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Metamaterials based on quasi‐bound states in the continuum (qBICs) with manipulable resonance quality (Q) factors have provided a standout platform for cutting‐edge terahertz (THz) sensing applications. However, most so far have been implemented as conventional metal patch structures with adjacent substrate layers, incurring the limitation of insufficient light‐matter interaction due to substrate effects. Here, qBIC‐driven metamaterials with substrate‐free metallic aperture structures for tailoring light‐matter interactions and exhibiting near‐ideal sensing performance is introduced. Specifically, it is incorporated ultrafast femtosecond laser processing technology to fabricate H‐type metallic aperture metamaterials with accessible high‐contrast Q factor resonances allowed by in‐plane symmetry breaking. Correspondingly, stronger light field energies are applied to the interactions due to completely eliminating the confinement of the substrate effect, enabling experimental sensitivity of up to 0.86 THz RIU−1 for the qBIC resonance, 1.9 times that of the conventional dipole resonance. Moreover, a high Q qBIC resonance achieved by optimized asymmetry parameter is exploited for detecting ultrathin layers of L‐proline molecules as low as 0.87 nmol. It is envisioned that this approach will deliver insights for real‐time, precise, and high‐performance detection of trace biomolecules, and open new perspectives for realizing ideal performance metadevices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The pathogenesis of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJOA) remains not fully understood. Our previous studies demonstrated that miR‐21‐5p may participate in the TMJOA development and the interaction between circRNA‐ACAP2 (CircACAP2) and miR‐21‐5p. Our present study aimed to explore the biological functions and regulatory mechanisms of CircACAP2 in TMJOA. Materials and Methods: The differential expression pattern of CircACAP2 in OA and normal tissues or cells was detected. CircACAP2 biological functions experiments were performed in chondrocytes by overexpression and interference techniques. The interaction of CircACAP2 with miR‐21‐5p and downstream target mRNA, polymorphic adenoma gene 1 (PLAG1), was predicted by bioinformatic databases and then demonstrated by dual‐luciferase reporter assay. The biological role of CircACAP2 in TMJOA was investigated and validated in a mouse model. Results: The expression level of CircACAP2 was markedly reduced in OA cartilage and directly related to chondrocyte proliferation and apoptosis as well as ECM metabolism in the cartilage. CircACAP2 functioned in chondrocytes via targeting miR‐21‐5p and PLAG1. Overexpressing of CircACAP2 alleviated TMJOA in mouse models. Conclusions: The present study unveiled that CircACAP2/miR‐21‐5p/PLAG1 axis may play an important regulatory role in TMJOA progression, which may highlight a potentially effective intervention and therapeutic strategy for the treatment of TMJOA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The increasing demand for sustainable alternatives to traditional protein sources, driven by population growth, underscores the importance of protein in a healthy diet. Pecan (Carya illinoinensis (Wangenh.) K. Koch) nuts are currently underutilized as plant‐based proteins but hold great potential in the food industry. However, there is insufficient information available on pecan protein, particularly its protein fractions. This study aimed to explore the physicochemical and functional properties of protein isolate and the main protein fraction glutelin extracted from pecan nuts. RESULTS: The results revealed that glutelin (820.67 ± 69.42 g kg−1) had a higher crude protein content compared to the protein isolate (618.43 ± 27.35 g kg−1), while both proteins exhibited amino acid profiles sufficient for adult requirements. The isoelectric points of protein isolate and glutelin were determined to be pH 4.0 and pH 5.0, respectively. The denaturation temperature of the protein isolate (90.23 °C) was higher than that of glutelin (87.43 °C), indicating a more organized and stable conformation. This is further supported by the fact that the protein isolate had a more stable main secondary structure than glutelin. Both proteins demonstrated improved solubility, emulsifying, and foaming properties at pH levels deviating from their isoelectric points in U‐shaped curves. Compared to the protein isolate, glutelin displayed superior water and oil absorption capacity along with enhanced gelling ability. CONCLUSION: The protein isolate and glutelin from pecan nuts exhibited improved stability and competitive functional properties, respectively. The appropriate utilization of these two proteins will support their potential as natural ingredients in various food systems. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) have shown great potential for low‐cost display and lighting technologies, and all‐inorganic blue PeLEDs are recognized as a promising substitute for blue fluorescent/phosphorescent organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) owing to their superior color purity and great stability potential. However, confined by the solution fabrication process, depositing multi‐layered white PeLEDs remains a challenge. Here, a newly designed hybrid perovskite/organic tandem white LED (POTWLED), integrated with a bottom blue PeLED unit and a top orange/(orange + red) OLED unit, to prevent damage to the underlying perovskite layer caused by the deposition of the top emitting layers, is reported. To optimize the performance of POTWLEDs, a conductive passivator of 2,8‐bis(diphenylphosphoryl)dibenzo[b,d] thiophene, with a strong surface binding group of P═O, is introduced to passivate perovskite defects, which promotes a maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 17.3% for blue PeLEDs with an emission peak at 488 nm. As a result, based on the optimized blue PeLED units, a maximum EQE of 23.9% with a low color temperature of 2522 K is obtained for POTWLEDs, which is the highest efficiency for perovskite‐based WLEDs, illustrating the great potential of the hybrid tandem device in fabricating high‐performance perovskite‐based WLEDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Na2FePO4F, an iron‐based fluorophosphate with facile 2D sodium ion channels, is considered as a promising cathode material for sodium‐ion batteries because of low cost, resource abundance, and nontoxicity. However, its application is considerably restricted by the limited intrinsic electronic conductivity and specific capacity. Herein, a doping strategy represented by Cu2+ is proposed to boost the electrochemical performance, attributed to the derivation of a new active Na3 site originated from the inert Na1 site and the band gap reduction due to the d‐orbital hybridization. Consequently, the as‐obtained Na2Fe0.95Cu0.05PO4F/C composite can deliver an excellent rate capacity of 74 mAh g⁻1 at 20 C and a decent specific capacity of 119 mAh g⁻1 at 0.1 C, which is superior to the previously reported Na2FePO4F‐based cathode materials. This study sheds new light on developing high performance fluorophosphates cathode materials via regulating the Na site and electronic structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Citrate reaction is one of the main adverse events in peripheral blood mononuclear cell (MNC) collection. The aim of this study was to elucidate the risk factors for citrate reaction in patients with advanced solid tumor collection and to construct a nomogram to predict the risk. Methods: One hundred forty‐eight patients with advanced solid tumor who underwent peripheral blood MNC collection in our hospital between January 2021 to December 2021 were selected. The general data, creatinine level before collection, Ca2+ concentration before collection, absolute value of monocyte lymphocytes before collection, circulating blood volume, anticoagulant dosage, and blood collection duration were included in Logistic regression analysis to identify the risk factors of citrate reaction. According to the results of the multivariate logistic model, nomogram was established and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was drawn to evaluate the predictive value of the model. Results: Among the 148 solid tumor patients, 35 patients (23.6%) of the 148 patients developed citrate reaction. Multivariate analysis showed that the risk factors for citrate reaction in the process of collection included sex (odds ratio [OR] = 6.718; 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 2.191‐20.594, P =.001), age (OR = 0.957; 95% CI: 0.921‐0.996, P =.03), and processed circulating blood volume (OR = 1.001; 95% CI: 1.000‐1.002, P =.01). Logistic regression can analyze independent risk factors and establish risk prediction model. The predictive performance of the model is good, and the area under ROC curve is 0.799. Conclusions: The MNC collection process is safe. The incidence of citrate reaction in the collection of peripheral blood MNCs from patients with advanced solid tumor is related to the age, gender, and processed circulating blood volume of patients. The nomogram can be used to assess a patient's risk of citrate reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monolithic perovskite/organic tandem solar cells (POTSCs) have significant advantages in next‐generation flexible photovoltaics, owing to their capability to overcome the Shockley–Queisser limit and facile device integration. However, the compromised sub‐cells performance challenges the fabrication of high‐efficiency POTSCs. Especially for all‐inorganic wide‐bandgap perovskite front sub‐cells (AIWPSCs) based n‐i‐p structured POTSCs (AIPOTSCs), for which the power conversion efficiency (PCE) is much lower than organic–inorganic mixed‐halide wide‐bandgap perovskite based POTSCs. Herein, an ionic liquid, methylammonium formate (MAFm), based dual‐interface engineering approach is developed to modify the bottom and top interfaces of wide‐bandgap CsPbI2Br films. In particular, the Fm− group of MAFm can effectively passivate the interface defects, and the top interface modification can facilitate the formation of uniform perovskite films with enlarged grain size, thereby mitigating the defects and perovskite grain boundaries induced carrier recombination. As a result, CsPbI2Br‐based AIWPSCs with a high PCE of 17.0% and open‐circuit voltage (VOC) of 1.347 V are achieved. By integrating these dual‐interface engineered CsPbI2Br‐based front sub‐cells with the narrow‐bandgap PM6:CH1007‐based rear sub‐cells, a record PCE of 23.21% is obtained for AIPOTSCs, illustrating the potential of AIPOTSCs for achieving high‐efficiency tandem solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2D halide perovskites have displayed wide tunability in structure and physicochemical properties through the diversity and versatility of interlayer spacers. However, the interaction between the large spacer and small cation inside the inorganic framework has not been elucidated yet. Herein, the impact of small‐organic cation on the crystallization kinetics, carrier behavior, and the structure distortion of the low‐dimensional Dion–Jacobson (DJ) perovskite materials and solar cells is systematically studied. The formamidium (FA)‐based DJ film exhibits higher crystal orientation and larger crystal domain induced by slower crystallization as compared to methylammonium‐based one, accompanied with lower trap density, more efficient carrier transfer, and higher photovoltaic performance. As a result, the BDAFA2Pb3I10 perovskite solar cell delivers a champion power conversion efficiency up to 15.34%, which is the highest among FA‐based small‐n DJ series. Theoretical simulation results uncover that the smaller tilting and higher rigidity of the octahedra in the FA‐based DJ systems render more outstanding environmental stability, leading to well‐maintained 85% of its efficiency after prolonged storing time of 1020 h at 65 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monolithic perovskite/organic tandem solar cells (POTSCs) have attracted increasing attention owing to ability to overcome the Shockley–Queisser limit. However, compromised sub‐cells performance limits the tandem device performance, and the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of POTSCs is still lower than their single‐junction counterparts. Therefore, optimized sub‐cells with minimal energy loss are desired for producing high‐efficiency POTSCs. In this study, an ionic liquid, methylammonium acetate (MAAc), is used to modify wide‐bandgap perovskite sub‐cells (WPSCs), and bathocuproine (BCP) is used to modify small‐bandgap organic solar cells. The Ac− group of MAAc can effectively heal the Pb defects in the all‐inorganic perovskite film, which enables a high PCE of 17.16% and an open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of 1.31 V for CsPbI2.2Br0.8‐based WPSCs. Meanwhile, the BCP film, inserted at the ZnO/organic bulk‐heterojunction (BHJ) interface, acts as a space layer to prevent direct contact between ZnO and the BHJ while passivating the surface defects of ZnO, thereby mitigating ZnO defect‐induced efficiency loss. As a result, PM6:CH1007‐based SOSCs exhibit a PCE of 15.46%. Integrating these modified sub‐cells enable the fabrication of monolithic n–i–p structured POTSCs with a maximum PCE of 22.43% (21.42% certified), which is one of the highest efficiencies in such type of POTSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People's lifestyles have changed dramatically during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, yet data on physical examinations in the Chinese population before and during the pandemic are rarely reported. The study was based on the data from the physical examination center of Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine. We collected the data of physical examinations information between January 2017 and March 2022. The data of participants before December 31, 2019 were classified as "before COVID‐19 pandemic group," while data after December 31, 2019 were classified as "during COVID‐19 pandemic group." We used t‐test and χ2 test to compare the differences before and during COVID‐19 pandemic. A total of 72 257 individuals participated in the physical examinations, and finally retained 65 629 individuals for analysis. During the COVID‐19 pandemic, body mass index (BMI), high‐density lipoprotein, total cholesterol levels, as well as pulmonary nodule and thyroid nodule proportion of participants were higher than those before the pandemic, and the levels of systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure of participants were lower than those before the pandemic. Ongoing assessment and surveillance are necessary to assess whether lifestyle changes caused by the COVID‐19 pandemic are likely to increase chronic disease risk in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ischemic pain with no‐obstructive coronary artery (INOCA) is clinically significant and defined by nonobstructive coronary stenosis <50%. Coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) is a relevant cause associated with adverse outcomes. Objectives: Investigated the effect of no‐stenosis (0% stenosis) and non‐obstructive (0% < stenosis < 50%) on the prognostic impact of CMD in INOCA. Method: A retrospective study assessed the coronary microvascular function in 151 INOCA patients who underwent invasive angiography by the coronary angiography‐derived index of microcirculation‐resistance (caIMR). CZT‐SPECT was performed to evaluate myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) abnormalities. Chi‐square test/Fisher exact test, Student t‐test, Kaplan–Meier curve, and Uni‐multivariable Cox proportional models were used for analysis. Clinical outcomes were major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) during a median follow‐up of 35 months. Result: No‐stenosis was present in 71 (47%) INOCA patients, and 80 (53%) were with nonobstructive. CMD (caIMR ≥ 25) was more prevalent in patients with no‐stenosis than nonobstructive (76.1% vs. 48.8%, p =.001), along with abnormal MPI (39.4% vs. 22.5%, p =.024). The MACE rates were not different between no‐stenosis and nonobstructive stenosis. CMD showed an increased risk of MACE for all INOCA. No‐stenosis with CMD had the worst prognosis. Cox regression analysis identified CMD and abnormal MPI as predictors of MACE in all INOCA and patients with no‐stenosis. However, no‐stenosis and nonobstructive stenosis were not predictors of MACE in INOCA. Conclusion: CMD was more frequently present in INOCA with no‐stenosis. However, there was no difference in long‐term clinical outcomes between no‐stenosis and nonobstructive stenosis. CMD could independently predict poor outcomes in INOCA, particularly in patients with no‐stenosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To fabricate stable neat FAPbI3 perovskite with a pure α‐phase (pure α‐FAPbI3) is important in the field of photovoltaic commercialization because of its better bandgap than its alloying counterpart with cesium (Cs) or methylammonium (MA) cations. In this study, the first vapor deposited pure α‐FAPbI3 thin film solar cell with a power conversion efficiency (PCE) over 20% is achieved by regulating the phase transition process. It is found that under high humidity conditions, a fast phase transition between high‐purity α‐ and δ‐phase FAPbI3 can be realized. Moreover, theoretical calculations interestingly reveal a phase transition shortcut induced by the abnormal volume contraction that is ascribed to the formation of double hydrogen bonds at a certain H2O concentration. Therefore, a high‐humidity post‐treatment strategy is proposed to fabricate α‐FAPbI3 solar cells with a champion PCE of 20.19% (0.1 cm2) and 18.91% (1 cm2), which is currently the highest recorded value in vapor deposited pure α‐FAPbI3 perovskite solar cells. This study helps to redefine the effect of a water molecule on FAPbI3 solar cells. In addition, the demonstrated scaling‐up possibility provides another perspective for fabricating uniform high‐performance pure α‐FAPbI3 perovskite solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic‐free and lead‐free CsSnI3 perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have recently gained growing attention as a promising template to mitigate the thermal instability and lead toxicity of hybrid lead‐based PSCs. However, the relatively low device efficiency due to the high content of Sn(II)‐related defects hinders its further development. Herein, highly performed CsSnI3−xBrx compositional perovskite‐based PSCs are achieved by using dimethyl ketoxime (C3H7NO, DMKO) as a multifunctional additive. As a commercially used deoxidant, DMKO can effectively neutralize the oxygen molecule and reduce Sn4+ back to Sn2+, enhancing the oxidation resistance of the film. Besides, the electron‐rich oxime group (NOH) in DMKO tends to interact with Sn2+ ions with extremely low adsorption energy less than −15 eV and inhibits defect formation, resulting in films with low defect density. The corresponding PSCs deliver a considerable open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.75 V with a record efficiency as high as 11.2%, which represents the highest reported efficiency for lead‐free all‐inorganic PSCs thus far. More importantly, the grain surface distributed DMKO provides an in situ encapsulation of the perovskite, which results in greatly enhanced ambient stability of the un‐encapsulated devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) via two‐step sequential method have received great attention in recent years due to their high reproducibility and low processing costs. However, the relatively high trap‐state density and poor charge carrier extraction efficiency pose challenges. Herein, highly efficient and stable PSCs via a two‐step sequential method are fabricated using organic—inorganic (OI) complexes as multifunctional interlayers. In addition to reduce the under‐coordinated Pb2+ ions related trap states by forming interactions with the functional groups, the complexes interlayer tends to form dipole moment which can enhance the built‐in electric field, thus facilitating charge carrier extraction. Consequently, with rational molecular design, the resulting devices with a vertical dipole moment that parallels with the built‐in electric field yield a champion efficiency of 23.55% with negligible hysteresis. More importantly, the hydrophobicity of the (OI) complexes contributes to an excellent ambient stability of the resulting device with 91% of initial efficiency maintained after 3000 h storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The greening of the Earth over the last decades is predominantly indicated by the enhancements of leaf area index (LAI). Quantifying the relative contribution of multiple determinants, especially changes in climate and in land management changes (LMC), remains an arduous challenge. To solve this problem, we develop a simple yet novel data‐driven method, called the Paired Land Use Experiment (PLUE), for mesoscale analysis. Using PLUE, we analyze vegetation development of the Sanjiang Plain, a transboundary plain between China and Russia, with roughly homogeneous climate but with distinct land management practices across the border‐intensified agricultural development on China side (CNSP) versus largely little‐disturbed natural vegetation on Russia side (RUSP). Both CNSP and RUSP LAI show significant trends (p < 0.05), with the annual variability reaching values of 9.8 × 10−3 yr−1 and 11.3 × 10−3 yr−1, respectively. However, in CNSP, the LAI increase is concentrated in the middle of the year, especially in five 8‐day periods from 26 June to 28 July. During this period, the LAI trend of CNSP is much higher than that of RUSP, at 92.7 × 10−3 yr−1 (p < 0.01) and 43.8 × 10−3 yr−1 (p < 0.01), respectively. Meanwhile, LAI decreased in CNSP at the begging and end of the growing season. The results show that different LMC practices lead to notably different seasonal variability in vegetation changes. The PLUE method offers a new potential tool in driver identification of vegetation greenness change based on observations. We argue for the necessity of parameterizing these different LMC in Earth system models. Plain Language Summary: The greening of the world has been widely reported. However, quantifying the relative contribution of the drivers, including climate change and land management changes is still challenging. To overcome current limitations of modeling and observation based statistical analysis, a general "Paired Land Use Experiment (PLUE)" method and a benchmark case is presented. Mesoscale experimental areas could be found, such as the Sanjiang Plain on the China‐Russian border with relatively uniform climate change and typical land management differences. The contribution of land management could be obtained by abstracting the natural variations which is purely driven by the climatic factors. Therefore, using the PLUE method, different land management explains contrasting greening pattern across Russia‐China border. It suggests that this method could be applied on numerous mesoscale regions to stitch together a global scale picture. Key Points: PLUE could identify the drivers of vegetation change based on observationsSeasonal patterns of leaf area index trends in these two conjunctional regions are differentLand management is a driver of the vegetation change in the Sanjiang Plain [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China is one of the countries with the heaviest burden of hepatitis C virus (HCV) worldwide, especially subtype 1b. To better control hepatitis C, insights into the characteristics of dynamic spread and genomic mutations are urgently needed. We retrieved sequences of HCV‐1b NS5B among intravenous drug users (IDUs) and general people (Non‐IDUs) in China from 2000 to 2011 in NCBI. Bayesian phylogenetic and phylogeographic analyses were used to evaluate the transmission dynamics of HCV‐1b. Non‐synonymous substitutions were detected to illustrate immune adaptation. Evolutionary history demonstrated that HCV‐1b effective population size experienced a sharp increase in 1990. HCV‐1b sequences among IDUs had a higher estimated evolutionary rate (5.7185 × 10−3 substitutions/site/year) than overall (7.7332 × 10−4). 105/136 (77.2%) of HCV‐1b sequences clustered into 38 networks. The average non‐synonymous HCV‐1b immune epitopes among IDUs were 0.211, higher than non‐IDUs, especially in the HLA‐A*02 molecular recognition region. All of these posed significant challenges for the prevention and treatment of HCV. Heterogeneity and genetic linkages of HCV‐1b suggest that evolutionary surveillance of HCV in cities in east‐central China and among IDUs could not be neglected. Significance Statement: Because of the poor treatment adherence and high prevalence, intravenous drug users (IDUs) have been identified as a priority for hepatitis C virus (HCV) micro‐elimination. Understanding the characteristics of transmission and genome mutation can provide a theoretical basis for precise prevention. We have assimilated all available genetic data on temporal and geographic distribution of HCV genotype 1b among IDUs in mainland, China. We find that the presence of large transmission clusters makes HCV expand rapidly among IDUs. Importantly, we report the significant differences of mutation of NS5B gene regions within HLA‐A*02 restricted CD8+ T‐cell recognition epitopes between IDUs and Non‐IDUs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Dion–Jacobson (DJ) perovskites solar cells (PSCs) demonstrate impressive humidity stability compared with 3D counterparts and have aroused extensive attention recently. However, it has not been investigated yet, how the humidity condition influences the photovoltaic performances. Herein, the effect of the humidity condition on the crystallization behavior, charge dynamics, photovoltaic and stability performances of BDAFAn‐1PbnI3n+1 DJ perovskite is systematically investigated. Humidity‐assisted annealing process can lead to reduced trap concentration and fast charge transfer process between different‐n DJ phases. The BDAFA5Pb6I19 PSC with the assistance of moisture achieves an efficiency as high as 17.17%, which is the highest value ever reported for methylammonium‐free DJ PSCs. In addition, the humidity‐, thermal‐, and photo‐stability properties of the DJ film and devices are significantly boosted. Further, first‐principles calculation indicates that water molecules occupy the iodide vacancies through a strong bonding with Pb ions during the crystallization process under humidity and increase the decomposition energy of the DJ phase, which corresponds to the improved photoelectronic and stability properties. These results show that humidity‐assisted deposition of 2D/3D multidimensional perovskite can be further explored to reduce the high demand of the production environment and enhance the performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic‐inorganic hybrid perovskite solar cells are susceptible to multiple influencing factors such as moisture, oxygen, heat stress, ion migration. Given the complex practical working conditions for solar cells, a fundamental question is how different failure mechanisms collaborate and substantially accelerate the device degradation. In this study, it is found that ion migration can accelerate the reaction between oxygen and methylammonium lead iodide perovskite in light conditions. This is suggested since regions with local electric fields suffer from more severe decomposition. Here it is reported that cesium ions (Cs+) incorporated in perovskite lattice, with a moderate doping concentration (e.g. 5%), can function as stabilizers to efficiently interrupt such a synergistic effect between oxygen induced degradation and ion migration while retaining the high performance of perovskite solar cells. Both experimental and theoretical results suggest that 5% Cs+ ions incorporation simultaneously suppresses the formation of reactive superoxide ions (O2−) as well as ion migration in perovskites by forming additional energy barriers. This A‐site cations engineering is also a promising strategy to circumvent the detrimental effect of oxygen molecules in FA‐based perovskites, which is important for developing high‐efficiency perovskite solar cells with enhanced stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

And VJ signatures that could distinguish Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) from Graves' hyperthyroidism (GH) were used to successfully predict GO progression. The orange and blue bars represent MH similarity scores of blood in thyroid and thyroid in blood in six GH patients, respectively. E, GO-free survival curve shows the progression of GO in initial GH patients with TCR prediction as GO or GH. The results demonstrated that "predicted as GO" patients (n = 17) were significantly different from "predicted as GH" patients (n = 18) in GO progression ( I P i = .015, log-rank test; Figure 3E). [Extracted from the article]

With respect to three‐dimensional (3D) perovskites, quasi‐two‐dimensional (quasi‐2D) perovskites have unique advantages in light‐emitting devices (LEDs), such as strong exciton binding energy and good phase stability. Interlayer ligand engineering is a key issue to endow them with these properties. Rational design principles for interlayer materials and their processing techniques remain open to investigation. A co‐interlayer engineering strategy is developed to give efficient quasi‐2D perovskites by employing phenylbutylammonium bromide (PBABr) and propylammonium bromide (PABr) as the ligand materials. Preparation of these co‐interlayer quasi‐2D perovskite films is simple and highly controllable without using antisolvent treatment. Crystallization and morphology are readily manipulated by tuning the ratio of co‐interlayer components. Various optical techniques, including steady and ultrafast transient absorption and photoluminescence spectroscopies, are used to investigate their excitonic properties. Photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of the perovskite film is dramatically improved to 89% due to the combined optimization of exciton binding energy and suppression of trap state formation. Accordingly, a high current efficiency of 66.1 cd A−1 and an external quantum efficiency of 15.1% are achieved for green co‐interlayer quasi‐2D perovskite LEDs without using any light out‐coupling techniques, indicating that co‐interlayer engineering is a simple and effective approach to develop high‐performance perovskite electroluminescence devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the association between periodontitis and the incidence and mortality of gastrointestinal cancer. Method: A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify all relevant studies published prior to April 2019 according to the established inclusion criteria. The pooled hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated with a random‐effects model. Results: We identified 10 studies with 26 estimates of the relationship between periodontitis and gastrointestinal cancer. The HR for the incidence of gastrointestinal cancer in periodontitis was 1.23 (95% CI: 1.10–1.37). Subgroup analyses showed that periodontitis was associated with an increased risk of gastrointestinal cancers in prospective cohort studies and high–quality studies, North American individuals, and individuals 18 years or older, as well as when the dental status was self‐reported and when the study was adjusted for smoking. A meta‐analysis of nine reports demonstrated that periodontitis was associated with increased mortality from gastrointestinal cancer (HR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.16–2.16). Additionally, periodontitis was associated with mortality from pancreatic cancer (HR = 2.20, 95% CI: 1.44–3.37); thus, periodontitis may be a risk factor for pancreatic cancer. Conclusion: Our meta‐analysis demonstrated that periodontitis may be a risk factor for gastrointestinal cancers. Additional prospective cohort studies are warranted to confirm these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the potencies in the treatments of cancer, infectious diseases, and autoimmune diseases, the developments of human TLR8 (hTLR8) agonists and antagonists have attracted widespread attentions. The hTLR8 agonists and antagonists have similar structures but with completely opposite biological effects. Up to date, the subtle differences in the structures between the hTLR8 agonists and antagonists are still unknown. In this work, emerging chemical pattern (ECP) was successfully used to extract the key chemical patterns of the hTLR8 agonists and antagonists. By using CAEP classifier, an optimal ECP model with only 3 descriptors was established with the overall prediction accuracy larger than 90%. Further hierarchical cluster analysis and molecular docking showed that the H‐bond and hydrophobic properties are the key features distinguishing the hTLR8 agonists from antagonists. Comparing with the antagonists, the agonists show stronger specific H‐bond properties, while antagonists have stronger non‐specific hydrophobic properties. The significant differences in the structural properties may be closely related to the activation/inhibition mechanism of hTLR8. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationships between orthostatic hypotension (OH) and some kinds of cardiovascular disease are inconsistent among studies. This updated meta-analysis was conducted in hopes of producing progress on this topic. A systematic database search was performed in electronic databases, including the Chinese Biomedical Database (CBM), PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library. Summary hazard ratio (HR) estimates with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated by a random-effects model. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed with Cochran's Q test and the I2 statistic. From 1462 potentially eligible records, 15 studies met the inclusion criteria. Subjects with OH had a high risk of heart failure (HF) and atrial fibrillation (AF) (pooled HR 1.34, 95% CI 1.17-1.52, P < 0.001 and pooled HR 1.51, 95% CI 1.28-1.79, P < 0.001, respectively). This meta-analysis also showed significant associations between OH and the risks of developing coronary heart disease (CHD) (pooled HR 1.44, 95% CI 1.18-1.75, P < 0.001) and myocardial infarction (MI) (pooled HR 1.52, 95% CI 1.12-2.06, P = 0.008). Our study suggests that OH is positively associated with high risks of HF and AF. Moreover, it may be related to high risks of CHD and MI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Albumin–bilirubin (ALBI) grade was investigated to predict prognosis of patients with cirrhosis. It was defined using the ALBI score calculated based on serum total bilirubin and albumin, which represent liver function. The diagnostic accuracy for liver fibrosis staging in patients with chronic hepatitis using the ALBI score has not been investigated well. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic abilities of the ALBI score for liver fibrosis staging in chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis in Japanese patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Methods: Japanese patients with HCV infection who underwent liver biopsy examinations were enrolled in a retrospective study. Fibrosis staging and activity grading were assessed using the modified METAVIR score. The ALBI score was calculated according to the following equation: Log10 total bilirubin (μmol/L) × 0.66 + albumin (g/L) × (−0.085). Results: A total of 382 patients were enrolled in this study. The ALBI score differentiated fibrosis stage 4 from 3 and stage 3 from 2 (P < 0.05). When an ALBI score of −2.125 was adopted as a cut‐off value, the sensitivity and specificity were 73.2% and 87.1%, respectively, with a positive likelihood ratio of 5.67 to differentiate stage 4 from stages 1–3. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that smaller ALBI scores at baseline correlated with better hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)‐free and overall survival (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The ALBI score indicates liver fibrosis staging in Japanese patients with HCV infection. Furthermore, smaller ALBI scores predict better HCC‐free survival and overall survival. The ALBI score has the potential to expand its application from cirrhosis to chronic hepatitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary dysmenorrhea affects the quality of life in young women, particularly school and work performance. This study investigated the mechanisms of penehyclidine hydrochloride (PHC) efficacy on a rat model of primary dysmenorrhea. The model was induced by injecting both estradiol benzoate and oxytocin. Different doses of PHC were administrated intraperitoneally following estradiol benzoate administration. Writhing scores were assessed, and pathological changes of the uterus were observed via hematoxylin and eosin staining. Western blot and real‐time PCR were used to evaluate the expression level of the M3 receptor, both TLR3 and TLR4 in uterine tissue, and the level of Ca2+ was measured in uterine tissues. Writhing scores significantly decreased in the PHC treatment group compared to model, and PHC alleviated the occurrence of edema or necrosis in the uteri compared to model group. PHC can decrease the M3 receptor, TLR3, TLR4 expression, and the Ca2+ level compared to the model group. PHC is a potential candidate for the future treatment of primary dysmenorrhea due to its ability to attenuate muscarinic receptors and TLRs.Preclinical Research & Development [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, quantitative structure‐property relationship (QSPR) was employed to predict the adsorption capabilities of 40 synthetic organic contaminants (SOCs) by single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). Total of 1081 molecular descriptors that consist of 102 constitutional and physicochemical properties, 342 topological properties, and 637 three‐dimensional properties were used to characterize the chemical information of the 40 SOCs. After removing redundant variables by stepwise multiple regression (SMR), an optimal partial least squares (PLS) model was established by using only 3 decriptors, i. e. BEHv, Dm, and Mor30e. The determinant R2 of the training samples, Leave‐one‐out cross validation R2 (Q2), and R2pred of test samples were 0.775, 0.675, and 0.713, respectively. Y‐random permutation test showed that the optimal PLS model is not caused by chance. Based on the optimal PLS model, it can be inferred that topological, steric, and electronic properties are dominant factors affecting the adsorption capabilities of the SOCs by SWCNTs. An optimal partial least squares (PLS) model with only 3 descriptors was successfully established to predict the adsorption capabilities of 40 synthetic organic contaminants (SOCs) by single‐walled carbon nanotubes. The results showed that topological, steric, and electronic properties are dominant factors affecting the adsorption capabilities of the SOCs by single‐walled carbon nanotubes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: As for the association between orthostatic hypotension (OH) and dementia, results of published studies are inconsistent; therefore, current substantive conclusions have yet been obtained. This meta-analysis was conducted in hopes of producing progress in this topic.Methods: A systematic database search was performed towards electronic databases including Chinese Biomedical Database, PubMed, Web of Science, Wiley Online Library, ScienceDirect, and the Cochrane Library. Five prospective cohort studies were included. Summary hazard ratio (HR) estimates with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated by random-effects model. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed with the Cochran Q test and I2 statistic. A sensitivity analysis was also conducted in this meta-analysis.Results: A 22.4% higher prevalence of dementia in subjects with OH was obtained (adjusted pooled HR was 1.224; 95% CI: 1.106-1.354; P < .001). This meta-analysis also showed significant associations between OH and 2 dementia subtypes: Alzheimer disease (adjusted pooled HR was 1.175; 95% CI: 1.022-1.351; P = .023) and Vascular dementia (adjusted pooled HR was 1.403; 95% CI: 1.042-1.889; P = .026), respectively.Conclusions: Orthostatic hypotension is positively associated with the overall prevalence of dementia, and it may contribute to the prevalence of Alzheimer disease and Vascular dementia as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with obesity have a high prevalence of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and, in parallel, increased susceptibility to fibrosis/cirrhosis/hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Herein, we report that a high‐fat diet (HFD) can augment glycolysis and then accelerate NAFLD–fibrosis progression by downregulating the expression of geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthase (GGPPS), which is a critical enzyme in the mevalonate pathway. Long‐term HFD overloading decreases GGPPS expression in mice, which shifts the fuel preference from fatty acids towards glucose. Liver‐specific Ggpps deficiency drives the Warburg effect by impairing mitochondrial function, and then induces hepatic inflammation, thus exacerbating fibrosis. Ggpps deficiency also enhances the hyperfarnesylation of liver kinase B1, and promotes metabolic reprogramming by regulating 5′‐AMP‐activated protein kinase activity. Clinical data further imply that GGPPS expression can predict the stage of NAFLD and recurrence of NAFLD‐associated HCC. We conclude that the level of GGPPS is a susceptibility factor for NAFLD–fibrosis progression, and requires more stringent surveillance to ensure early prediction and precision of treatment of NAFLD‐related HCC. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: While some individual studies have suggested an association between periodontal disease and breast cancer, there has not been a formal meta‐analysis that collates the existing evidence supporting the hypothesis that periodontal disease leads to a higher risk of developing breast cancer. Accordingly, this meta‐analysis was conducted. Methods: Relevant studies published until April 2018 were retrieved and were screened according to established inclusion criteria. Risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the association between periodontal disease and the risk of breast cancer and fixed effect models were used according to the results of the heterogeneity test. Results: Eight studies, involving 168,111 individuals, were identified as having explored the association between periodontal disease and breast cancer. Summary estimates in view of adjusted data showed that periodontal disease did increase susceptibility to breast cancer (RR = 1.18, 95%CI: 1.11–1.26, I2 = 17.6%), with robust results confirmed by sensitivity analysis. Conclusion: Our results provided evidence of a modest positive association between periodontal disease and breast cancer. Implementation of practical measures to prevent and treat periodontal disease is of great public health significance. Moreover, additional studies are recommended to explore this topic in more detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A practical and operationally simple protocol for the assembly of 6-aryl-substituted purines through the direct C6-H arylation of purines and 8-azapurine and purine nucleosides from arylboronic acids was developed. This reaction was performed under ambient conditions with ammonium persulfate as the oxidant in the presence of silver(I). The reaction was found to be regioselective with the arylation occurring predominantly at the C6 position, and a large variety of functional groups, including halides, esters, hydroxy groups, and heterocycles, were tolerated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A theoretical, dimensionless rainfall-runoff model was used to simulate the discharge of Wulongdong spring in western Hubei province, South China. The single parameter (time constant τ) in the model is easy to obtain by fitting the recession rate of the observed hydrographs. The model was scaled by simply matching the total annual flow volume of the model to the observed value. Annual distribution of actual evapotranspiration was embedded in the model input to calculate the accumulated deficit of soil moisture before each rain event. Hourly precipitation input data performed better than daily data, defining τ of 0.85 days and returning a Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency of 0.89 and the root mean square error of 0.07. This model offers an effective way to simulate the discharge of karst springs that respond sensitively to rainfall events. The model parameters of a successful simulation can be used to estimate the recharge area and indicate the intrinsic response time of the basin. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, emerging studies on the relationship between insomnia, the most common sleep disorder, and cancer have been published, but with inconsistent results. With the development of society and the accelerated pace of life, more and more people experience insomnia. Therefore, it is important to clarify the association. Relevant literature was obtained through a search of seven databases and supplementary searches. After a strict screening, eight cohort studies (seven prospective and one retrospective) involving 578,809 participants and 7,451 cancer events were incorporated into our analysis. The results demonstrate a modest 24% overall increased risk of cancer for individuals with insomnia in comparison to those without insomnia. The sensitivity analysis shows that the correlation between the two is stable. Subgroup analyses show that the risk of developing cancer was significantly higher in studies conducted in women (HR = 1.24; 95% CI, 1.01–1.53), but not in men (HR = 1.28; 95% CI, 0.90–1.80). Similarly, in terms of specific cancer types, the pooled HR was only significantly higher in thyroid cancer (HR = 1.36; 95% CI, 1.12–1.65) and not in other types of cancer (p > 0.05). Our findings suggest that insomnia may serve as an early warning sign of the onset of cancer and provide an opportunity for early detection and early intervention. Our findings should be treated with caution because of the limited number of included studies and potential bias. More additional studies are warranted to provide more information on the carcinogenic effect of insomnia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cover picture shows a silver‐colored statue with a hand holding a triple helix, which can be found at the campus of the Beijing University of Chemical Technology. This DNA‐like statue represents step‐by‐step chemical transformations, in this case the silver‐catalyzed cross‐coupling of purines and aryl boronic acids, shown as different balls at the bottom of the helix, to afford the final C6‐arylated product, shown as the single ball at the top. Details are discussed in the Communication by N. Chen, H. Du et al. on page 3415 ff (https://doi.org/10.1002/ejoc.201700406). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]