 yuan (based on GDP per capita) per QALY, the probability of TILs being cost‐effective was almost 100%. Conclusions: The application of biomarkers (TILs) to guide decisions for chemotherapy de‐escalation is a cost‐effective strategy for early‐stage TNBC patients and deserves to be widely promoted in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Echovirus 3 (E3) belongs to the species Enterovirus B. Currently, three nearly whole‐genome sequences of E3 are available in GenBank in China. In this study, we determined the whole genomic sequences of six E3 strains isolated from the stools of patients with hand‐foot‐and‐mouth disease in Southwest China in 2022. Their nucleotide and amino acid sequences shared 82.1%–86.4% and 96.6%–97.2% identity with the prototype Morrisey strain, respectively, and showed 87.1% and 97.2% mutual identity. The six E3 strains are not clustered with other Chinese strains and formed a novel subgenotype (C6) with the recent American and British strains. Recombination analyses revealed that intertype recombination had occurred in the 2 C and 3D regions of the six E3 strains with coxsackieviruses B5 and B4, respectively. This study augments the nearly whole‐genome sequences of E3 in the GenBank database and extends the molecular characterization of this virus in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: FERONIA (FER) is a receptor‐like kinase showing versatile functions during plant growth, development, and responses to environmental stimuli. However, its functions during the interaction between fruit and necrotrophic fungal pathogens are still unclear.Combining reverse genetic approaches, physiological assays, co‐immunoprecipitation, protein phosphorylation identification, and site‐directed mutagenesis, we reported a tomato FER homolog SlFERL (Solanum lycopersicum FERONIA Like) involved in the immune responses to Botrytis cinerea invasion.The results indicated that SlFERL extracellular domain recognized and interacted with the secreted virulence protein BcPG1 from B. cinerea, further revealed that SlFERL triggered downstream signaling by phosphorylating SlMAP3K18 at Thr45, Ser49, Ser76, and Ser135. Moreover, we verified that SlMAP2K2 and SlMAP2K4 synergistically contributed to immune response of tomato to B. cinerea, in which SlFERL‐SlMAP3K18 module substantially modulated protein level and/or kinase activity of SlMAP2K2/SlMAP2K4.These findings reveal a new pattern‐triggered immune pathway, indicating that SlFERL participates in the immune responses to B. cinerea invasion via recognizing BcPG1 and fine‐tuning MAPK signaling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) have become the research focus of energy storage products. Due to the combination of Li+ and the Lewis basic sites of polymer chains, anions move more than five times faster, which do not participate in the electrode reaction during the discharge cycles, leading to concentration polarization, voltage losses, and high internal resistance. To solve this phenomenon, in this work, a polymer network structure of single‐ion polymer electrolyte‐based polyimide (DPI‐SIGPE) with plasticizer ethylene carbonate (EC)/dimethyl carbonate (DMC) is formed by in‐situ cross‐linking double bond polyimide, 4‐styrene sulfonyl (benzenesulfonyl) imide, and cross‐linking agent pentaerythritol tetra(2‐thiol acetate) under UV irradiation. By incorporating the anion as a part of the polymer chain, DPI‐SIGPE exhibits high lithium‐ion conductivity of 2.7 × 10−4 S cm−1 at 30 °C and transference number of 0.87. Typical lithium stripping/plating cycling of 900 h demonstrates uniform lithium deposition impacted by DPI‐SIGPE. Meanwhile, it has good dimensional thermal stability with no obvious shrinkage at 200 °C for 0.5 h and wide electrochemical window of 4.6 V. Thus, the polyimide‐based cross‐linked single‐ion gel polymer electrolyte has the promising potential for application in LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kaempferol (Kae) is a natural flavonoid that has multiple biological activities, such as anti‐inflammatory and antitumor activities. However, few studies have been reported on antiglioma effects of Kae. This study aimed to explore the effects and potential mechanisms of Kae and synergistic antitumor activities with gefitinib (Gef) on glioma. Cell Counting Kit‐8 and 5‐ethynyl‐2'‐deoxyuridine assays were used to detect cytotoxicity and cell proliferation. Cell apoptosis and the cell cycle were detected by flow cytometry. Transwell assays were used to detect the migratory and invasive abilities of glioma cells. Network pharmacology and molecular docking analysis were used to screen for core targets of Kae in glioma therapy. Xenograft tumor nude mice were established with U251 cells to verify the antiglioma effects of Kae in vivo. A terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay was used to detect apoptosis in tumor tissues. The expression of proteins was detected by immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis. Kae inhibited cell proliferation, promoted apoptosis, and induced cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase of glioma cells in a concentration‐dependent manner. Kae inhibited the migration and invasion of glioma cells at low concentrations. Network pharmacology analyses showed that epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and SRC proto‐oncogene (SRC) might be direct molecular‐binding targets of Kae. Our results showed that Kae inhibited the levels of phosphorylated EGFR, phosphorylated SRC (p‐SRC), and phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3). In addition, the combination of Kae with Gef significantly inhibited the proliferation of glioma cells. Kae further inhibited EGFR phosphorylation after treatment with Gef. Similarly, Kae further enhanced the inhibition of p‐SRC caused by SU6656. Finally, we demonstrated that Kae exerted great antitumor activities and enhanced the antitumor effect of Gef by inhibiting EGFR/SRC/STAT3 signaling pathway in vivo. Kae played a potential role and synergistic antiglioma effects with Gef by inhibiting the phosphorylation of EGFR/SRC dual targets. Kae is expected to be a candidate drug or chemosensitizer in glioma therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chiral hybrid organic−inorganic perovskites (HOIPs) with intrinsic noncentrosymmetry have shown great potentials for chiroptoelectronic applications including second‐order nonlinear optics (NLO). Ideal NLO materials should simultaneously feature a large NLO coefficient, wide optical transparency, high laser damage threshold, and physicochemical stability. However, the development of applicable second‐order NLO materials has been largely restricted due to their strict requirement on structural noncentrosymmetry. Here, chiral amino acids abundant in nature have been adopted to synthesize hybrid lead halide perovskites (D‐/L‐Pro)PbI3·H2O (Pro = Proline) with resonance enhanced second‐harmonic generation (SHG). Their crystals feature balanced NLO performances with a large NLO coefficient, wide transparent region, high laser damage threshold, and high polarization ratio. This work demonstrates the promise of naturally abundant amino acids for the construction of hybrid chiral metal halide perovskites for next generation optoelectronic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common pediatric infectious illness caused by enteroviruses (EVs). EV‐A serotypes are the main pathogens associated with HFMD. In this study, 213 stool samples from 213 children with severe HFMD in Yunnan, China in 2013, 2015, and 2016 were further analyzed retrospectively for EV‐B infection. A total of 70.0% of the specimens tested positive for EV.20 EV serotypes were detected. The predominant serotype was enterovirus A71 (EV‐A71, 27.7%), followed by coxsackievirus B4 (CV‐B4, 16.4%), CV‐A16 (9.9%), CV‐B5 (6.6%), and Echovirus 9 (E‐9,4.7%). EV‐A and EV‐B accounted for 45.1% and 41.3%, respectively. Among the positive specimens, 28.6% were CV‐Bs. Co‐infection was present in 19.3% of these cases. In the study, CV‐B5 and the majority of CV‐B4 isolates belonged to genotypes VI and C3, respectively. This result indicates that EV‐B, especially CV‐Bs, might be the important agents associated with HFMD and this knowledge will contribute to the prevention and treatment of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supramolecular self‐assembly of near‐infrared (NIR) dyes are believed to be a promising strategy to design effective photothermal agents for tumor photothermal therapy (PTT). However, due to the uncontrollable intermolecular interactions, accurately fine‐tuning the aggregated morphology of NIR dyes through adjusting their supramolecular self‐assembly is challenging. Here, based on organic–metal coordination interaction, a facile self‐assembly fine‐tuning strategy is proposed to adjust the aggregated morphology of heptamethine cyanine (Cy7) dyes, the well‐known NIR dyes. Three hydrophilic Cy7 derivatives Cy‐nCOOH (n = 1, 2, and 3) are synthesized, and then are coordinated with Cu2+ to obtain different aggregates. Cy‐1COOH/Cu aggregates form partial J‐aggregates. Cy‐2COOH/Cu aggregates are amorphous. Noteworthily, Cy‐3COOH/Cu aggregates exhibit significant H‐type aggregation. Moreover, Cy‐3COOH/Cu aggregates show about threefold higher photothermal conversion efficiency and obviously enhanced photostability than Cy‐1COOH/Cu and Cy‐2COOH/Cu aggregates. It is demonstrated that H‐aggregates with face‐to‐face π–π stacking greatly quench fluorescence and inhibit singlet oxygen (1O2) production, which lead to the improved photothermal performances. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrate the remarkable tumor PTT efficiency of Cy‐3COOH/Cu H‐aggregates. This study provides a new insight into how to precisely control molecular aggregation of organic dyes in supramolecular self‐assembly for enhanced tumor phototherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Metabolic response assessment for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) aids in identifying locoregional persistence/recurrence (LRR). The Hopkins Criteria are a standardized qualitative response assessment system using posttreatment FDG‐PET/CT. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients with node‐positive OPSCC treated with definitive (chemo)radiotherapy. We assessed Hopkins Criteria performance for LRR, then developed and validated a competing‐risks model. Results: Between 2004 and 2018, 259 patients were included with median follow‐up of 43 months. The Hopkins Criteria sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value, and accuracy were 68%, 88%, 95%, and 85%. The 36‐month cumulative incidence of LRR was greater with positive scores (45% vs. 5%, HR 12.60, p < 0.001). PET/CTs performed ≤10 weeks after radiotherapy were associated with a four‐fold increase in pathologically negative biopsies/surgeries (36% vs. 9%, p = 0.03). The AUC for LRR was 0.89 using a model integrating the Hopkins score. Conclusions: The Hopkins Criteria predict LRR with high accuracy for OPSCC response assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) is frequently encountered in asymptomatic, persistent endodontic infections; thus, its control and eradication via disinfectants are important. To explore a disinfectant formulation that is effective yet with minimal side effects, here, we evaluated the susceptibility of E. faecalis to three intracanal disinfectants. We quantitatively assessed and compared the growth‐ or metabolism‐inhibiting effects of intracanal disinfectants via minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum inhibitory concentration based on metabolic activity (MIC‐MA), based on the broth dilution test and D2O‐probed single‐cell Raman spectra (SCRS), respectively. For sodium hypochlorite (NaClO), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX), the corresponding MIC was 0.45 g/L, 110 mg/L, and 6 mg/L, respectively. Under their respective MIC doses, metabolic activity of bacterial cells was reduced to 2%, 4%, and 2% remained at 8 h, yet recovered to a retention level of 90%, 97%, and 2% at 24 h. Despite the halting of growth, the remained metabolic activity suggests a "nongrowing but metabolically active" (NGMA) state that may lead to potential recurring infections. In contrast, at their respective MIC‐MA doses of 0.9 g/L, 220 mg/L, and 12 mg/L, metabolic activities of all cells were completely inhibited throughout 24‐h exposure. Furthermore, lower combined concentration of above three intracanal disinfectants can elicit equivalent metabolism‐inhibiting effect with that of solo use of each one at the MIC‐MA dose. Thus, binary combined use of disinfectants can outperform their solo use in controlling infection of E. faecalis and reducing side effects. In conclusion, the MIC‐MA derived from D2O‐probed single‐cell Raman microspectroscopy is a promising approach in quantitatively assessing disinfectants' antimicrobial efficacy via metabolic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advanced tactile feedback systems are important tools in the field of human–machine interfaces. In this work, an airflow‐assisted corona charging process is utilized to charge films made of electret material for the construction of a sandwich‐structured flexible actuator system. With a voltage as low as 20 V, this flexible actuator can stimulate skin sensations for basic tactile feedback functions. Under a driving voltage of 200 V, the system can generate an output force of ≈55 mN, which is larger than that of the output force by cellphones under the vibration mode. Utilizing these prototype flexible electret actuators array, programmable patterns of tactile sensations can be generated on human skin according to both vibrational intensities and spatial positions. Thus, two demonstrations of human–machine interface are illustrated based on the proposed device: 1) A tactile‐assisted navigation prototype with programmable commands; and 2) a tactile‐based braille prototype constructed via a 6‐pixels actuator array to generate designated patterns for assisting human–machine communications. As such, this system prototype has potential for applications in cognitive assistance via tactile feedbacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine facilities and ships are easily plagued by biofouling. Synergistic surfaces combining surface reactive ion etching and peptide modification were designed and prepared to tackle surface biofouling. Six microstructural surfaces were first designed and machined based on the contact point theory; the synergistic surfaces were then prepared by peptide modification. Laser confocal scanning microscope (LCSM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), contact angle measurement, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were utilized to analyze the surface morphology and surface chemical properties; the results demonstrated that six synergistic surfaces were prepared successfully with 0.8‐μm depth, surface contact angle increased from 75° to 116.99°, and the surface chemical compositions were also changed significantly due to peptide modification. Antibiofilm assays showed that surface modification and surface topology could slightly reduce the formation of biofilm. While the synergistic surfaces possess strong anti‐algal performance, and anti‐Chlorella pyrenoidosa (C. pyrenoidosa) and anti‐Phaeodactylum tricornutum (P. tricornutum) rates reached 78.56% and 87.80%, respectively after 7‐day immersion in artificial seawater. Compared with the single surface treatment method, the antifouling performance of the synergetic surfaces were stronger. This strategy demonstrated a realistic paradigm for the further improving surface antifouling performance in a green method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Particulate nitrate (pNO3−) is an important component in atmospheric fine particulate matter. Here, we present a case study investigating the production and loss processes of pNO3− in surface‐layer based on the observation at a regional site Wangdu in North China Plain (NCP) during summer. The averaged diurnal of nitric acid (HNO3) production reached a maximum of 1.5 μg m−3 h−1 determined from the observed OH and NO2, indicating a fast HNO3 production in the surface layer during the daytime. The chemical processes affecting surface nitrate concentration and daily variation were simulated by a box model based on the Regional Atmospheric Chemical Mechanism version 2 and coupled with the ISORROPIA‐II thermodynamic equilibrium model. The chemical formation of total soluble nitrate (TNO3) at the surface layer cannot explain the fast increase of pNO3− in the morning and overshoot pNO3− in the afternoon, suggesting missing processes in the model. The pNO3− budget analysis suggests the importance of entrainment from residual layer air into the surface layer as an important process for surface pNO3− concentration enhancement in the early morning. In the afternoon, the partition to pNO3− was limited due to the high temperature near the ground. Nevertheless, the observed fast nitrate production still significantly overshot pNO3− in the afternoon. This difference indicates HNO3 production was less efficient throughout the boundary layer than what was observed in the surface layer. Our results highlight the importance of vertical measurements to understand the formation mechanism of nitrate pollution in summer. Plain Language Summary: We present a case study investigating the production and loss processes of particulate nitrate (pNO3−) on the ground‐based on the observation at a regional site Wangdu in North China Plain during summer. We observed a fast nitrate production in the surface layer during the daytime. By using a model simulation, we found the chemical formation at the surface layer cannot explain the fast increase of pNO3− in the morning and rapidly decline in the afternoon, suggesting missing processes in the model. Model result suggests the entrainment from upper air into the surface layer is an important source for surface pNO3− in the early morning. In the afternoon, high temperature limits the produced gas phase nitrate transfer to particle phase. Nevertheless, the observed fast nitrate production from gas phase reaction still significantly overshot pNO3− in the afternoon. This difference suggests the nitrate production was less efficient throughout the sky than what was observed on the ground. Our results highlight the importance of vertical measurements to understand the formation mechanism of nitrate pollution in summer. Key Points: The chemical formation of particulate nitrate (pNO3−) at the surface layer cannot explain the daytime variation of pNO3−The residual layer entrainment is an important process for surface pNO3− enhancement in the early morningHNO3 production is less efficient throughout the boundary layer than what is observed in the surface layer in the afternoon [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Picotamide is a thromboxane A2 (TXA2) receptor antagonist and TXA2 synthase inhibitor. In clinical studies, it has been considered as a platelet aggregation inhibitor and improved renal function. In vitro studies suggested inhibition of smooth muscle contraction by picotamide, which is poorly understood. Here, we examined effects of picotamide on contractions of renal interlobar and coronary porcine arteries, induced by different vasoconstrictors. Contractions were induced in an organ bath by agonists or electric field stimulation (EFS). Picotamide inhibited EFS‐induced contractions of interlobar arteries around 50% using concentrations of 100 and 300 µM. In interlobar arteries, concentration response curves for contractions induced by three different α1‐adrenoceptor agonists were shifted to the right by picotamide (2–10‐fold increases in EC50). In coronary arteries, α1‐adrenergic contractions were inhibited without right shift (approx. 50%). Contractions induced by two different cholinergic agonists in coronary arteries were inhibited by picotamide (≥50%) withouth right shift. Inhibition of serotonin‐induced contractions by picotamide showed features of a right shift, whereas contractions induced by the TXA2 analog U46619, angiotensin‐II, and endothelin‐1 were inhibited by picotamide in interlobar and coronary arteries without right shifts and to different degree. Picotamide inhibits a wide spectrum of vasoconstrictor‐induced contractions in porcine interlobar and coronary arteries. Inhibition of vasocontraction may contribute to beneficial effects of picotamide in the cardiovascular system and kidney. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The liver segments divided by Couinaud classification method are used to understand the functional anatomy of liver, which is significant in hepatic resection surgery. In Couinaud classification method, each third‐order branch of the portal vein (PV) defines the supplied territory of a corresponding liver segment. However, the accuracies of the reconstruction and classification of PV are affected by the complicated structure of the vein. The purpose of this paper is to develop a separation and classification method that can accurately extract the liver segments. Methods: In this paper, a multiple feature‐based method is proposed to obtain liver segments. Because the portal and hepatic veins usually connect in the vessel segmentation result, the PV is first completely separated based on the different strategies for minimal node cut using fused features of topology and appearance. Meanwhile, all bifurcation nodes of PV are detected. The bifurcation nodes are initial ordered through their linkages to classify the branches. Then, the feature of the vascular topology is used to refine the orders of bifurcation nodes. The bifurcation nodes with the refined orders classify the branches between them, and the third‐order branches of PV are obtained. The liver segments are eventually obtained through the third‐order branches. Results: The separation and classification in the proposed method are evaluated on the CT and MR datasets. The average values of Dice, Jaccard, Recall, and Precision obtained by the proposed method are 93.00%, 87.90%, 93.47%, and 93.19%, respectively. Compared with the state‐of‐the‐art methods, the separation results obtained by the proposed method are more accurate. The branches of PV are classified based on the separation result. According to the third‐order branches, eight liver segments correspond to the different functional areas are precisely extracted. Conclusions: The proposed method achieves a high accuracy for the liver segment extraction. And the extracted liver segments are significant for the preplanning of resection surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the recent decrease in pollution events in Chinese urban areas, the World Health Organization air quality guideline values are still exceeded. Observations from monitoring networks show a stronger decrease of organic aerosol directly emitted to the atmosphere relative to secondary organic aerosol (SOA) generated from oxidation processes. Here, the uptake of water‐soluble gas‐phase oxidation products is reported as a major SOA contribution to particulate pollution in Beijing, triggered by the increase of aerosol liquid water. In pollution episodes, this pathway is enough to explain the increase in SOA mass, with formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, glycolaldehyde, formic acid, and acetic acid alone explaining 15%–25% of the SOA increase. Future mitigation strategies to reduce non‐methane volatile organic compound emissions should be considered to reduce organic particulate pollution in China. Plain Language Summary: In the rapidly developing Chinese economy, air pollution from particulate matter (PM) is a major human health risk factor. We show that secondary organic aerosol (SOA) generated from oxidation processes represent 50%–80% of the organic PM in Beijing. We find that non‐equilibrium dissolution of C1−C2 carbonyl compounds to particles is a major pathway of SOA formation during pollution events. These compounds are ubiquitous products in the chemical oxidation of hydrocarbons; thus, the reduction of a single volatile organic compound precursor would not reduce the organic PM, but rather a broad reduction of the organic reactivity is required. Key Points: Secondary organic aerosol generated from oxidation processes dominates organic particulate pollution in BeijingNon‐equilibrium dissolution of carbonyl compounds to particles is a major pathway of SOA formation during haze episodesA broad reduction of the gas‐phase organic reactivity is required to reduce secondary organic aerosol formation in haze events [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Five isostructural tetranuclear lanthanide complexes with the general formula [Ln4(teaH2)2(teaH)2(NO3)6]·2CH3OH [Ln3+ = Dy3+ (1), Tb3+ (2), Ho3+ (3), Er3+ (4), and Gd3+ (5)] were successfully synthesized by the reaction of various lanthanide nitrate and triethanolamine (teaH3) ligand. Single crystal X‐ray analyses reveal the eight‐coordinate Ln3+ centers adopt a slightly distorted triangular dodecahedron geometry and nine‐coordinate Ln3+ ions own an approximately capped square antiprism environment in similar zigzag Ln4 core. Magnetic studies demonstrate the presence of anitferromagnetic interactions between Ln3+ centers without obvious SMM behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Incremental proofs demonstrate that miRNAs, the essential regulators of gene expression, are implicated in various biological procedures, including mammary development and milk synthesis. Here, the role of miR‐574‐5p in milk synthesis, apoptosis, and proliferation of goat mammary epithelial cells (GMECs) are explored without precedent, and the molecular mechanisms for the impacts are elucidated. Small RNA libraries were constructed using GMECs transfected with miR‐574‐5p mimics and negative control followed by sequencing via Solexa technology. Overall, 332 genes were distinguishingly expressed entre two libraries, with 74 genes upregulated and 258 genes downregulated. This approach revealed mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase kinase 9 (MAP3K9), an upstream activator of MAPK signaling, as a differentially expressed unigene. miR‐574‐5p targeted seed sequences of the MAP3K9 3′‐untranslated region and suppressed its messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels, correspondingly. GMECs with miR‐574‐5p overexpression and MAP3K9 inhibition showed increased cell apoptosis and decreased cell proliferation resulting from sustained suppression of MAPK pathways, while MAP3K9 elevation manifested the opposite results. miR‐574‐5p repressed the phosphorylation of members of protein kinase B (AKT)–mammalian target of rapamycin pathway via downregulating MAP3K9 and AKT3, resulting in reducing the secretion of β‐casein and triglycerides in GMECs. Finally, according to the constructed circular RNA (circRNA) libraries and bioinformatics prediction approach, we selected circ‐016910 and found it acted as a sponge for miR‐574‐5p and blocked its relevant behaviors to undertake biological effects in GMECs. The circRNA–miRNA–mRNA network facilitates further probes on the function of miR‐574‐5p in mammary development and milk synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) flare can occur in HBV patients either naïve or have interruption to treatment. Bacterial infection (BI) is a common complication of cirrhosis with potential severe outcomes. We aimed to assess the impact of HBV flare on the outcome of patients with HBV‐related decompensated cirrhosis and BI. Methods: This was a retrospective study from 2 tertiary academic hospitals in Shanghai, China of HBV patients admitted with or developed BI during admission. The characteristics of BI, prevalence of HBV flare, its impact on organ failure, acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF) and 90‐day survival were evaluated. Results: A total of 360 hospitalized patients (median age: 50 years, male: 79%, BI: at admission: 58.6%; during admission: 41.4%) were included. All patients including those with HBV flare (21%) received antiviral therapy after admission. Patients with HBV flare and BI had significantly higher percentage of liver (93.3% vs 48.8%), coagulation (64.0% vs 39.6%), cerebral (40.0% vs 21.8%) (all P < 0.01), and kidney failure (38.7% vs 26.3%, P < 0.05) compared to BI alone, associated with a higher risk of developing ACLF with a subdistribution hazard ratio (sHR) of 2.23 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.68‐2.96). Multivariate analysis showed that ACLF development was the strongest risk factor for 90‐day mortality (sHR, 95%CI: 7.36, 4.12‐13.16). Conclusions: In HBV‐related decompensated cirrhosis patients admitted with BI, HBV flare increased the risk of additional organ failures and ACLF, raising the risk of 90‐day mortality by seven‐fold. Optimization of HBV treatment in these patients should minimize the risk of HBV flare with improved outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extensive hepatocyte death leads to hepatic inflammation and contributes to systemic inflammation in decompensated cirrhosis. We aimed to investigate the prognostic value of serum cell death markers in patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐related acute decompensation (AD) of cirrhosis with and without acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF). We studied two cohorts—cohort 1: 201 outpatients with stable chronic hepatitis B (49 cirrhosis); cohort 2: 232 inpatients with HBV‐related cirrhosis admitted for AD. Cell death was determined with serum keratin‐18 (K18) for total death and serum caspase‐cleaved‐K18 (cK18) for apoptosis. Survival analyses were performed using competing risk method. We found that serum K18 and cK18 were significantly (P < 0.001) higher in patients from cohort 2 than those from cohort 1. Among cohort 2, ACLF patients had significantly (P < 0.001) increased K18 and cK18 comparing to those without ACLF. Increased K18 and cK18 were mainly attributed to HBV flare and were associated with liver and coagulation failure. HBV‐AD patients without ACLF who admitted with upper tertile of K18 or cK18 were at higher risk of developing ACLF during follow‐up. Baseline serum K18 or cK18 was significantly associated with transplant‐free 90‐day survival independent of leucocytes, HBV DNA, bacterial infection, encephalopathy and severity scores. The combination of cell death biomarkers significantly improved the prognostic value of the currently established prognostic scores. The reduction of cell death level after standard treatment was associated with increased short‐term survival. In conclusion, measurements of serum K18 or cK18 in HBV decompensated cirrhosis are a promising tool for predicting ACLF and risk stratification of short‐term outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, studies have shown that enhancer RNAs (eRNAs) can be transcribed from enhancers. Increasing evidence has revealed that eRNAs play critical roles in the development of various cancers. Oestrogen‐associated eRNAs are closely related to breast cancer. In view of the gender differences in bladder cancer (BCa), we suppose that oestrogen‐associated eRNAs are also involved in tumorigenesis of BCa. In our study, we first demonstrated that eGREB1 derived from the enhancer of an oestrogen‐responsive gene—GREB1 was up‐regulated in BCa tissues, and the expression level of eGREB1 is positively associated with the histological grade and TNM stage of BCa. Knockdown of eGREB1 by CRISPR‐Cas13a could inhibit cell proliferation, migration and invasion and induce apoptosis in BCa cells T24 and 5637. Besides, we exhibited the promoting effect of oestrogen on BCa cells. What's more, down‐regulation of eGREB1 could improve the malignant biological characteristics of BCa cells induced by oestrogen. In conclusion, our data indicated that eGREB1 plays oncogenic role and oestrogen may promote the occurrence and progression of BCa by inducing eGREB1 production. Our findings provide new insights into the prevention of BCa and develop a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of BCa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: To develop colorless and soluble polyimide films, cis‐hydrogenated bisphenol A (cis‐HBPA) was successfully separated from HBPA isomers, and two novel monomers containing cis‐HBPA unit, 4,4′‐(4,4′‐isopropenylbicyclohexyloxy) diphthalic anhydride (HBPADA) and 4,4′‐(4,4′‐isopropenylbicyclohexyloxy) dianiline (f) were designed and synthesized. PI–(1 – 5) were achieved from HBPADA and five kinds of aromatic diamines and PI – 6 from HBPADA and semiaromatic diamine f via a two‐step thermal imidization. All the polyimides could afford flexible, tough, and transparent films with transparency as high as 86% at 450 nm. Surprisingly, the polyimides containing cis‐HBPA unit exhibited excellent solubility not only in polar solvents such as N, N‐dimethylacetamide, but also in low boiling solvents such as chloroform and dichloromethane. Additionally, analogues aromatic PI – 7 derived from 4,4′‐(hexafluoroisopropylidene)‐diphthalic anhydride (6FDA) and 2,2‐bis(4‐aminophenyl)hexafluoropropane (e) was obtained for comparison with PI–(1 – 6) on aspects of thermal, mechanical, soluble, optical, electrical, and morphological properties. The structure‐property relationships of PI–(1 – 7) were investigated in detail. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 2115–2128 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aims Serum Golgi protein 73 ( GP73) is a potential biomarker for fibrosis assessment. We aimed to develop an algorithm based on GP73 and liver stiffness ( LS) for further improvement of accuracy for significant fibrosis in patients with antiviral-naïve chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Methods Diagnostic accuracy evaluation of GP73 and development of GP73- LS algorithm was performed in training cohort (n = 267) with an independent cohort (n = 133) for validation. Results A stepwise increasing pattern of serum GP73 was observed across fibrosis stages in patients with antiviral-naïve chronic HBV infection. Serum GP73 significantly correlated ( rho = 0.48, P < .001) with fibrosis stage and was an independent predictor for the presence of significant fibrosis ( OR, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.01-1.03, per increase in 1 ng/mL, P < .001). Both LS ( AUROC, 95% CI: 0.82, 0.77-0.87, accuracy: 74.7%) and GP73 ( AUROC, 95% CI: 0.76, 0.71-0.82, accuracy: 71.5%) well-predicted significant fibrosis and outperformed APRI ( AUROC, 95% CI: 0.69, 0.63-0.76, accuracy: 66%) and FIB-4 ( AUROC, 95% CI: 0.66, 0.60-0.73, accuracy: 63.6%). Using GP73- LS algorithm, GP73 < 63 in agreement with LS < 8.5 provided accuracy of 81.7% to excluded significant fibrosis. GP73 ≥ 63 in agreement with LS ≥ 8.5 provided accuracy of 93.3% to confirm significant fibrosis. Almost 64% or 68% of patients in the training or validation cohort could be accurately classified. Conclusions Serum GP73 is a robust biomarker for significant fibrosis diagnosis. GP73- LS algorithm provided better diagnostic accuracy than currently available approaches. More than 60% antiviral naïve CHB patients could use this algorithm without resorting to liver biopsy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim Hepatitis B virus-related acute-on-chronic liver failure (HBV-ACLF) is an acute deterioration of liver function on chronic liver disease with immune disorder. Th22 cells and IL-22 were correlated with inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. However, Th22 cells and IL-22 in the pathogenesis of HBV-ACLF remains to be elucidated. It was investigated the correlation between Th22 and prognosis in HBV-ACLF. Methods Seventy-one HBV-ACLF and 65 chronic hepatitis B patients were recruited. The peripheral frequencies of Th22, Th17 and Th1, or IL-22 and IL-17 were determined, using flow cytometry or ELISA, respectively. It was further analyzed the correlation between Th22 mediated circulating IL-22 and survival rate of HBV-ACLF patients. Results It was upregulated that the peripheral frequencies of Th22/Th17 cells as well as plasma IL-22 and IL-17 in HBV-ACLF patients, but the frequency of Th1 cells was decreased, compared with health controls. Elevated Th22 cells and IL-22 were correlated with HBV-ACLF disease severity. Elevated plasma IL-22 level (>29.5 pg/ml) was correlated with poor survival rate of HBV-ACLF patients at baseline, using Kaplan-Meier analysis. Conclusions Persistently elevated circulating Th22 reversely correlates with prognosis in HBV-ACLF. Th22 cells/IL-22 might be served as biomarkers for evaluating the prognosis of HBV-ACLF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the development of synthetic biology, synthetic gene circuits have shown great applied potential in medicine, biology, and as commodity chemicals. An ultimate challenge in the construction of gene circuits is the lack of effective, programmable, secure and sequence‐specific gene editing tools. The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR) system, a CRISPR‐associated RNA‐guided endonuclease Cas9 (CRISPR‐associated protein 9)‐targeted genome editing tool, has recently been applied in engineering gene circuits for its unique properties‐operability, high efficiency and programmability. The traditional single‐targeted therapy cannot effectively distinguish tumour cells from normal cells, and gene therapy for single targets has poor anti‐tumour effects, which severely limits the application of gene therapy. Currently, the design of gene circuits using tumour‐specific targets based on CRISPR/Cas systems provides a new way for precision cancer therapy. Hence, the application of intelligentized gene circuits based on CRISPR technology effectively guarantees the safety, efficiency and specificity of cancer therapy. Here, we assessed the use of synthetic gene circuits and if the CRISPR system could be used, especially artificial switch‐inducible Cas9, to more effectively target and treat tumour cells. Moreover, we also discussed recent advances, prospectives and underlying challenges in CRISPR‐based gene circuit development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]