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[Display omitted] Aqueous gel supercapacitors, as an important component of flexible energy storage devices, have received widespread attention for their fast charging/discharging rates, long cycle life and high electrochemical stability under mechanical deformation condition. However, the low energy density of aqueous gel supercapacitors has greatly hindered their further development due to the narrow electrochemical window and limited energy storage capacity. Therefore, different metal cation-doped MnO 2 /carbon cloth-based flexible electrodes herein are prepared by constant voltage deposition and electrochemical oxidation in various saturated sulphate solutions. The influence of different metal cations as K+, Na+ and Li+ doping and deposition conditions on the apparent morphology, lattice structure and electrochemical properties are explored. Furthermore, the pseudo-capacitance ratio of the doped MnO 2 and the voltage expansion mechanism of the composite electrode are investigated. The specific capacitance and pseudo-capacitance ratio of the optimized δ-Na 0.31 MnO 2 /carbon cloth as MNC-2 electrode could be reached 327.55 F/g at 10 mV/s and 35.56% of the pseudo-capacitance, respectively. The flexible symmetric supercapacitors (NSCs) with desirable electrochemical performances in the operating range of 0–1.4 V are further assembled with MNC-2 as the electrodes. The energy density is 26.8 Wh/kg at the power density of 300 W/kg, while the energy density can still reach 19.1 Wh/kg when the power density is up to 1150 W/kg. The energy storage devices with high-performance developed in this work can provide new ideas and strategic support for the application in portable and wearable electronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract In situ-growth of 1T/2H-MoS 2 nanosheets on the CFC, ultra-small SnS 2 nanoparticles are anchored on the surface of MoS 2 nanosheets unifromly. When the SnS 2 /MoS 2 /CFC composites applied as a binder-free flexible anode, it exhibits excellent performances. A highly flexible full cell was fabricated, demonstrating remarkable flexibility and cycling stability. Highlights • In-situ growth SnS 2 /MoS 2 on CFC by a hydrothermal method and water bath process. • SnS 2 /MoS 2 shows a capacity of 1294 mA h g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 after 120 cycles. • The distribution of SnS 2 on 1T/2H-MoS 2 can enhance electrochemical properties. • A full cell is fabricated, showing high flexibility and electrochemical properties. Abstract Flexible lithium ion batteries are important for wearable electronic devices. Herein, 1T/2H phase MoS 2 nanosheets are grown on carbon fiber cloth, and the ultra-small SnS 2 nanoparticles are anchored in the surface of MoS 2 nanosheets uniformly. We fabricate the hierarchical nanostructures via a hydrothermal method then water bath process. During in-situ growth of 1T/2H phase MoS 2 , urea is used as the surfactant and NH4+ (produced by urea and ammonium molybdate tetrahydrate) is acted as insertion guest ions to stabilize 1T phase MoS 2. The synergistic effects between MoS 2 nanosheets and SnS 2 nanoparticles can improve structural stability of the electrode and significant enhance the transport of Li ions and electrons, thereby ameliorate the electrochemical properties. When applied as a binder-free, flexible Li-ion battery anode, it exhibits admirable cycling stability and excellent rate performance. Due to the presence of 1T phase MoS 2 and uniform distribution of ultra-small SnS 2 nanoparticles on MoS 2 nanosheets, the SnS 2 /MoS 2 /carbon fiber cloth composites maintain 1294 mA h g−1 when cycling at 100 mA g−1 after 120 cycles. A highly flexible battery based on SnS 2 /MoS 2 /carbon fiber cloth and LiCoO 2 is fabricated, demonstrating excellent mechanical flexibility and cycling stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide. Early diagnosis and treatment is a key factor in reducing mortality and improving patient outcomes. To achieve this, it is important to understand the diagnostic pathways of cancer patients. Patients from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) are a vulnerable group for lung cancer with higher mortality rates than Caucasian patients. The aim of this study is to explore differences in the lung cancer diagnostic pathways between CALD and Anglo-Australian patients and factors underlying these differences.Methods: This is a prospective, observational cohort study using a mixed-method approach. Quantitative data regarding time intervals in the lung cancer diagnostic pathways will be gathered via patient surveys, General practitioner (GP) review of general practice records, and case-note analysis of hospital records. Qualitative data will be gathered via structured interviews with lung cancer patients, GPs, and hospital specialists. The study will be conducted in five study sites across three states in Australia. Anglo-Australian patients and patients from five CALD groups (i.e., Arabic, Chinese, Greek, Italian and Vietnamese communities) will mainly be identified through the list of new cases presented at lung multidisciplinary team meetings. For the quantitative component, it is anticipated that 724 patients (362 Anglo-Australian and 362 CALD patients) will be recruited to obtain a final sample of 290 (145 per group) assuming a 50% patient survey completion rate and a 80% GP record review completion rate. For the qualitative component, 60 interviews with lung cancer patients (10 Anglo-Australian and 10 patients per CALD group), 20 interviews with GPs, and 20 interviews with specialists will be conducted.Discussion: This is the first Australian study to compare the time intervals along the lung cancer diagnostic pathway between CALD and Anglo-Australian patients. The study will also explore the underlying patient, healthcare provider, and health system factors that influence the time intervals in the two groups. This information will improve our understanding of the effect of ethnicity on health outcomes among lung cancer patients and will inform future interventions aimed at early diagnosis and treatment for lung cancer, particularly patients from CALD backgrounds.Trial Registration: The project was retrospectively registered with Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (registration number: ACTRN12617000957392 , date registered: 4th July 2017). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fabric-based micro-supercapacitors have a great potential in the field of wearable flexible energy storage devices because of the controllable volume, changeable structure, intrinsic stretchability/bendability/foldability, easy integration and washability resistance. The design and construction of energy storage devices with complex structure and function of different dimensions have great influence on the flexible energy storage mechanism and electrochemical performance. One-dimensional MSCs with the advantage of good formability, small size, high flexiblity and easy capability of multi-device integration are useful to increase energy density. However, they cannot be used alone due to their limited loading of electroactive materials. In addition, their spinnability and mechanical strength need to be improved to achieve large-scale forming and manufacturing. Two-dimensional MSCs with short ion diffusion distances, improved in-plane charge transport kinetics and tunable surface/interlayer structures tend to enhance reactivity. However, the high aspect ratio of two-dimensional structure and excessive loading of pseudocapacitive materials weaken surface mass transfer and electron transport, reducing the material utilization and overall multiplicity of characteristics. Three-dimensional MSCs take into account the joint improvement of loading per unit area, conductivity and electrochemical activity of pseudo capacitive materials to combine energy/power enhancement and achieve rapid/high electrical energy storage. Also, the difficult conformal deposition of active substances and complex manufacturing process limit their wearable application. The energy storage mechanisms, construction methods, electrochemical properties and low-cost/scale-up preparation strategies for 1D/2D/3D micro-supercapacitors from the perspective of textiles aimed at their structural types and parameters are reviewed here and the key issues and promising research directions for the development of fabric-based micro-supercapacitors are proposed. • Construction methods of 1D/2D/3D fabric-based wearable MSCs. • Fabric-based MSCs are stretchable/foldable, highly integrated and wash/rub resistant. • 3D MSCs significantly increase the energy capacity per unit area of microelectrodes. • Fabric types and parameters directly affect electrochemical performance of MSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recurrent aphthous ulcers are the most common recurrent oral mucosal lesions characterized by recurrence and pain. The aim of this research is to evaluate the short-term curative effect of the traditional Chinese medicine “Pudilan anti-inflammatory oral liquid” on mild recurrent aphthous ulcers. A total of 234 patients were divided into a treatment group and a control group. Both groups used vitamin B2 as the basis of treatment. The treatment group took a Pudilan anti-inflammatory oral solution for 8 days while the control group was given a liquid placebo. The ulcer size, pseudomembrane, peripheral congestion, and pain scores of the treatment group were lower than before treatment. The curative effect on the Pudilan group was statistically significant compared with the control group. The final therapeutic effect on the treatment group was better than that on the control group. The healing time of mild recurrent aphthous ulcers can be shortened by Pudilan anti-inflammatory oral liquid, and pain is relieved without adverse reactions. Pudilan provides a new reference drug for the treatment of mild recurrent oral ulcers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are recognized as important regulators of cardiac development, hypertrophy and fibrosis. Recent studies have demonstrated that genetic variations which cause alterations in miRNA:target interactions can lead to disease. We hypothesized that genetic variations in miRNAs that regulate cardiac hypertrophy/fibrosis might be involved in generation of the cardiac phenotype in patients diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). To investigate this question, we Sanger sequenced 18 miRNA genes previously implicated in myocyte hypertrophy/fibrosis and apoptosis, using genomic DNA isolated from the leukocytes of 199 HCM patients. We identified a single nucleotide polymorphism (rs6971711, C57T SNP) at the 17th position of mature miR-590-3p (= 57th position of pre-miR-590) that is common in individuals of African ancestry. SNP frequency was higher in African American HCM patients (n = 55) than ethnically-matched controls (n = 100), but the difference was not statistically significant (8.2% vs. 6.5%; p = 0.5). Using a cell culture system, we discovered that presence of this SNP resulted in markedly lower levels of mature miR-590-5p (39 ± 16%, p<0.003) and miR-590-3p (20 ± 2%, p<0.003), when compared with wild-type (WT) miR-590, without affecting levels of pri-miR-590 and pre-miR-590. Consistent with this finding, the SNP resulted in reduced target suppression when compared to WT miR-590 (71% suppression by WT vs 60% suppression by SNP, p<0.03). Since miR-590 can regulate TGF-β, Activin A and Akt signaling, SNP-induced reduction in miR-590 biogenesis could influence cardiac phenotype by de-repression of these signaling pathways. Since the SNP is only present in African Americans, population studies in this patient population would be valuable to investigate effects of this SNP on myocyte function and cardiac physiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of high pressure on the composition and grain size of the Mg- x Al alloy was studied, and the mechanism of structure refinement from the viewpoint of solute redistribution was discussed. The results show that the amount of Al in the solid solution in the α-Mg matrix increased due to the higher solute distribution coefficient caused by high pressure. The Al content of the original alloy required for the initial eutectic transformation was increased from 5 wt% at atmospheric pressure to 9 wt% at 4 GPa, and the Al content at the eutectic point increased from 32.3 wt% at atmospheric pressure to 38.3 wt% at 4 GPa. Under high pressure, the large increase in the number of α-Mg crystals is related not only to the increase in nucleation rate and the inhibition of crystal growth caused by high pressure but also to the higher Al content, which enhances constitutional supercooling, further increasing the nucleation rate and inhibiting crystal growth. • Minimum Al content for eutectic transition at different pressures was found. • It is found that the eutectic structure is ultrafine fibrous under GPa pressure. • The Al solute content plays an important role in grain refinement of Mg-Al alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twenty-five per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) were analyzed in water, sediment and biota from the Dongshan Bay (DSB) to study their seasonal variations, composition profiles, potential pollution sources, partitioning behavior and risk assessments. The total concentrations of PFASs (∑PFASs) in water ranged from 3.2 to 6.5 ng L−1 (mean 4.0 ng L−1) during the dry season, and 0.11–4.5 ng L−1 (mean 1.3 ng L−1) during the wet season. Perfluoro-butane sulfonic acid (PFBS), perfluoro-butanoic acid (PFBA) and perfluoro-octanoic acid (PFOA) were dominated and frequently detected in water. ∑PFASs in sediment were 0.15–0.37 ng g−1 dw (mean 0.24 ng g−1 dw) with the long-chain PFASs perfluoro-octane sulfonic acid (PFOS) dominating. High concentrations of PFASs in land-based drainage outlets (2.0–384.6 ng L−1 in water) and Zhangjiang estuary indicated that land-based discharges and the river discharge were the main sources. High concentration (366.1 ng L−1) and proportion (94%) of PFBA on one drainage outlet agreed with the trend that PFBA was as an alternative to long-chain PFASs. ∑PFASs in biota ranged from 0.11 to 0.40 ng g−1 ww, and only long-chain PFASs were detected. The partition coefficients (log K d) of PFASs between water and sediment ranged from 1.13 to 2.90, increased with carbon chain length, implied long-chain PFASs are more likely to adsorb to sediment. Results of ecological and health risk assessments indicated that PFASs had no significant risk for the aquatic organisms and local residents. • Short-chain PFASs as alternatives increase in the environment. • Drainage outlets and the river discharge contributed PFASs to the DSB. • Log K d of PFASs increased with the increasing of carbon chain length. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to the experimental research results of the thermally grown oxide (TGO) layered growth during the pre‐oxidation process of 8 wt.% yttria‐stabilized zirconia thermal barrier coating (TBC), a two‐dimensional sinusoidal TC/bonding coat (BC) curve interface model of the longitudinal section of TBCs based on finite element simulation was constructed; the thickness and composition of the TGO layer relative to the TC/BC curve interfacial stress distribution and its evolution during the thermal cycling process were studied. The results show that when the TGO layer uses α‐Al2O3 as the main oxide (black TGO), the thicker the black TGO layer, the more uniform the stress distribution of the TC/BC interface. When the TGO layer is dominated by spinel‐structured Co and Cr oxides (gray TGO), the stress "band" of the TC/BC interface is destroyed; it shows the alternating phenomenon of tensile stress zone and compressive stress zone, and after the rapid random growth of TGO, the concentrated tensile stress increased by a large jump. Affected by the thickness of the prefabricated black TGO layer, there is a limit peak in the thickness of the black TGO layer, the normal stress at the TC/BC boundary is minimized, and the magnitude of the stress change is also minimized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Periodontitis is considered to be the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, and it interacts with some serious systemic diseases. Periodontal basic therapy is the cornerstone of periodontal disease treatment and long-term maintenance and has a positive impact on the treatment of systemic diseases. Aim. To explore the potential gene targets of periodontitis therapies by bioinformatics method. Methods. We analyzed the expression database (GSE6751) downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) with weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) to confirm the functional gene modules. Pathway enrichment network analyses the key genes in functional modules and verified the candidate genes from the samples in peripheral blood sources of GSE43525. Moreover, we confirmed the expression of target protein in the periodontal tissues of experimental periodontitis-afflicted mice using western blotting. Results. The functional gene modules were found to have biological processes, and ARRB2, BIRC3, CD14, DYNLL1, FCER1G, FCGR1A, FCGR2B, FGR, HCK, and PRKCD were screened as candidates' genes in functional modules. The 921 DEG from GSE43525 and 418 DEG is from the green module of GSE6751 and identified AMICA1, KDELR1, DHRS7B, LMNB1, CTSA, S100A12, and FCGR1A as target genes. Finally, FCGR1A (CD64) was confirmed as the key gene that affects periodontal treatment. Western blot analysis showed an increasing trend in the expression level of FCGR1A protein in the periodontal tissues of experimental periodontitis mice compared to normal mice. Conclusions. FCGR1A (CD64) may be a key gene target for periodontal therapy in patients with periodontitis and other systemic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cigarette smoking is a major risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an essential pathophysiological process in COPD and plays an important role in airway remodeling, fibrosis, and malignant transformation of COPD. Previous studies have indicated FERMT3 is downregulated and plays a tumor-suppressive role in lung cancer. However, the role of FERMT3 in COPD, including EMT, has not yet been investigated.Methods: The present study aimed to explore the potential role of FERMT3 in COPD and its underlying molecular mechanisms. Three GEO datasets were utilized to analyse FERMT3 gene expression profiles in COPD. We then established EMT animal models and cell models through cigarette smoke (CS) or cigarette smoke extract (CSE) exposure to detect the expression of FERMT3 and EMT markers. RT-PCR, western blot, immunohistochemical, cell migration, and cell cycle were employed to investigate the potential regulatory effect of FERMT3 in CSE-induced EMT.Results: Based on Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) data set analysis, FERMT3 expression in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was lower in COPD smokers than in non-smokers or smokers. Moreover, FERMT3 expression was significantly down-regulated in lung tissues of COPD GOLD 4 patients compared with the control group. Cigarette smoke exposure reduced the FERMT3 expression and induces EMT both in vivo and in vitro. The results showed that overexpression of FERMT3 could inhibit EMT induced by CSE in A549 cells. Furthermore, the CSE-induced cell migration and cell cycle progression were reversed by FERMT3 overexpression. Mechanistically, our study showed that overexpression of FERMT3 inhibited CSE-induced EMT through the Wnt/β-catenin signaling.Conclusions: In summary, these data suggest FERMT3 regulates cigarette smoke-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition through Wnt/β-catenin signaling. These findings indicated that FERMT3 was correlated with the development of COPD and may serve as a potential target for both COPD and lung cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, hierarchical flower-like Li 1.2 Ni 0.13 Co 0.13 Mn 0.54 O 2 (LNCM) with exposed {010} planes assembled and double-sphere Li 1.2 Ni 0.13 Co 0.13 Mn 0.54 O 2 without {010} planes as a comparison were successfully synthesized via a simple solvothermal method. The diffusion of Li+ could be enhanced in the flower-like LNCM with exposed {010} active planes, and the cathode exhibits a superior electrochemical performance especially in long-term cycling stability even at high current densities. The initial discharge capacity of this sample is 274 mA h g−1 at 0.1C (25 mA g−1), with corresponding initial coulombic efficiencies of 77%. Especially, the capacity retention reaches up to 98% at 1250 mA g−1 current density after 100 cycles. By comparing with other LNCM materials reported recently, our optimal cathode has a pretty outstanding electrochemical performance, which is promising for the next generation lithium ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cr-doped γ-Fe 2 O 3 /reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanocomposites are successfully synthesized through a rapid and environmentally friendly microwave method in just 10 min. Under the microwave heating, graphene oxide (GO) is reduced to rGO with ferrous ion (Fe 2+ ) served as the reductant, and Cr-doped γ-Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles are synthesized in the meantime. It is found that Cr doping can not only affect the phase of Fe 2 O 3 , but also has an effect on the morphology, the electrical conductivity and the electrochemical properties. As anode material for lithium ion batteries, the 4.0 at% Cr-doped γ-Fe 2 O 3 /rGO nanocomposites exhibit the highest reversible capacity of 1060 mAh g −1 after 100 cycles (66.9% of the initial capacity) at a current density of 100 mA g −1 . Furthermore, when assembled as a full cell against commercial cathode including LiCoO 2 and LiNi 1/3 Mn 1/3 Co 1/3 O 2 , the battery shows promising cycling performance. The superior electrochemical performance could be attributed to the uniform nanostructure and the synergistic effect between Fe 2 O 3 and rGO as well as the doping of chromium, which can reduce the size of Fe 2 O 3 particles and improve the electrical conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cigarette smoke is a complex aerosol containing a large number of compounds with a variety of toxicity and carcinogenicity. Long-term exposure to cigarette smoke significantly increases the risk of a variety of diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a unique biological process, that refers to epithelial cells losing their polarity and transforming into mobile mesenchymal cells, playing a crucial role in organ development, fibrosis, and cancer progression. Numerous recent studies have shown that EMT is an important pathophysiological process involved in airway fibrosis, airway remodeling, and malignant transformation of COPD. In this review, we summarized the effects of cigarette smoke on the development and progression of COPD and focus on the specific changes and underlying mechanisms of EMT in COPD induced by cigarette smoke. We spotlighted the signaling pathways involved in EMT induced by cigarette smoke and summarize the current research and treatment approaches for EMT in COPD, aiming to provide ideas for potential new treatment and research directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) has an effect on the health of pregnant women and fetuses. Procyanidins (PA) is a flavonoid with anti-diabetic activity, but its effects and mechanisms on GDM have not been defined. Herein, we studied further the functions and mechanisms of PA on insulin resistance (IR) in GDM mice, as well as on postpartum and offspring mice. GDM mice model was built by feeding a high-fat-high-sucrose diet, and PA intervention (27.8 mg/kg/d) was performed from 4 weeks before pregnancy to delivery. Intestinal flora deficient (IFD) mice model was established by broad spectrum antibiotics. PA decreased the gestational weight gain, and the levels of fasting blood glucose, insulin, homeostasis model of assessment for IR index, yet increased the levels of HOMA for insulin sensitivity index. Interestingly, in IFD mice the effect of PA on improving IR was significantly weakened. PA inhibited inflammation by decreasing the levels of IL-6, TNF-α, IL-17 and CRP, which also been blocked in the IFD mice. Moreover, PA improved glycometabolism and reduced the secretion of inflammatory factors and hepatic inflammation infiltration of mice at 4 weeks postpartum, but had no significant effect on offspring mice. Mechanistically, PA treatment suppressed the nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) p65 nuclear translocation and nucleotide‐binding domain like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation. In vitro studies, 4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid and 3-(4-hydroxyphenyl) propionic acid, main intestinal flora metabolites of PA restrained NF‐κB/NLRP3 activation. In conclusions, PA improved IR via NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway in GDM and postpartum mice, which partly through its metabolites by gut microbiome. [Display omitted] • Procyanidins alleviates IR and inflammation in GDM mice model. • Procyanidins improves the glycometabolism and reduces the secretion of inflammatory factors of postpartum mice with GDM. • Procyanidins inhibits IR via the NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway, which is partly through its metabolites by gut microbiome. • 4-HPAA and HPPA, main gut metabolites of procyanidins blocked NF-κB/NLRP3 activation in RAW264.7 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the ultrasonic C-scan results of 8YSZ coatings after thermal cycles, three-dimensional cylindrical numerical simulations of the physical geometry model of the thermal barrier coating (TBC) sinusoidal surfaces were conducted with finite elements to estimate the stress distribution and evolution law of the top coat (TC)/bond coat (BC) interface, including the centre and edge of the specimen affected by the dynamic growth of the thermally grown oxide (TGO). The results show that when a layer of TGO is grown on the TC/BC interface, compressive stress is uniformly distributed on the TGO interface, and the stress value decreases as a function of the TGO layer thickness. When the thickness of the TGO exceeds a certain value, the compressive stress of all parts of the interface gradually changes to tensile stress; meanwhile, the edges of the model affected by the crest and trough effects of the wave are reflected in the radial and circumferential directions, especially along the axial direction, with alternating concentrated tensile and compressive stresses. TGO growth imposes a minor influence on the magnitude and distributions of the radial and circumferential stresses at the BC interface. The linear elasticity, creep, fatigue, and stress accumulation effects of each layer of TBCs in each thermal cycle were fully considered in this model. The model not only interprets the crest and trough effects of the TC/BC surface interface during the growth of TGO, but also interprets the effects of the core and edge of the cylindrical model, further revealing the reason for which the core and edge of the TBC will most likely form cracks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A three-dimensional cylindrical numerical simulation physical and geometric model of TBCs sinusoidal surface was established based on the ultrasonic C-scan results of 8YSZ coating after thermal cycling. The stress distribution and evolution law of the TGO/BC interface and sample center and edge affected by TGO growth were simulated by the finite-element method. The results show that the stress at the TGO/BC interfaces changes from compressive stress to tensile stress with the increase of the number of thermal cycles. The center of the interface is distributed with large radial, circumferential and axial tensile stresses, while the edge of the sample is affected by thermal mismatch, which shows that shear stresses are alternately distributed in the XZ direction. The tensile stress at the center and the shear stress at the edge are the main reasons for the failure of the core and edge flakes of the thermal barrier coating. The linear elasticity, creep effect, fatigue effect and stress accumulation effect of each layer of TBCs in each thermal cycle period are fully considered by the model, which reveals the reason why the core and edges of the thermal barrier coating are most likely to form cracks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with gastric metastasis is rare, particularly accompanied by multiple cancer thrombi. Methods. We reported a 66-year-old man with a history of a right radical nephrectomy because of RCC. The patient underwent 18F prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) scanning after 6 months of targeted therapy because of gastric metastasis and cancer thrombi. We conducted a systematic review of the literature and identified 73 cases of RCC with gastric metastasis. We analyzed the clinicopathological characteristics, therapies, and outcomes of patients. Results. 18F-PSMA PET/CT showed a large mass in the gastric fundus and cancer thrombi in the right atrium, inferior vena cava, and splenic vein with intense tracer uptake. Other metastases with increased tracer uptake included multiple bones and abdominal lymph nodes. The majority of gastric metastasis of RCC were men (53/73, 72.6%), with a median age at presentation of 67 (from 48 to 87) years. Gastric metastasis of RCC was mainly metachronous, and presented with small polyps or mass appearance and often accompanied by multiple-site metastases and gastrointestinal symptoms. An overall median interval between nephrectomy and diagnosis of gastric metastasis was 6 (from 0.1 to 23) years, and an overall median survival time was 14 (from 0.25 to 72) months. The median interval time of solitary gastric metastasis was longer than gastric metastasis with multiple-site metastases (7 vs.5 years; P = 0.034). Patients with gastric and multiple-site metastases had higher mortality than patients with solitary metastasis (17 vs.1; P = 0.028). The patients with synchronous gastric metastasis had a shorter survival time than metachronous gastric metastasis (6 vs.17 months; P = 0.018). Conclusions. Postoperative follow-up of multiple imaging modalities to monitor recurrence and metastasis is necessary and important. PSMA PET/CT can improve the detection sensitivity of RCC, especially in metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), and could provide a basis for disease staging, restaging, and therapeutic efficacy evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Little is known about the changes in allergen sensitization in China secondary to the environmental variations over the past decade. We aimed at investigating the variations in sensitization among asthma and/or rhinitis patients in China between 2008 and 2018. Methods: This study analyzed cross‐sectional data from national surveys conducted in China in 2008 and 2018. After finishing the questionnaire, participants underwent serum specific IgE measurements. A total of 2322 and 2798 patients were enrolled in 2008 and 2018, respectively. The significance of differences in sensitization rates among four regions of China were assessed. Correlation analysis was used to identify the associations of sensitization with climate change and planting of Artemisia desertorum between the two surveys. Results: Compared with 2008, the general sensitization rate to mites significantly increased in 2018, which ranked highest among all tested allergens. Sensitization to pollens, especially Artemisia vulgaris, showed the greatest increase in the north. The annual mean temperature, rainfall and relative humidity in all four regions, and the Artemisia desertorum coverage in the northeastern area, increased significantly in 2018 as compared with 2008. From 2008 to 2018, an increase in Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus sensitization was significantly associated with an increase in relative humidity (r = 0.54, p = 0.037). The increase in A. vulgaris sensitization was significantly associated with the increase in the A. desertorum planting area (r = 0.67, p = 0.006) and with a decrease in rainfall (r = −0.59, p = 0.021). Conclusions: House dust mites remain the most important allergen in Chinese individuals with asthma and/or rhinitis. Pollen sensitization dramatically increased in northern China. Increases in sensitization to dust mites and Artemisia were related to the increases in humidity and planting area of A. desertorum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accumulating evidence reveals that genetic variants play pivotal roles in familial atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the molecular defects in most patients with AF remain to be identified. Here, we report on three novel KCNA5 mutations that were identified in 4 of 120 unrelated AF families. Among them, T527M was found in two AF families, and A576V and E610K in two other AF families, respectively. The mutations T527M and A576V were also detected in 2 and 1 of 256 patients with idiopathic AF, respectively. The same mutations were not observed in 200 secondary AF patients and 500 controls. Functional analyses revealed consistent loss-of-function effects of mutant KCNA5 proteins on the ultrarapidly activating delayed rectifier potassium currents. These findings expand the spectrum of mutations in KCNA5 linked to AF and provide new insight into the molecular mechanism involved in AF.Journal of Human Genetics (2009) 54, 277–283; doi:10.1038/jhg.2009.26; published online 3 April 2009 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate whether low coverage whole genome sequencing is suitable for the detection of malignant pelvic mass and compare its diagnostic value with traditional tumor markers. We enrolled 63 patients with a pelvic mass suspicious for ovarian malignancy. Each patient underwent low coverage whole genome sequencing (LCWGS) and traditional tumor markers test. The pelvic masses were finally confirmed via pathological examination. The copy number variants (CNVs) of whole genome were detected and the Stouffers Z-scores for each CNV was extracted. The risk of malignancy (RM) of each suspicious sample was calculated based on the CNV counts and Z-scores, which was subsequently compared with ovarian cancer markers CA125 and HE4, and the risk of ovarian malignancy algorithm (ROMA). Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (ROC) were used to access the diagnostic value of variables. As confirmed by pathological diagnosis, 44 (70%) patients with malignancy and 19 patients with benign mass were identified. Our results showed that CA125 and HE4, the CNV, the mean of Z-scores (Zmean), the max of Z-scores (Zmax), the RM and the ROMA were significantly different between patients with malignant and benign masses. The area under curve (AUC) of CA125, HE4, CNV, Zmax, and Zmean was 0.775, 0.866, 0.786, 0.685 and 0.725 respectively. ROMA and RM showed similar AUC (0.876 and 0.837), but differed in sensitivity and specificity. In the validation cohort, the AUC of RM was higher than traditional serum markers. In conclusion, we develop a LCWGS based method for the identification of pelvic mass of suspicious ovarian cancer. LCWGS shows accurate result and could be complementary with the existing diagnostic methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Retinol binding protein 4 (RBP4) has been proposed to play a role in the pathophysiology of coronary artery disease (CAD), but previous findings on the association of RBP4 levels with CAD are inconsistent. Methods: A meta-analysis based on observational studies was conducted to evaluate the association between circulating RBP4 levels and CAD. Databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Google Scholar and ClinicalTrials.gov database were searched for eligible studies published up to 12 July 2021. Standard mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using the inverse variance heterogeneity (IVhet) and random-effects model for data with moderate and high heterogeneity (I2 > 30%) and data with low heterogeneity were analysed using a fixed-effects model (I2 ≤ 30%). Moreover, a bias-adjusted quality-effects model was generated, and the prediction interval was also calculated under the random-effects model. Results: Two nested case-control studies, one cohort study and twelve case–control studies with a total of 7111 participants were included. Circulating RBP4 levels in patients with CAD were comparable to those in the controls under the IVhet model (SMD: 0.25, 95% CI: − 0.29-0.79, I2: 96.00%). The quality-effects model produced consistent results. However, the association turned to be significant under the random-effect model (SMD: 0.46, 95% CI: 0.17–0.75, I2: 96.00%), whereas the 95% predictive interval (PI) included null values (95% PI: − 0.82-1.74). Subgroup analyses illustrated a positive relationship between CAD and RBP4 levels in patients with complications (SMD: 1.34, 95% CI: 0.38–2.29, I2: 96.00%). The meta-regression analysis revealed that the mean BMI of patients (P = 0.03) and complication status (P = 0.01) influenced the variation in SMD. Conclusions: There was low-quality evidence that patients with CAD exhibited similar circulating RBP4 levels compared with controls, and high inter-study heterogeneity was also observed. Thus, RBP4 might not be a potential risk factor for CAD. Comparisons among different subtypes of RBP4 with larger sample size are needed in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A physical geometric model of the dynamic growth of thermally grown oxide (TGO) was established based on an analysis of the TGO growth of 8YSZ thermal barrier coatings during thermal cycling. Finite-element simulation was used to simulate the evolution law between the coating residual stress and thermal cycling, and the linear elasticity, creep effect, and stress accumulation in each thermal cycle were studied. The interface between the top coat (TC) and the bond coat (BC) was covered with a TGO layer that grew vertically and slowly in a layer-like manner. The stress in the TGO was distributed with a "layer" zonal gradient, and the TGO/BC boundaries were distributed uniformly with a large compressive stress, which decreased the TGO layer thickening. With the longitudinal rapid random TGO growth, the boundaries were subjected to a tensile stress, and a high tensile stress concentration area developed at the boundaries. The internal stress consisted of an alternating and mixed distribution of concentrated compressive and tensile stresses. The concentration area of the maximum equivalent stress was distributed in the one-layer TGO near the TC/TGO interface. When a microcrack formed at the TGO/BC boundaries, the crack was subjected to a tensile stress of different size, with a higher tensile stress at both ends, which facilitated crack expansion. Thus, the 8YSZ thermal barrier coating was prone to crack formation and expansion at the TGO/BC boundaries and in the TGO layer near the TC/TGO boundaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Asthmatic patients with chest tightness as their only presenting symptom (chest tightness variant asthma [CTVA]) have clinical characteristics of eosinophilic airway inflammation similar to those of classic asthma (CA); however, whether CTVA has similar response to antiasthma treatment as compared with CA remains unclear. Objective: The response of 76 CTVA patients to standard asthma treatments with inhaled corticosteroids with long‐acting beta‐agonists was explored in a 52‐week multicenter, prospective, real‐world study. Results: After 52 weeks of treatment with therapy regimens used for CA, the mean 5‐point Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ‐5) score decreased markedly from 1.38(first administration) to 0.71 (52 weeks, mean decrease: 0.674, 95%CI: 0.447‐0.900, P<.001).The mean asthma quality‐of‐life questionnaire (AQLQ) score increased from 5.77 (first administration) to 6.20 (52 weeks, mean increase: 0.441, 95% CI 0.258‐0.625, P<.001). Furthermore, at week 52, FVC, FEV1%, the diurnal variation in PEFand the PD20‐FEV1 were significantly improved. Subgroup analysis revealed that the patients at first administration in the responsive group had higher ACQ‐5 scores than those in the nonresponsive group (P <.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, patients with CTVA had a good therapeutic response to the guideline‐recommended routine treatment (containing inhaled corticosteroids). The association between the treatment response and the severity of CTVA suggested that CTVA patients with higher ACQ‐5 scores had better therapeutic effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aortic valve (AoV) calcification is common in aged populations. Its subsequent aortic stenosis has been linked with increased morbidity, but still has no effective pharmacological intervention. Our previous data show endoplasmic reticulum ( ER) stress is involved in AoV calcification. Here, we investigated whether deficiency of ER stress downstream effector CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein homology protein ( CHOP) may prevent development of AoV calcification. AoV calcification was evaluated in Apoe−/− mice ( n = 10) or in mice with dual deficiencies of ApoE and CHOP (Apoe−/− CHOP−/−, n = 10) fed with Western diet for 24 weeks. Histological and echocardiographic analysis showed that genetic ablation of CHOP attenuated AoV calcification, pro-calcification signaling activation, and apoptosis in the leaflets of Apoe−/− mice. In cultured human aortic valvular interstitial cells ( VIC), we found oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox LDL) promoted apoptosis and osteoblastic differentiation of VIC via CHOP activation. Using conditioned media ( CM) from ox LDL-treated VIC, we further identified that ox LDL triggered osteoblastic differentiation of VIC via paracrine pathway, while depletion of apoptotic bodies ( ABs) in CM suppressed the effect. CM from ox LDL-exposed CHOP-silenced cells prevented osteoblastic differentiation of VIC, while depletion of ABs did not further enhance this protective effect. Overall, our study indicates that CHOP deficiency protects against Western diet-induced AoV calcification in Apoe−/− mice. CHOP deficiency prevents ox LDL-induced VIC osteoblastic differentiation via preventing VIC-derived ABs releasing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Lamellar-structured CNT/MXene/SnO 2 host based on lithiophilic gradient is prepared. • Li deposition is guided in a bottom-up manner to inhibit dendrite growth. • The host accommodates metallic Li up to 8 mAh cm−2 with 4.6% volume expansion. • The anodes can be cycled at 40 mA cm−2 (symmetric cell) and 10C (full cell). Lithium (Li) metal batteries have attracted much attention due to extremely high energy density. However, safety concerns and limited lifetime associated with dendrite growth of Li anodes, especially at high capacity loadings and high rates, hamper their practical application. Here, we report the construction of lamellar-structured lithium host containing carbon nanotubes (CNTs), MXene nanosheets, and SnO 2 nanoparticles via a simple step-by-step vacuum filtration method. The architecture is based on the lithiophilic gradient of each component, in which highly-lithiophilic SnO 2 nanoparticles uniformly anchor on the lithiophilic MXene current collector, and lithiophobic CNTs act as the top protective layer. In this way, Li electrodeposition is spatially guided in a bottom-up mode free from dendrite growth. Consequently, the CNT/MXene/SnO 2 scaffold accommodates a high capacity loading of 8 mAh cm−2 with only 4.6 % volume expansion. Furthermore, the Li@CNT/MXene/SnO 2 electrode achieves fast-charging capability and long-term cycling stability in both symmetric cells (40 mA cm−2) and full cells (10C). This work demonstrates an efficient approach to construct dendrite-free anodes for durable and high-power lithium metal batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interleukin- (IL-) 18 and tryptase were previously reported to relate to asthma, but the correlation between these two potent proinflammatory molecules in asthma and their roles in mast cell accumulation remain uninvestigated. Using flow cytometric analysis technique and ovalbumin- (OVA-) sensitized mouse model, it was found that IL-18 and tryptase levels in the plasma of moderate and severe asthma were elevated, and they correlated well with each other. Tryptase and agonist peptides of protease activated receptor- (PAR-) 2 induced substantial quantity of IL-18 release. IL-18 and tryptase provoked mast cell accumulation in peritoneum of OVA-sensitized mice. OVA-sensitization increased number of IL-18 receptor (R)+ mast cells. IL-18 and tryptase induced dramatic increase in IL-18R+ mast cells and mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) of IL-18R on mast cells. Moreover, while IL-18 induced an increase in PAR-2+ mast cells in nonsensitized mice, IL-18 and tryptase provoked increases in IL-4 and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) in the peritoneum of OVA-sensitized mice. In summary, the correlation between IL-18 and tryptase in plasma of patients with asthma indicates close interactions between them, which should be considered for development of anti-IL-18 and antitryptase therapies. Interactions between IL-18 and tryptase may contribute to mast cell recruitment in asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the expression levels of interferon- (IFN-) λ2 in peripheral blood and tissues. The results showed that the levels of IFN-λ2 were elevated by 17.9% and 14.2% in the plasma of allergic rhinitis (AR) and combined rhinitis with asthma (AR + AS), which was positively correlated with the level of tryptase but negatively correlated with the level of IL-10. IFN-λ2 was predominately expressed in the CD16+ cells and CD14+ cells in healthy control subjects (HC) but upregulated only in CD8+ cells of AR and in eosinophils of asthma. It was observed that approximately 6.6% and 7.0% dispersed tonsil cells and 5.8% and 0.44% dispersed lung cells are IFN-λ2+ mast cells and macrophages. Moreover, tryptase and agonist peptides of PAR-2 induced enhanced IFN-λ2 mRNA expression in A549 cells. In conclusion, the elevated levels of IFN-λ2 in the plasma of AR and AR + AS indicate that IFN-λ2 is likely to contribute to the pathogenesis of allergic airway disorders. The potential origins of the elevated plasma IFN-λ2 include mast cells, macrophages, and epithelial cells in tissues, neutrophils, monocytes, CD8+ T cells, and eosinophils in peripheral blood. Development of IFN-λ2 related therapy may help to treat or prevent allergic airway disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Cell death due to anoikis, necrosis and cell egress from transplantation sites limits functional benefits of cellular cardiomyoplasty. Cell dissociation and suspension, which are a pre-requisite for most cell transplantation studies, lead to depression of cellular metabolism and anoikis, which contribute to low engraftment. Objective We tissue engineered scaffolds with the goal of rapidly restoring metabolism, promoting viability, proliferation and engraftment of encapsulated stem cells. Methods The carboxyl groups of HA were functionalized with N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) to yield HA succinimidyl succinate (HA-NHS) groups that react with free amine groups to form amide bonds. HA-NHS was cross-linked by serum to generate HA:Serum (HA:Ser) hydrogels. Physical properties of HA:Ser hydrogels were measured. Effect of encapsulating cardiosphere-derived cells (CDCs) in HA:Ser hydrogels on viability, proliferation, glucose uptake and metabolism was assessed in vitro. In vivo acute intra-myocardial cell retention of 18 FDG-labeled CDCs encapsulated in HA:Ser hydrogels was quantified. Effect of CDC encapsulation in HA:Ser hydrogels on in vivo metabolism and engraftment at 7 days was assessed by serial, dual isotope SPECT-CT and bioluminescence imaging of CDCs expressing the Na-iodide symporter and firefly luciferase genes respectively. Effect of HA:Ser hydrogels ± CDCs on cardiac function was assessed at 7 days & 28 days post-infarct. Results HA:Ser hydrogels are highly bio-adhesive, biodegradable, promote rapid cell adhesion, glucose uptake and restore bioenergetics of encapsulated cells within 1 h of encapsulation, both in vitro and in vivo. These metabolic scaffolds can be applied epicardially as a patch to beating hearts or injected intramyocardially. HA:Ser hydrogels markedly increase acute intramyocardial retention (∼6 fold), promote in vivo viability, proliferation, engraftment of encapsulated stem cells and angiogenesis. Conclusion HA:Ser hydrogels serve as ‘synthetic stem cell niches’ that rapidly restore metabolism of encapsulated stem cells, promote stem cell engraftment and angiogenesis. These first ever, tissue engineered metabolic scaffolds hold promise for clinical translation in conjunction with CDCs and possibly other stem cell types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water, sediment and fish were analyzed from a subtropical river, Jiulong River in the southeast of China, to character the sources, seasonal variations, bioconcentration and potential risk. PFAS in water, sediment, muscle and liver tissues of fish ranged from 2.5 to 410 ng L−1, 0.24–1.9 ng g−1 dw, 25–100 and 35–1100 ng g−1 ww, respectively. Generally, perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) was the dominant compound in water, while, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) were the dominant compounds in sediment and fish tissues. High concentrations of PFAS in water were found near the machinery manufacturing and paper packaging plants in the north branch of Jiulong River. PFAS during the dry season were significantly (P < 0.01) higher than that during the normal season and wet season. The K d of PFAS increased with the carbon chain length, and perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids (PFSAs) exhibited higher K d values than perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs), indicating these long chain PFAS tended to be adsorbed by sediment. Long chain PFAS exhibited high bioconcentration factors (BCFs), while short and medium carbon chain PFAS had weak bioconcentration capacity. The hazard ratios (HR) suggested that frequent consumption of river fish may pose health risks to local population. [Display omitted] • PFAS exhibited different composition profiles in water, sediment and fish. • Industrial activities contributed PFAS to the Jiulong River. • Carbon chain length and functional groups affected K d values. • PFAS tended to accumulate in the liver of fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high-entropy metallic glasses (HEMGs), combining the characteristics of high-entropy alloys (HEAs) and metallic glasses (MGs), have recently appeared and become the research focus, due to their good glass-forming ability and high strength. However, the application of HEMGs as structural material is restricted owing to the limited tensile plasticity and absence of dislocation-dominated deformation mechanism. To resolve this pressing issue, a stable β-phase HEMG composite (β-type HEMGC) Ti 20 Zr 20 Hf 20 Nb 16 Co 5 Be 19 composed of the bcc refractory HEA (RHEA) dendrites and the HEMG matrix was fabricated. Ti 20 Zr 20 Hf 20 Nb 16 Co 5 Be 19 not only exhibits good tensile ductility, but also has the improved work-hardening capability under room temperature tension. Essentially, the dislocation-dominated deformation mechanism plays a significant role in achieving the excellent combination of good tensile plasticity and improved work-hardening capability of the stable β-type HEMGC. The tensile ductility of Ti 20 Zr 20 Hf 20 Nb 16 Co 5 Be 19 is attributed to the dislocation-slip mechanism induced by high-stable HEA dendrites, and the dislocation pile-up phenomenon has a great influence on the improved work-hardening capability of composite. The present results provide an indepth understanding of the deformation behavior of stable β-type HEMGCs, and a reference for how to improve the strength-ductility combination of HEMG-matrix composites. • By introducing bcc high-entropy alloy (HEA) into metallic glass matrix, the mechanical properties of high-entropy metallic glass composite (HEMGC) is effectively improved. • The tensile ductility of HEMGC is attributed to the dislocation-slip mechanism induced by high-stable HEA dendrites. • The dislocation pile-up phenomenon significantly improves the strength and work-hardening capability of HEMGC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water, sediment and fish were analyzed from a subtropical river, Jiulong River in the southeast of China, to character the sources, seasonal variations, bioconcentration and potential risk. PFAS in water, sediment, muscle and liver tissues of fish ranged from 2.5 to 410 ng L−1, 0.24–1.9 ng g−1 dw, 25–100 and 35–1100 ng g−1 ww, respectively. Generally, perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) was the dominant compound in water, while, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) were the dominant compounds in sediment and fish tissues. High concentrations of PFAS in water were found near the machinery manufacturing and paper packaging plants in the north branch of Jiulong River. PFAS during the dry season were significantly (P < 0.01) higher than that during the normal season and wet season. The K d of PFAS increased with the carbon chain length, and perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids (PFSAs) exhibited higher K d values than perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs), indicating these long chain PFAS tended to be adsorbed by sediment. Long chain PFAS exhibited high bioconcentration factors (BCFs), while short and medium carbon chain PFAS had weak bioconcentration capacity. The hazard ratios (HR) suggested that frequent consumption of river fish may pose health risks to local population. [Display omitted] • PFAS exhibited different composition profiles in water, sediment and fish. • Industrial activities contributed PFAS to the Jiulong River. • Carbon chain length and functional groups affected K d values. • PFAS tended to accumulate in the liver of fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Emerging evidence showed that the most common functional polymorphism (-251A>T, rs4073) in the promoter region of the interleukin-8 (IL-8) gene is involved in the regulation of the activities of interleukin-8, thus increasing an individual's susceptibility to oral cancer; but individually published results are inconclusive. The aim of this meta-analysis was to investigate the associations between IL-8 -251A>T polymorphism and oral cancer risk. Methods: The PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and CBM databases were searched for all articles published up to October 1st, 2012 that addressed IL-8 -251A>T polymorphism and oral cancer risk. Statistical analyses were performed using STATA 12.0 software. Crude odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to assess the strength of associations. Results: Six case–control studies were included with a total of 1324 oral cancer cases and 1879 healthy controls. When all available studies were pooled into the meta-analysis, the results showed that the AA and AT genotypes of IL-8 -251A>T polymorphism were associated with increased risk of oral cancer (OR=1.23, 95% CI: 1.03–1.46, P =0.025; OR=1.25, 95% CI: 1.07–1.47, P =0.006; respectively). In the subgroup analysis by ethnicity, significant associations were observed between the AA and AT genotypes of IL-8 -251A>T polymorphism and increased risk of oral cancer among Caucasian populations (OR=1.40, 95% CI: 1.14–1.72, P =0.001; OR=1.29, 95% CI: 1.06–1.57, P =0.011; respectively). However, no statistically significant associations were found between IL-8 -251A>T polymorphism and oral cancer risk among Asian populations. Conclusions: Results from the current meta-analysis indicate that the AA and AT genotypes of IL-8 -251A>T polymorphism might increase the risk of oral cancer, especially among Caucasian populations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: We have previously found that reactive oxygen species (ROS) are involved in Pseudomonas aeruginosa lipopolysaccharide (PA-LPS) induced MUC5AC in airway epithelial cells. Dual oxidase1 (Duox1), a member of NADPH oxidase(Nox), is known to be responsible for ROS production in respiratory tract epithelial cells. Our aim was to clarify whether Duox1 was also involved in the PA-LPS-induced MUC5AC and calcium dependent chloride channel 3(Clca3), another recognized marker of goblet cell hyperplasia and mucus hyper-production. Methods: PA-LPS-induced Duox1 mRNA levels were examined in A549 cells, primary mouse tracheal epithelial cells (mTECS) and lung tissues of mice. Nox inhibitors diphenyleneiodonium chloride (DPI) and Duox1 siRNA were used to investigate whether Duox1 is involved in PA-LPS-induced MUC5AC and Clca3 expression both in vitro and in vivo. Results: Duox1 is induced by PA-LPS in A549 cells, primary mTECs and lung tissues of mice. DPI significantly inhibited PA-LPS-induced up-regulation of Duox1, Muc5ac and Clca3 in primary mouse trachea epithelial cells and lung tissues of mice. Knockdown of Duox1 markedly inhibited PA-LPS-induced MUC5AC expression via a ROS-TGF-α cascade in A549 cells. Furthermore, DPI significantly inhibited PA-LPS-induced increases in inflammatory cells accumulated in mouse lungs. Conclusions: We demonstrate for the first time that PA-LPS-induced MUC5AC and Clca3 expression is partly through Duox1, and provide supportive evidence for Duox1 as a potential target in treatments of mucin over-production diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The goal of this study was to explore the feasibility of targeted imaging of the angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) in cardiac tissue, using clinical hybrid positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT). Background: AT1R is an attractive imaging target due to its key role in various cardiac pathologies, including post-infarct left ventricular remodeling. Methods: Using the novel AT1R ligand [11C]-KR31173, dynamic PET/CT was performed in young farm pigs under healthy conditions (n = 4) and 3 to 4 weeks after experimental myocardial infarction (n = 5). Ex vivo validation was carried out by immunohistochemistry and polymerase chain reaction. First-in-man application was performed in 4 healthy volunteers at baseline and under AT1R blocking. Results: In healthy pigs, myocardial KR31173 retention was detectable, regionally homogeneous, and specific for AT1R, as confirmed by blocking experiments. Metabolism in plasma was low (85 ± 2% of intact tracer after 60 min). After myocardial infarction, KR31173 retention, corrected for regional perfusion, revealed AT1R up-regulation in the infarct area relative to remote myocardium, whereas retention was elevated in both regions when compared with myocardium of healthy controls (8.7 ± 0.8% and 7.1 ± 0.3%/min vs. 5.8 ± 0.4%/min for infarct and remote, respectively, vs. healthy controls; p < 0.01 each). Postmortem analysis confirmed AT1R up-regulation in remote and infarct tissue. First-in-man application was safe, and showed detectable and specific myocardial KR31173 retention, albeit at a lower level than pigs (left ventricular average retention: 1.2 ± 0.1%/min vs. 4.4 ± 1.2%/min for humans vs. pigs; p = 0.04). Conclusions: Noninvasive imaging of cardiac AT1R expression is feasible using clinical PET/CT technology. Results provide a rationale for broader clinical testing of AT1R-targeted molecular imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Tissue engineering-based approaches have the potential to improve stem cell engraftment by increasing cell delivery to the myocardium. Our objective was to develop and characterize a naturally-derived, autologous, biodegradable hydrogel in order to improve acute stem cell retention in the myocardium. HA-blood hydrogels (HA-BL) were synthesized by mixing in a 1:1(v/v) ratio, lysed whole blood and hyaluronic acid (HA), whose carboxyl groups were functionalized with N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) to yield HA succinimidyl succinate (HA–NHS). We performed physical characterization and measured survival/proliferation of cardiosphere-derived cells (CDCs) encapsulated in the hydrogels. Hydrogels were injected intra-myocardially or applied epicardially in rats. NHS-activated carboxyl groups in HA react with primary amines present in blood and myocardium to form amide bonds, resulting in a 3D hydrogel bound to tissue. HA-blood hydrogels had a gelation time of 58 ± 12 s, swelling ratio of 10 ± 0.5, compressive and elastic modulus of 14 ± 3 and 1.75 ± 0.6 kPa respectively. These hydrogels were not degraded at 4wks by hydrolysis alone. CDC encapsulation promoted their survival and proliferation. Intra-myocardial injection of CDCs encapsulated in these hydrogels greatly increased acute myocardial retention (p = 0.001). Epicardial application of HA-blood hydrogels improved left ventricular ejection fraction following myocardial infarction (p = 0.01). HA-blood hydrogels are highly adhesive, biodegradable, promote CDC survival and increase cardiac function following epicardial application after myocardial infarction. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: The association between sensitizations and severity of allergic diseases is controversial.Objective: This study was to investigate the association between severity of asthma and rhinitis and degree of specific allergic sensitization in allergic patients in China.Method: A cross-sectional survey was performed in 6304 patients with asthma and/or rhinitis from 4 regions of China. Patients completed a standardized questionnaire documenting their respiratory and allergic symptoms, their impact on sleep, daily activities, school and work. They also underwent skin prick tests with 13 common aeroallergens. Among the recruited subjects, 2268 provided blood samples for serum measurement of specific IgE (sIgE) against 16 common aeroallergens.Results: Significantly higher percentage of patients with moderate-severe intermittent rhinitis were sensitized to outdoor allergens while percentage of patients sensitized to indoor allergens was increased with increasing severity of asthma. Moderate-severe intermittent rhinitis was associated with the skin wheal size and the level of sIgE to Artemisia vulgaris and Ambrosia artemisifolia (p < 0.001). Moderate-severe asthma was associated with increasing wheal size and sIgE response to Dermatophagoides (D.) pteronyssinus and D. farinae (p < 0.001). Moderate-severe rhinitis and asthma were also associated with increase in number of positive skin prick test and sIgE.Conclusions: Artemisia vulgaris and Ambrosia artemisifolia sensitizations are associated with the severity of intermittent rhinitis and D. pteronyssinus and D. farinae sensitizations are associated with increasing severity of asthma in China. Increase in number of allergens the patients are sensitized to may also increase the severity of rhinitis and asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Congenital long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a hereditary disorder that leads to sudden cardiac death secondary to fatal cardiac arrhythmias. Although many genes for LQTS have been described, the etiology remains unknown in 30%–40% of cases. In the present study, a large Chinese family (four generations, 49 individuals) with autosomal-dominant LQTS was clinically evaluated. Genome-wide linkage analysis was performed by using polymorphic microsatellite markers to map the genetic locus, and positional candidate genes were screened by sequencing for mutations. The expression pattern and functional characteristics of the mutated protein were investigated by western blotting and patch-clamp electrophysiology. The genetic locus of the LQTS-associated gene was mapped to chromosome 11q23.3-24.3. A heterozygous mutation (Kir3.4-Gly387Arg) was identified in the G protein-coupled, inwardly rectifying potassium channel subunit Kir3.4, encoded by the KCNJ5 gene. The Kir3.4-Gly387Arg mutation was present in all nine affected family members and absent in 528 ethnically matched controls. Western blotting of human cardiac tissue demonstrated significant Kir3.4 expression levels in the cardiac ventricles. Heterologous expression studies with Kir3.4-Gly387Arg revealed a loss-of-function electrophysiological phenotype resulting from reduced plasma membrane expression. Our findings suggest a role for Kir3.4 in the etiology of LQTS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The iron vanadate, FeVO4, was prepared and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was found that FeVO4 could effectively catalyze H2O2 to generate active hydroxyl radical was confirmed with electron spin resonance (ESR) spin-trapping technique. Therefore, it was employed as a heterogeneous Fenton-like catalyst in the present contribution, and its catalytic activity was mainly evaluated in terms of the degradation efficiency of Orange II. Compared with the conventional heterogeneous Fenton-like catalysts, α-Fe2O3, Fe3O4 and γ-FeOOH, FeVO4 possessed a much higher catalytic activity. The high catalytic activity possibly involved in a special two-way Fenton-like mechanism, that is, the activation of H2O2 by both Fe(III) and V(V) in FeVO4. Moreover, FeVO4 possessed a wide applicable pH range and its catalytic activity was slightly affected by the solution pH values in the range of 3–8. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]