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Tin‐based perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are promising environmentally friendly alternatives to their lead‐based counterparts, yet they currently suffer from much lower device performance. Due to variations in the chemical properties of lead (II) and tin (II) ions, similar treatments may yield distinct effects resulting from differences in underlying mechanisms. In this work, a surface treatment on tin‐based perovskite is conducted with a commonly employed ligand, iso‐butylammonium iodide (iso‐BAI). Unlike the passivation effects previously observed in lead‐based perovskites, such treatment leads to the recrystallization of the surface, driven by the higher solubility of tin‐based perovskite in common solvents. By carefully designing the solvent composition, the perovskite surface is effectively modified while preserving the integrity of the bulk. The treatment led to enhanced surface crystallinity, reduced surface strain and defects, and improved charge transport. Consequently, the best‐performing power conversion efficiency of FASnI3 PSCs increases from 11.8% to 14.2%. This work not only distinguishes the mechanism of surface treatments in tin‐based perovskites from that of lead‐based counterparts, but also underscores the critical role in designing tailor‐made strategies for fabricating efficient tin‐based PSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Phthalates (PEs) could cause reproductive harm to males. A mixture of three widely used PEs (MPEs) was used to investigate the ameliorative effects of zinc (Zn) and vitamin E (VE) against male reproductive toxicity. Methods: Fifty male SD rats were randomly divided into five groups (n = 10). Rats in MPEs group were orally treated with 160 mg/kg/d MPEs, while rats in MPEs combined Zn and/or VE groups were treated with 160 mg/kg/d MPEs plus 25 mg/kg/d Zn and/or 25 mg/kg/d VE. After intervention for 70 days, it's was measured of male reproductive organs' weight, histopathological observation of sperms and testes, serum hormones, PIWI proteins and steroidogenic proteins. Results: Compared with control, anogenital distance, testes weight, epididymides weight, and sex hormones were significantly decreased, while the sperm malformation rate was markedly increased in MPEs group (p <.05); the testicular tissues were injured in MPEs group with disordered and decreased spermatids, and arrested spermatogenesis. PIWIL1, PIWIL2, StAR, CYP11A1 and CYP19A1 were down‐regulated in MPEs group (p <.05). However, the alterations of these parameters were restored in MPEs combined Zn and/or VE groups (p <.05). Conclusion: Zn and/or VE improved steroid hormone metabolism, and inhibited MPEs' male reproductive toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photo‐induced reversible complexation‐mediated polymerization (RCMP) is a green and economical method to prepare polymers with precise molecular weights, narrow molecular weight distributions and functionally active chain ends. Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are a promising heterogeneous photocatalyst for mediating RCMP due to their adjustable structure, band gap, and porosity. In this work, 1,3,5‐triformylphloroglucinol (Tp) and p‐azoaniline (Azo) were selected to construct 2D β‐ketoenamine linked Tp‐Azo‐COF as a heterogeneous photocatalyst to trigger RCMP under white light irradiation. A series of polymers with controllable molecular weight and narrow molecular weight distribution were successfully prepared by using Tp‐Azo‐COF as photocatalysis. On/off light experiments confirmed the good spatiotemporal control feature, and chain expansion experiments demonstrated the high "activity" of polymer chain ends. Furthermore, the mechanistic research elucidated that electron transfer between Tp‐Azo‐COF and initiator occurred, allowing the formation of reactive radicals to mediate RCMP. Density functional theory calculations revealed that the coordination of iodine on the initiator to catalyst obviously reduced the bond dissociation energy, leading to enhance in the polymerization rate. This work provides a platform for constructing heterogeneous photocatalysts with more efficient and stable to mediate RCMP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sexual function is an important yet understudied aspect of overall health and well‐being in older adults. We aimed to examine sexual function and its correlates among people 50 years and older in China. Methods: We enrolled people aged 50 years and older recruited from four regions in China between September 2021 and July 2022 in a multicenter cross‐sectional study. Data were collected through an investigator‐administered questionnaire about demographic characteristics, health characteristics, and sexual function status. Logistic regression was used to assess correlates of lower sexual function (the highest quintile of the sex‐specific population distribution of Natsal‐SF scores [i.e., lower functioning compared with the remaining]). Results: A total of 465 women and 832 men who were sexually active in the past year were included in the analysis (mean age: 60.4 ± 7.2) [Correction added after first online publication on 12 Feb 2024. The word "years" has been changed to "year" in this sentence.]. Over a quarter of all participants were dissatisfied with their sex life. Notably, 92 women and 167 men were categorized as having a lower sexual function. Age (in men only), living in urban areas, general health status, being underweight or overweight (in men only), and having depressive symptoms were associated with lower sexual function. Among all participants, 43.1% of men and 54.0% of women experienced sexual response problems lasting 3 months or more. Less than one‐third of all participants had sought help or advice for sex life in the past year. Conclusions: Sexual dysfunction and sexual dissatisfaction are prevalent among older adults in China and are associated with self‐assessed poor health. More efforts are needed to better understand sexual health needs and tailor service provision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coloading adjuvant drugs or biomacromolecules with photosensitizers into nanoparticles to enhance the efficiency of photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a common strategy. However, it is difficult to load positively charged photosensitizers and negatively charged adjuvants into the same nanomaterial and further regulate drug release simultaneously. Herein, a single‐component dual‐functional prodrug strategy is reported for tumor treatment specifically activated by tumor microenvironment (TME)‐generated HOCl. A representative prodrug (DHU‐CBA2) is constructed using indomethacin grafted with methylene blue (MB). DHU‐CBA2 exhibited high sensitivity toward HOCl and achieved simultaneous release of dual drugs in vitro and in vivo. DHU‐CBA2 shows effective antitumor activity against lung cancer and spinal metastases via PDT and cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) inhibition. Mechanistically, PDT induces immunogenic cell death but stimulates the gene encoding COX‐2. Downstream prostaglandins E2 and Indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) mediate immune escape in the TME, which is rescued by the simultaneous release of indomethacin. DHU‐CBA2 promotes infiltration and function of CD8+ T cells, thus inducing a robust antitumor immune response. This work provides an autoboost strategy for a single‐component dual‐functional prodrug activated by TME‐specific HOCl, thereby achieving favorable tumor treatment via the synergistic therapy of PDT and a COX‐2 inhibitor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many traditional fermented foods and beverages industries around the world request the addition of multi‐species starter cultures. However, the microbial community in starter cultures is subject to fluctuations due to their exposure to an open environment during fermentation. A rapid detection approach to identify the microbial composition of starter culture is essential to ensure the quality of the final products. Here, we applied single‐cell Raman spectroscopy (SCRS) combined with machine learning to monitor Oceanobacillus species in Daqu starter, which plays crucial roles in the process of Chinese baijiu. First, a total of six Oceanobacillus species (O. caeni, O. kimchii, O. iheyensis, O. sojae, O. oncorhynchi subsp. Oncorhynchi and O. profundus) were detected in 44 Daqu samples by amplicon sequencing and isolated by pure culture. Then, we created a reference database of these Oceanobacillus strains which correlated their taxonomic data and single‐cell Raman spectra (SCRS). Based on the SCRS dataset, five machine‐learning algorithms were used to classify Oceanobacillus strains, among which support vector machine (SVM) showed the highest rate of accuracy. For validation of SVM‐based model, we employed a synthetic microbial community composed of varying proportions of Oceanobacillus species and demonstrated a remarkable accuracy, with a mean error was less than 1% between the predicted result and the expected value. The relative abundance of six different Oceanobacillus species during Daqu fermentation was predicted within 60 min using this method, and the reliability of the method was proved by correlating the Raman spectrum with the amplicon sequencing profiles by partial least squares regression. Our study provides a rapid, non‐destructive and label‐free approach for rapid identification of Oceanobacillus species in Daqu starter culture, contributing to real‐time monitoring of fermentation process and ensuring high‐quality products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Expanded polystyrene foam (EPSF), valued for its excellent insulation properties, faces a significant flammability challenge due to its cellular structure. Traditional flame retardant methods such as physical blending and layer‐by‐layer assembly have poor applicability to EPSF. Therefore, it is necessary to find other more effective methods for synthesizing flame‐retardant EPSF. The high internal phase emulsion (HIPE) template is one of the simplest and most commonly used methods for synthesizing porous materials, which have features such as adjustable pore structures and high porosity. In this work, ammonium polyphosphate (APP)/starch was added to the dispersed phase of the HIPE to prepare the flame‐retardant EPSF by one‐pot method. The morphology, thermal stability and flame retardancy of the foams were investigated. When the addition of APP/starch (the weight ratio is 1:1) reached 30 wt.%, the peak heat release rate (PHRR), total heat release (THR), and total smoke release (TSR) of the composite foam decreased by 74.7%, 65.9%, and 24.7%, respectively, compared to the pure PS foam. Meanwhile, its limiting oxygen index (LOI) value reached 25.8%, and the UL‐94 rating reached V‐1 level, indicating significant improvement in flame retardancy. This study provides an effective strategy for synthesizing flame‐retardant porous materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The circular saw blade, which is mainly composed of carbon steel, is used to cut the stone. However, the carbon steel is easily corroded in stone processing wastewater, shortening its lifespan. In this study, a new composite inhibitor of sodium nitrite, sodium molybdate, sodium silicate, sodium tungstate, and sodium citrate was investigated firstly, and then, its inhibition efficiency for carbon steel in stone processing wastewater was explored using electrochemical measurements and weight loss measurements. The results showed that the composite inhibitor as a mixed‐type inhibitor displayed good inhibitory performance. Surface analysis including scanning electron microscope, atomic force microscope, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis, and contact angle test further revealed the form of protection of the steel surface by composite corrosion inhibitors. The prepared composite inhibitor exhibited excellent corrosion resistance for carbon steel in stone processing wastewater, and it is believed that the composite inhibitor has certain application potential in industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic viral infection induces immunosenescence and systemic low‐grade inflammation, leading to worsened long‐term outcomes. We sought to explore the short‐ and long‐term effects of chronic viral infection on cardiovascular disease (CVD). Based on UK Biobank data, exposed group was identified as individuals who had chronic virus infection‐related hospitalization (IRH). Unexposed group was randomly selected, matched by 5‐year age interval, sex, and Charlson comorbidity index at a ratio up to 1:10. Restricted cubic splines were used to model time‐varying effects of IRH in nonproportional Cox models. A cut‐off value of 5 years was recorded and used in piecewise Cox proportional hazards models as we estimated short‐ and long‐term effects of IRH on CVD. A total of 2826 exposed participants and 28 212 matched unexposed participants were included. Chronic viral IRH was associated with increased risk of CVD (0–5 years: hazard ratio, 1.57 [95% confidence interval: 1.32, 1.87] and 5+ years: 1.31 [1.06, 1.61]). Elevated risk of stroke was only observed within the initial 5‐year follow‐up (0–5 years: 1.91 [1.30, 2.81]). The short‐ and long‐term associations were observed in herpes or hepatitis virus IRH with risk of CVD (all p < 0.05). Subgroup analysis revealed long‐term association between chronic viral IRH and CVD among female (5+ years: 1.68 [1.27, 2.22]) but not among male. The association between chronic viral infection and elevated CVD risk appeared to be stronger among individuals who did not take cholesterol‐lowering medication, antithrombotic medication, or certain antihypertensive medications (all p for interaction < 0.05). The risk of CVD event remained persistently higher within and over 5 years following chronic viral IRH, especially in individuals infected with herpes and hepatitis virus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The 2018 Australian Heart Failure (HF) guidelines strongly recommended commencing sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitors (SGLT‐2is) in HF patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The uptake of SGLT‐2is for HF patients with T2DM in our health service is unknown. Aims: To determine the adoption of the 2018 HF guidelines by assessing the temporal trends of SGLT‐2is' usage in HF patients with T2DM at Metro South Health (MSH) hospitals, in South‐East Queensland. Methods: Retrospective analysis of all HF patients (ejection fraction (EF) < 50%) with T2DM who were managed within MSH hospitals between June 2018 and June 2021. Results: A total of 666 patients met the inclusion criteria with 918 HF encounters. Mean age was 72 years and 71% were male (473/666). Mean EF was 30% (SD ± 11%), and mean estimated glomerular filtration rate was 48 mL/min/1.73 m2 (SD ± 25). Fifty‐four per cent (362/666) had contraindications to SGLT‐2is. Among those without contraindications, there was a five‐fold increase in the utility of SGLT‐2is, 7% (2/29) before versus 38% (103/275) after implementation of the HF guidelines (P < 0.001). Patients on SGLT‐2is were younger (64 years vs 69 years, P = 0.002) and had a lower number of HF hospitalisations (1.1 vs 2.1, P = 0.01). Conclusions: During the study period, 54% of our HF patients with T2DM were not on SGLT‐2is due to prescribing guidelines/limitations in the Australian context. We observed a five‐fold significant increase in the uptake of SGLT‐2is before and after implementation of HF guidelines among patients without contraindications to SGLT‐2is. There were significantly fewer HF hospitalisations among patients on SGLT‐2is compared to those without. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver fibrosis is a key global health care burden. Sclareol, isolated from Salvia sclarea, possesses various biological activities. Its effect on liver fibrosis remains unknown. This study was proposed to evaluate the antifibrotic activity of sclareol (SCL) and explore its underlying mechanisms. Stimulated hepatic stellate cells served as an in vitro liver fibrosis model. The expression of fibrotic markers was assessed by western blot and real‐time PCR. Two classical animal models, bile duct‐ligated rats and carbon tetrachloride‐treated mice, were utilized for the in vivo experiments. The liver function and fibrosis degree were determined by serum biochemical and histopathological analyses. VEGFR2 SUMOylation was analyzed using coimmunoprecipitation assay. Our results indicated that SCL treatment restricted the profibrotic propensity of activated HSCs. In fibrotic rodents, SCL administration alleviated hepatic injury and reduced collagen accumulation. Mechanistic studies indicated that SCL downregulated the protein level of SENP1 and enhanced VEGFR2 SUMOylation in LX‐2 cells, which affected its intracellular trafficking. Blockade of the interaction between VEGFR2 and STAT3 was observed, resulting in the suppression of downstream STAT3 phosphorylation. Our findings demonstrated that SCL has therapeutic efficacy against liver fibrosis through mediating VEGFR2 SUMOylation, suggesting that SCL may be a potential candidate compound for its treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The association between HIV pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and the natural history of human papillomavirus (HPV) has not been well documented. Our objective was to evaluate the impact of PrEP on the prevalence, incidence, and clearance of anal HPV among men who have sex with men (MSM). Sexually active, HIV‐negative MSM aged 18 years and older in Xinjiang, China since September 1, 2016, were enrolled in an ongoing observational cohort study of HPV. At baseline and every 6 months, an anal swab was taken to test for HPV and a questionnaire on sociodemographic characteristics and sexual behaviors was collected. Those who consented to receive PrEP were enrolled in an open‐label PrEP intervention study from November 1, 2019, to June 30, 2021. This study analyzed data from participants present in the HPV cohort between November 1, 2019, and June 30, 2021. We compared the prevalence, incidence, and clearance of anal HPV between men who received PrEP (PrEP users) and those who did not (non‐PrEP users), and compared men before and after initiating PrEP. We calculated prevalence ratios (PRs), incidence rate ratios (IRRs), and clearance rate ratios (CRRs) for both comparisons. Of the 870 participants present in the HPV cohort during the period between November 1, 2019, and June 30, 2021, 859 had adequate β‐globin for HPV genotype testing and were included in our study. Among them, 429 were PrEP users, while 430 were non‐PrEP users. Median age was 32 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 26–38). Among PrEP users, 217 were tested for anal HPV before PrEP initiation. PrEP users had lower prevalence of HPV 45, 51, and 54 (PRs: 0.27 [95% CI: 0.09–0.80], 0.42 [0.21–0.85], and 0.41 [0.17–0.99], respectively) and lower clearance of HPV 16 (CRR: 0.31 [0.10–0.91]) compared with non‐PrEP users. PrEP users exhibited lower prevalence of HPV 51 (PR: 0.31 [0.12–0.84]), lower incidence of HPV 6, 11, 16, 39 and 61 (IRRs: 0.34 [0.13–0.90], 0.26 [0.08–0.87], 0.44 [0.21–0.91], 0.21 [0.05–0.93], and 0.19 [0.04–0.82], respectively), as well as higher clearance of HPV 52 (CRR: 2.17 [1.08–4.35]) after PrEP initiation. PrEP use may lower the risk of HPV infection among MSM in Xinjiang, China. Our findings further extend the knowledge of the impact of PrEP on sexually transmitted infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing low‐cost and highly efficient hydrophobic absorbents via simple and environmentally friendly method is demanded for oil‐water separation. This paper reports the preparation of hydrophobic absorbents of porous poly(4‐tert‐butylstyrene‐co‐divinylbenzene) (poly(tBS‐co‐DVB)) via high internal phase emulsion (HIPE) template method. The effects of crosslinking degree and internal phase volume fraction on the porous structure and adsorption performance of the absorbents are investigated. As the tBS/DVB molar ratio increases from 1:1 to 4:1, the adsorption performance of poly(tBS‐co‐DVB) toward hexane first increases to a maximum at a molar ratio of 3:1 and then decreases. As the internal phase volume fraction increases, the specific surface area (SSA) and porosity of the poly(tBS‐co‐DVB)s notably increase from 33.06 m2/g and 84.07% to 102.89 m2/g and 92.94%, respectively. When the internal phase fraction is 95 vol%, the obtained poly(tBS‐co‐DVB) foam with a water contact angle of 140° shows an absorbing capacity as high as 70.21 g/g for dichloromethane. After 10 consecutive adsorption‐desorption cycles, the adsorption performance of the poly(tBS‐co‐DVB) foam shows only a slight decrease, indicating an excellent recycling ability. The obtained poly(tBS‐co‐DVB) foams exhibit the advantages of facile preparation, high oil absorption capacity and satisfactory recoverability, which enable them potential as sustainable oil adsorbents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The practical application of lead‐free double perovskite Cs2AgBiBr6 in photocatalytic H2 evolution is still restricted due to the low activity and poor stability. The rational design of lead‐free halide double perovskites heterojunctions with efficient charge transfer and effective active sites is a potential route to achieve the ideal prospect. Herein, in this work an S‐scheme heterojunction of Cs2AgBiBr6 with enriched Br‐vacancies and WO3 nanorods (VBr‐Cs2AgBiBr6/WO3) obtaining excellent visible‐light responsive photocatalytic H2 evolution performance and durable stability is reported. The S‐scheme heterojunction driven by the unaligned Fermi levels of these two semiconductors ensures the efficient charge transfer at the interface, and density functional theory calculations reveal the enriched Br vacancies on Cs2AgBiBr6 (022) surfaces introduced by atom thermal vibration provide effective active sites for hydrogen evolution. The optimized VBr‐Cs2AgBiBr6/WO3 S‐scheme photocatalyst exhibits the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution rate of 364.89 µmol g−1 h−1 which is 4.9‐fold of bare VBr‐Cs2AgBiBr6 (74.44 µmol g−1 h−1) and presents long‐term stability of 12 h continuous photocatalytic reaction. This work provides deep insights into the photocatalytic mechanism of VBr‐Cs2AgBiBr6/WO3 S‐scheme heterojunctions, which emerges a new strategy in the applications of perovskite‐based photocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Men who have sex with men (MSM) have been recommended for targeted monkeypox vaccination. We aimed to investigate monkeypox awareness and explore the correlates of monkeypox vaccination hesitancy among MSM in China. We conducted a cross‐sectional survey from August 10 to September 9, 2022. Awareness related to monkeypox and attitude toward monkeypox vaccination among MSM aged ≥18 years were collected. Multivariable logistic regression was applied to evaluate correlates of vaccination hesitancy. The discrepancy in awareness between subgroups regarding HIV status was assessed. A total of 1090 MSM were included (age: median 30 years, interquartile range [IQR], 25–35; HIV‐infected: 53.12%). Only 13.85% of respondents expressed high monkeypox vaccination hesitancy. Hesitancy was associated with no fixed income (adjuster odds ratio [aOR], 2.46, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.48–4.11), infrequent information following (sometimes, 3.01, 1.55–5.83; seldom or never, 5.66, 2.58–12.45), and lack of worries about monkeypox endemic (1.78, 1.11–2.87). Participants who believed that HIV‐infected cases accounted for a smaller proportion (1.62, 1.01–2.60), disagreed that monkeypox virus could be detected in semen (2.21, 1.26–3.88), and considered either replication‐competent (1.84, 1.14–2.96) or replication‐deficient (4.80, 2.26–10.21) monkeypox vaccine unsuitable for HIV‐infected people were generally more hesitant. Compared with HIV‐uninfected MSM, HIV‐infected MSM supported more for vaccination promotion. MSM in China had low hesitancy toward monkeypox vaccination. Safety and affordability of vaccine and availability of information were essential aspects to reduce hesitancy. Education on vaccination benefits should be encouraged to promote future vaccination plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With a large population most susceptible to Omicron and emerging SARS‐CoV‐2 variants, China faces uncertain scenarios if reopening its border. Thus, we aimed to predict the impact of combination preventative interventions on hospitalization and death. An age‐stratified susceptible‐infectious‐quarantined‐hospitalized‐removed‐susceptible (SIQHRS) model based on the new guidelines of COVID‐19 diagnosis and treatment (the ninth edition) was constructed to simulate the transmission dynamics of Omicron within 365 days. At baseline, we assumed no interventions other than 60% booster vaccination in individuals aged ≤60 years and 80% in individuals aged >60 years, quarantine and hospitalization. Oral antiviral medications for COVID‐19 and nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) such as social distancing and antigen self‐testing were considered in subsequent scenarios. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to reflect different levels of interventions. A total of 0.73 billion cumulative quarantines (95% CI 0.53–0.83), 33.59 million hospitalizations (22.41–39.31), and 0.62 million deaths (0.40–0.75) are expected in 365 days. The case fatality rate with pneumonia symptoms (moderate, severe and critical illness) is expected to be 1.83% (1.68–1.99%) and the infected fatality rate is 0.38‰ (0.33–0.4‰). The highest existing hospitalization and ICU occupations are 3.11 (0.30–3.85) and 20.33 (2.01–25.20) times of capacity, respectively. Sensitivity analysis showed that interventions can be adjusted to meet certain conditions to reduce the total number of infections and deaths. In conclusion, after sufficient respiratory and ICU beds are prepared and the relaxed NPIs are in place, the SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variant would not seriously impact the health system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To provide insight into the characteristics and treatment outcomes of children and adolescents accessing outpatient Child and Youth Mental Health Services (CYMHS), and to explore whether outcomes differ by age, sex, and ancestry background. This information can guide how to optimize the treatment delivered at these services. Methods: An observational retrospective study was performed based on data from 3098 children and adolescents between age 5 and 18 who received treatment at Brisbane, Australia, community CYMHS between 2013–2018. Patient characteristics, service use, and clinician and parent rated Routine Outcome Measures (ROM) were extracted from electronic health records. Results: Anxiety and mood disorders were the most common mental disorders (37% and 19%). In 1315 children and adolescents (42%), two or more disorders were diagnosed, and the far majority (88%) had experienced at least one psychosocial stressor. The ROM scores improved between start and end of treatment with Cohen's d effect sizes of around 0.9. However, ~50% of the children still scored in the clinical range at the end of treatment. Outcomes did not differ over gender and Indigenous status. Conclusions: Children and adolescents accessing CYMHS have severe and complex mental disorders as reflected by high rates of comorbidity, exposure to adverse circumstances and high symptom scores at the start of treatment. Despite the clinically relevant and substantial improvement, end ROM scores indicated the presence of residual symptoms. As this increases the risk for relapse, services should explore ways to improve treatment to further reduce mental health symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the potential factors associated with adherence to colonoscopy among participants who were preliminarily screened positive in a community‐based colorectal cancer screening program in China. Methods: This study analyzed data from 1219 out of 6971 community residents who were identified as positive cases by the well‐validated high‐risk factor questionnaire (HRFQ) or fecal immunochemical test (FIT) in the preliminary screening stage for colorectal neoplasms. Patients showing adherence to colonoscopy were defined as those who received positive results in a preliminary screening for colorectal neoplasms and later received a colonoscopy examination as required. The associations of social‐demographic factors, lifestyle behaviors, history of diabetes, body mass index (BMI), and risk factors in the HRFQ with adherence to colonoscopy were evaluated using logistic regression models. Results: Among 1219 participants who preliminarily screened positive, the top five risk factors reported by the participants were chronic constipation (25.9%), hematochezia (23.5%), family history of CRC in first‐degree relatives (22.1%), chronic diarrhea (21.8%), and history of polyps (16.6%). Around 14.2% of participants who preliminarily screened positive reported three or more risk factors, and the proportion was 26.2% among participants who were positive according to both HRFQ and FIT. Among all participants who were preliminarily screened positive, the multivariable results showed that those who were married (OR = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.12, 2.25, p = 0.01), had chronic diarrhea (OR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.00, 1.78, p = 0.047), and had a positive FIT (OR = 1.60, 95% CI: 1.21, 2.10, p < 0.001 for patients who were negative according to HRFQ but positive according to FIT; OR = 2.12, 95% CI: 1.33, 2.78, p = 0.002 for patients who were positive for both HRFQ and FIT) were more likely to adhere to colonoscopy, while participants with a history of cancer (OR: 0.50, 95% CI: 0.31, 0.79, p = 0.003) were less likely to adhere to colonoscopy. The results among participants who were tested positive according to only HRFQ were similar to those among all participants who were tested positive according to HRFQ or FIT. However, among participants who were tested positive according to only FIT, we only found that those who were married (OR = 2.52, 95% CI: 1.08, 5.90, p = 0.033) had a higher odds of adhering to colonoscopy, while those with a history of diabetes (OR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.13, 0.96, p = 0.042) were less likely to adhere to colonoscopy. Conclusion: Our findings provide evidence supporting the development of tailored interventional strategies that aim to improve adherence to colonoscopy for individuals with a high risk of colorectal neoplasms. Both barriers and facilitators associated with adherence to colonoscopy should be considered in supportive systems and health policies. However, further well‐designed prospective studies are warranted to confirm our findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two imine‐based covalent organic framework photocatalysts with different building units, TPB‐DMTA‐COF and TAT‐DMTA‐COF, for photo‐induced energy transfer reversible complexation‐mediated radical polymerization (PET‐RCMP) were developed and investigated, producing ideal polymers with accurate molecular weight and moderate dispersity under visible light irradiation. The chain extension and spatiotemporal control experiments revealed the high chain‐end fidelity of polymers and the compatibility of RCMP processes in both bulk and aqueous system. Moreover, density functional theory (DFT) calculations verified that heteroatom‐doped TAT‐DMTA‐COF exhibits higher activities for weakening C−I bond energy barrier, which promotes PET‐RCMP polymerization performance. This work demonstrates that rational adjustment of building block for constructing COF heterogeneous photocatalyst can enhance the catalytic performance of PET‐RCMP, providing a design methodology for the development of polymeric organic photoelectric semiconductor catalysts to mediate RCMP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we report a new facile method to prepare fluorine‐free superhydrophobic separation films by deposition of micron‐sized hydrophobic polyhigh internal phase emulsion (polyHIPE) microspheres on stainless steel meshes. The so‐called polyHIPE microspheres are polymer ones with interconnected porous structures, which are prepared by γ‐ray radiation polymerization of (W/O HIPE)/W double emulsions stabilized by a single emulsifier 12‐acryloyloxy‐9‐octadecenoic acid using a one‐step emulsification in this work. The oil–water separation results show that our self‐made hydrophobic meshes have excellent oil–water separation efficiency (about 99.5%), outstanding permeation flux (no less than 187.5 L/[m2·min] and the maximum value of 1850 L/[m2·min]). The oil flux of common organic solvents, water contact angle and water intrusion pressure of these hydrophobic meshes can be readily tuned by changing the size, amount and composition of polyHIPE microspheres. It is worth noting that the superhydrophobic meshes remain excellent separation efficiency and stability after 10 cycles in corrosive environments. More importantly, these superhydrophobic meshes can also efficiently separate surfactant‐stabilized water‐in‐oil emulsions. The polyHIPE microspheres decorated superhydrophobic meshes that can easily realize large‐scale production have potentially practical applications in sewage treatment or separation/purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: This study investigates the antifibrotic activities and potential mechanisms of costunolide (COS), a natural sesquiterpene compound.Experimental Approach: Rats subjected to bile duct ligation and mice challenged with CCl4 were used to study the antifibrotic effects of COS in vivo. Mouse primary hepatic stellate cells (pHSCs) and human HSC line LX-2 also served as an in vitro liver fibrosis models. The expression of fibrogenic genes and signaling proteins in the neurogenic locus notch homologue protein 3 (Notch3)-hairy/enhancer of split-1 (HES1) pathway was examined using western blot and/or real-time PCR. Notch3 degradation was analysed using immunofluorescence and coimmunoprecipitation.Key Results: In animals, COS administration attenuated hepatic histopathological injury and collagen accumulation and reduced the expression of fibrogenic genes. COS time- and dose-dependently suppressed the levels of fibrotic markers in LX-2 cells and mouse pHSCs. Mechanistic studies showed COS destabilized Notch3 and subsequently inhibited the Notch3-HES1 pathway, thus inhibiting HSC activation. Furthermore, COS blocked the WW domain-containing protein 2 (WWP2)/protein phosphatase 1G (PPM1G) interaction and enhanced the effect of WWP2 on Notch3 degradation.Conclusions and Implications: COS exerted potent antifibrotic effects in vitro and in vivo by disrupting the WWP2/PPM1G complex, promoting Notch3 degradation and inhibiting the Notch3/HES1 pathway. This indicates that COS may be a potential therapeutic candidate for the treatment of liver fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are a class of promising photocatalysts for conversing light energy into chemical energy. Based on the tunable building blocks, COFs can be well‐designed as photocatalyst for mediating reversible addition‐fragmentation chain‐transfer (RAFT) polymerization. Herein, 1,3,6,8‐tetrakis(4‐formylphenyl)pyrene (TFPPy) and 2,2″‐bipyridine‐5,5″‐diamine (Bpy) are chosen to construct imine‐based TFPPy‐Bpy‐COFs for catalyzing RAFT polymerization of methacrylates under white light irradiation. The well‐defined polymers with precise molecular weight and narrow molecular weight distribution are obtained. The switch on/off light experiments suggest excellent temporal control toward RAFT polymerization system and the chain‐extension reaction indicates high chain‐end fidelity of macro‐initiators. Mechanism study clarifies that the electron transfer between excited state of TFPPy‐Bpy‐COFs and RAFT agent can form living radicals to mediate polymerization. This methodology provides a novel platform for reversible‐deactivation radical polymerization using COFs as heterogeneous catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three coordination polymers based on quaternary‐ammonium‐modified isophthalic acid, namely, catena‐poly[[[aqua‐μ2‐bromido‐di‐μ3‐hydroxido‐methanoldinitratotetracopper(II)]‐bis{μ4‐5‐[2‐(tripropylazaniumyl)ethoxy]benzene‐1,3‐dicarboxylato}] nitrate], {[Cu4Br(C19H28NO5)2(NO3)2(OH)2(CH4O)(H2O)]NO3}n, 1, poly[μ3‐bromido‐μ2‐bromido‐bromido‐μ3‐hydroxido‐{μ4‐5‐[2‐(tripropylazaniumyl)ethoxy]benzene‐1,3‐dicarboxylato}tricopper(II)], [Cu3Br3(C19H28NO5)(OH)]n, 2, and poly[bromido{μ3‐5‐[2‐(tripropylazaniumyl)ethoxy]benzene‐1,3‐dicarboxylato}zinc(II)], [ZnBr(C19H28NO5)]n, 3, were obtained by solvothermal reactions. Coordination polymer (CP) 1 contains tetranuclear Cu4 units, in which the four Cu atoms are linked by two μ3‐OH− groups into a Cu4(OH)2 cluster, which are in turn linked by 5‐[2‐(tripropylazaniumyl)ethoxy]benzene‐1,3‐dicarboxylate (cpa−) ligands into a chain structure. CP 2 also contains a tetranuclear Cu4(OH)2 cluster and these are linked with CuBr3 units into chains. The chains are then connected by cpa− ligands into a two‐dimensional layered structure. CP 3 contains a two‐dimensional layer structure built by binuclear Zn2 units and cpa− ligands. The Br− counter‐anions of the quaternary ammonium groups all take part in the construction of the polymeric networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cover Caption: The cover image is based on the Research Article Association between chronic viral infectionrelated hospitalization and risk of cardiovascular disease: A population‐based cohort study by Luoyao Yang et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/jmv.29350..By Luoyao Yang; Zhen Lu; Junye Bian; Feng Li and Huachun ZouReported by Author; Author; Author; Author; Author [Extracted from the article]

Objective: This study sought to investigate the variation of right heart structure pre‐ and post‐operation as risk factors for moderate to severe pulmonary regurgitation (PR) after repaired Tetralogy of Fallot and the best "cutoff" values for the transannular patch (TAP). Methods: We collected surgical, echocardiographic, and computed tomographic data of Teralogy of Fallot (TOF) patients over two years and calculated z‐score values based on the echocardiographic data. Based on the PR level after follow‐up, the patients were divided into two groups, trivial to mild PR and moderate to severe PR. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed, and the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to find the best "cutoff" value for risk factors. Results: A total of 104 TOF patients were included in our cohort study. From the multivariate analysis, correction strategy (P =.002), difference in zRVOT (OR 1.974, 95% CI 1.354 to 2.878, P <.0001), and zPVA (OR 3.605, 95% CI 1.980 to 6.562, P <.0001) were the significant risk factors for moderate to severe PR. The "cutoff" value for the difference in zPVA that could predict moderate to severe PR in the TAP group was 3, and the optimal "cutoff" value for TAP was −1.4. Conclusions: The TAP is a risk factor for significant PR after surgery. We recommend the optimal "cutoff" value for TAP is −1.4 calculated using Shan‐Shan Wang's data set. During the procedure, to limit the RVOT resection and restrict the enlargement of pulmonary annulus within a variation of z‐score as 3 would reduce significant PR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The classification of the distinct group of mesenchymal neoplasms, first described as 'Xp11 translocation perivascular epithelioid cell tumor (PEComa)' and for which the term 'melanotic Xp11 neoplasm' or 'Xp11 neoplasm with melanocytic differentiation' has recently been proposed, remains challenging and controversial. We collected 27 melanotic Xp11 neoplasms, the largest series to date, for a comprehensive evaluation. Fourteen of the cases, together with eight alveolar soft part sarcomas (ASPS), nine conventional PEComas and a control group of seven normal tissues were submitted to RNA sequencing. Follow‐up available in 22 patients showed 5‐year overall survival and 5‐year disease‐free survival of 47.6 and 35.7%, respectively, which were similar to ASPS and significantly worse than conventional PEComa. Univariate analysis of location (occurring in the kidney versus not kidney), infiltrative growth pattern, nuclear pleomorphism, mitotic activity ≥2/50 high‐power fields (HPF), necrosis and lymphovascular invasion were found to be associated with overall survival and/or disease‐free survival. Multivariate analysis identified that location was the only factor found to independently correlate with disease‐free survival. More importantly, RNA sequencing‐based clustering analysis segregated melanotic Xp11 neoplasm and ASPS from other tumors, including conventional PEComa and Xp11 translocation renal cell carcinoma, and formed a compact cluster representative of the largely similar expression signature. Here we clearly define the true biologic nature of melanotic Xp11 neoplasms which are distinctive malignant mesenchymal tumors, rather than simply PEComa variants with occasionally unpredictable behavior. Meanwhile, melanotic Xp11 neoplasm and ASPS more likely represent phenotypic variants of the same entity, which is distinct from conventional PEComa and Xp11 translocation renal cell carcinoma. Based on these important findings, melanotic Xp11 neoplasm might be reclassified into a distinctive entity together with ASPS, independent from PEComa, in future revisions of the current WHO categories of tumors of soft tissue and bone for the improved reclassification. © 2020 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sea cucumber species are abundant (>1400 species) and widely distributed globally. mtDNA sequencing is frequently used to identify the phylogenetic and evolutionary relationships among species. However, there are no reports on the mitochondrial genome of Phyllophorus liuwutiensis. Here, we performed mtDNA sequencing of P. liuwutiensis to examine its phylogenetic relationships with other echinoderms. Its mitochondrial genome (15 969 bp) contains 37 coding genes, including 13 protein‐coding genes, 22 tRNA genes and 2 rRNA genes. Except for one protein‐coding gene (nad6) and five tRNA genes encoded on the negative strand, all other genes were encoded on the positive strand. The mitochondrial bases of P. liuwutiensis were composed of 29.55% T, 22.16% C, 35.64% A and 12.64% G. The putative control region was 703 bp in length. Seven overlapping regions (1–10 bp) were found. The noncoding region between the genes ranged from 1 to 130 bp in length. One putative control region has been found in the P. liuwutiensis mitogenome. All of the tRNA genes were predicted to fold into a cloverleaf structure. In addition, we compared the gene arrangements of six echinoderms, revealing that the gene order of P. liuwutiensis was a new arrangement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Poor outcomes for patients with ovarian cancer relate to dormant, drug-resistant cancer cells that survive after primary surgery and chemotherapy. Ovarian cancer (OvCa) cells persist in poorly vascularized scars on the peritoneal surface and depend on autophagy to survive nutrient deprivation. The authors have sought drugs that target autophagic cancer cells selectively to eliminate residual disease.Methods: By using unbiased small-interfering RNA (siRNA) screens, the authors observed that knockdown of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) reduced the survival of autophagic OvCa cells. Small-molecule ALK inhibitors were evaluated for their selective toxicity against autophagic OvCa cell lines and xenografts. Autophagy was induced by reexpression of GTP-binding protein Di-Ras3 (DIRAS3) or serum starvation and was evaluated with Western blot analysis, fluorescence imaging, and transmission electron microscopy. Signaling pathways required for crizotinib-induced apoptosis of autophagic cells were explored with flow cytometric analysis, Western blot analysis, short-hairpin RNA knockdown of autophagic proteins, and small-molecule inhibitors of STAT3 and BCL-2.Results: Induction of autophagy by reexpression of DIRAS3 or serum starvation in multiple OvCa cell lines significantly reduced the 50% inhibitory concentration of crizotinib and other ALK inhibitors. In 2 human OvCa xenograft models, the DIRAS3-expressing tumors treated with crizotinib had significantly decreased tumor burden and long-term survival in 67% to 79% of mice. Crizotinib treatment of autophagic cancer cells further enhanced autophagy and induced autophagy-mediated apoptosis by decreasing phosphorylated STAT3 and BCL-2 signaling.Conclusions: Crizotinib may eliminate dormant, autophagic, drug-resistant OvCa cells that remain after conventional cytoreductive surgery and combination chemotherapy. A clinical trial of ALK inhibitors as maintenance therapy after second-look operations should be seriously considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The tumor suppressor role of tissue factor pathway inhibitor 2 (TFPI‐2) has been reported in various tumors. The present study aimed to improve the understanding of the oncogenic properties of TFPI‐2 in gastric cancer. Methods: Relative expression of TFPI‐2 was determined by a real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and western blotting, respectively. Cell viability was measured via a cell counting kit‐8 assay and proliferation was evaluated by a colony formation assay. Cell apoptosis was assessed with a caspase‐3 activity kit and invasion was evaluated by a transwell chamber assay. The methylation level of TFPI‐2 promoter was assayed by methylation‐specific PCR. The regulatory effect of miR‐27a‐3p on TFPI‐2 was analyzed with a luciferase reporter assay. The direct association between miR‐27a‐3p and TFPI‐2 was shown by biotin‐labelling pulldown. Results: TFPI‐2 was down‐regulated in gastric cancer, which associated with an unfavorable prognosis clinically. Ectopic introduction of TFPI‐2 greatly compromised cell viability, colony formation and invasive capacity, and also induced cell apoptosis simultaneously. The promoter region of TFPI‐2 was extensively methylated in gastric cancer tissues compared to normal tissues, suggesting the epigenetic inhibition of TFPI‐2 expression. We further identified that TFPI‐2 functioned as sponge RNA against miR‐27a‐3p. Most importantly, miR‐27a‐3p‐specific inhibitor significantly exerted a tumor suppressor function akin to TFPI‐2 itself, and the anti‐tumoral activities were completely abolished by TFPI‐2 knockdown. Conclusions: We found that the epigenetically suppressed TFPI‐2 compromised sponging effects with respect to miR‐27a‐3p in gastric cancer, which consequently and mechanistically contributed to the tumor biology of gastric cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Early detection of ovarian cancer could significantly improve patient outcomes. Cancer antigen 125 (CA 125) is elevated in sera from approximately 60% of patients with early-stage (I/II) disease. Sensitivity might be improved through the combination of CA 125 with other biomarkers. Among potential biomarkers, antigen-autoantibody (Ag-AAb) complexes have received relatively little attention.Methods: Luminex-based immunoassays were used to measure human epididymis protein 4 (HE4), anti-HE4 autoantibody, and HE4 Ag-AAb complexes in sera from patients with early- (n = 73) and late-stage ovarian cancers (n = 49) at the time of diagnosis and from asymptomatic women with (n = 15) or without ovarian cancer (n = 212) enrolled in the Normal Risk Ovarian Cancer Screening Study.Results: At 98% specificity for healthy, asymptomatic women, 7% of patients with early-stage (I/II) ovarian cancer and 4% of patients with late-stage (III/IV) disease had elevated levels of HE4 autoantibody, whereas elevated levels of HE4 Ag-AAb complexes were detected in sera from 38% of early-stage cases and 31% of late-stage cases. Complementarity was observed in receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves between HE4 Ag-AAb complexes and CA 125 levels in early-stage ovarian cancer (P < .001). CA 125 detected 63% of cases, and a combination of CA 125 and HE4 Ag-AAb complexes detected 81%. Complementarity was also observed in ROC curves for an independent validation set with 69 early-stage patients (P = .039). HE4 Ag-AAb complexes were detected in serial preclinical serum samples from women destined to develop ovarian cancer: they correlated with CA 125 but did not provide a lead time.Conclusions: HE4 Ag-AAb complexes could complement CA 125 in detecting a higher fraction of early-stage ovarian cancers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Poly(adenosine diphosphate ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors exhibit promising activity against ovarian cancers, but their efficacy can be limited by acquired drug resistance. This study explores the role of autophagy in regulating the sensitivity of ovarian cancer cells to PARP inhibitors.Methods: Induction of autophagy was detected by punctate LC3 fluorescence staining, LC3I to LC3II conversion on Western blot analysis, and electron microscopy. Enhanced growth inhibition and apoptosis were observed when PARP inhibitors were used with hydroxychloroquine, chloroquine (CQ), or LYS05 to block the hydrolysis of proteins and lipids in autophagosomes or with small interfering RNA against ATG5 or ATG7 to prevent the formation of autophagosomes. The preclinical efficacy of the combination of CQ and olaparib was evaluated with a patient-derived xenograft (PDX) and the OVCAR8 human ovarian cancer cell line.Results: Four PARP inhibitors (olaparib, niraparib, rucaparib, and talazoparib) induced autophagy in a panel of ovarian cancer cells. Inhibition of autophagy with CQ enhanced the sensitivity of ovarian cancer cells to PARP inhibitors. In vivo, olaparib and CQ produced additive growth inhibition in OVCAR8 xenografts and a PDX. Olaparib inhibited PARP activity, and this led to increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and an accumulation of γ-H2AX. Inhibition of autophagy also increased ROS and γ-H2AX and enhanced the effect of olaparib on both entities. Treatment with olaparib increased phosphorylation of ATM and PTEN while decreasing the phosphorylation of AKT and mTOR and inducing autophagy.Conclusions: PARP inhibitor-induced autophagy provides an adaptive mechanism of resistance to PARP inhibitors in cancer cells with wild-type BRCA, and a combination of PARP inhibitors with CQ or other autophagy inhibitors could improve outcomes for patients with ovarian cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Monosialotetrahexosylganglioside (GM1) is a neuroprotective glycosphingolipid that repairs nerves. Oxaliplatin‐based chemotherapy is neurotoxic. This study assessed the efficacy of GM1 for preventing oxaliplatin‐induced peripheral neurotoxicity (OIPN) in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients receiving oxaliplatin‐based chemotherapy. Methods: In total, 196 patients with stage II/III CRC undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy with mFOLFOX6 were randomly assigned to intravenous GM1 or a placebo. The primary endpoint was the rate of grade 2 or worse cumulative neurotoxicity (NCI‐CTCAE). The secondary endpoints were chronic cumulative neurotoxicity (EORTCQLQ‐CIPN20), time to grade 2 neurotoxicity (NCI‐CTCAE or the oxaliplatin‐specific neuropathy scale), acute neurotoxicity (analog scale), rates of dose reduction or withdrawal due to OIPN, 3‐year disease‐free survival (DFS) and adverse events. Results: There were no significant differences between the arms in the rate of NCI‐CTCAE grade 2 or worse neurotoxicity (GM1: 33.7% vs placebo: 31.6%; P =.76) or neuropathy measured by the EORTCQLQ‐CIPN20 or time to grade 2 neurotoxicity using NCI‐CTCAE and the oxaliplatin‐specific neuropathy scale. GM1 substantially decreased participant‐reported acute neurotoxicity (sensitivity to cold items [P <.01], discomfort swallowing cold liquids [P <.01], throat discomfort [P <.01], muscle cramps [P <.01]). The rates of dose reduction or withdrawal were not significantly different between the arms (P =.08). The 3‐year DFS rates were 85% and 83% in the GM1 and placebo arms, respectively (P =.19). There were no differences in toxicity between the arms. Conclusion: Patients receiving GM1 were less troubled by the symptoms of acute neuropathy. However, we do not support the use of GM1 to prevent cumulative neurotoxicity. (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02251977). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Substantial progress has been made in understanding ovarian cancer at the molecular and cellular level. Significant improvement in 5-year survival has been achieved through cytoreductive surgery, combination platinum-based chemotherapy, and more effective treatment of recurrent cancer, and there are now more than 280,000 ovarian cancer survivors in the United States. Despite these advances, long-term survival in late-stage disease has improved little over the last 4 decades. Poor outcomes relate, in part, to late stage at initial diagnosis, intrinsic drug resistance, and the persistence of dormant drug-resistant cancer cells after primary surgery and chemotherapy. Our ability to accelerate progress in the clinic will depend on the ability to answer several critical questions regarding this disease. To assess current answers, an American Association for Cancer Research Special Conference on "Critical Questions in Ovarian Cancer Research and Treatment" was held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on October 1-3, 2017. Although clinical, translational, and basic investigators conducted much of the discussion, advocates participated in the meeting, and many presentations were directly relevant to patient care, including treatment with poly adenosine diphosphate ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitors, attempts to improve immunotherapy by overcoming the immune suppressive effects of the microenvironment, and a better understanding of the heterogeneity of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Re-expression of the imprinted tumor suppressor gene DIRAS family GTPase 3 (DIRAS3) (aplysia ras homology member I [ARHI]) induces autophagy and tumor dormancy in ovarian cancer xenografts, but drives autophagic cancer cell death in cell culture. The current study explored the tumor and host factors required to prevent autophagic cancer cell death in xenografts and the use of antibodies against those factors or their receptors to eliminate dormant autophagic ovarian cancer cells.Methods: Survival factors (insulinlike growth factor 1 [IGF-1], vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF], and interleukin 8 [IL-8]) were detected with growth factor arrays and measured using enzyme-linked immunoadsorbent assay analysis. Phosphorylation of protein kinase B (AKT), phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), nuclear localization of translocation factor EB (TFEB) or forkhead box O3a (FOXo3a), and expression of microtubule-associated proteins 1A/1B light chain 3B (MAPLC3B; LC3B) were examined using Western blot analysis. The effect of treatment with antibodies against survival factors or their receptors was studied using DIRAS3-induced dormant xenograft models.Results: Ovarian cancer cells grown subcutaneously in nude mice exhibited higher levels of phosphorylated ERK/AKT activity and lower levels of nuclear TFEB/FOXo3a, MAPLC3B, and autophagy compared with cells grown in culture. Induction of autophagy and dormancy with DIRAS3 was associated with decreased ERK/AKT signaling. The addition of VEGF, IGF-1, and IL-8 weakened the inhibitory effect of DIRAS3 on ERK/AKT activity and reduced DIRAS3-mediated TFEB or FOXo3a nuclear localization and MAPLC3B expression in ovarian cancer cells. Treatment with antibodies against VEGF, IL-8, and IGF receptor inhibited the growth of dormant xenografts, thereby prolonging survival from 99 to >220 days (P < .05) and curing a percentage of mice.Conclusions: Treatment with a combination of anti-VEGF, anti-IL-8, and anti-IGF receptor antibodies prevented the outgrowth of dormant cells and prolonged survival in a preclinical model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excessive wear has been one of the major failure modes of metal‐on‐metal hip implants. From a collection of 541 retrieved ASR metal‐on‐metal implants, we selected those head‐cup pairs with combined wear >100 mm3, (N = 42) to assess the distributions of wear volume on cups, and non‐conformance in the worn areas at the head‐cup interfaces. All 42 had severe cup edge wear (average maximum wear depth 500 μm). On average, 58% of wear volume of cups occurred at the edge areas, whereas 42% occurred well inside the socket, indicating that substantial wear volume of cups was generated well inside the socket. Particularly, in eight cups, more than half of the wear volume occurred well inside the socket. The head‐cup conformance in the worn areas was deteriorated. On average, in worn areas, head‐cup clearance was approximately eight times greater than in unworn areas, and the sphericity of heads and cups was approximately 36 times and 84 times higher, respectively, than in unworn areas. The radius of curvature of the worn surfaces of heads and cups varied widely, with an average variation of 3 mm (0.6–7 mm) and 11 mm (2–47 mm) for heads and cups, respectively. The severely deteriorated conformance at the edge areas and the areas well inside the socket, due to edge contact, could be the major factor for excessive wear of these 42 pairs. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res In two representative retrieved acetabular cups from metal‐on‐metal total hip replacements, distribution of wear volume is shown for each interval of wear depth. An unexpectedly high volume of wear is originated well inside the socket, despite the presence of edge wear; for example, (left) only 39% of the wear volume originated at the edge and (right) 75% of the wear originated at the edge. The remainder of the wear volume (left, 61% and right, 25%) originated well inside the sockets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reported are the synthesis, crystal structure and electronic structure of K3Bi2Cl5O2(SO4)2, which is a novel pentanary chloride oxide sulfate containing three types of anions, Cl–, O2–, and (SO4)2– by using a solution method. It crystallizes in the triclinic space group P1‾ , and the structure features layers built by (BiO5Cl3)8– anionic units and (SO4)2– tetrahedra with K+ ions insertion between layers as counter ions. The band gap of K3Bi2Cl5O2(SO4)2 was determined to be 3.62(2) eV and its electronic structure was also investigated to compare with the experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: MITF, TFE3, TFEB and TFEC belong to the same microphthalmia‐associated transcription factor family (MiT). Two transcription factors in this family have been identified in two unusual types of renal cell carcinoma (RCC): Xp11 translocation RCC harbouring TFE3 gene fusions and t(6;11) RCC harbouring a MALAT1–TFEB gene fusion. The 2016 World Health Organisation classification of renal neoplasia grouped these two neoplasms together under the category of MiT family translocation RCC. RCCs associated with the other two MiT family members, MITF and TFEC, have rarely been reported. Herein, we identify a case of MITF translocation RCC with the novel PRCC–MITF gene fusion by RNA sequencing. Methods and results: Histological examination of the present tumour showed typical features of MiT family translocation RCCs, overlapping with Xp11 translocation RCC and t(6;11) RCC. However, this tumour showed negative results in TFE3 and TFEB immunochemistry and split fluorescence in‐situ hybridisation (FISH) assays. The other MiT family members, MITF and TFEC, were tested further immunochemically and also showed negative results. RNA sequencing and reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction confirmed the presence of a PRCC–MITF gene fusion: a fusion of PRCC exon 5 to MITF exon 4. We then developed FISH assays covering MITF break‐apart probes and PRCC–MITF fusion probes to detect the MITF gene rearrangement. Conclusions: This study both proves the recurring existence of MITF translocation RCC and expands the genotype spectrum of MiT family translocation RCCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new class of porous materials, having hydrophobic scaffold embedded with aligned porous hydrophilic domains, was in situ fabricated through combination of emulsion-templated method and unidirectional freezing technique. A water-in-oil high internal phase emulsion (HIPE) was prepared with the mixture of styrene and divinylbenzene as continuous phase and a poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) aqueous solution as dispersed phase. After polymerization of the continuous phase and subsequently unidirectional freezing, the dispersed phase, a macroporous poly(styrene/divinylbenzene) embedded with an aligned PVA domain, was obtained. The effects of the polymerization temperature, PVA concentration, and freezing rate on these porous materials were investigated. It was found that the PVA domain size and the aligned channel size were dependent on the polymerization temperature, the PVA concentration, and freezing rate. The fabrication method in this work, combining of unidirectional freezing and emulsion template, not only allows to prepare hydrophobic-hydrophilic polyHIPEs having a sea island structure but also dramatically improves the stiffness and specific surface area of the resulting polyHIPEs. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nitrilase-mediated green synthesis of nicotinic acid, an important reaction in synthetic organic chemistry, has attracted considerable attention in recent years. However, the application potential of nitrilase is hindered by several limitations, such as low catalytic efficiency and byproduct formation. In this study, the site-saturation mutagenesis of asparagine 40, phenylalanine 50, and glutamine 207 in recombinant nitrilase from Pseudomonas putida CGMCC3830 was conducted to improve the specificity of nitrilase for nicotinic acid. The resulting mutants, which contain the mutations N40G (asparagine→glycine), F50W (phenylalanine→tryptophan), and Q207E (glutamine→glutamic acid), produced higher nicotinic acid yields than the wild type. Furthermore, double and triple mutations were introduced, and four mutants that contained N40G/F50W, N40G/Q207E, F50W/Q207E, and N40G/F50W/Q207E were obtained and evaluated for their capacity to produce nicotinic acid. The double mutant F50W/Q207E and the triple mutant N40G/F50W/Q207E displayed the highest activity, which was nearly twofold higher than that of the wild type. The kinetics analysis of nicotinic acid synthesis with the mutant nitrilase revealed the higher catalytic capability of all the mutants than the wild type. These results provide new insights into the catalytic performance of P. putida nitrilase toward 3-cyanopyridine to promote nicotinic acid production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An alginate lyase producing bacterial strain, Cobetia sp. WG-007, was isolated and identified from rotting seaweed. The alginate lyase, Aly-W02, was purified by procedures of ultrafiltration, Q-Sepharose Fast Flow, Phenyl Sepharose 6 Fast Flow, and Superdex-G100 with specific activity of 21,285.5 U/mg. Aly-W02 had an apparent molecular mass of 35 kDa. It exhibited maximum activity at 45 °C in 50 mM sodium phosphate buffer (pH 8.5). This alginate lyase was stable in the pH range of 6.0-8.5. Among the tested metal ions, the addition of K+, Na+, and Mg2+ ions can enhance the enzyme activities, while Ba2+, Ni+, Cu2+, Mn2+, Zn2+, Ag+, and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid decreased the activities. It displayed high salt-tolerant ability; 0.8 M NaCl or 1.5 M KCl significantly enhanced the enzyme activity. Furthermore, Aly-W02 mainly released disaccharide, trisaccharide, and tetrasaccharid from alginate. It showed potential in producing low molecular weight alginate oligosaccharides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims The aim of this study was to investigate potential molecular mechanisms associated with loss of BRM expression in poorly differentiated clear cell renal cell carcinoma (cc RCC). Methods and results Nineteen previously selected BRM-negative RCC tissues were examined by DNA sequencing, fluorescence in-situ hybridization ( FISH) and methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction ( PCR) of the BRM gene. BRM mutation was identified in 78.9% (15 of 19) cases, chromosome 9 monosomy or BRM deletion in 43.8% (seven of 16) and BRM promoter region cytosine-phosphate-guanine (CpG) methylation in 42.8% (six of 14). These results indicated that 89.5% (17 of 19) of the cases harboured at least one type of BRM genetic alteration, with two or more types of alteration in 47.4% (nine of 19). Such alterations were found rarely in adjacent non-neoplastic tissues and low-grade areas of composite tumours. Conclusions BRM gene mutation, chromosome 9 monosomy or BRM deletion and CpG methylation contribute collectively to the loss of BRM expression in cc RCC. This work focusing on composite tumours indicated that BRM abnormality occurred during tumour progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, an increasing number of TFE3 rearrangement-associated tumours have been reported, such as TFE3 rearrangement-associated perivascular epithelioid cell tumours ( PEComas), melanotic Xp11 translocation renal cancers and melanotic Xp11 neoplasms. We have suggested that these tumours belong to a single clinicopathological spectrum. 'Xp11 neoplasm with melanocytic differentiation' or 'melanotic Xp11 neoplasm' have been proposed to designate this unique neoplasm. Herein, we describe the first case of an Xp11 neoplasm with melanocytic differentiation to be described in the prostate, bearing the novel NONO- TFE3 gene fusion. This study both adds to the spectrum regarding melanotic Xp11 neoplasms and expands its gene fusion spectrum. Moreover, we discuss the relationship of these rare tumours to neoplasms such as conventional PEComas, alveolar soft part sarcomas, malignant melanomas, clear cell sarcomas and Xp11 translocation renal cancers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Liver fibrosis is the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) resulting from chronic liver diseases. Efficient and well-tolerated drugs for its treatment are urgently needed. This study aims to identify the active ingredients of Antrodia camphorata by a bioassay-guided fractionation approach and explore the acting mechanism by using a hepatic stellate cell (HSC) line CFSC-8B stimulated by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). Methods The accumulation of collagens was evaluated using chromogenic precipitation reaction with picro-sirius red (PSR) dye solution and quantified by spectrophotometric analysis of the dissolved stain. MTT assay, cell migration assay, quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting analysis were used to determine the cell viability, cell migration and gene expression. Results We established a rapid colorimetric assay suitable for screening of anti-hepatofibrotic reagents. Stimulation with 10 ng/mL TGF-β1 for 48 h and 200 μL PSR dye solution were optimal for the colorimetric assay in CFSC-8B cells. We used SB431542, silybin and another 11 antifibrotic reagents to verify the cellular model. Within the safe doses, they attenuated ECM production induced by TGF-β1. Bioactivity-guided fractionation led to the identification of antrodin B from A. camphorata. Antrodin B significantly ameliorated cell proliferation, cell migration, suppressed HSC activation marker α-smooth muscle actin expression and ECM components Col1, Col3 and Fn expression, and blocked the phosphorylation of Smad2/3 induced by TGF-β1 in CFSC-8B cells in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion We developed a simple assay based on TGF-β1-induced total collagen accumulation in CFSC-8B cells and identified antrodin B which may serve as a potential candidate for treatment of liver fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Malignant rhabdoid tumours ( MRTs) are highly aggressive malignancies of early infancy characterized by inactivation of SMARCB1, a core member of the SWI/ SNF chromatin-remodelling complex. The aim of this study was to explore the status of multiple key subunits of the SWI/ SNF complex in MRTs. Methods and results We screened the key subunits of the SWI/ SNF complex, including SMARCB1, SMARCA2, PBRM1, SMARCA4, and ARID1A, in four MRTs by immunohistochemistry, sequencing, and fluorescence in-situ hybridization ( FISH). Complete loss of SMARCB1, SMARCA2 and PBRM1 expression and corresponding mutations in the same genes were observed in all cases. The mutations included seven missense, three same-sense, four frameshift and two truncating mutations. FISH revealed heterozygous deletion of SMARCB1 in one case, and monoploidy of chromosome 22, which harbours SMARCB1, in another case. Furthermore, trisomy of chromosome 9, which harbours SMARCA2, was observed in two cases. Abnormality of PBRM1 was not found in any case. Conclusions We report, for the first time, co-inactivation and frequent mutations of SMARCB1, SMARCA2 and PBRM1 in MRTs. Multiple subunit abnormalities of the SWI/ SNF complex potentially act together to contribute to the tumorigenesis of MRTs, which provides unique insights into this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]