Polyoxomolybdate-Based Metal-Organic Framework-Derived Cu-Embedded Molybdenum Dioxide Hybrid Nanoparticles as Highly Efficient Electrocatalysts for Al-S Batteries

High-performance rechargeable aluminum-sulfur batteries (RASB) have great potential for various applications owing to their high theoretical capacity, abundant sulfur resources, and good safety. Nevertheless, the practical application of RASB still faces several challenges, including the polysulfide shuttle phenomenon and low sulfur utilization efficiency. Here, we first developed a synergistic copper heterogeneous metal oxide MoO2 derived from polymolybdate-based metal-organic framework as an efficient catalyst for mitigating polysulfide diffusion. This composite enhances sulfur utilization and electrical conductivity of the cathode. DFT calculations and experimental results reveal the catalyst Cu/MoO2@C not only effectively anchors aluminum polysulfides (AlPSs) to mitigate the shuttle effect, but also significantly promotes the catalytic conversion of AlPSs on the sulfur cathode side during charging and discharging. The unique nanostructure contains abundant electrocatalytic active sites of oxide nanoparticles and Cu clusters, resulting in excellent electrochemical performance. Consequently, the established RASB exhibits an initial capacity of 875 mAh g-1 at 500 mA g-1 and maintains a capacity of 967 mAh g-1 even at a high temperature of 50 °C.

Polyoxometalates@Metal-Organic Frameworks Derived Bimetallic Co/Mo2 C Nanoparticles Embedded in Carbon Nanotube-Interwoven Hierarchically Porous Carbon Polyhedron Composite as a High-Efficiency Electrocatalyst for Al-S Batteries

Al-S battery (ASB) is a promising energy storage device, notable for its safety, crustal abundance, and high theoretical energy density. However, its development faces challenges due to slow reaction kinetics and poor reversibility. The creation of a multifunctional cathode material that can both adsorb polysulfides and accelerate their conversion is key to advancing ASB. Herein, a composite composed of polyoxometalate nanohybridization-derived Mo2 C and N-doped carbon nanotube-interwoven polyhedrons (Co/Mo2 C@NCNHP) is proposed for the first time as an electrochemical catalyst in the sulfur cathode. This composite improves the utilization and conductivity of sulfur within the cathode. DFT calculations and experimental results indicate that Co enables the chemisorption of polysulfides while Mo2 C catalyzes the reduction reaction of long-chain polysulfides. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and in situ UV analysis reveal the different intermediates of Al polysulfide species in Co/Mo2 C@NCNHP during discharging/charging. As a cathode material for ASB, Co/Mo2 C@NCNHP@S composite can deliver a discharge-charge voltage hysteresis of 0.75 V with a specific capacity of 370 mAh g-1 after 200 cycles at 1A g-1 .

Provider Perceptions of a Novel Inpatient Co-Rounding Model Integrating Medical Oncology, Neuro-Oncology, and Radiation Oncology for the Care of Patients with Advanced Cancer

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Patients (pts) with advanced cancer require interdisciplinary care. Although tumor boards are well-established in the outpatient setting, few studies have evaluated interventions for improving consultative care coordination for hospitalized pts with cancer. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a novel inpatient co-rounding model of care in which medical-, neuro-, and radiation-oncology consult teams rounded jointly, with the hypothesis that primary referring team perception of the alignment of the recommendations from these consult services would improve post-implementation.

MATERIALS/METHODS

An inpatient co-rounding model was implemented in September 2021 for hospitalized pts with solid malignancies at a tertiary medical center. Attending physicians, nurse practitioners, fellows, and residents from oncologic consulting services met virtually twice weekly to discuss pt care. Providers from the two most common primary services for pts with cancer at this hospital (hospital medicine and neurosurgery) were surveyed via institutional email listservs. The survey included Likert-type questions about the quality of inpatient consultation and the alignment of recommendations across three consulting oncological specialty services. The pre-intervention survey was distributed prior to model implementation, and the post-intervention survey was distributed 9 months later. Wilcoxon rank-sum tests were used to compare responses from the pre-and post-intervention surveys.

RESULTS

At each session, a median of 6 providers attended (range, 4-8 providers), and a median of 6 pts were discussed (range, 4-8 pts). Among 331 providers surveyed, 119 completed the pre-intervention survey (36% response rate), and 34 completed the post-intervention survey (10% response rate). Respondents were 81 (53%) internal medicine attending physicians/hospitalists, 55 (36%) internal medicine resident physicians, 6 (4%) neurosurgery advanced practice providers, 6 (4%) neurosurgery attending physicians, and 5 (3%) neurosurgery resident physicians. When asked to rate agreement with the statement that consultant recommendations from medical-, neuro-, and radiation-oncology were aligned, respondents were significantly more likely to perceive alignment 9 months post-implementation (67% strongly agree) compared to pre-implementation (23% strongly agree, p = 0.0001). There was high satisfaction with the quality of medical-, neuro-, and radiation-oncology consultations at both time points, with no statistical difference pre- vs. post-implementation of the co-rounding model.

CONCLUSION

A novel inpatient co-rounding model of care was successfully launched between medical-, neuro-, and radiation-oncology. Primary teams perceived greater alignment in recommendations between these consulting services after project implementation. Future directions include evaluating the impact of this co-rounding model on patient outcomes.

Acute and Late Toxicities in Patients with Collagen Vascular Disease Receiving Curative-Intent Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy to the Head and Neck Region

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Historically, collagen vascular disease (CVD) was considered at least a relative contraindication to radiotherapy (RT). However, more recent meta-analyses suggest that for patients with certain CVDs such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), there may not be an increased risk for severe toxicities, while for patients with CVDs such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), dermatomyositis (DM) and scleroderma, there may be as high as a 2- to 4-fold risk for severe toxicities compared to patients without CVD. There are also data to suggest that patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) and comorbid CVD are at especially high risk of severe toxicities from RT. This study evaluated the hypothesis that among patients with HNC treated with curative-intent intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), patients with SLE or DM were more likely to have had late grade ≥3 toxicity rates compared to patients with other CVDs.

MATERIALS/METHODS

A total of 23 patients who had HNC with comorbid CVD and received IMRT between 2005-2022 were included. Acute (≤90 days after completion of RT) and late (>90 days) toxicities were retrospectively classified using CTCAE v5.0. Toxicity rates were compared across CVD groups using Chi-squared tests.

RESULTS

Median follow-up was 56.3 months. The most common CVDs were RA (9 patients, 39%), SLE (4 patients, 17%), and DM (4 patients, 17%). Median total RT dose was 66 Gy (range: 48-70 Gy), in 1.8-2.4 Gy fractions. Nine (39%) patients received concurrent chemotherapy. 14 (61%) patients had mucosal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), 3 (13%) had cutaneous SCC, 2 (9%) had nasal cavity/paranasal sinus tumors, 2 (9%) had salivary gland tumors, 1 (4%) had cutaneous melanoma, and 1 (4%) had mucosal melanoma. Eight (35%) patients experienced acute grade ≥3 toxicities, and 3 (13%) patients experienced late grade ≥3 toxicities (Table 1). No patients had grade≥4 toxicities. Patients with SLE or DM did not have significantly higher risk of late grade ≥3 toxicities compared to those with other CVDs (25% vs. 7%, p = 0.21).

CONCLUSION

In this small sample size of patients with HNC and comorbid CVD, definitive or post-operative IMRT was associated with approximately 35% acute and 15% late severe toxicity rates. While SLE/DM were associated with >3-fold late grade ≥3 toxicities, this association needs to be confirmed with larger data sets.

Toxicity and Dosimetric Analysis of Reirradiation of Head and Neck Cancers with High Dose Rate Brachytherapy

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Reirradiation (reRT) of recurrent or second primary head and neck cancers (HNC) after prior curative-intent external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) has historically achieved local control (LC) rates of 40-50% and been associated with high grade toxicity rates estimated at 25-50%. This study evaluated the hypothesis that patients with small reRT target volumes could be selected for high dose rate brachytherapy (HDR-BT) reRT and achieve similar LC without excess toxicity.

MATERIALS/METHODS

Included were all patients with HNC squamous cell carcinoma treated with HDR-BT after having previously received curative-intent EBRT for primary HNC from 2000-2021. Patients were selected by a multidisciplinary tumor board to be appropriate candidates for HDR-BT reRT without EBRT generally for definitive or adjuvant treatment of small primary tumors without neck nodal metastases. Univariate analysis was performed using the logistic regression model. Survival outcomes were estimated with the Kaplan Meier method.

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients were evaluated. Median follow up time was 19mo. Median age at time of HDR-BT was 64 years. Thirteen patients (57%) were treated for recurrent HNC, of which 7 were in the oral cavity (OC) and 6 were the oropharynx (OPX). Ten patients (43%) were treated for a second primary HNC, of which 5 were in the OC and 5 were in the OPX. Median time from completion of EBRT to HDR-BT was 41 (IQR 14-73) mo. Within their reRT course, 11 patients (48%) were treated with HDR-BT after resection, 9 patients (39%) received concurrent hyperthermia, and 7 patients (30%) received chemotherapy. HDR-BT regimens included 600cGy x5 (N = 11), 600cGy x6 (N = 6), 450cGy x8 (N = 1), 1500cGy x1 (N = 1),1000cGy x1 (N = 1), 500cGy x8 (N = 1), and 700cGy x5 (N = 1). One patient who was treated with two implants received 450cGy x 3 followed by 475cGy x5. A median of 5 brachytherapy catheters were used. Actuarial 2-year LC and overall survival rate was 68% and 62%, respectively. Of the 17 HDR-BT reRT plans available for review, median (IQR) target volume was 15.8 (10.6-34.9) cc. Median (IQR) target V100% was 90.6 (89.4-90.0)%, V150% was 50.5 (49.7-54.4)%, and V200% was 25.4 (23.8-29.0)%. Median (IQR) target D90% was 30.1 (29.8-35.5) Gy, and median D1cc was 116.4 (100.5-171.4) Gy. The mandible dose [median (IQR)] was D2cc:15.1(9.48-18.9) Gy; D1cc:16.9(11.1-21.3) Gy; and D1%:18.8(13.4-22.7) Gy. Nine of the 23 patients (39%) experienced ≥G3 toxicity including fistula, soft tissue necrosis, osteoradionecrosis, ulcer, hemorrhage, and dysphagia requiring a chronic feeding tube. Target D90% was associated with ≥G3 toxicity (p = 0.045). For D90% greater than the median of 30Gy, 45% ≥G3 toxicity was observed.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that HDR-BT for reRT of small recurrent or second primary HNC can provide similar LC without excess high-grade toxicities as compared to historical outcomes with EBRT reRT. Delivery of equivalent doses higher than 30Gy in 5 fractions should be approached with caution.

Bifunctional K3PW12O40/Graphene Oxide-Modified Separator for Inhibiting Polysulfide Diffusion and Stabilizing Lithium Anode

Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries are considered as promising candidates for next-generation batteries due to their high theoretical energy density. However, the practical application of Li-S batteries is still hindered by several challenges, such as the polysulfide shuttle and the growth of lithium dendrites. Herein, we introduce a bifunctional K3PW12O40/graphene oxide-modified polypropylene separator (KPW/GO/PP) as a highly effective solution for mitigating polysulfide diffusion and protecting the lithium anode in Li-S batteries. By incorporating KPW into a densely stacked nanostructured graphene oxide (GO) barrier membrane, we synergistically capture and rapidly convert lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) electrochemically, thus effectively suppressing the shuttling effect. Moreover, the KPW/GO/PP separator can stabilize the lithium metal anode during cycling, suppress dendrite formation, and ensure a smooth and dense lithium metal surface, owing to regulated Li+ flux and uniform Li nucleation. Consequently, the constructed KPW/GO/PP separator delivered a favorable initial specific capacity (1006 mAh g-1) and remarkable cycling performance at 1.0 C (626 mAh g-1 for up to 500 cycles with a decay rate of 0.075% per cycle).

Polyoxometalate-Cyclodextrin-Based Cluster-Organic Supramolecular Framework for Polysulfide Conversion and Guest-Host Recognition in Lithium-sulfur Batteries

Developing polyoxometalate-cyclodextrin cluster-organic supramolecular framework (POM-CD-COSF) still remains challenging due to an extremely difficult task in rationally interconnecting two dissimilar building blocks. Here we report an unprecedented POM-CD-COSF crystalline structure produced through the self-assembly process of a Krebs-type POM, [Zn2 (WO2 )2 (SbW9 O33 )2 ]10- , and two β-CD units. The as-prepared POM-CD-COSF-based battery separator can be applied as a lightweight barrier (approximately 0.3 mg cm-2 ) to mitigate the polysulfide shuttle effect in lithium-sulfur batteries. The designed Li-S batteries equipped with the POM-CD-COSF modified separator exhibit remarkable electrochemical performance, attributed to fast Li+ diffusion through the supramolecular channel of β-CD, efficient polysulfide-capture ability by the dynamic host-guest interaction of β-CD, and improved sulfur redox kinetics by the bidirectional catalysis of POM cluster. This research provides a broad perspective for the development of multifunctional supramolecular POM frameworks and their applications in Li-S batteries.

Confined Synthesis of Amorphous Al2 O3 Framework Nanocomposites Based on the Oxygen-Potential Diagram as Sulfur Hosts for Catalytic Conversion

Sulfur cathodes in Li-S batteries suffer significant volumetric expansion and lack of catalytic activity for polysulfide conversion. In this study, a confined self-reduction synthetic route is developed for preparing nanocomposites using diverse metal ions (Mn2+ , Co2+ , Ni2+ , and Zn2+ )-introduced Al-MIL-96 as precursors. The Ni2+ -introduced Al-MIL-96-derived nanocomposite contains a "hardness unit", amorphous aluminum oxide framework, to restrain the volumetric expansion, and a "softness unit", Ni nanocrystals, to improve the catalytic activity. The oxygen-potential diagram theoretically explains why Ni2+ is preferentially reduced. Postmortem microstructure characterization confirms the suppressive volume expansion. The in situ ultraviolet-visible measurements are performed to probe the catalytic activity of polysulfide conversion. This study provides a new perspective for designing nanocomposites with "hardness units" and "softness units" as sulfur or other catalyst hosts.

Keggin-type polyoxometalate-based crown ether complex for lithium-sulfur batteries

A novel supramolecular complex Li₃Cl[(HPW₁₂O₄₀)(H₂₄C₁₂O₆)₃(CH₃CN)₂] {CR-PW12} was confirmed first to apply as a sulfur host in lithium-sulfur batteries. The {CR-PW12}@S cathode exhibits a reversible capacity of 1120 mA h g^-1 at 1.0 C and excellent cycle stability.

Wide-Temperature-Range Li-S Batteries Enabled by Thiodimolybdate [Mo2S12]2- as a Dual-Function Molecular Catalyst for Polysulfide Redox and Lithium Intercalation

In lithium-sulfur batteries, a serious obstacle is the dissolution and diffusion of long-chain polysulfides, resulting in rapid capacity decay and low Coulombic efficiency. At present, a common practice is designing cathode materials to solve this problem, but this gives rise to reduced gravimetric and volumetric energy densities. Herein, we present a thiodimolybdate [Mo₂S₁₂]^2- cluster as sulfur host material that can effectively confine the shuttling of polysulfides and contribute its own capacity in Li-S cells. Moreover, the [Mo₂S₁₂]^2- cluster as a "bidirectional catalyst" can effectively catalyze polysulfide reduction and lithium sulfide oxidation. We further investigate the catalytic mechanism of [Mo₂S₁₂]^2- clusters by theoretical calculations, in situ spectroscopic techniques, and electrochemical studies. The (NH₄)₂Mo₂S₁₂/S cathodes show good electrochemical performance under a wide range of temperatures. In addition, a pouch cell fabricated with (NH₄)₂Mo₂S₁₂/S cathodes maintains a stable output for more than 50 cycles.

Three-dimensional nano assembly of nickel cobalt sulphide/polyaniline@polyoxometalate/reduced graphene oxide hybrid with superior lithium storage and electrocatalytic properties for hydrogen evolution reaction

Engineering hierarchical nanostructures with enhanced charge storage capacity and electrochemical activity are vital for the advancement of energy devices. Herein, a highly ordered mesoporous three-dimensional (3D) nano-assembly of Nickel Cobalt Sulphide/Polyaniline @Polyoxometalate/Reduced Graphene Oxide (NiCo₂S₄/PANI@POM/rGO) is prepared first time via a simple route of oxidative polymerization followed by a hydrothermal method. Morphological analysis of the resulting hybrid reveals the sheet-like structures containing a homogeneous assembly of PANI@POM and NiCo₂S₄ on the graphene exterior maintaining huge structural integrity, large surface area and electrochemically active centres. The electrochemical analysis of the nanohybrid as the anode of the lithium-ion battery (LIB) has delivered ultra-huge reversible capacity of 735.5 mA h g^-1 (0.1 A g^-1 after 200 cycles), superb capacity retention (0.161% decay/per cycle at 0.5 A g^-1 for 1000 cycles), and significant rate capability (355.6 mA h g^-1 at 2 A g^-1). The hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) measurement also proves remarkable activity, extremely low overpotential and high durability. The extraordinary performance of the nanohybrid is due to the presence of abundant electroactive centres, high surface area and a large number of ion exchange channels. These outstanding results prove the advantages of a combination of NiCo₂S₄, graphene sheets, and PANI@POM in energy devices.

Diagnostic panel of serum miR-125b-5p, miR-182-5p, and miR-200c-3p as non-invasive biomarkers for urothelial bladder cancer

PURPOSE

This study aimed to identify a diagnostic panel of serum microRNAs (miRNAs) for the early detection of bladder cancer (BC).

METHODS

Serum samples were collected from 112 BC patients and 112 normal controls (NCs). A three-stage selection was conducted to identify differentially expressed miRNAs as candidates to construct the diagnostic panel. Further, to explore their potential roles in urothelial BC, bioinformatics analyses, including target genes prediction and functional annotation, were used.

RESULTS

Six downregulated miRNAs (miR-1-3p, miR-30a-5p, miR-100-5p, miR-125b-5p, miR-143-3p, and miR-200c-3p) and one upregulated, miR-182-5p, in BC patients' serum were detected compared to NCs and were selected to establish the diagnostic panel. Based on a backward stepwise logistic regression analysis, miR-125b-5p, miR-182-5p, and miR-200c-3p comprehended the diagnostic panel [area under the curve (AUC) = 0.959, sensitivity = 91.67%, specificity = 92.5%].

CONCLUSION

The panel of three miRNAs had an excellent diagnostic capability, representing a potential non-invasive method for early BC detection.

[Mo3S13]2− as bidirectional cluster catalysts for high-performance Li–S batteries

[Mo3S13]2− bidirectional cluster catalysts combined with mesoporous carbon hollow spheres (MCHS) as a sulfur host material can improve the performance of Li–S batteries.

A Keggin-type polyoxomolybdate-based crystalline material formed by hydrothermal transformation: photo/electro-catalytic properties and mechanism study

This study constructs a POM-based crystalline material of [(SiMo12O40)Cu6(2,2′-bipy)6(Mo6O22)] (1). The photocatalytic MB degradation and electrocatalytic nitrite reduction properties of complex 1 are systematically studied for the first time.

Exploring Anticancer Activities and Structure-Activity Relationships of Binuclear Oxidovanadium(IV) Complexes

Dimeric mixed-ligand oxidovanadium complexes [V₂O₂(1,3-pdta)(bpy)₂]·9H₂O (1) and [V₂O₂(1,3-pdta)(phen)₂]·6H₂O (2) feature a symmetric binuclear structure bridged by 1,3-pdta, which is different from our previous reported asymmetric binuclear complex [V₂O₂(edta)(phen)₂]·11H₂O (3).In this study, a wide range of analytical techniques were carried out to fully characterize the complexes 1 and 2 and further investigate their structural stabilities. Density functional theory calculations of 1 and 2 also suggest that they might have good reactivity with biomolecules as anticancer agents. To assess and screen the antitumor activities of compounds 1-3 together with their four corresponding monomeric complexes [VO(ida)(phen)], [VO(ida)(bpy)], [VO(OH)(phen)₂]Cl, and [VO(Hedta)]^-, we have performed in vitro experiments with hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 and SMMC-7721 cell lines by MTT analyses. Complex 2 was found to have the highest inhibitory potency against the growth of HepG2 and SMMC-7721 cells (IC₅₀ = 2.07 ± 0.72 μM for HepG2; 13.00 ± 3.06 μM for SMMC-7721) compared to other compounds. The structure-activity relationship studies showed that the antitumor effect of compound 2 is higher than that of other compounds. After studying the monomeric compounds of 1-3, their effects were also ranked. Moreover, complex 2 displayed stronger binding affinity toward calf thymus DNA (K_b = 5.71 × 10⁴ M^-1) and cleavage activities than the other complexes (K_b = 1.34 × 10⁴ M^-1 for 1 and 5.22 × 10⁴ M^-1 for 3, respectively). We further extended the cellular mechanisms of drug action and found that 2 could block DNA synthesis and cell division of HepG2 and 7721 cells and further induce apoptosis by flow cytometry assays. In short, these results indicate that binuclear oxidovanadium compounds could have potential as simple, effective, and safe antitumor agents.

Clinical characteristics and outcomes in young patients with myocardial infarction

Background

Young people hold a stable or increasing percentage of patients with acute myocardial infarction in many countries. However, data on clinical characteristics and outcomes in young patients are lacking.

Purpose

To compare clinical characteristics and outcomes between patients aged ≤45 years and those aged >45 years with acute myocardial infarction.

Methods

A total of 24125 patients with acute myocardial infarction between January 2013 and September 2014 from China Acute Myocardial Infarction (CAMI) registry were included in this study. Clinical characteristics, in-hospital and 2-year outcomes were compared between patients aged ≤45 years (young) and those aged >45 years (older). Gender disparity in prognosis of myocardial infarction was analyzed among young patients.

Results

Of 24125 patients, 2042 (8.5%, 116 female) were aged ≤45 years. Compared with patients aged >45 years, young patients were more often male, current smokers, having medical history of hyperlipidemia and family history of premature coronary artery disease. Young patients were significantly more likely to have clear trigger factor, present with persistent chest pain and suffer ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. Symptom onset to admission time was shorter in patients aged ≤45 years. For patients undergoing emergency coronary angiography, those aged ≤45 years were more likely to suffer left anterior descending coronary artery related myocardial infarction. Young patients were significantly more likely to receive percutaneous coronary intervention and other medications at discharge, including dual antiplatelet therapy, statins, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers and β blockers. Compared with patients aged >45 years, young patients experienced significantly lower in-hospital and 2-year mortality and major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE, a composite of death, reinfarction and stroke) rates (Table 1). Among young patients, women experienced higher in-hospital mortality and MACCE rates than men (Table 2). Women who survived at discharge experienced significantly higher 2-year mortality (1.4% vs 3.8%, Log-rank P=0.0412, Table 2).

Conclusions

Compared with the older patients, young patients were more likely to present with typical symptoms and receive guideline-recommended medications. Clinical outcomes of patients aged ≤45 years were significantly better than older patients. However, our results showed significant gender disparity in both short- and long-term outcomes of young patients. More efforts are needed to improve prognosis in young patients with acute myocardial infarction.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): The Twelfth Five-Year Planning Project of the Scientific and Technological Department of China

Embedding Cobalt Atom Clusters in CNT-Wired MoS2 Tube-in-Tube Nanostructures with Enhanced Sulfur Immobilization and Catalyzation for Li-S Batteries

Lithium-sulfur batteries are one of the most promising next-generation energy storage systems. The efficient interconversion between sulfur/lithium polysulfides and lithium sulfide is a performance-determining factor for lithium-sulfur batteries. Herein, a novel strategy to synthesize a unique tube-in-tube CNT-wired sulfur-deficient MoS₂ nanostructure embedding cobalt atom clusters as an efficient polysulfide regulator is successfully conducted in Li-S batteries. It is confirmed that encapsulating MWCNTs into hollow porous sulfur-deficient MoS₂ nanotubes embedded with metal cobalt clusters not only can accelerate electron transport and confine the dissolution of lithium polysulfide by physical/chemical adsorption, but also can catalyze the kinetics of polysulfide redox reactions. Based on DFT calculations, in situ spectroscopic techniques, and various electrochemical studies, catalytic effects of CNT/MoS₂ -Co nanocomposite in Li-S battery are deeply investigated for the first time. The CNT/MoS₂ -Co composite cathode exhibits a very remarkable rate capability (641 mAh g^-1 at 5.0 C) and excellent cycling stability (capacity decay rate of 0.050% per cycle at 5.0 C) even at high sulfur mass loading of 3.6 mg cm^-2 . More crucially, CNT/MoS₂ -Co tube-in-tube nanostructures present a superior specific capacity of 650 mAh g^-1 in a Li-S pouch cell at 0.2 C (4.0 mg cm^-2 ).

[Treatment strategies and research progress of acute ilio-femoral deep vein thrombosis]

In the past,treatment of acute ilio-femoral deep vein thrombosis (IFDVT) was mainly based on anticoagulation alone,but 30%-50% of patients will develop post-thrombotic syndrome,causing a serious medical burden.Thrombus removal technology such as catheter-directed thrombolysis and percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy can effectively remove blood clots and compensate for the deficiencies of simple anticoagulation,which is expected to improve the prognosis of such disease,but the current evidence is insufficient,and other treatments such as filter implantation and compression therapy are also controversial.This article summarizes the treatment strategies and the latest progress of acute IFDVT,hoping to help the treatment of this type of disease.

Self-Assembled Polyoxometalate Nanodots as Bidirectional Cluster Catalysts for Polysulfide/Sulfide Redox Conversion in Lithium-Sulfur Batteries

Polyoxometalates (POMs) are a class of discrete molecular inorganic metal-oxide clusters with reversible multielectron redox capability. Taking advantage of their redox properties, POMs are thus expected to be directly involved in the lithium-sulfur batteries (Li-S, LSBs) system as a bidirectional molecular catalyst. Herein, we design a three-dimensional porous structure of reduced graphene-carbon nanotube skeleton supported POM catalyst as a high-conductive and high-stability host material. Based on various spectroscopic techniques and in situ electrochemical studies together with computational methods, the catalytic mechanism of POM clusters in Li-S battery was systematically clarified at the molecular level. The constructed POM-based sulfur cathode delivers a reversible capacity 1110 mAh g^-1 at 1.0 C and cycling stability up to 1000 cycles at 3.0 C. Furthermore, Li-S pouch/beaker batteries with a POM-based cathode were successfully demonstrated. This work provides essential inputs to promote molecular catalyst design and its application in LSBs.

Inorganic–organic hybrid supramolecular architectures based on Keggin polyoxometalates and crown ether: synthesis, crystal structure and electrochemical properties

Novel supramolecular assemblies built from Keggin-type polyoxometalate and [18]-crown-6 ether building blocks exhibit unique propeller-like supramolecular host–guest structures.

[Clinical study on the accuracy of occlusal contacts on digital model]

Objective: To explore the accuracy of occlusal contacts on digital model made by intraoral scanner. Methods: Twenty healthy subjects [6 males, 14 females, (24.4±1.4) years old] with intact dentition were randomly recruited from postgraduate students in Capital Medical University School of Stomatology who volunteered to participate in this study. For each participant, the 2nd and 3rd quadrant of natural dentition was scanned. A diagnostic test design was performed. The occlusal contacts of the maximal intercuspal position (MIP) were extracted with the transillumination of silicone interocclusal records, and the extraction threshold was set as ≤50 μm. Intraoral scanning system was used to scan in MIP and generate occlusal contacts on digital model. Five groups were designed as test groups according to included tooth position: group 1 (buccal scanning ranged from tooth 21 to 23), group 2 (buccal scanning ranged from tooth 23 to 26), group 3 (buccal scanning ranged from tooth 24 to 26), group 4 (buccal scanning ranged from tooth 25 to 26), group 5 (buccal scanning ranged from tooth 21 to 26). Five groups occlusal contacts on digital model were generated respectively. According to the relevant literature, the upper occlusal surface was divided into 28 partitions, and the accuracy of occlusal contacts on digital model was calculated with the transillumination of silicone interocclusal records as the reference standard. Subgroup analysis was performed according to anterior teeth area, premolars area and molars area. Results: The accuracy of occlusal contacts on digital models of the half dentition in five buccal scanning positions were: group 1 (86.8%), group 2 (92.0%), group 3 (90.7%), group 4 (91.1%), group 5 (90.4%), and the accuracy of occlusal contacts in group 1 was significantly lower than those in the other four groups (P<0.05). The accuracy of anterior teeth area were 85.6%-93.9%; the accuracy of premolar area were 92.5%-94.4%; the accuracy of molar area were 77.3%-93.6%, group 1 was significantly lower than those in the group 4 in molars area (P<0.05), the accuracy of anterior area was statistically less than premolars area and molars area in group 1 (P<0.05). There was no statistical difference in pairwise comparison between the three sections (P>0.05). Conclusions: The digital models scanned intraoral methods provide accurate, quantitative measures of occlusal contacts when transillumination contacts are the reference standard.

The importance of proper and prompt treatment of ocular syphilis: a lesson from permanent vision loss in 52 eyes

BACKGROUND

Ocular involvement can occur at any stage of syphilis. Prompt diagnosis and proper treatment of ocular syphilis are vital to avoid long-term consequences.

OBJECTIVES

To describe the risk factors for ocular syphilis and clinical features of blindness caused by syphilis.

METHODS

We report risk factors for ocular syphilis amongst patients seen at the Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital between October 2009 and October 2017. We identify patients with ocular syphilis resulting in blindness and report the clinical characteristics, laboratory findings and treatment outcomes of these patients.

RESULTS

A total of 8310 new cases of syphilis were seen, of which 213 patients had ocular disease and 50 patients had blindness due to syphilis. Increasing age and higher RPR titres were associated with ocular involvement but there was no association with HIV status. Blindness in syphilis was restricted predominantly to patients with optic nerve involvement and not patients with isolated uveitis. Fifty patients (and a total of 67 eyes) met the WHO definition of blindness prior to treatment for syphilis. At the end of follow-up, vision had improved in 24 of 67 eyes (35.8%) after treatment. Successful treatment of uveitis was associated with the best improvement in visual acuity, whilst patient with underlying optic atrophy prior to treatment had the worst visual outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Ocular involvement is an important manifestation of syphilis which may result in blindness. Our data demonstrate outcomes for ocular syphilis are poor if detected late; early recognition and diagnosis is therefore vital to avoid permanent visual loss.

SAT0149 EXPOSURE-RESPONSE RELATIONSHIPS FOR EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF FILGOTINIB AND ITS METABOLITE GS-829845 IN SUBJECTS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS BASED ON PHASE 2 AND PHASE 3 STUDIES

Background:

Filgotinib is an orally administered small molecule that provides selective inhibition of JAK1, a signaling molecule that helps drive inflammatory pathways underlying rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Objectives:

Exposure-response (ER) analyses were performed for efficacy following completion of Phase 2 studies over a wide range of doses to support evaluation of 200mg and 100 mg once daily in Phase 3 studies. ER analyses were subsequently performed by using Phase 3 efficacy data to support selection of the proposed registrational dose. ER analyses for safety based on pooled Phase 2 and Phase 3 studies were conducted to examine the safety of evaluated doses.

Methods:

Population PK analyses were conducted to estimate plasma exposures of filgotinib and GS-829845 (major circulating active metabolite of filgotinib) in both Phase 2 (DARWIN 1 and DARWIN 2) and Phase 3 studies (FINCH 1, FINCH 2, and FINCH 3) encompassing a dose range of 25 to 100 mg twice daily and 50 to 200 mg once daily. As both filgotinib and GS-829845 contribute to efficacy via JAK1 inhibition, their exposures were combined into single parameters, AUCeff and Ctau-eff (effective area under the curve and effective concentration at trough, by accounting for relative inhibition potency and molecular weight) in the ER analyses for various efficacy endpoints (e.g ACR20/50/70 responses) at Week 12 and Week 24. The ER analyses for safety endpoints (the 5 most frequent treatment-emergent adverse events [TEAEs] and Grade 3 or 4 laboratory abnormalities, serious TEAEs, and serious infections) were performed separately for filgotinib and GS-829845 exposures to characterize the individual safety profile of each analyte. The 5 evaluated TEAEs were nausea, nasopharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infection, headache, and hypertension; the 5 Grade 3/4 laboratory abnormalities included lymphocytes decrease, glucose increase, phosphate decrease, triacylglycerol lipase increase, and creatine kinase increase.

Results:

In the ER analyses for efficacy based on Phase 2 studies, high response rates were demonstrated in ACR20/50/70 across all octile groups in subjects with RA receiving filgotinib and the ER supported further evaluation of both 200 mg and 100 mg once daily doses in Phase 3 clinical studies. Similarly, ER relationships based on pooled Phase 3 studies across various endpoints (e.g ACR20/50/70) consistently revealed high response rates across the exposure range for both the filgotinib 200 mg and 100 mg doses. A trend of increasing response with increasing exposure was observed over the exposure range for multiple secondary efficacy endpoints including ACR50 and ACR70 with the effective exposures at filgotinib 200 mg primarily residing on the plateau of the ER curves.

Filgotinib was generally well-tolerated with no individual TEAE or Grade 3 or 4 laboratory abnormality > 5% in the filgotinib 200 mg once daily group up to Week 12. No relationships were observed between filgotinib and GS-829845 exposures (AUC0-24 and Cmax) and the most frequent TEAEs, Grade 3/4 laboratory abnormalities, serious TEAEs, or serious infections up to Week 52.

Conclusion:

ER analyses demonstrate that both the 200 mg and 100 mg once daily filgotinib doses are efficacious in subjects with moderately to severely active RA without clear dose-dependent effects on safety. The trend towards greater efficacy with higher exposures for some secondary endpoints (ACR50 and ACR70) and a lack of exposure-safety relationship supports a dose of 200 mg once daily over 100 mg once daily since it presents the best benefit/risk ratio among the doses tested.

Disclosure of Interests: :

Amy Meng Shareholder of: Gilead Sciences, Employee of: Gilead, Kacey Anderson Shareholder of: Gilead Sciences, Employee of: Sciences, Cara Nelson Shareholder of: Gilead, Employee of: Gilead, Brian Kirby Shareholder of: Gilead, Employee of: Gilead, Liyun Ni Shareholder of: Gilead, Employee of: Gilead, Shu-Min Chuang Shareholder of: Gilead, Employee of: Gilead, Brian Kearney Shareholder of: Gilead, Employee of: Gilead, Anita Mathias Shareholder of: Gilead, Employee of: Gilead

Genome-wide association study for growth and fatness traits in Chinese Sujiang pigs

Growth and fatness traits are complex and economically important traits in the pig industry. The molecular basis underlying porcine growth and fatness traits remains largely unknown. To uncover genetic loci and candidate genes for these traits, we explored the GeneSeek GGP Porcine 80K SNP chip to perform a GWAS for seven growth and fatness traits in 365 individuals from the Sujiang pig, a recently developed breed in China. We identified two, 17, one and 11 SNPs surpassing the suggestively significant threshold (P < 1.86 × 10^-5 ) for body weight, chest circumference, chest width and backfat thickness respectively. Of these SNPs, 20 represent novel genetic loci, and five and four SNPs were respectively associated with chest circumference and backfat thickness at a genome-wide significant threshold (P < 9.31 × 10^-7 ). Eight SNPs had a pleiotropic effect on both chest circumference and backfat thickness. The most remarkable locus resided in a region between 72.95 and 76.27 Mb on pig chromosome 4, harboring a number of previously reported quantitative trait loci related to backfat deposition. In addition to two reported genes (PLAG1 and TAS2R38), we identified four genes including GABRB3, ZNF106, XKR4 and MGAM as novel candidates for body weight and backfat thickness at the mapped loci. Our findings provide insights into the genetic architecture of porcine growth and fatness traits and potential markers for selective breeding of Chinese Sujiang pigs.

Correction: Transition metal substituted sandwich-type polyoxometalates with a strong metal–C (imidazole) bond as anticancer agents

Correction for ‘Transition metal substituted sandwich-type polyoxometalates with a strong metal–C (imidazole) bond as anticancer agents’ by Hongxia Zhao et al., Chem. Commun., 2019, 55, 1096–1099.

Self-Assembled Supramolecular Polyoxometalate Hybrid Architecture as a Multifunctional Oxidation Catalyst

Polyoxometalates (POMs) are widely applied as tuneable and versatile catalysts for a variety of oxidation reactions in an aqueous/organic two-phase system. However, the practical applications of POMs-based biphasic catalysis are hampered by low space-time yields and mass-transport limitation between two layers due to extremely low solubility of the organic reactants in the aqueous phase. Here, we first introduced β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) as an inverse phase transfer agent and a supramolecular nanoreactor to construct a supramolecular POM inorganic-organic hybrid framework (KCl₄)Na₇[(β-CD)₃(SiW₁₂O₄₀)]·9H₂O {3CD@SiW₁₂} for various oxidation catalyses. In contrast to free CD, Keggin [SiW₁₂O₄₀]^4- catalysts, and their mixture, the {3CD@SiW₁₂} catalyst, efficiently catalyze oxidation reactions of alcohol, alkene, and thiophene. A comprehensive strategy of experimental, crystallographic, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations elucidates that the catalytic pathway involved three combined aspects of supramolecular recognition, phase transfer property, and POM catalysis. The strategic combination of supramolecular characteristic and POM-based catalysts to fabricate supramolecular POM hybrid materials opens up new economic and green tuning options, thus paving the way to informed catalyst design.

Pathways towards true catalysts: computational modelling and structural transformations of Zn-polyoxotungstates

Current catalysis undergoes a paradigm shift from molecular and heterogeneous realms towards new dynamic catalyst concepts. This calls for innovative strategies to understand the essential catalytic motifs and true catalysts emerging from oxidative transformation processes. Polyoxometalate (POM) clusters offer an inexhaustible reservoir for new noble metal-free catalysts and excellent model systems whose structure-activity relationships and mechanisms remain to be explored. Here, we first introduce a new {Zn_nNa_6-n(B-α-SbW₉O₃₃)₂} (n = 3-6) catalyst family with remarkable tuning options of the Zn-based core structure and high activity in H₂O₂-assisted catalytic alcohol oxidation as a representative reaction. Next, high level solution-based computational modelling of the intermediates and transition states was carried out for [Zn₆Cl₆(SbW₉O₃₃)₂]^12- as a representative well-defined case. The results indicate a radical-based oxidation process with the involvement of tungsten and adjacent zinc metal centers. The {Zn_nNa_6-n(B-α-SbW₉O₃₃)₂} series indeed efficiently catalyses alcohol oxidation via peroxotungstate intermediates, in agreement with strong spectroscopic support and other experimental evidence for the radical mechanism. Finally, the high performance of [Zn₆Cl₆(SbW₉O₃₃)₂]^12- was traced back to its transformation into a highly active and robust disordered Zn/W-POM catalyst. The atomic short-range structure of this resting pre-catalyst was elucidated by RMC modelling of the experimental W-L₃ and Zn-K edge EXAFS spectra and supported with further analytical methods. We demonstrate that computational identification of the reactive sites combined with the analytical tracking of their dynamic transformations provides essential input to expedite cluster-based molecular catalyst design.

Podocyte GSK3α is important for autophagy and its loss detrimental for glomerular function

Podocytes are key cells in maintaining the integrity of the glomerular filtration barrier and preventing albuminuria. Glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3) is a multi-functional serine/threonine kinase existing as two distinct but related isoforms (α and β). In the podocyte it has previously been reported that inhibition of the β isoform is beneficial in attenuating a variety of glomerular disease models but loss of both isoforms is catastrophic. However, it is not known what the role of GSK3α is in these cells. We now show that GSK3α is present and dynamically modulated in podocytes. When GSK3α is transgenically knocked down specifically in the podocytes of mice it causes mild but significant albuminuria by 6-weeks of life. Its loss also does not protect in models of diabetic or Adriamycin-induced nephropathy. In vitro deletion of podocyte GSK3α causes cell death and impaired autophagic flux suggesting it is important for this key cellular process. Collectively this work shows that GSK3α is important for podocyte health and that augmenting its function may be beneficial in treating glomerular disease.

Novel magnetically separable of Fe3O4/Ag3PO4@WO3 nanocomposites for enhanced photocatalytic and antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus)

BACKGROUND

Iron oxide nanocomposites have received a great attention for their application in various fields like physics, medicine, biology, and material science etc., due to their unique properties, such as magnetism, electrical properties, small size, biocompatibility and low toxicity.

METHODS

Fe3O4/Ag3PO4@WO3 nanocomposites with different weight percent of Ag3PO4 were successfully prepared through fabricated Ag3PO4/Fe3O4 with WO3 via in situ fabrication method, electrospinning involved precursor solution preparation and spinning to enhance photocatalyst performance under simulated sunlight for the degradation of methylene blue (MB) and antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus).

RESULTS

The photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) under simulated light irradiation indicated that the nanocomposite with 0.25 mg of Ag3PO4 has the best activity. An additional advantage of these photocatalysts is magnetic recoverability, using external magnetic field and photocatalytic stability of the nanocomposites was evaluated for three cycles. In addition, using different scavengers, holes (h+) and superoxide radical (O 2 ·-) radicals and hydroxide radical (·OH) were identified the main oxidative species in the degradation reaction of methylene blue.

CONCLUSIONS

The results reveal that Fe3O4/Ag3PO4@WO3-0.25 nanocomposites have photocatalytic and antibacterial activity against S. aureus. The photocatalyst and mechanism based on the enhancement of electron transfer processes between Ag3PO4 and WO3 nanoparticles.

[Smoking abstinence rate and its associated factors between abrupt and gradual smoking cessation]

Objective: To analyze and compare the abstinence rate of smoking quitting methods and its associated factors between abrupt and gradual smoking cessation in smokers with drug-based therapy. Methods: A prospective clinical study was conducted in patients undergoing quitting smoking intervention in Ruijin Hospital smoking cessation clinic between June 2013 and May 2016. All the subjects were randomized in a 1∶1 ratio into the abrupt smoking cessation group (smoking as usual over 3 weeks before a planned quit day, and then stopping smoking abruptly) and the gradual smoking cessation group (gradually reducing tobacco use over 3 weeks before a planned quit day, and then stopping smoking totally). The primary outcome was the complete abstinence rate, and the secondary outcomes included 1-month, 3-month and 6 month 7-day point prevalence of abstinence rates and 3 month sustained abstinence rates. Changes of body weight and drug adverse events were also compared. Results: A total of 314 moderate to severe nicotine-dependent patients were admitted in the study, including 157 patients in the abrupt smoking cessation and 157 patients in the gradual smoking cessation group. Fourteen patients fell off during the follow-up. For the complete abstinence rate, the gradual smoking cessation group was higher than the abrupt smoking cessation group(55.0% vs. 36.9%, χ(2)=9.841, P=0.002) .For 7-d smoking abstinence rate in the 1st, 3rd, 6th month, there was no significant difference between the 2 groups (all P>0.05). As for the 3-month sustained abstinence rate, a higher smoking quitting rate was seen in the gradual smoking cessation group compared to the abrupt smoking cessation group in the 6-month follow-up (17.9% vs.8.7%, χ(2)=5.441, P=0.020). The adverse drug reaction incidence was higher in the abrupt smoking cessation group than the gradual smoking cessation group (Gastrointestinal discomfort: 39.2% vs. 17.7%, χ(2)=12.336, P=0.000; Dreaminess: 40.2% vs. 13.3%, χ(2)=20.172, P=0.000). Conclusions: For moderate to severe nicotine-dependent patients, the gradual smoking cessation could serve to enhance the abstinence rate and mitigate the withdrawal symptoms.

Podocyte GSK3 is an evolutionarily conserved critical regulator of kidney function

Albuminuria affects millions of people, and is an independent risk factor for kidney failure, cardiovascular morbidity and death. The key cell that prevents albuminuria is the terminally differentiated glomerular podocyte. Here we report the evolutionary importance of the enzyme Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 (GSK3) for maintaining podocyte function in mice and the equivalent nephrocyte cell in Drosophila. Developmental deletion of both GSK3 isoforms (α and β) in murine podocytes causes late neonatal death associated with massive albuminuria and renal failure. Similarly, silencing GSK3 in nephrocytes is developmentally lethal for this cell. Mature genetic or pharmacological podocyte/nephrocyte GSK3 inhibition is also detrimental; producing albuminuric kidney disease in mice and nephrocyte depletion in Drosophila. Mechanistically, GSK3 loss causes differentiated podocytes to re-enter the cell cycle and undergo mitotic catastrophe, modulated via the Hippo pathway but independent of Wnt-β-catenin. This work clearly identifies GSK3 as a critical regulator of podocyte and hence kidney function.

OCT4 is up-regulated by DNA hypomethylation of promoter in recurrent gliomas

OCT4, a marker of embryonic stem cells, is also a key transcription factor that plays a regulatory role in the self-renewal, proliferation and differentiation of stem cells. Previous studies showed that DNA methylation is involved in the regulation of OCT4 expression during the development and differentiation of embryonic stem cells. However, DNA methylation in the promoter region of OCT4 has not yet been discussed in human recurrent glioma. In this study, we assessed the specimens from 24 cases of recurrent glioma for OCT4 expression and methylation status, and commenced analyzing the correlation between the two by treating glioma cells with a demethylating agent in vitro. The results demonstrated that for the same cases, the expression of OCT4 in specimens of recurrent glioma was significant higher than that in primary glioma (P<0.05). DNA methylation levels in recurrent glioma decreased obviously compared with that in primary glioma (t=9.800, P=0.008). In vitro study indicated, following demethylation treatment, glioma cells had an increased OCT4 expression. These results suggest that DNA hypomethylation may be a key mechanism underlying the up-regulation of OCT4 in the recurrence of glioma, which facilitates the understanding of the role of stem cells and the exploration of novel strategies for the treatment of recurrent glioma.

Transition metal substituted sandwich-type polyoxometalates with a strong metal–C (imidazole) bond as anticancer agents

The metal–carbon bond plays a pivotal role in the structural stabilities and biological activities of metal-based anticancer drugs. The strong M–C_imi bond is first introduced into sandwich-type POMs [Na_0.7M_5.3(H₂O)₂(imi)₂(Himi)(SbW₉O₃₃)₂]⁶⁻, (M = Ni^II (1), Co^II (2), imi = imidazole).