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Nanolasers based on emerging dielectric cavities with deep sub‐wavelength confinement of light offer a large light‐matter coupling rate and near‐unity spontaneous emission factor, β$\beta$. These features call for reconsidering the standard approach to identifying the lasing threshold. Here, a new threshold definition is suggested, taking into account the recycling process of photons when β$\beta$ is large. This threshold reduces to the classical balance between gain and loss in the limit of macroscopic lasers, but qualitative as well as quantitative differences emerge for nanolasers. In particular, this new threshold identifies the onset of a transition regime, where the quantum statistics of the emitted light evolve into the Poissonian statistics of a coherent state. It is shown that the threshold with photon recycling consistently marks the onset of the change in the second‐order intensity correlation, g(2)(0)$g^{(2)}(0)$, toward coherent laser light, irrespective of the laser size and down to the case of a single emitter. In contrast, other threshold definitions may well predict lasing in light‐emitting diodes. An overview of different threshold definitions proposed in the literature is provided and their predictions are compared when going from macroscopic to microscopic lasers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pentavalent uranium compounds are key components of uranium‘s redox chemistry and play important roles in environmental transport. Despite this, well‐characterized U(V) compounds are scarce primarily because of their instability with respect to disproportionation to U(IV) and U(VI). In this work, we provide an alternate route to incorporation of U(V) into a crystalline lattice where different oxidation states of uranium can be stabilized through the incorporation of secondary cations with different sizes and charges. We show that iriginite‐based crystalline layers allow for systematically replacing U(VI) with U(V) through aliovalent substitution of 2+ alkaline‐earth or 3+ rare‐earth cations as dopant ions under high‐temperature conditions, specifically Ca(UVIO2)W4O14 and Ln(UVO2)W4O14 (Ln=Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Yb). Evidence for the existence of U(V) and U(VI) is supported by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, high energy resolution X‐ray absorption near edge structure, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and optical absorption spectroscopy. In contrast with other reported U(V) materials, the U(V) single crystals obtained using this route are relatively large (several centimeters) and easily reproducible, and thus provide a substantial improvement in the facile synthesis and stabilization of U(V). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Thermosensitive genic female sterility (TGFS) is a promising property to be utilized for hybrid breeding. Here, we identified a rice TGFS line, tfs2, through an ethyl methyl sulfone (EMS) mutagenesis strategy. This line showed sterility under high temperature and became fertile under low temperature. Few seeds were produced when the tfs2 stigma was pollinated, indicating that tfs2 is female sterile. Gene cloning and genetic complementation showed that a point mutation from leucine to phenylalanine in HEI10 (HEI10tfs2), a crossover formation protein, caused the TGFS trait of tfs2. Under high temperature, abnormal univalents were formed, and the chromosomes were unequally segregated during meiosis, similar to the reported meiotic defects in oshei10. Under low temperature, the number of univalents was largely reduced, and the chromosomes segregated equally, suggesting that crossover formation was restored in tfs2. Yeast two‐hybrid assays showed that HEI10 interacted with two putative protein degradation‐related proteins, RPT4 and SRFP1. Through transient expression in tobacco leaves, HEI10 were found to spontaneously aggregate into dot‐like foci in the nucleus under high temperature, but HEI10tfs2 failed to aggregate. In contrast, low temperature promoted HEI10tfs2 aggregation. This result suggests that protein aggregation at the crossover position contributes to the fertility restoration of tfs2 under low temperature. In addition, RPT4 and SRFP1 also aggregated into dot‐like foci, and these aggregations depend on the presence of HEI10. These findings reveal a novel mechanism of fertility restoration and facilitate further understanding of HEI10 in meiotic crossover formation. Significance Statement: Our study promotes the understanding of HEI10/TFS2 for meiotic crossover formation and provides a mechanism for the female fertility restoration of TGFS lines under low temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single‐cell analysis enables the measurement of biomolecules at the level of individual cells, facilitating in‐depth investigations into cellular heterogeneity and precise interpretation of the related biological mechanisms. Among these biomolecules, cellular metabolites exhibit remarkable sensitivity to environmental and biochemical changes, unveiling a hidden world underlying cellular heterogeneity and allowing for the determination of cell physiological states. However, the metabolic analysis of single cells is challenging due to the extremely low concentrations, substantial content variations, and rapid turnover rates of cellular metabolites. Mass spectrometry (MS), characterized by its high sensitivity, wide dynamic range, and excellent selectivity, is employed in single‐cell metabolic analysis. This review focuses on recent advances and applications of MS‐based single‐cell metabolic analysis, encompassing three key steps of single‐cell isolation, detection, and application. It is anticipated that MS will bring profound implications in biomedical practices, serving as advanced tools to depict the single‐cell metabolic landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quasi‐two‐dimensional (quasi‐2D) perovskites are emerging as efficient emitters in blue perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs), while the imbalanced crystallization of the halide‐mixed system limits further improvements in device performance. The rapid crystallization caused by Cl doping produces massive defects at the interface, leading to aggravated non‐radiative recombination. Meanwhile, unmanageable perovskite crystallization is prone to facilitate the formation of nonuniform low‐dimensional phases, which results in energy loss during the exciton transfer process. Here, we propose a multifunctional interface engineering for nucleation and phase regulation by incorporating the zwitterionic additive potassium sulfamate into the hole transport layer. By using potassium ions (K+) as heterogeneous nucleation seeds, finely controlled growth of interfacial K+‐guided grains is achieved. The sulfamate ions can simultaneously regulate the phase distribution and passivate defects through coordination interactions with undercoordinated lead atoms. Consequently, such synergistic effect constructs quasi‐2D blue perovskite films with smooth energy landscape and reduced trap states, leading to pure‐blue PeLEDs with a maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 17.32 %, spectrally stable emission at 478 nm and the prolonged operational lifetime. This work provides a unique guide to comprehensively regulate the halide‐mixed blue perovskite crystallization by manipulating the characteristics of grain‐growth substrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quasi‐two‐dimensional (quasi‐2D) perovskites are emerging as efficient emitters in blue perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs), while the imbalanced crystallization of the halide‐mixed system limits further improvements in device performance. The rapid crystallization caused by Cl doping produces massive defects at the interface, leading to aggravated non‐radiative recombination. Meanwhile, unmanageable perovskite crystallization is prone to facilitate the formation of nonuniform low‐dimensional phases, which results in energy loss during the exciton transfer process. Here, we propose a multifunctional interface engineering for nucleation and phase regulation by incorporating the zwitterionic additive potassium sulfamate into the hole transport layer. By using potassium ions (K+) as heterogeneous nucleation seeds, finely controlled growth of interfacial K+‐guided grains is achieved. The sulfamate ions can simultaneously regulate the phase distribution and passivate defects through coordination interactions with undercoordinated lead atoms. Consequently, such synergistic effect constructs quasi‐2D blue perovskite films with smooth energy landscape and reduced trap states, leading to pure‐blue PeLEDs with a maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 17.32 %, spectrally stable emission at 478 nm and the prolonged operational lifetime. This work provides a unique guide to comprehensively regulate the halide‐mixed blue perovskite crystallization by manipulating the characteristics of grain‐growth substrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have argued that women are less corrupt because they are marginalized or because they are risk averse. However, because of the insidious and hidden nature of corruption, the subjects of theoretical reasoning in previous studies were individuals who were not involved in corruption. This produces a lack of observations and analyses of individuals who are actually corrupt. For this reason, the present study used text mining of Taiwanese district court judgments to examine why women are less corrupt. The results reveal that, following the rise of gender equality in Taiwanese society, women are now less marginalized and are as likely as to be as corrupt as men. Furthermore, the level of corruption (reflected by the prosecution and conviction rates) among women who are less marginalized (elected civil servants) is higher than among those who are more marginalized (typical civil servants). These findings suggest that women are less corrupt because they are marginalized rather than because they are risk averse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Embedding multiple pharmaceutical drugs into poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanofibers is known to improve the regeneration of the Achilles tendon upon implantation after injury and rapidly restore post‐surgery activity. In this study, an implantable material comprising celecoxib, collagen, bupivacaine, and PLGA (CCBP) is prepared by electrospinning. Its in vitro/vivo drug discharge behaviors are evaluated, and its efficacy in tendon regeneration is investigated in a rat model. The regeneration capacity of the wounded tendon is also compared with that of a doxycycline‐collagen‐bupivacaine‐PLGA (DCBP) combination. The results show that, relative to the primary PLGA nanofibers, the pharmaceutical‐embedded nanofibers have thinner fiber diameters and higher hydrophilicity. The drug‐eluting nanofibers also offer a sustained release of celecoxib for at least 30 d in vitro and 28 d in vivo. Achilles tendons regenerated using the CCBP combination nanofibers demonstrate a significantly higher maximum load‐to‐failure than normal tendons and those repaired using the DCBP combination. Additionally, the expression of growth factors and composition of collagen I induced by the CCBP combination are superior to those induced by the DCBP combination. The results suggest that the CCBP combination is a promising scaffold for the repair of ruptured Achilles tendons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a major contributor to the rising incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Magnesium is a major cation in cellular activities. Epidemiological data on magnesium level and its relation to HCC are sparse. This study aimed to examine the associations between serum levels of magnesium and the risk of HCC among patients with NAFLD. Methods: A total of 26,053 patients with NAFLD were identified in the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Electronic Health Records from 2004 through 2018. After an average of 5.15 years of follow‐up, 395 patients developed HCC after the first measurement of serum magnesium. Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs of HCC incidence associated with quartile levels of serum magnesium after adjustment for age, sex, race, body mass index, diuretics use, history of type 2 diabetes, history of hypertension, history of hyperlipidemia, and tobacco smoking. Results: Patients with NAFLD who developed HCC had a significantly lower mean (± standard deviation) serum magnesium (0.769 ± 0.131 mmol/L) than those who remained free of HCC (0.789 ± 0.125 mmol/L; p =.003). Compared with the lowest quartile, the HRs (95% CIs) of HCC second, third, and fourth quartiles of serum magnesium were 0.87 (0.67–1.12), 0.77 (0.57–1.04), and 0.73 (0.56–0.96), respectively, after adjustment for multiple potential confounders (Ptrend =.02). Conclusion: This finding suggests higher levels of serum magnesium were significantly associated with decreased risk of HCC among patients with NAFLD. Monitoring serum magnesium levels among those with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease may be beneficial in hepatocellular carcinoma primary prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Muricidae is one of the most species‐rich and morphologically diverse families in Gastropoda, with a worldwide distribution. The classification of Muricidae has traditionally been based on shell and radular characteristics; however, the phylogenetic relationships within the family are debated due to morphological convergence and plasticity. In this study, to explore the phylogenetic relationships of Muricidae, we sequenced 11 muricid mitochondrial (mt) genomes and compared them with 13 previously reported complete muricid mt genomes. All muricid mt genomes shared the same gene arrangement and exhibited conserved genome size and nucleotide composition. Three‐nucleotide deletions in atp8 and nad4, and three‐nucleotide insertions in nad2 were detected in Rapaninae. Both maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference analyses supported the monophyly of each subfamily studied (Ocenebrinae, Muricinae, Rapaninae and Ergalataxinae). Ergalataxinae was recovered as the sister taxon of Rapaninae, refuting the traditional morphology‐based placement of Ergalataxinae within Rapaninae. In Rapaninae, Indothais was confirmed to be monophyletic and determined to be a valid genus. Similarly, Drupina was determined to be an independent genus rather than a subgenus of Drupa. Purpura was recovered as a paraphyletic group, with Purpura panama being sister to Reishia + Rapana + Indothais and clustering with Purpura bufo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Goji berries are now becoming increasingly popular in the human diet due to their potential health benefits. Unscrupulous traders deliberately mislabel with certain origins to gain illegal profits, which seriously affected the consumers' benefits. In this study, an online ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐2,2‐diphenyl‐1 ‐picrylhydrazyl‐photodiode array detector‐electrospray ionization‐quadrupole time of flight mass was developed for rapid screening and identification of the antioxidants from Goji berry; then, the antioxidants characteristic fingerprint was established and explored in the origins discrimination of Goji berries from China combined with multivariate statistics analysis. As a result, twenty‐eight compounds were screened from Goji berry extract, 19 of which were identified by accurate molecular and ultraviolet information according to references. Principal components analysis and partial least squares discrimination analysis achieved the accurate classification from the four regions, eight compounds were selected as origin‐related antioxidant markers with variable importance in projection >1 and one‐way analysis of variance (P<0.05), including rutin, rutin di‐hexose, P‐coumaric acid tri‐hexose, dicaffeoylquinic acid isomer, Quercetin‐rhamno‐di‐hexoside, peak14, peak16, and peak27. This study provides a feasible strategy for the geographical origins discrimination of Goji berries based on antioxidant ingredients difference and will be helpful for improving the quality control level of Goji berries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Blood neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) or lymphocyte count may be important markers for immune function. Previous work has shown higher NLR was associated with higher risk of hepatitis B‐related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, studies in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients are lacking. Methods: Utilizing the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) electronic health records, we created a retrospective cohort of 27,834 patients diagnosed with NAFLD from 2004 to 2018 with complete NLR data. After an average 5.5 years of follow‐up, 203 patients developed HCC. Cox proportional hazard regression was used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of HCC incidence associated with different levels of NLR and lymphocyte count. Results: Compared with the lowest tertile of NLR (<1.97), the highest tertile of NLR (≥3.09) was statistically significantly associated with a 43% higher risk of HCC incidence (HR = 1.43, 95% CI: 1.01–2.03, ptrend = 0.031) after adjustment for age, sex, race, body mass index, smoking status, history of type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, and fibrosis‐4 score category. Conversely the highest tertile of lymphocyte count (≥2.15 K/ul) was significantly associated with a 36% lower risk of HCC (HR = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.43–0.94, ptrend = 0.028) compared to the lowest tertile (<1.55 K/ul). There was no association between neutrophil count and HCC risk. Conclusions: Higher NLR and lower lymphocyte count are associated with significantly higher risk of HCC among NAFLD patients. These findings warrant further investigation of immune response and surveillance in association with HCC development in NAFLD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal halide perovskite (MHP) materials have shown great advantages for the next‐generation optoelectronic devices, especially for light‐emitting diodes (LEDs), on account of their outstanding photoelectric properties and facile solution processability. However, the performances of red perovskite LEDs (PeLEDs) are not ready for commercialization, presumably due to the instability both of the emission spectra and operation conditions, and the toxicity of lead ions. In this review, the structures, physical properties, and preparation approaches of red emissive perovskite materials are first introduced, including 3D bulk perovskites, 2D and quasi‐2D perovskites, and colloidal perovskite nanocrystals (NCs). In addition, several strategies that contribute to the recent development and achievement of red PeLEDs are summarized in detail, mainly involving component engineering, dimension, and phase distribution modulation, ligand engineering, additive engineering, interfacial engineering, and strategies for the light out‐coupling device structure. Moreover, the challenges and corresponding solutions are discussed from three aspects of spectral stability, operational stability, and lead‐free red PeLEDs. Finally, the conclusion and outlook on the promising future of the red PeLEDs are raised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Ankle fractures are often combined with syndesmotic instability, requiring reduction and stabilization. However, the optimal level for syndesmotic screw positioning remains unclear. This study aims to evaluate the effect of different syndesmotic screw insertion levels on postoperative clinical outcomes and determine whether an optimal level exists. Methods: This retrospective study included data from 43 adult patients with acute closed ankle fractures combined with intraoperative evidence of unstable syndesmotic injuries who underwent open reduction internal fixation from January 1, 2017 to March 1, 2018 according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. All 43 patients were divided into three groups based on the syndesmotic screw placement level: trans‐syndesmotic group: screw level of 2–3 cm; inferior‐syndesmotic group: screw level <2 cm; and supra‐syndesmotic group: screw level >3 cm. Clinical outcomes were measured at the final follow‐up, including the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle‐hindfoot score, Olerud–Molander Ankle Score (OMAS), short‐form 36‐item questionnaire (SF‐36), visual analogue scale (VAS) score and restrictions in ankle range of motion (ROM). The relationships between screw placement level and clinical outcomes were analyzed with the Kruskal–Wallis H‐test and Spearman correlation analysis. Results: The median follow‐up duration was 15 months (range, 10–22 months). No patients developed fracture nonunion or malunion or experienced hardware failure. The outcome scoring systems showed an overall score for the entire group of 94.91 points for the AOFAS ankle‐hindfoot score, 83.14 for the OMAS, 96.65 for the SF‐36, 1.77 for the VAS, 9.14° for the restrictions in dorsiflexion, and 1.30° for the restrictions in plantarflexion. There were no significant differences among three groups in clinical outcomes (P > 0.05). Neither the AOFAS score nor OMAS had significant correlations with screw insertion level (P = 0.825 and P = 0.585, respectively). No postoperative arthritis or widening of the tibiofibular space was observed at the final follow‐up. Conclusion: Different syndesmotic screw placement levels appear not to affect the clinical outcomes of ankle fractures with syndesmotic instability. No optimal level was observed in this study. Our findings suggest other clinically acceptable options apart from syndesmotic screw placement 2–3 cm above the ankle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An environmentally friendly and efficient electrochemical fluoroselenation reaction of olefins has been developed. With the use of commercially available diaryl diselenides, triethylamine trihydrofluoride, and olefins, a diverse array of β‐fluoroselenides could be readily obtained. The reaction conditions are mild, tolerating a wide range of substrates in excellent yields and selectivity, and can be easily extended to gram‐scale preparation of vicinal fluoroselenides, too. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Activation of the cyclic GMP‐AMP synthase‐stimulator of the interferon gene (cGAS‐STING) pathway is a potent anticancer immunotherapeutic strategy, and the induction of pyroptosis is a feasible way to stimulate the anticancer immune responses. Herein, two PtII complexes (Pt1 and Pt2) were designed as photoactivators of the cGAS‐STING pathway. In response to light irradiation, Pt1 and Pt2 could damage mitochondrial/nuclear DNA and the nuclear envelope to activate the cGAS‐STING pathway, and concurrently induce pyroptosis in cancer cells, which evoked an intense anticancer immune response in vitro and in vivo. Overall, we present the first photoactivator of the cGAS‐STING pathway, which may provide an innovative design strategy for anticancer immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Activation of the cyclic GMP‐AMP synthase‐stimulator of the interferon gene (cGAS‐STING) pathway is a potent anticancer immunotherapeutic strategy, and the induction of pyroptosis is a feasible way to stimulate the anticancer immune responses. Herein, two PtII complexes (Pt1 and Pt2) were designed as photoactivators of the cGAS‐STING pathway. In response to light irradiation, Pt1 and Pt2 could damage mitochondrial/nuclear DNA and the nuclear envelope to activate the cGAS‐STING pathway, and concurrently induce pyroptosis in cancer cells, which evoked an intense anticancer immune response in vitro and in vivo. Overall, we present the first photoactivator of the cGAS‐STING pathway, which may provide an innovative design strategy for anticancer immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gravel packing is one of the main sand control methods for deep‐water high‐temperature and high‐pressure (HT/HP) reservoirs. According to the specific characteristics of deep‐water HT/HP and multichannel, considering the influence of slurry flowing through long‐distance multichannel and the slurry temperature alternation along the flow path, based on α–β wave packing theory, a coupling model of gravel packing in deep‐water HT/HP horizontal wells is established. The packing simulation algorithm and calculation process are designed to realize the gravel packing temperature pressure simulation and multistage refined friction calculation of deep‐water HT/HP horizontal wells. The influence of each packing parameter on the packing process is fully studied. Furthermore, the application simulation of the A10H well of the South China Sea deepwater HP well is carried out. The simulation results show that in the slurry injection stage and α wave packing stage, the packing pressure is low and the residual pressure window is large. In the β wave packing stage, the packing pressure increases rapidly, the residual pressure window shrinks rapidly, and finally, at the end of β wave packing, the residual pressure window becomes narrow. The viscosity of carrier fluid has a significant impact on the pressure window of packing operation. For the design pump rate of 5.6 bpm, the packing cannot be completed with 5.0 cp viscosity carrier fluid. For the carrier fluid with high viscosity, the multi‐β wave packing technique of pump reduction control pressure at the end of the β wave packing stage is used, and this process is simulated in this paper. Considering three constraints: not sand packed in the drilling string, without premature bridging in the α wave packing stage, and α and β wave packing pressure control conditions, the safe range of pump rate is determined under different operation safety margin conditions, which can provide technical support for on‐site operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the effect of zoledronic acid (ZA) on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) attached to different surfaces. Materials and Methods: A total of three groups were evaluated in this study: sandblasting and acid etching (SLA) + HUVECs; mechanically polished (MP) + HUVECs; and plastic cell culture plates + HUVECs. Scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, surface roughness and water contact angle were tested for titanium surface characterisation. ZA was added at different concentrations (0, 1, 10, 50 and 100 μM). Cell adhesion, proliferation, viability, apoptosis and gene expression were evaluated. Results: Mechanically polished and SLA surfaces showed negative effects on cell adhesion and proliferation and promoted cell apoptosis with 100 μM ZA (p <.05). The highest expression of intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1) and angiopoietin‐1 was found on SLA surfaces (p <.01). The lowest expression of platelet‐endothelial cell adhesion molecule‐1 and ICAM‐1 was found on MP surfaces (p <.05). A significant decrease in von Willebrand factor was detected on MP and SLA surfaces (p <.001). Conclusions: Zoledronic acid has an anti‐angiogenic effect on HUVECs attached to titanium implants, while the SLA surface might stimulate HUVECs to express angiogenic and adhesive factor genes despite ZA treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comprehensive Summary: The tribe Delphineae, comprising two genera, Aconitum L. and Delphinium L., is the richest source of bioactive diterpenoid alkaloids (DAs), while their highly similar chemical structures create a major challenge for dereplication from complex mixture. To solve the inefficient discovery process of natural DAs, a novel dereplication strategy based on pattern recognition of specific heteronuclear multiple bond correlation (HMBC) signals has been established in this study. This strategy utilized the diagnostic signals in the HMBC spectra of C19‐DAs, which could indicate the structural categories. The newly designed software MatchNat allowed in silico recognition of C19‐DA types. The developed dereplication system was demonstrated to be a practical strategy to dereplicate a variety of natural products from two Delphineae plants, including Aconitum vilmorinianum Kom. and Delphinium pachycentrum Hemsl. Known compounds could be rapidly recognized from the mixture, and novel DAs were found with the aid of MatchNat. Consequently, targeted isolation led to the explosive discovery of a series of novel DAs. This dereplication system has the potential to be adopted for dereplication of any other class of natural products and has shown promising application as a complementary tool in the nuclear magnetic resonance analysis of traditional Chinese medicines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TikTok, as an emerging digital geography, has transformed remote communication to a live, instant, and uncannily realistic interaction. To explore the implications of TikTok on older adults, this paper examines the accounts of older Chinese TikTok celebrities – their participation in TikTok as well as the major discourses of ageing mediated by TikTok. An empirical study was conducted by quantitatively analysing web‐scraped comments on older TikTok celebrities and by interpreting the themes present in these popular TikTok accounts. The empirical results unveil that TikTok facilitates the social interactions of older digital celebrities by creating a caring environment. However, the healthy ageing paradigm promoted by the Chinese government is also promoted by TikTok's recommendation algorithm and platform capitalism. The healthy ageing paradigm prioritises older adults who are healthy and independent, and as a result marginalises those who have a disease or disability or are dependent on others in some way. As a result, the healthy ageing paradigm promoted by TikTok constitutes another form of ageism. Responding to the call to go beyond "the digital", our research contributes to digital geography by examining the geographies of ageing mediated by TikTok. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ferroptosis is a programmed cell death pathway discovered in recent years, and ferroptosis‐inducing agents have great potential as new antitumor candidates. Here, we report a IrIII complex (Ir1) containing a ferrocene‐modified diphosphine ligand that localizes in lysosomes. Under the acidic environments of lysosomes, Ir1 can effectively catalyze Fenton‐like reaction, produce hydroxyl radicals, induce lipid peroxidation, down‐regulate glutathione peroxidase 4, and result in ferroptosis. RNA sequencing analysis shows that Ir1 can significantly affect pathways related to ferroptosis and cancer immunity. Accordingly, Ir1 can induce immunogenic cells death and suppress tumor growth in vitro, regulate T cell activity and immune microenvironments in vivo. In conclusion, we show the potential of small molecules with ferroptosis‐inducing capabilities for effective cancer immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ferroptosis is a programmed cell death pathway discovered in recent years, and ferroptosis‐inducing agents have great potential as new antitumor candidates. Here, we report a IrIII complex (Ir1) containing a ferrocene‐modified diphosphine ligand that localizes in lysosomes. Under the acidic environments of lysosomes, Ir1 can effectively catalyze Fenton‐like reaction, produce hydroxyl radicals, induce lipid peroxidation, down‐regulate glutathione peroxidase 4, and result in ferroptosis. RNA sequencing analysis shows that Ir1 can significantly affect pathways related to ferroptosis and cancer immunity. Accordingly, Ir1 can induce immunogenic cells death and suppress tumor growth in vitro, regulate T cell activity and immune microenvironments in vivo. In conclusion, we show the potential of small molecules with ferroptosis‐inducing capabilities for effective cancer immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prevalence of primary coronary cameral fistula (CCF) is extremely rare, especially for CCF with its drainage channel into the left ventricle (LV). We describe a 45‐year‐old male patient with giant aneurysm associated with proximal right coronary artery (RCA), and the distal end of RCA draining into the LV through a fistula, which was discovered by echocardiography. Dual‐source computer tomography revealed only the CCF‐related giant RCA aneurysm. The drainage site of the fistula and the above coexistent abnormality could not be visualized clearly by coronary artery angiography because of deficient contrast medium filling into the aneurysm. The patient underwent surgical resection of the giant aneurysm and occlusion of the fistula in 2015. Finally, the patient accepted another operation to occlude the residual coronary fistula in 2021. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A bio‐ceramic coating was prepared on the surface of ZK60 magnesium alloys by micro‐arc oxidation (MAO) method. The substrate (BM) and coated (MAO) specimens were pre‐corroded in a simulated body fluid (SBF) for 12 h. Strain‐controlled and stress‐controlled loading modes were used to conduct fatigue tests for the specimens with non‐corroded and pre‐corroded, and the cyclic deformation behavior of different specimens was studied. The fatigue life of pre‐corroded MAO specimen is higher than that of pre‐corroded BM specimen. The mechanism of cyclic deformation under different loading conditions is related to twinning and slip. For the same specimens, the higher the absolute value of ratcheting strain, the lower the fatigue life. A modified total strain energy model is proposed, and the precision of life prediction is higher than that of traditional fatigue model. Highlights: A bio‐ceramic MAO coating was prepared on the surface of ZK60 magnesium alloys.Fatigue tests were carried out by strain‐controlled and stress‐controlled loading.Ratcheting behavior of non‐corroded and pre‐corroded specimens was studied.A modified total strain energy model was used to predict the fatigue life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of efficient synthetic methods for accessing enantioenriched α‐chiral amines is of great importance in the disciplines of medicinal and synthetic organic chemistry. Enantioselective Rh‐catalyzed 1,2‐addition reactions to activated imine derivatives are regarded as useful protocols for forming α‐chiral amines. This personal account outlines our efforts to develop chiral bicyclo[2.2.1]heptadiene ligands for Rh‐catalyzed asymmetric additions of various organoboron reagents to a wide range of imine derivatives. Transformations of the thus‐obtained adducts into known natural products or molecules of pharmaceutical importance serve to confirm their synthetic usefulness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Minimally invasive breast biopsy (MIBB) is the standard of care for the diagnosis of breast cancer, with consensus guidelines suggesting MIBB goals of 90% of total biopsies. In a previous study of patients in the rural state of Vermont, USA (population size of 640,000), rural breast cancer patients had open biopsies 42% of the time compared to 29% of urban breast cancer patients. The aim of this study was to assess overall population‐based biopsy trends in Vermont. Methods: The Vermont Breast Cancer Surveillance System (VBCSS) was used to identify women receiving MIBB and excisional breast biopsies in Vermont. Patient zip code at the time of initial biopsy was used to determine the patient residence rurality by rural–urban commuting area codes (RUCA 2.0™). Results: There were 9122 diagnostic episodes from 1999 to 2018. MIBB was the initial biopsy method in 7524 (82.5%) cases, while surgical excision was the initial biopsy method in 1598 (17.5%) cases. A linear trend fit estimated an increase of 1.3% per year (p < 0.001, 95% CI 1.1%–1.5%) in the fraction of patients undergoing MIBB. Patients living in rural areas were less likely to receive MIBB (78.5%) than those living in urban areas (94.9%), p < 0.001. Multivariate analysis showed that urban patients and those patients in the years 2014–2018 were more likely to receive MIBB (OR 5.00, 95% CI 4.13–6.05 [p < 0.05] and OR 4.41, 95%CI 3.68–5.28 [p < 0.05], respectively). The rate of MIBB for rural patients increased and met the 90% quality standard in 2013 and ultimately matched urban patient rates of MIBB in 2018. Conclusions: For the first time, we show that MIBB usage is above 90% in the state of Vermont and that there no longer exist disparities in breast biopsies between urban and rural patients or rural/urban facilities in the state, overall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the influence of polydopamine treatment on the surface properties and bond strength of yttria‐stabilised tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (Y‐TZP). Sixty‐three zirconia blocks (10 × 10 × 2 mm) were randomly divided into three groups defined by surface treatment: (i) control group (C), (ii) grit‐blasted with 110 μm alumina particles (GB), and (iii) polydopamine (PDA) coating. The surfaces of specimens subjected to different treatments were investigated by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and water contact angle measurements. After the surface treatments, the specimens were cemented to resin composite cylinders. After bonding, the shear bond strength of the ceramic to the resin was measured, and the failure mode of each specimen was analysed using a stereomicroscope. The results indicated that the shear bond strength is highest for the GB treatment and lowest for the controls. However, the difference between groups GB and PDA was not statistically significant. In the control group, adhesive failure was predominant, whereas in the treatment groups, mixed mode failure was predominant. The pre‐treatment of Y‐TZP ceramic with the polydopamine coating might improve the bond strength of the resin cement to the zirconia ceramic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Chinese government has promoted the concept of "healthy ageing" to meet the goals of Healthy China 2030. Thus, achieving healthy ageing has become the principal motivation behind community eldercare organisations' activities and services for the elderly in Chinese cities. The principles of healthy ageing encourage older adults to participate in activities, conduct volunteer labour, and strive to improve or at least maintain their physical health. Based on six months of ethnographic fieldwork, this paper examines the discourses and practices surrounding the "healthy ageing" paradigm in urban China and its role in governing the ageing population. This paper argues that the concept of healthy ageing requires older adults to set health as their primary goal, which also entails their embodiment of the healthy ageing paradigm. This paper bridges the literature on governmentality and critical and cultural gerontology while also contributing to the understanding of population governance in China. Healthy ageing aligns well with the state's objective to reduce the burden of disease and disability associated with ageing; healthy ageing aims to build a strong population by encourageing individuals' desire to maintain health and independence. The healthy ageing paradigm reshapes older adults' behaviour so that they invest effort in maintaining a healthy body and actively participating in their community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article titled "Electrospun Nanofibrous Composite Membranes for Long-Term Release of Celecoxib for Achilles Tendon Reconstruction Following Injury" discusses the development of a new implantable combination of nanofibers for Achilles tendon reconstruction. The nanofibers, called celecoxib-collagen-bupivacainepoly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (CCBP), show improved therapeutic application and higher load-to-failure values compared to healthy tendons and nanofibers with doxycycline. The authors suggest that CCBP is a promising scaffold for repairing ruptured Achilles tendons and is superior to existing materials. [Extracted from the article]

Front cover: In article 2300149 by Shih‐Jung Liu and co‐workers, a new implantable combination of nanofibers of celecoxib‐collagen‐bupivacainepoly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (CCBP) is developed for Achilles tendon reconstruction. Regenerated Achilles tendons using CCBP nanofibers show improved therapeutic application with significantly higher load‐to‐failure values than do healthy tendons and the nanofibers comprising doxycycline. This CCBP combination is a promising scaffold superior to existing materials for repairing ruptured Achilles tendons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elevated arginase type II (Arg‐II) associates with higher grade tumors. Its function and underlying molecular mechanisms in melanoma remain elusive. In the present study, we observed a significantly higher frequency of Arg‐II expression in melanoma of patients with metastasis than those without metastasis. Silencing Arg‐II in two human melanoma cell lines slowed down the cell growth, while overexpression of native but not a catalytically inactive Arg‐II promoted cell proliferation without affecting cell death. Treatment of cells with arginase inhibitor also reduced melanoma cell number, demonstrating that Arg‐II promotes melanoma cell proliferation dependently of its enzymatic activity. However, results from silencing Arg‐II or overexpressing native or the inactive Arg‐II as well as treatment with arginase inhibitor showed that Arg‐II promotes melanoma metastasis‐related processes, such as melanoma cell migration and adhesion on endothelial cells, independently of its enzymatic activity. Moreover, the treatment of the cells with STAT3 inhibitor suppressed Arg‐II‐promoted melanoma cell migration and adhesion. Furthermore, catalase, but not superoxide dismutase, prevented STAT3 activation as well as increased melanoma cell migration and adhesion induced by overexpressing native or the inactive Arg‐II. Taken together, our study uncovers both activity‐dependent and independent mechanisms of Arg‐II in promoting melanoma progression. While Arg‐II enhances melanoma cell proliferation through polyamine dependently of its enzymatic activity, it promotes metastasis‐related processes, that is, migration and adhesion onto endothelial cell, through mitochondrial H2O2‐STAT3 pathway independently of the enzymatic activity. Suppressing Arg‐II expression rather than inhibiting its enzymatic activity may, therefore, represent a novel strategy for the treatment of melanoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been a marked increase in life‐threatening food allergy (FA). One hypothesis is that changes in bacterial communities may be key to FA. To better understand how gut microbiota regulates FA in humans, we established a mouse model with FA induced by ovalbumin. We found that the mice with FA had abnormal bacterial composition, accompanied by increased immunoglobulin G, immunoglobulin E, and interleukin‐4/interferon‐γ, and there existed a certain coherence between them. Interestingly, Bifidobacterium breve M‐16V may alter the gut microbiota to alleviate the allergy symptoms by IL‐33/ST2 signaling. Our results indicate that gut microbiota is essential for regulating FA to dietary antigens and demonstrate that intervention in bacterial community regulation may be therapeutically related to FA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to select optimal candidates benefiting from the addition of induction chemotherapy (IC) to concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) in stage II–IVa nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) based on Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) DNA and nodal maximal standardized uptake values (SUVmax‐N) of [18F]‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography. Patients and materials: A total of 679 patients diagnosed with stage II–IVa (except N0) NPC were retrospectively included in this study. Overall survival was the primary endpoint. Survival differences between different groups were compared using the log‐rank test. The hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using a multivariable Cox proportional hazards model. Results: Both high levels of EBV DNA (>1500 copies/mL) and SUVmax‐N (>12.3) indicated worse survival conditions. All patients were divided into low‐ and high‐risk groups based on these two biomarkers. The risk group was an independent prognostic factor in OS, progression‐free survival (PFS), and distant metastasis‐free survival (DMFS) (all p‐values<0.05). The addition of IC to CCRT was associated with survival improvement in OS, PFS, and DMFS in high‐risk patients, while no survival difference was found between CCRT and IC+CCRT in low‐risk patients. Conclusions: Our study can help clinicians select stage II–IVa NPC patients who benefit from IC, which is important in guiding individual treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blueberry is an important agricultural crop with high nutritional, health, and economic value. Despite the well‐studied blueberry cultivation methods and soil requirements, little is known about how beneficial bacteria function in organic blueberry cultivation systems and their effects on acidic soils. In this study, a single bacteria Bacillus amyloliquefaciens JC65 and three biocontrol bacteria consortiums containing JC65 were applied to organic system. The effect of bacteria to blueberry growth, yield, fruit quality, and soil quality was investigated. A consortium of three mixed Bacillus (B. amyloliquefaciens JC65, B. licheniforims HS10 and B. subtilis 7ze3) showed the highest growth improvement efficiency. The bacterial inoculation increased blueberry leaf chlorophyll content, net photosynthetic rate by 21.50%, 13.21% at 30 days, and increased average plant height by 2.72% at 69 days. Compared with the control, the inoculated plants showed an increased yield of 14.56%. Interestingly, blueberry fruit quality was also improved with supplement of the bacterial consortium. Fruit anthocyanin, soluble sugar, vitamin C, soluble solids, and soluble protein content were increased by 5.99%, 4.21%, 17.31%, 2.41%, and 21.65%, respectively. Besides, beneficial bacterial consortium also enables sustainable agriculture by improving soil ammonium nitrogen and organic matter by 3.77% and 2.96% after blueberry planting. In conclusion, the combination of beneficial bacteria showed a synergistic activity in organic system to promote the blueberry yield, fruit quality, and soil nutrient preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transnational adoption process includes a child assessment programme that evaluates children's mental and physical health to select and produce adoptable children. Based on ethnographic research conducted in 2015 and 2016, this paper describes in detail this assessment programme, which compares children to their global peers. Adoption agencies and Chinese social welfare institutions rank children by their likelihood of being adopted. The closer a child is to what is considered normal, the easier it will be for the child to be adopted. This socially and spatially shifting ranking of the children's normality enables the flow of children from societies that exclude children from families to societies that re‐include them in families. In addition to ranking the children, the process also involves further normalising them. This paper contributes to the geography of adoption by focusing on the normalisation process implemented to produce adoptable children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Congenital pain insensitivity is a rare genetic disease and its clinical manifestations are many. In orthopaedics, common complications of this disease include painless fracture and Charcot's arthropathy. We followed up a case of multiple fractures of the lower extremity in two years, during which time he came to the clinic for five painless fractures of the lower extremity in a total of six parts. A mutation was found on the NTKRI gene (chr1:156813923(hg19), NM_001007792.1: c.1221938C > T). We have developed a combination of surgery and conservative treatments for his condition, focusing on the mental state of the child and considering comprehensive treatment to be the best option for this type of patient. Occult fractures caused by pain insensitivity are often treated only as fractures, however their complications require routine examination and cleaning, suitable protective shoes, splint fixation, stretching, guided exercise planning, and early treatment of injuries. Due to the risk of fracture in the future, it is important that parents pay attention to the behavior and psychology of the child, such as not letting the child participate in exercise with a risk of injury, protective measures while playing, engaging in psychological counseling, and inducing interest in mental activity. These interventions will play a very important role in preventing the recurrence of fracture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemists' pursuit of the ideal synthesis and functionalization of indole derivatives has lasted over 150 years as their scaffolds have been widely found in natural products, pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals and organic materials. In this regard, the recent resurgence of adopting green and sustainable electrochemistry in organic synthesis suggests that electrosynthesis is a promising strategy. Indeed, many new intriguing applications of synthesis and functionalization of indole derivatives by direct and redox‐mediated electrochemical means have been disclosed. In this review, we highlight the fundamental aspects, reaction scopes, synthetic applications and reaction mechanisms of the electrochemical synthesis and functionalization of indole derivatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this study is to investigate the application of two lactic acid bacteria and dry condensed molasses fermentation solubles (CMS) in the making and preservation of corn silage. Forage corn materials are divided into eight treatment groups as follows: (i) control, (ii) B2 (Lactobacillus plantarum B2, 1 × 109 cfu kg−1), (iii) LAS (Lactobacillus buchneri 40788, 3 × 108 cfu kg−1), (iv) B2 + LAS, (v) CMS (35 g kg−1, fresh weight), (vi) B2 + CMS, (vii) LAS + CMS and (viii) B2 + LAS + CMS. The silage composition and aerobic stability are determined after ensiling for 90 days. Furthermore, the digestibility of the silage product and gas production are evaluated using a trotro digestion procedure. Results: The assay results indicate that the CMS supplementation and B2 inoculation significantly increased lactic acid concentration (P < 0.01). However, they also reduced the content of acetic acid and silage pH at the initial fermentation stage. The CMS supplemented with B2 (B2 + CMS) showed an improvement in the quality of silage, but a significant decrease in aerobic stability (P < 0.01). The B2 + LAS + CMS treatment yielded an increase in acetic acid production during the late fermentation period and is able to extend the aerobic stability of corn silage. Furthermore, this study shows that CMS supplementation alone can significantly improve the digestibility of the in vitro dry matter (P < 0.01) and the microbial protein synthesis efficiency (P = 0.01). In addition, the CMS supplementation is beneficial for enhancing the aerobic stability of corn silage. Conclusions: These results suggest that the combination of CMS supplementation and a suitable inoculation lactic acid bacterial strain can be highly promising for enhancing the higher quality and stability of corn silage. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor (GLP‐1R), a family B G‐protein coupled receptor (GPCR), regulates the insulin secretion following stimulation by ligands. The transmembrane domain (TM) mediates GLP‐1R homodimerization, which modulates its ligand binding and signaling. We investigated the possible involvement of the N‐terminal extracellular domain (NTD) in dimerization/oligomerization and dimer‐associated ligand binding by NanoLuc Binary Technology (NanoBiT). With improved NanoBiT detection using a decreasing substrate concentration, the negative cooperativity of ligand binding to the NTD was confirmed by accelerated dissociation and Scatchard analysis. The dimerization/oligomerization of the isolated NTD was observed by NanoBiT and validated by analytical ultracentrifugation, deriving the comparable dimerization affinity (~105 M−1). The NTD was also involved in the dimerization/oligomerization of the full‐length GLP‐1R with mutated TM4 at the cellular level. In an analysis of the parameters of the NTD binding, the Kd for the probe GLP‐1 (7‐36, A8G) was similar (6‐8 μM) in both the 1:1 binding model and the receptor dimerization model. Compared with GLP‐1 and dulaglutide, exenatide showed two‐site binding with Ki values of 1.4 pM and 8.7 nM. Our study indicates the involvement of NTD in the GLP‐1R dimerization/oligomerization and suggests that further investigations on the role in other family B GPCRs are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dehydration of (S,S)‐1,2‐bis(1H‐benzo[d]imidazol‐2‐yl)ethane‐1,2‐diol (H4L) to (Z)‐1,2‐bis(1H‐benzo[d]imidazol‐2‐yl)ethenol) (H3L′) was found to be metal‐assisted, occurs under solvothermal conditions (H2O/CH3OH), and leads to [MnII4(H3L)4Cl2]Cl2⋅5 H2O⋅5 CH3OH (Mn4L4) and [MnII4(H2L′)6(μ3‐OH)]Cl⋅4 CH3OH⋅H2O (Mn4L′6), respectively. Their structures were determined by single‐crystal XRD. Extensive ESI‐MS studies on solutions and solids of the reaction led to the proposal consisting of an initial stepwise assembly of Mn4L4 from the reactants via [MnL] and [Mn2L2] below 80 °C, and then disassembly to [MnL] and [MnL2] followed by ligand modification before reassembly to Mn4L′6 via [MnL′], [MnL′2], and [Mn2L′3] with increasing solvothermal temperature up to 140 °C. Identification of intermediates [Mn4LxL′6−x] (x=5, 4, 3, 2, 1) in the process further suggested an assembly/disassembly/in situ reaction/reassembly transformation mechanism. These results not only reveal that multiple phase transformations are possible even though they were not realized in the crystalline state, but also help to better understand the complex transformation process between coordination clusters during "black‐box" reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Application of plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) has been considered as an environmentally friendly method for crop yield promotion as well as plant disease management. Efforts have been devoted to unraveling mechanisms involved in bacteria–plant and bacteria–pathogen interactions. However, little is known on the effect of the interaction among PGPR, soil, and plant. We compared growth and yield promotion capacity of biofertilizer Ning Shield, a consortium of bacterial preparation used as a biofertilizer (BF), and its mixture with compost of agricultural waste including spent substrate of Pleurotus ostreatus (SSP)/Volvariella volvacea (SSV), chicken manure (CM), and inorganic fertilizer (IOF) in a pepper field, respectively. The disease control efficacy, pepper fruit preservation time, and nutrients were also determined. Soil nutrient parameters including organic matter and available NPK of treatments were assayed before and after one growth season. All of the mixture of BF+organic compost treatment significantly enhanced the yield and quality of pepper fruit. Moreover, disease control capacity was promoted by the mixture of BF+organic compost, with BF+SSV reaching the highest control efficacy of 81% on 60th day after transplanting, and remaining 76% at the 105th day. The BF+SSV treatment showed soil fertility retention ability with higher soil nutrient contents after one growth season of pepper. This study provides evidence that, when combined with organic fertilizers such as spent mushroom substrate compost, beneficial microbes have the ability to promote plant growth and yield as well as suppress plant disease by sustaining soil fertility through complex bacteria–soil–plant interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: Gut microbiota dysbiosis may lead to proinflammatory conditions contributing to multiple sclerosis (MS) etiology. Pediatric‐onset MS patients are close to biological disease onset and less exposed to confounders. Therefore, this study investigated gut microbiota composition and functional pathways in pediatric‐onset MS, compared to monophasic acquired demyelinating syndromes (mADS) and healthy controls (HCs). Methods: Pediatric participants were selected from the Dutch national prospective cohort study including ADS patients and HCs <18 years old. Amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) were generated from sequencing the V3/4 regions of the 16S rRNA gene. Functional MetaCyc microbial pathways were predicted based on Enzyme Commission numbers. Gut microbiota composition (alpha/beta diversity and individual microbe abundance at ASV to phylum level) and predicted functional pathways were tested using nonparametric tests, permutational multivariate analysis of variance, and linear regression. Results: Twenty‐six pediatric‐onset MS (24 with disease‐modifying therapy [DMT]), 25 mADS, and 24 HC subjects were included. Alpha/beta diversity, abundance of individual resident microbes, and microbial functional features were not different between these participant groups. Body mass index (BMI) showed significant differences, with obese children having a lower alpha diversity (Chao1 Index p = 0.015, Shannon/Simpson Diversity Index p = 0.014/p = 0.023), divergent beta diversity (R2 = 3.7%, p = 0.013), and higher abundance of numerous individual resident microbes and functional microbial pathways. Conclusions: Previous results of gut microbiota composition and predicted functional features could not be validated in this Dutch pediatric‐onset MS cohort using a more sensitive 16S pipeline, although it was limited by sample size and DMT use. Notably, several other host‐related factors were found to associate with gut microbiota variation, especially BMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Laser lithotripsy under fluoroscopic guidance is difficult to perform and risky due to its invisibility. In this study we aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of a novel endoscopic auxiliary system (NEAS)‐assisted lithotripsy under fluoroscopy for treating difficult common bile duct (CBD) stones. Methods: Patients with difficult CBD stones who were treated with NEAS‐assisted laser lithotripsy (NEAS group) or conventional mechanical lithotripsy (ML) under fluoroscopy (ML group) were retrospectively evaluated. The primary outcome was the complete stone clearance rate and the secondary outcomes included operation time, complications, and medical cost. Results: Seventeen patients were treated with NEAS‐assisted laser lithotripsy and 144 patients underwent ML. Using the propensity score matching analysis, 17 pairs of cases treated with NEAS‐assisted lithotripsy and ML were included. Patients in the NEAS group showed a higher stone clearance rate than the ML group (94.1% vs 58.8%, P = 0.039), as well as shorter operation time (41.9 min vs 49.4 min, P < 0.001) and lower medical cost (USD 4607 vs USD 5014, P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the complication rate between the two groups (5.9% vs 17.6%, P = 0.601). Conclusion: NEAS‐assisted fluoroscopy‐guided laser lithotripsy is feasible and safe, which may be a promising technique in fluoroscopy‐guided laser lithotripsy for difficult CBD stones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two zinc clusters Zn4(H3L)4(NO3)4⋅5H2O (Zn4, H4L=(1,2‐bis(1H‐benzo[d]imidazol‐2‐yl)ethane‐1,2‐diol) and [Zn5(H2L′)6](NO3)4]⋅8H2O⋅2CH3OH (Zn5, H3L′=(1,2‐bis(benzo[d] imidazol‐2‐yl)‐ethenol) have been obtained by the reaction of Zn(NO3)2⋅6H2O with H4L at 80 °C or 140 °C under solvothermal condition. Powder X‐ray Diffraction (PXRD) of precipitate and Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (ESI‐MS) of reaction solution revealed the existence of transformation behavior from Zn4 to Zn5 by increasing the temperature from 80 °C to 140 °C, or directly heating Zn4 at 140 °C via solvothermal reaction. Here we proposed a possible mechanism involves split process of Zn4 and reassembly to form Zn5. ESI‐MS for single crystals revealed [Zn4(H3L)4−3H]+ splits to [Zn(H3L)]+ via [Zn2(H3L)2−H]+. Time dependent ESI‐MS of reaction solution revealed the [Zn(H2L′)]+→[Zn2(H2L′)2−H]+→[Zn5(H2L′)6−H]3+ stepwise assembly. It also has been captured the in situ reaction mainly occurs in the step of [Zn(H3L)]+ to [Zn(H2L′)]+. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Training‐induced neuroplasticity has been described in athletes' population. However, it remains largely unknown how regular training and sports proficiency modifies neuronal circuits in the human brain. In this study, we used voxel‐based morphometry and stepwise functional connectivity (SFC) analyses to uncover connectivity changes in the functional stream architecture in student‐athletes at early stages of sensorimotor skill training. Thirty‐two second‐year student‐athletes whose major was little‐ball sports and thirty‐four nonathlete controls were recruited for the study. We found that athletes showed greater gray matter volume in the right sensorimotor area, the limbic lobe, and the anterior lobe of the cerebellum. Furthermore, SFC analysis demonstrated that athletes displayed significantly smaller optimal connectivity distance from those seed regions to the dorsal attention network (DAN) and larger optimal connectivity distance to the default mode network (DMN) compared to controls. The Attention Network Test showed that the reaction time of the orienting attention subnetwork was positively correlated with SFC between the seeds and the DAN, while negatively correlated with SFC between the seeds and the DMN. Our findings suggest that neuroplastic adaptations on functional connectivity streams after motor skill training may enable novel information flow from specific areas of the cortex toward distributed networks such as the DAN and the DMN. This could potentially regulate the focus of external and internal attention synchronously in athletes, and consequently accelerate the reaction time of orienting attention in athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this retrospective study was to determine the incidence of fibular fractures as an associated injury in tibial plateau fractures according to CT scan. We also attempt to introduce a new morphological sub‐classification on this associated injury and to analyze the correlation between this classification and tibial plateau fractures. Methods: We selected cases with fibular fractures from all the tibial plateau fracture patients. The cases were further divided into 2 groups: unicondylar group and bicondylar group. On the basis of our new classification system of fibular fracture, all the included cases were divided into 5 subgroups. Results: Finally, a total of 150 cases associated with fibular fractures in 502 tibial plateau fracture cases were identified from our institution database. The incidence of fibular head fracture in tibial plateau fractures was 29.88% (150/502). Seventy‐one cases (47.3%) were involved one condyle, and 79 cases (52.7%) involved both. It shows significant difference in the subgroup of avulsion fracture with horizontal fracture line (Type A) which is ratio of 16.9% in unicondylar group and 1.27% in bicondylar group. Conclusion: A new classification of this associated injury describing the morphology of the fracture fragments may improve operative planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Postoperative care is an important factor affecting the outcome of endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). The aim of this study was to test the effect of mometasone furoate (MF)‐soaked biodegradable nasal dressings (BNDs) on endoscopic appearance in CRS patients with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) after ESS. Methods: This study was a prospective, randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled study. A total of 64 CRSwNP patients with bilateral ESS were enrolled and randomly given 4 mL or 8 mL of MF‐soaked BNDs (NasoPore) in 1 nasal cavity and the same amount of normal saline‐soaked BNDs in the contralateral side. The BNDs were removed on the 7th or 14th postoperative day. Perioperative sinus endoscopy (POSE) and Lund‐Kennedy scores were collected, on the 7th or 14th postoperative days and at 1, 2, and 3 postoperative months. Results: The POSE and Lund‐Kennedy scores showed that in the 4‐mL, 1‐week group, no significant differences between the sides treated with MF‐soaked BNDs and the normal saline‐soaked control were observed at any postoperative visits. In the 4‐mL, 2‐week group, significant differences were found at the 2‐week and 1‐month postoperative visits but not at the 2‐month and 3‐month visits. In the 8‐mL, 1‐week group, significant differences were found at the 1‐week, 1‐month, and 2‐month postoperative visits but not at the 3‐month visit. In the 8‐mL, 2‐week group, significant differences were found at all postoperative visits. Conclusion: This study reveals that MF‐impregnated BNDs improve the endoscopic appearance in the healing process of CRSwNP after ESS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acupuncture has been used in China for more than 2000 years; its curative effect is acknowledged wildly in the world, but the underlying mechanisms are not revealed. The study focuses on mechanical effect of manual acupuncture. In this paper, a mathematical model based on viscoelastic theory and quasilinear viscoelastic theory of soft tissue is constructed; a hybrid method was used to study the tissue displacement and energy dissipation induced by needle rotation. It shows that (1) needle rotation will induce the extracellular matrix deformation and generate a mechanical stress field in the interstitium, (2) the deformation depends on rotation frequency and is mainly restrained in the vicinity of the needle, and (3) energy dissipation is affected by rotation frequency and very sensitive at low frequency. These results are consistent with experimental observations, and may help to explain some acupuncture theories and phenomena. Furthermore, this work not only contributes to reveal the mechanical effect of acupuncture (needle rotation) by modern scientific methods but also provides a hybrid method to study the strain and stress deriving from mechanical stimuli of connective tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]