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Inorganic CsPbI3 perovskite has great potential to fabricate deep‐red light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) owing to excellent color purity, thermal stability, and carrier mobility. However, fabricating high‐quality CsPbI3 thin films for high‐performance LEDs remains challenging. While it is demonstrated that hydrogen bonds between organic ammonium cations and molecule additives can lead to high‐quality organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite films, this method cannot be applied to CsPbI3 thin films due to the absence of hydrogen bonds between Cs+ ions and additives. In this study, an amorphous complex‐seed‐crystal growth process to fabricate high‐quality γ‐CsPbI3 cuboid crystallite thin films, is reported. During the initial annealing, the metastable intermediates formed crystal nucleate seeds and transformed into amorphous complex intermediates, maintaining stability at an elevated temperature for perovskite crystallization. With prolonged annealing, the amorphous complex around the nucleate seeds gradually converts to γ‐CsPbI3 perovskite, enabling us to fabricate CsPbI3 thin films with high crystallinity and orientation. The resulting deep‐red LEDs exhibit a peak external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 16.5% and a high maximum luminance of 3158 cd m−2. Moreover, the devices show significantly suppressed efficiency roll‐off, maintaining an EQE of 14.8% even under a high current density of 500 mA cm−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multistage pore‐structured porous carbon (AFPC) was created by employing protein as a widely available carbon source and a simple pretreatment, carbonization, and KOH activation procedure. Based on the physical denaturation of protein, foam protein porous carbon with self‐doped nitrogen from the biomass was successfully created by adding air to the protein precursor. The AFPC‐600 exhibited a BET surface area of 443.52 m2 g−1 and an average pore diameter of 35 nm. The material demonstrated a high electrical capacitance of 798.5 F g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1 in a three‐electrode system test, with 86 % capacitance retention after 4000 charge‐discharge cycles. This paper highlights the promise of improved porous carbon materials, taking advantage of the special qualities of abundant biomass found in nature, for energy storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All‐inorganic CsPbI3 perovskite semiconductor is attractive for deep‐red light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) because of its high photoluminescence, good thermal stability, excellent charge transport, and solution processability. However, the metastable phase of optically active CsPbI3 hinders the fabrication of efficient and bright deep‐red LEDs. Herein, a multifunctional ionic ligand regulation strategy using (2‐hydroxy‐5‐methylphenyl) triphenyl‐phosphonium iodide and 3‐(N, N‐dimethyloctylammonio) propanesulfonate is reported to regulate the optically active CsPbI3 crystallization and thus obtain high‐quality γ‐CsPbI3 thin films. The high crystallinity and preferential orientation of γ‐CsPbI3 arise from the strong bonding between the ionic ligands and ionic lead halide clusters. The obtained γ‐CsPbI3 thin films also possess suppressed defect densities, high luminescence, and high stability. Using this high‐quality thin film, an efficient and bright deep‐red LED with a peak external quantum efficiency of 13.34% and a maximum luminance of 2110 cd m−2 is successfully fabricated. The operational lifetime of the fabricated LED (time to half of the initial brightness, T50) reaches up to 40 min under a high current density of 50 mA cm−2 (corresponding to the initial brightness of 200 cd m−2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past decades, mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have been extensively investigated as a potential therapeutic cell source for the treatment of various disorders. Differentiation of MSCs from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iMSCs) has provided a scalable approach for the biomanufacturing of MSCs and related biological products. Although iMSCs shared typical MSC markers and functions as primary MSCs (pMSCs), there is a lack of lineage specificity in many iMSC differentiation protocols. Here, a stepwise hiPSC‐to‐iMSC differentiation method is employed via intermediate cell stages of neural crest and cytotrophoblast to generate lineage‐specific MSCs with varying differentiation efficiencies and gene expression. Through a comprehensive comparison between early developmental cell types (hiPSCs, neural crest, and cytotrophoblast), two lineage‐specific iMSCs, and six source‐specific pMSCs, are able to not only distinguish the transcriptomic differences between MSCs and early developmental cells, but also determine the transcriptomic similarities of iMSC subtypes to postnatal or perinatal pMSCs. Additionally, it is demonstrated that different iMSC subtypes and priming conditions affected EV production, exosomal protein expression, and cytokine cargo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All‐inorganic CsPbI3 perovskite is a promising emitter for deep‐red light‐emitting diodes (LEDs). However, presently fabricated CsPbI3 polycrystalline films are composed of island‐like polycrystals, encountering the problems of serious interface current leakage and low‐efficiency carrier radiative recombination. Here, a CsPbI3‐xBrx quantum dots (QDs) matrix encapsulated CsPbI3 polycrystal film is reported to address the low‐efficiency issue of island‐like CsPbI3 polycrystalline film applied in deep‐red LEDs. The developed QDs matrix encapsulation strategy has two benefits. One is the filling of void space in the island‐like CsPbI3 polycrystal film to suppress the interface current leakage. The other more important benefit is utilizing the strong carrier confinement effect of QDs to strengthen the formation of excitons in the composite film and thus improve the electroluminescence efficiency. Moreover, interesting grain growth is found between CsPbI3‐xBrx QDs and CsPbI3 polycrystals, which further enhances the exciton transfer effect brought by the QDs matrix and optoelectronic properties of the fabricated composite films. Based on the obtained high‐quality QDs/polycrystal composite films, efficient and bright deep‐red LEDs are achieved with a peak external quantum efficiency of 15.24% and a maximum luminance of 3691 cd m−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Zishui‐Qinggan decoction (ZQD) is a classical traditional Chinese medicine formula (TCMF) for alleviating menopausal symptoms (MPS) induced by endocrine therapy in breast cancer patients. In the production of TCMF modern preparations, ethanol precipitation (EP) is a commonly but not fully verified refining process. Objectives: Chemical profiling/serum pharmacochemistry and network pharmacology approaches were integrated for exploring the rationality of the EP process in the production of ZQD modern preparations. Material and methods: Ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC‐QTOF‐MS/MS) was applied to identify the chemical profiles and absorbed components of ZQD. Network pharmacology was used to identify targets and pathways related to MPS‐relieving efficacy. Results: The chemicals of ZQDs without/with EP process (referred to as ZQD‐W and ZQD‐W‐P, respectively) were qualitatively similar with 89 and 87 components identified, respectively, but their relative contents were different; 51 components were detectable in the serum of rats orally administered with ZQD‐W, whereas only 19 were detected in that administered with ZQD‐W‐P. Key targets, such as AKT1, and pathways, such as the PI3K‐Akt signalling pathway, affected by ZQD‐W and ZQD‐W‐P were similar, while the neuroactive ligand–receptor interaction pathway among others and the MAPK signalling pathway among others were specific pathways affected by ZQD‐W and ZQD‐W‐P, respectively. The specifically absorbed components of ZQD‐W could combine its specific key targets. Conclusion: The EP process quantitatively altered the chemical profiles of ZQD, subsequently affected the absorbed components of ZQD, and then affected the key targets and pathways of ZQD for relieving MPS. The EP process might result in variation of the MPS‐relieving efficacy of ZQD, which deserves further in vivo verification. The ethanol precipitation process quantitatively altered the chemical profiles of ZQD, subsequently affected the absorbed components of ZQD, and then affected the key targets and pathways of ZQD for relieving MPS. The ethanol precipitation process might result in variation of MPS‐relieving efficacy of ZQD, which deserves further in vivo verification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants can adapt to environmental changes by adjusting their functional traits and biomass allocation. The size and number of flowers are functional traits related to plant reproduction. Life history theory predicts that there is a trade‐off between flower size and number, and the trade‐off can potentially explain the adaptability of plants. Elevation gradients in mountains provide a unique opportunity to test how plants will respond to climate change. In this study, we tried to better explain the adaptability of the alpine plant Gentiana lawrencei var. farreri in response to climate change. We measured the flower size and number, individual size, and reproductive allocation of G. lawrencei var. farreri during the flowering period along an elevation gradient from 3200 to 4000 m, and explored their relationships using linear mixed‐effect models and the structural equation model. We found that with elevation increasing, individual size and flower number decreased and flower size increased, while reproductive allocation remained unchanged. Individual size positively affected flower number, but was not related to flower size; reproductive allocation positively affected flower size, but was not related to flower number; there is a clear trade‐off between flower size and number. We also found that elevation decreased flower number indirectly via directly reducing individual size. In sum, this study suggests that G. lawrencei var. farreri can adapt to alpine environments by the synergies or trade‐offs among individual size, reproductive allocation, flower size, and flower number. This study increases our understanding of the adaptation mechanisms of alpine plants to climate change in alpine environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared to the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), the deuterium evolution reaction (DER) has slower kinetics that causes unsatisfactory performance of conventional HER catalysts in DER. Herein, we report a Ni/V2O3‐500 catalyst with nanosheet morphology that shows excellent performance in both alkaline DER and HER with ultralow overpotential of 64 mV (in 1 M NaOD) and 32 mV (in 1 M NaOH) at 10 mA cm−2. The activity remains stable after accelerated durability test and 1000 h of chronopotentiometric test at 500 mA cm−2. The high performance is attributed to uniform dispersion of Ni nanoparticles and synergistic effects between Ni and V2O3. Density functional theory modeling demonstrates that the synergistic effect optimizes the adsorption of H*/D* intermediate, promoting the reaction rate. This study provides valuable insights into metal‐support interactions in electrocatalysis which facilitates the development of superior DER/HER catalysts. The Ni/V2O3‐500 shows great potential for industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) with high nickel cathode have high specific energy, but as the nickel content in the cathode active material increases, batteries are suffering from temperature limitations, unstable performance, and transition metal dissolution during long cycling. In this work, a functional electrolyte with P‐phenyl diisothiocyanate (PDITC) additive is developed to stabilize the performance of LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811)/graphite LIBs over a wide temperature range. Compared to the batteries without the additive, the capacity retention of the batteries with PDITC‐containing electrolyte increases from 23 % to 74 % after 1400 cycles at 25 °C, and from 15 % to 85 % after 300 cycles at 45 °C. After being stored at 60 °C, the capacity retention rate and capacity recovery rate of the battery are also improved. In addition, the PDITC‐containing battery has a higher discharge capacity at −20 °C, and the capacity retention rate increases from 79 % to 90 % after 500 cycles at 0 °C. Both theoretical calculations and spectroscopic results demonstrate that PDITC is involved in constructing a dense interphase, inhibiting the decomposition of the electrolyte and reducing the interfacial impedance. The application of PDITC provides a new strategy to improve the wide‐temperature performance of the NCM811/graphite LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal halide perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) are promising high‐definition display candidates due to their narrow emission bandwidth and wide color gamut. However, efficient and stable pure‐red PeLEDs have rarely been achieved. Herein, a robust and strongly‐coordinated sulfate anion passivation strategy is reported to achieve a spectrally stable and efficient pure‐red PeLED with an electroluminescent peak at 630 nm and full width at half maximum of 27 nm. Octylammonium sulfate is employed to construct a PbSO4 layer on the surface of CsPbI3−xBrx nanocrystals, which can effectively inhibit phase separation under UV light, humidity, or heat treatment. Using sulfate passivated CsPbI3−xBrx NC film, pure red PeLEDs with high external quantum efficiency of 12.6%, excellent spectral stability, and an operational half‐life time of over 300 min (T50@100 cd cm−2) are fabricated. This work provides a new avenue to improve performance of pure red PeLEDs via strong‐coordinated sulfate passivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Black phosphorus–carbon (BP–C) composite is a potential high‐energy anode material for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs); however, the local stress concentration that occurs during lithiation/delithiation cycling leads to poor cycling performance. Herein, an electrochemically inactive TiP nanocrystal is used to reconstruct the BP–C composite via ball milling to form a BP–TiP–C multiphase structure with excellent lithium storage performance. The TiP intermediate optimizes the TiP–BP interface and relieves the local stress of the BP–TiP–C composite, thereby enhancing the electron transfer, structural stability, and utilization of the active material. This BP–TiP–C composite exhibits a high coulombic efficiency of 99.85%, an enhanced cyclic stability of 557.6 mAh g−1 after 1000 cycles with a 72.5% capacity retention at 2.0 A g−1, and an excellent rate performance of 548.2 mAh g−1 at 10.0 A g−1. Thus, this study not only provides a high‐energy BP–TiP–C material, but also offers new ideas for material synthesis to advance the research on BP‐based LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Sexting is common among adolescents and is associated with numerous health risk behaviors and negative psychosocial constructs. This study examined the relationships between high school students' experiences with sexual violence victimization, dating violence victimization, and engagement in risky sexual behaviors with experiences of receiving sexts. METHODS: Cross‐sectional data from the 2014 to 2016 data from Pennsylvania Youth Risk Behavior. Participants were selected using an independent 2‐stage cluster sample design to produce a statewide population‐based sample. The pencil and paper surveys were conducted in school. Participants included 6734 Pennsylvania high school students in grades 9‐12. RESULTS: Overall, 29.0% of Pennsylvania high school students had received a sext, which varied by sex, race/ethnicity, school grade, and sexual identity. Students who engaged in sexual risk behaviors, experienced dating violence, or experienced lifetime sexual violence outside of the dating context had a significantly higher prevalence of receiving a sext than students who did not engage in those behaviors or have those experiences. CONCLUSIONS: Early screening and prevention efforts that include discussions about sexting behaviors may help prevent other negative outcomes, such as risky sexual behaviors and interpersonal violence. Addressing sexting in the education and health sectors may help to prevent other related harmful health and violence experiences during adolescence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Malignant melanoma is a tumor generated from the basal melanocytes of human epidermis. Primary malignant melanoma of the cervix (PMMC) is derived from cervical melanocytes. It is an uncommon disease, mostly occurring in perimenopausal women. PMMC has a bad prognosis and lacks a defined protocol or treatment standards. The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of different surgical procedures and different adjuvant treatment modalities on their prognosis and to find risk factors for their prognosis by integrating published case report data based on the Chinese population. Methods and Results: This study included 165 patients with PMMC in the Chinese population. We used the Kaplan‐Meier method to build the survival curve, and the log‐rank test to examine the variations among the subgroups. Prognostic factors were examined utilizing the Cox proportional hazards regression model. We found that patients who underwent radical hysterectomy‐based surgery, those who underwent lymphadenectomy, and those who underwent other treatments in addition to surgery had significantly better survival rates. The overall analysis, showed that age, and FIGO Stage II, III, and IV, increased the risk of death. Moreover, radical hysterectomy (RH), total hysterectomy (TAH), lymphadenectomy, and adjuvant therapy were correlated with a decreased mortality risk. Conclusion: After summarizing the current data, we recommend radical hysterectomy, and lymphadenectomy treatment for patients with PMMC. For patients who had already undergone surgery, other treatment options had a positive effect on prognosis. For patients who had already undergone surgery, other treatment options had a positive effect on prognosis; therefore patient‐specific treatment options need to be further discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study explored the relationship between BMI and regional cerebral glucose metabolism and explicitly detected regions with significant differences in cerebral metabolism using positron emission tomography (PET)/magnetic resonance imaging in the resting state.Methods: Corresponding PET images acquired from 220 participants were sorted into four groups according to Asian BMI standards: underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obesity. Pearson correlation coefficient analysis was performed to assess the association between BMI and standard uptake value. The regional cerebral glucose metabolism was measured in the fasted state. The PET images were analyzed using statistical parameter maps. One-way ANOVA was used to explore differences in the standard uptake value as an indicator of regional cerebral glucose metabolism.Results: This study found that lower cerebral glucose metabolism in reward- and motivation-related regions was accompanied by more severe obesity and that regional cerebral glucose metabolism activities were negatively correlated with BMI. In addition, more severe obesity was accompanied by a larger range of areas with significant differences independent of current dietary status.Conclusions: These findings suggest that the reward and motivation circuits may be a factor regulating energy balance and influencing the degree of obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Psoriasis (PSO) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that severely affects the physical and mental health of patients. Drug resistance has been developed upon current drug treatments, and there is no specific therapy. The aim of this study was to screen promising novel drug candidates for PSO using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Methods: The data of PSO were downloaded from gene expression omnibus (GEO) database and subjected to variance analysis. Target proteins and small molecule compounds targeting PSO were predicted in the connective map (cMAP) database. Molecular docking, MD simulation, and trajectory analysis were conducted to predict the binding of target proteins to compounds. Results: 1999 differentially expressed genes in PSO were obtained by differential analysis. Through cMAP database prediction, a low Score value of −45.69 for lymphocyte cell‐specific protein‐tyrosine kinase (LCK) was revealed, and aminogenistein was identified as the compound targeting LCK, and LCK was notably highly expressed in the PSO samples. The drugScore of the binding pocket P_0 was 0.814656, which was docked with aminogenistein. The results showed that there were more than one binding site between LCK and aminogenistein with binding energy less than −7.0 kJ/mol, and the docking was relatively stable. The results of root‐mean‐square deviation (RMSD), root‐mean‐square fluctuation (RMSF), Gyrate, number of hydrogen bonds and total free binding energy in MD simulations showed that the binding of aminogenistein to LCK was relatively solid. Conclusion: Aminogenistein has good protein‐ligand interaction and stability with LCK, a target of PSO, and is a novel drug candidate for PSO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a frequently diagnosed complication of diabetes, and remains a heathcare burden worldwide. However, the pathogenesis of DFU is still largely unclear. The objective of this study is to delineate the function and underlying mechanism of lncRNA antisense non coding RNA in the INK4 locus (ANRIL) in endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) and DFU mice. Methods: The DFU mouse model was established, and EPCs were subjected to high glucose (HG) treatment to mimic diabetes. qRT‐PCR or western blot was employed to detected the expression of ANRIL, HIF1A, FUS and VEGFA. CCK‐8 and Annexin V/PI staining were used to monitor cell proliferation and apoptosis. Wound healing, Transwell invasion and tube formation assays were conducted to assess cell migration, invasion and angiogenesis, respectively. The association between ANRIL and FUS was verified by RNA pull‐down and RIP assays. Luciferase and ChIP assays were employed to investigate HIF1A‐mediated transcriptional regulation of VEGFA and ANRIL. The histological alterations of DFU wound healing were observed by H&E and Masson staining. Results: ANRIL was downregulated in peripheral blood samples of DFU patients, DFU mice and HG‐treated EPCs. Mechanistically, ANRIL regulated HIFA mRNA stability via recruiting FUS. VEGFA and ANRIL were transcriptionally regulated by HIF1A. Functional experiments revealed that HG suppressed EPC proliferation, migration, invasion and tube formation, but promoted apoptosis via ANRIL/HIF1A axis. ANRIL accelerated DFU wound healing via modulating HIF1A expression in vivo. Conclusion: ANRIL accelerated wound healing in DFU via modulating HIF1A/VEGFA signaling in a FUS‐dependent manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective adsorption and speedy surface reactions are vital requirements for efficient active sites in catalysis, but it remains challenging to maximize these two functions simultaneously. We present a solution to this issue by designing a series of atom‐pair catalytic sites with tunable electronic interactions. As a case study, NO selective reduction occurring on V1−W1/TiO2 is chosen. Experimental and theoretical results reveal that the synergistic electron effect present between the paired atoms enriches high‐energy spin charge around the Fermi level, simultaneously rendering reactant (NH3 or O2) adsorption more effective and subsequent surface reactions speedier as compared with single V or W atom alone, and hence higher reaction rates. This strategy enables us to rationally design a high‐performance V1−Mo1/TiO2 catalyst with optimized vanadium(IV)‐molybdenum(V) electronic interactions, which has exceptional activity significantly higher than the commercial or reported catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Antarctic krill oil (AKO) and fish oil (FO) were microencapsulated by a pilot‐scale spray dryer in this study. The effect of lipid class compositions on the encapsulation properties of the obtained microcapsules was investigated. The particle size distribution of both microcapsules ranged from 29.23 ± 2.20 to 36.79 ± 3.45 μm, and the moisture content and water activity (aw) also indicated that both AKO and FO microcapsules were suitable for long‐term storage. Interestingly, differences in lipid composition affected the microstructure of the microcapsules formed, thereby affecting their oxidative stability and digestive behaviour. Compared with FO microcapsules, the surface microstructure of PLs‐enriched microcapsules (AKO microcapsules) was smoother, endowing it better oxidative stability and higher DHA (72.13 ± 2.32% vs. 63.08 ± 2.98%) and EPA (75.94 ± 1.43% vs. 68.26 ± 2.98%) bioaccessibility. These findings may have important implications for the development of microcapsules formulated with different lipid classes in the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on a strategy of stabilizing the LiMn2O4 (LMO) cathode interface, the high‐temperature cycling and storage performance of 18 650‐type LMO/graphite lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) is effectively improved. The LMO cathode is prepared using lithium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMCLi)–polyacrylic acid/acrylate copolymer composite binder and nanoscale CaCO3 functional component (marked as binder C). Compared with the traditional oily binder, the dissolution of Mn2+ from LMO cathode into the electrolyte can effectively decrease, and the structure stability of LMO cathode can increase. The batteries exhibit retention capacity of 80.3% at 1 C after 600 cycles at room temperature and 76.7% at 1 C after 200 cycles at temperature of 45 °C. The high‐temperature storage performance is also improved and there are 81.1% and 73.5% residual capacities when the fully charged batteries are stored in 60 °C for 14 and 28 days. The enhanced performance is mainly attributed to the interfacial stability of LMO cathode due to the bonding ability of composite binders and the elimination of HF by CaCO3. These results reveal the application prospect of as‐developed aqueous binders and provide a way to improve the performance of LMO‐based LIBs through stable interface strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To observe the expression of N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA), apoptosis and the effect on neurological function recovery in rat model with middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) was used to evaluate crossed cerebellar diaschisis (CCD) and to provide experimental and theoretical basis for the clinical treatment. Materials and Methods: The MCAO models were established in rats. Eighty‐four rats were randomly and evenly divided into 7 groups, including control group, 6‐h group, 12‐h group, 24‐h group, 48‐h group, 7‐day group and 14‐day group. The rats were scanned by MRI at the above time points. Then, rats were sacrificed for H&E staining, immunohistochemical staining and TUNEL staining to detect the expression of NMDA in the core infarct area and cerebellum. At the end, the discussion of relationships between molecular biology and MRI parameters (ADC derived from DWI, and MD, MK and FA derived from DKI) was performed. Results: The values of MD, ADC and FA in MCAO rats were all lower than those in the control group. All MRI parameters of the contralateral cerebellum were lower than those of the ipsilateral cerebellum (p <.05). The parameters reached the lowest value at 12 h, except that the MK reached the highest at 12 h. The expression of NMDA showed a fluctuation along time in the MCAO group. Overall, it is higher in the MCAO group than in the control group, reaching the maximum at 24 h (p <.05). At the same time, the expression of NMDA in the contralateral cerebellum was higher than in the ipsilateral cerebellum. Conclusion: It is found that NMDA and DKI of CCD have the same changing trend, which indicates that the intervention of NMDA receptor apoptosis may become a new target for the treatment of cerebral infarction, and MRI parameters can predict the occurrence and development of CCD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The interactions of anthocyanins and proteins might mutually influence each other on the physicochemical and functional properties. In this study, the interaction mechanism of soybean protein isolate (SPI) with mulberry anthocyanins (MA), and its effect on the thermal stability of anthocyanins and protein subunits' digestibility were investigated through multiple spectroscopies and in vitro gastrointestinal models. Results showed that cyanidin‐3‐O‐glucoside (C3G), the main anthocyanin monomer in MA, could bind to SPI through hydrophobic interactions, resulting in static fluorescence quenching of SPI. The secondary structure of SPI changed by binding to C3G, with an increase of β‐sheet and a decrease of α‐helix and random coil. The formation of the SPI‐MA complexes improved the thermal stability of MA at 353 K, while, no significant protection occurred during heating at 368 K. Complexation with MA promoted the digestibility of SPI by pepsin, especially the α′ and α subunits of β‐conglycinin and the basic subunit of glycinin, and slightly delayed the digestibility of SPI under intestinal fluid. These results provide an in‐depth understanding of the influence of the protein‐anthocyanin interactions on the stability of anthocyanins and protein digestibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aging is an important risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, and aging‐related cardiac dysfunction serves as a major determinant of morbidity and mortality in elderly populations. Our previous study has identified fibronectin type III domain‐containing 5 (FNDC5) and its cleaved form, irisin, as the cardioprotectant against doxorubicin‐induced cardiomyopathy. Herein, aging or matched young mice were overexpressed with FNDC5 by adeno‐associated virus serotype 9 (AAV9) vectors, or subcutaneously infused with irisin to uncover the role of FNDC5 in aging‐related cardiac dysfunction. To verify the involvement of nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain‐like receptor with a pyrin domain 3 (NLRP3) and AMP‐activated protein kinase α (AMPKα), Nlrp3 or Ampkα2 global knockout mice were used. Besides, young mice were injected with AAV9‐FNDC5 and maintained for 12 months to determine the preventive effect of FNDC5. Moreover, neonatal rat cardiomyocytes were stimulated with tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) to examine the role of FNDC5 in vitro. We found that FNDC5 was downregulated in aging hearts. Cardiac‐specific overexpression of FNDC5 or irisin infusion significantly suppressed NLRP3 inflammasome and cardiac inflammation, thereby attenuating aging‐related cardiac remodeling and dysfunction. In addition, irisin treatment also inhibited cellular senescence in TNF‐α‐stimulated cardiomyocytes in vitro. Mechanistically, FNDC5 activated AMPKα through blocking the lysosomal degradation of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor. More importantly, FNDC5 gene transfer in early life could delay the onset of cardiac dysfunction during aging process. We prove that FNDC5 improves aging‐related cardiac dysfunction by activating AMPKα, and it might be a promising therapeutic target to support cardiovascular health in elderly populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Severe aggressive behavior of juvenile pufferfish affects economic efficiency and fish welfare in aquaculture. 5‐HT plays an important role in regulating the aggressive behavior of fish in aquaculture environment. This study examined the effects of different concentrations (0, 0.25, 0.5, 1 mg/kg) of 8‐OH‐DPAT, a selective 5‐HT1A receptor agonist, on the aggressive behavior of juvenile pufferfish. Forty‐five minutes after drug injection, the aggressive behavior of juvenile fish was recorded for 20 min, including the latency to the first attack and the frequency of aggressive behaviors. The results showed no significant differences in the latency to the first attack of juvenile fish among treatment groups. During the first 10 min of the observation period, there was no significant difference in the total aggressive acts and locomotor activity among treatment groups. Total aggressive acts and locomotor activity were the least in the 1 mg/kg 8‐OH‐DPAT‐treated during the 20 min observation period. Both aggressive behavior and locomotor activity were negatively correlated with 8‐OH‐DPAT treatment overall, respectively. The above results suggested that the serotonergic system activation had suppressive effects on aggressive behavior and locomotor activity in juvenile pufferfish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water‐soluble polyacrylate copolymers are developed as green functional binders of graphite anode to improve the performance of lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). Using five basic binders, it is demonstrated that the graphite plate with the alkanol acrylate crosslinker (type U20)‐acrylic acid/acrylate copolymer (type LA138) composite binder (marked as Binder B) exhibits larger adhesive force, higher compaction density, and better electrolyte adsorption capacity compared to other plates with aqueous binders. In particular, the electrochemical performance of the batteries with Binder B is enhanced both at room temperature and low temperature, and retention capacity of 82.8 % at 1 C and 25 °C after 930 cycles and 91.3 % at 0.5 C and 0 °C are obtained. In addition, the batteries with Binder B also exhibit enhanced safety and heat stability. The enhanced performance is attributed to the good chemical stability of polyacrylate copolymers and unique film‐forming properties. These results indicate that the graphite anode with aqueous Binder B has promising prospects for practical application, and it also provides a reference for solving the poor low‐temperature performance of graphite anodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexible capacitive stress sensors are important for robotics, human–machine interactions, and electronic skin due to their temperature independence, low power consumption, and high stability. Pressing the soft dielectric material brings the electrodes closer together and thereby increases capacitance. However, the invariance of the elastic modulus of dielectric materials contradicts the sensitivity and measurement limit of capacitive stress sensors. To solve this problem, a passive particle jamming variable stiffness material‐based flexible capacitive stress sensor with high sensitivity, large measurement limit is proposed. Applying small stress does not jam the particles, leading to a low elastic modulus (5.2 kPa). As the stress increases, the particles begin to jam and squeeze the elastic cavity, resulting in a jamming phenomenon that gradually increases the elastic modulus (up to 132.4 kPa). Based on this mechanism, a sensor with high sensitivity (0.023 kPa−1) and large measurement limit (320 kPa) is demonstrated. In addition, several demonstrations prove the potential applications of the sensor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore the efficacy of injection of micronised acellular dermal matrix (MADM) particles for treating primary premature ejaculation. This study was a prospective single‐arm clinical trial. Thirty patients who met the surgical indications were enrolled. MADM particles, mixed in platelet‐rich plasma, were injected into Buck's fascia to spread over the dorsal penile nerve, suppress the influx of nerve impulses and, thus, reduce penis sensitivity. We evaluated the changes according to intravaginal ejaculation latency time using a stopwatch and a premature ejaculation diagnostic tool. Meanwhile, we also recorded sexual partner satisfaction and adverse events. All patients recovered well after surgery with no complications such as infections or allergies. The mean intravaginal ejaculation latency time before surgery was 0.72 ± 0.28 min, compared with 2.41 ± 0.54 min, 2.64 ± 0.41 min, 2.79 ± 0.25 min and 2.89 ± 0.35 min at, respectively, 4, 8, 16 and 20 weeks after surgery. The premature ejaculation diagnostic values and sexual partner satisfaction had significantly improved after treatment. Injection of MADM particles is an effective, safe and simple method for treating premature ejaculation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Voluminous Early Cretaceous volcanic rocks in the central Lhasa subterrane provide an ideal opportunity for understanding the mantle–crust interaction and tectonic‐magmatic evolution of the Lhasa Terrane. Here, we report zircon U–Pb ages, geochemical and Sr–Nd–Pb–Hf isotopic data for the Early Cretaceous volcanic rocks, including high‐silica rhyolites (117.2 ± 1.1 Ma) and contemporaneous andesites (114.1 ± 0.8 Ma) in the Sailipu area, central Lhasa subterrane. All these rocks show enriched light rare earth elements (LREE), and radioactive heat‐generating elements (e.g., Th, U, K, and Pb) but depleted high‐field‐strength elements (HFSEs, e.g., Nb, Ta, P, and Ti). The different bulk‐rock Sr–Nd–Pb and zircon Hf isotopic compositions of the rhyolites and andesites suggest that these rocks have distinct magma sources and petrogenetic history rather than an identical source involving assimilation‐fractional crystallization process. The Sailipu high‐silica rhyolites exhibit the characteristics of fractional crystallization and have varying zircon εHf(t) values (−12.2 to +5.2), negative εNd(t) values (−9.5 to −1.6), high and variable initial Sr isotopic compositions ([87Sr/86Sr]i = 0.7047–0.7116) and radiogenic Pb isotopic signatures (206Pb/204Pb = 18.784–18.802, 207Pb/204Pb = 15.722–15.737, and 208Pb/204Pb = 39.382–39.492). A combined process of magma mixing (involving crustal‐derived felsic melts and mantle‐derived mafic melts) and subsequent fractional crystallization were mainly responsible for the formation of these high‐silica rhyolites. The Sailipu andesites show more enriched Sr–Nd isotopic compositions [(87Sr/86Sr)i = 0.7088–0.7154, εNd(t) = −9.9 to −6.7] relative to rhyolites, and less radiogenic Pb isotopic compositions (206Pb/204Pb = 18.632–18.669, 207Pb/204Pb = 15.686–15.689, 208Pb/204Pb = 39.140–39.201). They were likely derived from partial melting of an enriched mantle wedge previously metasomatized by melts derived from subducted sediments. We interprete these Early Cretaceous volcanic rocks as the product of slab break‐off during the southward subduction of the Bangong‐Nujiang Tethyan oceanic seafloor. The dominantly positive εHf(t) and ancient TDMC ages (0.85–1.90 Ga) of Sailipu high‐silica rhyolites further imply that, under the stress relaxation regime, the mantle‐derived melts locally reworked the ancient basement of the central Lhasa subterrane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The behaviors and mechanism for the different performance degradation trends of 18650 cylindrical lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) with LiNi0.33Co0.33Mn0.33O2 cathodes under long‐term storage at a high temperature (HT) of 80 °C are investigated to gain insight on the safe use of LIBs. It is indicated that the direct current resistance (DCR) increases sharply within 240 h and then slows down gradually, whereas the open‐circuit voltage (OCV) and the recoverable capacity (RC) fading are relatively stable in the initial 240 h, but then speeds up from 240 h to 720 h. With the aid of analyses of the anode, cathode, and separator materials in batteries stored at 80 °C for 0 h, 240 h, 480 h, and 720 h, the mechanism of the performance degradation of batteries is elucidated. It is pointed out that the DCR rise is mainly caused by the anode materials peeling off from the copper foil, as is the subsequent interface resistance increase. The RC fading is attributed to the partial break of the cathode structure, owing to the dissolution of transition metal ions (Ni2+, Co3+, and Mn4+), and the dissolution becomes more severe as the time extends. In addition, the separator suffers a combination of stretching (machine direction), squeezing (anode side), oxidation (cathode side), and destruction, resulting in internal short circuit and sharp OCV drop, as well as the other potential safety risks of LIBs. These results are valuable to establish an accelerated testing method to evaluate batteries in a short time range to advance the safe use of LIBs under high‐temperature storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of the study was to investigate the ability of the blood lipid parameters to predict the discrimination of arteriogenic erectile dysfunction (ED). Materials and methods: 260 subjects with ED and 60 healthy controls were enrolled. Eight lipid parameters, including total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), LDL‐C, HDL‐C, non‐HDL‐C, TC/HDL ratio, TG/HDL ratio, and LDL/HDL ratio, together with other plasma biomarkers like sex hormones were measured in all participants. Nocturnal penile tumescence (NPT), penile color Doppler ultrasonography (pDUS), and neurophysiological tests were conducted in the ED group. Results: Forty‐four ED patients with normal NPT, and 84 with normal vasculature or mixed vascular abnormalities were excluded. The remaining 132 men were classified into two groups, arteriogenic ED (n = 87) and venous leakage (n = 45), by pDUS. TC/HDL, LDL/HDL, and LDL‐C were significantly higher (P <.05) and HDL‐C was significantly lower (P <.05) in the arteriogenic ED group when compared with the venous and the control groups. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis identified area under the curve values that were predictive of arteriogenic ED for: TC/HDL and LDL/HDL 0.720 and 0.737, TC/HDL ≥ 3.73 and LDL/HDL ≥ 2.01 (sensitivity: 56.3%; specificity: 83.3% vs sensitivity: 55.2%; specificity: 91.7%), HDL‐C (0.791), ≤1.25 mmol/L (sensitivity: 69%; specificity: 81.7%), LDL‐C (0.641), ≥2.41 mmol/L (sensitivity: 55.2%; specificity: 76.7%).In the arteriogenic ED group, a significant inverse correlation was detected between TC/HDL, LDL/HDL, LDL‐C and 10‐minutes peak systolic velocity (PSV) (All P <.01)and a significant positive correlation was recognized between HDL‐C and 10‐minutes PSV(P <.01). Multivariate step wise linear regression indicated lipid parameters of LDL/HDL and HDL‐C were significantly associated with 10‐MinPSV (P <.01). Conclusion: These findings suggest the LDL/HDL and HDL‐C might be a powerful indicator to predict and diagnose arteriogenic ED, and lipid‐lowing therapy should be considered for these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Penile hypersensitivity is one of the main pathological mechanisms of premature ejaculation. However, little is known about the neurophysiological mechanism of penile peripheral nerve sensitization. Piezo Type Mechanosensitive Ion Channel Component 2 (PIEZO2), was recently identified as a mechanically sensitive channel. Objectives: This study explored the possible neural mechanisms of PIEZO2 action in the mechanisms of premature ejaculation using molecular biology and electrophysiology approaches. Materials and methods: One hundred seventy male rats and 85 female rats were recruited. The females were induced estrus by injection of estradiol benzoate and progesterone followed by surgically castrated. Subsequently, the copulatory behaviors were record by a video camera six times, once a week. The last three mating processes of 134 male rats were successfully recorded. The males were divided into three groups according to ejaculation frequency value. Immunocytochemical and molecular methods as well as whole‐cell patch clamp recording were used to show the difference between premature ejaculation rats and control rats. To further clarify the involvement of PIEZO2 in premature ejaculation, we constructed a PIEZO2 knockdown model in rats by intrathecal injection of PIEZO2 antisense oligodeoxynucleotides. Results: We showed that PIEZO2 in the penis head and in the dorsal root ganglia(DRG) were significantly increased in premature ejaculation rats. Whole‐cell patch clamp recording demonstrated that mechanical stimulation evoked a higher inward current density in premature ejaculation rats compared with control rats, which could be inhibited by the PIEZO2‐specific antagonist, FM1‐43. PIEZO2 knockdown experiments revealed that the inward current density induced by mechanical stimulation was significantly decreased in PIEZO2 knockdown rats, and that the mount frequency and ejaculation latency and frequency were significantly improved in PIEZO2 knockdown rats. Discussion and Conclusion: Our data demonstrate PIEZO2 involvement in peripheral nerve sensitization, indicating that pharmacological antagonism of PIEZO2 may be a useful strategy for treating premature ejaculation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macrocycle, cyclo[4] [(1,3‐(4,6)‐dimethylbezene)[4](2,6‐(3,5)‐dimethylpyridine (B4P4), shows highly selective binding affinity with protirelin (Pyr‐His‐Pro‐NH2; TRH) among the tested 26 drug or drug adductive substrates. The stable complexation in a 1:1 manner was fully characterized in solution, gas phase, and solid state study. Furthermore, B4P4 acts as an efficient TRH inhibitor even at [macrocycle]:[drug] <1:300, both in membrane transport and cellar incubation. The current work provides an unprecedented strategy for macrocycles to be efficiently used in drug target therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis contribute to the evolution of doxorubicin (DOX)‐induced cardiotoxicity. Osteocrin (OSTN) is a novel secretory peptide mainly derived from the bone and skeletal muscle, and plays critical roles in regulating bone growth and physical endurance. Inspiringly, OSTN was also reported to be abundant in the myocardium that functioned as a therapeutic agent against cardiac rupture and congestive heart failure in mice after myocardial infarction. Herein, we investigated the role and potential mechanism of OSTN in DOX‐induced cardiotoxicity. Methods: Cardiac‐restrict OSTN overexpression was performed by the intravenous injection of a cardiotropic AAV9 vector, and subsequently the mice received 15 mg/kg DOX injection (i.p., once) to induce acute cardiac injury. Besides, H9C2 cell lines were used to assess the possible role of OSTN in vitro by incubating with recombinant human OSTN or small interfering RNA against Ostn (siOstn). To clarify the involvement of protein kinase G (PKG), KT5823 and siPkg were used in vivo and in vitro. Mice were also administrated intraperitoneally with 5 mg/kg DOX weekly for consecutive 3 weeks at a cumulative dose of 15 mg/kg to mimic the cardiotoxic effects upon chronic DOX exposure. Results: OSTN treatment notably attenuated, whereas OSTN silence exacerbated inflammation, oxidative stress, and cardiomyocyte apoptosis in DOX‐treated H9C2 cells. Besides, cardiac‐restrict OSTN‐overexpressed mice showed an alleviated cardiac injury and malfunction upon DOX injection. Mechanistically, we found that OSTN activated PKG, while PKG inhibition abrogated the beneficial effect of OSTN in vivo and in vitro. As expected, OSTN overexpression also improved cardiac function and survival rate in mice after chronic DOX treatment. Conclusions: OSTN protects against DOX‐elicited inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and cardiac dysfunction via activating PKG, and cardiac gene therapy with OSTN provides a novel therapeutic strategy against DOX‐induced cardiotoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To use isokinetic strength testing system to test and analyze the relationship between changes in muscle strength before and after knee replacement in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Methods: A total of 200 patients with advanced knee osteoarthritis treated from June 2018 to June 2019 were selected for TKA. The patient's isokinetic muscle strength test was performed in the first, third, and the sixth month before and after the operation. The knee hamstring peak torque (PT value), quadriceps peak torque (PT value), and total work were mainly measured. The knee joint was evaluated at the hospital for special surgery score, range of motion and other knee function standards, and then healthy limbs and normal people were tested with the same method. Statistical data was used to analyze and deal with the data, evaluate the muscle strength and motor function changes with time progressing, then compare the differences to the healthy limb. From P < 0.05, we can see that the differences have some statistical significance. The influences that TKA has on motor function changes of lower limbs were also observed. Results: Among the 200 subjects, 162 completed all follow‐up tests, and the remaining 38 were lost to follow‐up for various reasons. The rate of loss of follow‐up was approximately 19%. The isokinetic muscle strength test system and the knee joint function scoring standard were used to record the knee joint muscle strength and function changes before and after knee joint replacement. Statistical analysis was performed to show the knee joint hamstring muscle force and quadriceps muscle strength and joint mobility in the first month after the surgery. The knee joint muscle strength and joint mobility were significantly improved after the third month after the surgery, but there were still some differences compared with normal people. The knee function index was significantly improved in the sixth month after operation (P < 0.05), and there were no significant differences compared with normal people. Conclusions: Knee joint strength and knee function after TKA are significantly improved compared with preoperative function, which is of great significance for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis. The constant velocity muscle strength test system has the advantages of safety, accuracy, repeatability and easy operation. It is a good method to evaluate the knee joint's muscle strength and function after the knee joint replacement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the feasibility of arthroplasty with varisized three‐dimensional(3D) printing lunate prosthesis for the treatment of advanced Kienböck's disease (KD). Methods: From 2016 November to 2018 September, a retrospective study was performed for the patients of KD in our hospital. Five patients (two males, three females) were included in this study. The mean age of the patients at the time of surgery was 51.6 years (range, 37–64 years). Varisized prosthesis identical to the live model in a ratio of 1:0.85, 1:1, and 1:1.1 were fabricated by 3D printing. All patients (one in Lichtman IIIA stage, two in Lichtman IIIB stage, one in Lichtman IIIC stage, and one in Lichtman IV stage) were treated with lunate excision and 3D printing prosthetic arthroplasty. Visual analog scale score (VAS), the active movement of wrist (extension, flexion) and strength were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively. The Mayo Modified Wrist Score (MMWS), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) Score, and patient's satisfaction were evaluated during the follow‐up. Results: Prosthesis identical to the live model in a ratio of 1:0.85 or 1:1 were chosen for arthroplasty. The mean operation time (range, 45 to 56 min) was 51.8 ± 4.44 min. Follow‐up time ranged from 11 months to 33 months with the mean value of 19.4 months. The mean extension range of the wrist significantly increased from preoperative 44° ± 9.6° to postoperative 60° ± 3.5° (P < 0.05). The mean flexion range of the wrist significantly increased from preoperative 40° ± 10.6° to postoperative 51° ± 6.5° (P < 0.05). The active movement of wrist and strength were improved significantly in all patients. VAS was significantly reduced from 7.3 preoperatively to 0.2 at the follow‐up visit (P < 0.05). The mean DASH score was 10 (range, 7.2–14.2), and the mean MMWS was 79 (range, 70–90). There were no incision infection. All patients were satisfied with the treatment. Conclusions: For patients suffering advanced Kienböck's disease, lunate excision followed by 3D printing prosthetic arthroplasty can reconstruct the anatomical structure of the carpal tunnel, alleviate pain, and improve wrist movement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the efficiency of anterior decompression on the proximal‐type cervical spondylotic amyotrophy patients. Methods: This was a retrospective analysis. From January 2014 to November 2017, 21 patients with proximal‐type cervical spondylotic amyotrophy (CSA) underwent anterior decompression. There were 15 males and 6 females, aged 35–73 years with an average of 51.62 years. All the patients underwent surgery of anterior decompression (ACDF or ACCF). Among them, 12 patients underwent C4/5 single level ACDF, eight patients underwent C4/5 and C5/6 double level ACDF, and one patient underwent C5 anterior cervical corpectomy decompression and fusion surgery. Preoperative and postoperative clinical and radiologic parameters were assessed. The clinical examinations were reviewed, including muscle strength, neck disability index (NDI) score, cervical Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, and improvement rate of manual muscle test (MMT) at the last follow‐up. Preoperative spinal cord or nerve impingement was assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) myelography. Postoperative lateral X‐ray radiographs were performed every 3 months after the surgery. Results: Severe preoperative muscle atrophy of the deltoid or biceps muscles occurred in 21 patients included in the study. All of them involve impingements of the ventral nerve root and/or the anterior horn according to MRI and CT myelography. The preoperative duration of symptoms averaged 8.4 months. The average follow‐up for all patients was 13.2 months. At the final follow‐up, all patients showed statistically significant improvements in muscle strength and NDI scores (P < 0.05, P < 0.05). For the deltoid muscles force and C‐JOA scores, the average improvement rates were 66.49% ± 10.04% and 62.23% ± 9.23%, respectively. With respect to MMT, 12 proximal‐type patients were graded excellent, six were good, and three were fair, and the overall improvement rate was 85.7%. Conclusions: For proximal‐type CSA patients with cervical radiculopathy, earlier anterior decompression surgery can achieve satisfactory results by significantly improving a patient's muscle strength and relieving compression symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

HOXA cluster antisense RNA 2 (HOXA‐AS2) is a long noncoding RNA associated with the development of numerous cancers. But, whether HOXA‐AS2 exhibits a certain function in sepsis‐engendered acute kidney injury (AKI) remains uninvestigated. We strived to unveil the role of HOXA‐AS2 in sepsis‐engendered AKI. The expression of HOXA‐AS2 in sepsis patients, animal models and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐impaired HK‐2 cells was primarily assessed via a real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The effects of HOXA‐AS2 on cell survival of HK‐2 cells under LPS irritation were evaluated after overexpression of HOXA‐AS2. The correlation between HOXA‐AS2 and microRNA (miR)‐106b‐5p was forecasted via bioinformatics software and verified by using a luciferase report system. Subsequently, the functions of miR‐106b‐5p in LPS‐damaged HK‐2 cells were reassessed. Western blot was used for the determination of Wnt/β‐catenin and nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) pathways. HOXA‐AS2 expression was decreased in sepsis patients, animal operation group and LPS‐irritated HK‐2 cells. Overexpressed HOXA‐AS2 mollified LPS‐triggered impairment in HK‐2 cells. In addition, a negative mediatory relation between HOXA‐AS2 and miR‐106b‐5p was predicated. Synchronously, overexpressed miR‐106b‐5p counteracted the protection of HOXA‐AS2 in LPS‐damaged HK‐2 cells. Ultimately, Wnt/β‐catenin and NF‐κB pathways were hindered by HOXA‐AS2 via targeting miR‐106b‐5p. HOXA‐AS2 exhibited protection in sepsis‐engendered AKI via targeting miR‐106b‐5p and hindering the Wnt/β‐catenin and NF‐κB pathways. Highlights: 1.Downexpressed HOXA cluster antisense RNA 2 (HOXA‐AS2) emerges in sepsis patients and experimental models.2.HOXA‐AS2 conduces to HK‐2 cells from lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐engendered damage.3.MiR‐106b‐5p is a newfound target microRNA of HOXA‐AS2.4.HOXA‐AS2 assuages LPS‐engendered damage via modulation of miR‐106b‐5p.5.Wnt/β‐catenin and nuclear factor‐κB pathways are impeded HOXA‐AS2 via adjusting miR‐106b‐5p. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A positive‐temperature‐coefficient graphite anode as a thermal runaway firewall of LiCoO2/graphite lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) is prepared by introducing thermally sensitive polymer microspheres (TSPMs) into the anode to improve battery safety under abusive conditions. The TSPMs are composed of an acrylonitrile and acrylate copolymer shell and a cyclopentane hydrocarbon core. Due to the thermally sensitive properties of TSPMs, the graphite anode swells under abusive conditions, and the electric connection of active materials and current collector can be cut off. Thus, the resistance of LIBs is increased to solve the thermal runaway and safety problems before the temperature of LIBs approaches explosion limit. The TSPMs with a size distribution of 4–20 μm and an initial foaming temperature of 95–110 °C exhibit excellent stability and foaming properties. Compared with the batteries without TSPMs, under abusive conditions including overcharge at 1 C/10 V, thermal shock from 20 to 130 °C, and external short circuit with a resistance of ≈80 mΩ, the batteries with TSPMs effectively mitigate thermal runaway. In addition, TSPMs do not show obvious influences on the conventional performances of LIBs, indicating that adding TSPMs into graphite anodes is a promising method to improve the safety of LIBs under abusive conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we investigated the effects of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (SC), Bacillus subtilis (BS) and Enterococcus faecalis (EF), singly and in combination, on the dry matter intake (DMI), milk production and composition, and faecal microflora of Saanen dairy goats. Fifty goats were randomly divided into five groups: (a) basal diet (control); (b) basal diet + SC; (c) basal diet + BS; (d) basal diet + EF; and (e) basal diet + mixed probiotics. Each treated animal received 5 g/d of probiotics for a total administration of 5 × 1,011 CFU/goat per day. The inclusion of B. subtilis and E. faecalis in the diet of lactating Saanen goats increased DMI (p <.05). Enhanced milk yield was observed with BS and EF. Milk fat percentage was significantly increased by feeding mixed probiotics compared with the control (p <.05); supplying SC, BS and mixed probiotics enhanced the protein percentage (p <.05). The milk lactose percentage in the SC and BS groups was higher than in the control (p <.05). The amount of milk total solids was higher after feeding EF or mixed probiotics than in the control group (p <.05). Non‐fat solids showed no notable differences among groups (p >.05). There was no significant influence on gut bacterial abundance and diversity from adding these three probiotics, singly or in combination. Bacteroidales, Escherichia–Shigella and Christensenellaceae abundances were decreased by supplying these probiotics but Succinivibrionaceae increased. In conclusion, there were positive influences of probiotic feed supplementation on intake, milk performance and intestinal microecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Niclosamide is an antihelminthic drug. Recent studies show that niclosamide exerts antitumor activity through inhibiting multiple signals including Wnt/β‐catenin, mTORC1, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, NF‐κB, notch signals; however, the insolubility and poor bioavailability limits its potential clinic use, the aim of the present work is to synthesize an injectable pegylated niclosamide (polyethylene glycol‐modified niclosamide) and investigate its antitumor activity in vitro and in vivo. The pegylated niclosamide (mPEG5000‐Nic) was synthesized and the chemical structure was identified by Fourier transform infrared spectra and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectra. The antitumor activity was evaluated in CT26 and HCT116 colon cancer cells in vitro and nude mouse xenograft model of CT26 cells in vivo. The water solubility of niclosamide in mPEG5000‐Nic was significantly increased. Niclosamide could be released from mPEG5000‐Nic nanoparticles in PBS solution. mPEG5000‐Nic inhibited the cell viability of CT26 and HCT116 cells in vitro. No animal death was observed in mice with intraperitoneal injection of mPEG5000‐Nic (equivalent to 1000 mg/kg niclosamide) within 24 hr, indicating that mPEG5000‐Nic was less toxic. In nude mouse, xenograft model of CT26 colon carcinoma, intraperitoneal injection of mPEG5000‐Nic (equivalent to niclosamide 50 mg/kg) inhibited tumor growth but had no effect on animal body weight and heart, liver, kidney, and lung weight in vivo. Meanwhile, in the same model, intraperitoneal injection of the positive clinic drug 5‐fluorouracil not only inhibited the tumor growth, but also reduced the animal body weight. Our study demonstrates that pegylated niclosamide is novel niclosamide delivery system with clinical perspective for cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of Artemisia sphaerocephala Krasch polysaccharide (ASKP) on the gelatinization and retrogradation of wheat starch (WS) was studied. RVA results displayed that ASKP addition increased the setback values of WS, which indicated that ASKP might promote the short‐term retrogradation of WS. DSC and XRD results demonstrated that the retrogradation percentage of WS during long‐time storage significantly decreased with the addition of ASKP, suggesting the inhibition effect of ASKP on the long‐term retrogradation of WS. As shown in TPA test, ASKP addition increased the hardness of starch gel at the beginning but decreased it after 14 days' storage. Results of FT‐IR revealed that ASKP could promote the water retention and intermolecular hydrogen bonding formation. With the addition of ASKP, the spin–spin relaxation time measured by LF‐NMR decreased from 358.47 ms to 274.15 ms, illustrating that the WS paste containing ASKP had higher water retention ability. Leached amylose content results manifested the interaction between WS and ASKP. In summary, ASKP has potential to be a modifier on the retrogradation of starch in food processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The presence of acrylamide in food has attracted wide attention and has raised concerns due to its potential toxic and carcinogenic effects. The phenolic compounds in buckwheat display strong antioxidant activity, which may affect the acrylamide levels. The aims of this study were to evaluate the effect of buckwheat extracts on acrylamide formation and the quality of the bread, and to investigate possible inhibitory mechanisms. RESULTS: The extracts from Tartary buckwheat seeds, Tartary buckwheat sprouts, common buckwheat seeds, and common buckwheat sprouts reduced acrylamide level in bread by 23.5, 27.3, 17.0, and 16.7%, respectively. In addition, all four buckwheat extracts significantly (P < 0.05) reduced acrylamide levels in the asparagine / glucose system. There were significant positive correlations between total phenolic compound content, the antioxidant activity of the extracts, and the reduction in the acrylamide level. Evaluation of the organoleptic and textural properties indicated that the addition of the extracts did not significantly affect the crust color, aroma, taste, crumb appearance, and hardness of the bread. CONCLUSION: This study showed that proper use of buckwheat extracts can reduce acrylamide levels in bread without having a significant impact on their properties. The study also revealed that a possible acrylamide formation inhibitory mechanism involved the Maillard reaction through the asparagine / glucose pathway. The study also provided useful information for the further application of buckwheat in improving food safety. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: The anti-helminthic drug niclosamide regulates multiple cellular signals including STAT3, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), Akt, Wnt/β-catenin and mitochondrial uncoupling which are involved in neointimal hyperplasia. Here we have examined the effects of niclosamide on vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation, migration and neointimal hyperplasia and assessed the potential mechanisms.Experimental Approach: Cell migration was measured by using wound-induced migration assay and Boyden chamber assay. Protein levels were measured by using Western blot technique. Neointimal hyperplasia in vivo was induced in rats by balloon injury to the carotid artery.Key Results: Niclosamide treatment inhibited serum-induced (15% FBS) and PDGF-BB-induced proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (A10 cells). Niclosamide showed no cytotoxicity at anti-proliferative concentrations, but induced cell apoptosis at higher concentrations. Niclosamide treatment inhibited serum-induced (15% FBS) and PDGF-BB-induced STAT3 activation (increased protein levels of p-STAT3 at Tyr705 ) but activated AMPK, in A10 cells. Niclosamide exerted no significant effects on β-catenin expression and the activities of ERK1/2 and Akt in A10 cells. Injection (i.p.) of soluble pegylated niclosamide (PEG5000-niclosamide) (equivalent to niclosamide 25 mg·kg-1 ) attenuated neointimal hyperplasia following balloon-injury in rat carotid arteries in vivo.Conclusions and Implications: Niclosamide inhibited vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration and attenuated neointimal hyperplasia in balloon-injured rat carotid arteries through a mechanism involving inhibition of STAT3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increase of myocardial oxidative stress is closely related to the occurrence and development of cardiac hypertrophy. Cordycepin, also known as 3'‐deoxyadenosine, is a natural bioactive substance extracted from Cordyceps militaris (which is widely cultivated for commercial use in functional foods and medicine). Since cordycepin suppresses oxidative stress both in vitro and in vivo, we hypothesized that cordycepin would inhibit cardiac hypertrophy by blocking oxidative stress‐dependent related signalling. In our study, a mouse model of cardiac hypertrophy was induced by aortic banding (AB) surgery. Mice were intraperitoneally injected with cordycepin (20 mg/kg/d) or the same volume of vehicle 3 days after‐surgery for 4 weeks. Our data demonstrated that cordycepin prevented cardiac hypertrophy induced by AB, as assessed by haemodynamic parameters analysis and echocardiographic, histological and molecular analyses. Oxidative stress was estimated by detecting superoxide generation, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and malondialdehyde levels, and by detecting the protein levels of gp91phox and SOD. Mechanistically, we found that cordycepin activated activated protein kinase α (AMPKα) signalling and attenuated oxidative stress both in vivo in cordycepin‐treated mice and in vitro in cordycepin treated cardiomyocytes. Taken together, the results suggest that cordycepin protects against post‐AB cardiac hypertrophy through activation of the AMPKα pathway, which subsequently attenuates oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Activated carbon‐supported Mo‐Co‐K sulfide catalysts, prepared by stepwise impregnation, were used in the synthesis of higher alcohols via CO2 hydrogenation. The catalysts with varying Mo contents and defined K/Mo and Co/Mo molar ratios exhibited relatively high CO2 conversions and high selectivity to total alcohols and C2+ alcohols. Moreover, the influence of calcination conditions on the sulfidation states and catalytic performance was studied. The surface sulfur runoff of the supported catalysts can be effectively suppressed by online calcination. As a result, the selectivity to total alcohols and C2+ alcohols can be improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]