Impaired local Vitamin D3 metabolism contributes to IL-36g overproduction in epithelial cells in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps

BACKGROUND

Vitamin D (VD) possesses immunomodulatory properties, but its role in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) remains poorly studied. Herein, we aim to explore the regulation and function of VD3 in CRSwNP.

METHODS

25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25VD3) levels in serum and tissue lysates were detected by ELISA. The expression of VD receptor (VDR) and cytochrome P450 family 27 subfamily B member 1 (CYP27B1), the enzyme that converts 25VD3 to the active 1,25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25VD3), and their expression regulation in human nasal epithelial cells (HNECs) were studied by RT-PCR, western blotting, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry. RNA sequencing was performed to identify genes regulated by 1,25VD3 in HNECs. HNECs and polyp tissue explants were treated with 1,25VD3, 25VD3, and dexamethasone.

RESULTS

25VD3 levels in serum and nasal tissue lysates were decreased in patients with eosinophilic and noneosinophilic CRSwNP than control subjects. The expression of VDR and CYP27B1 were reduced in eosinophilic and noneosinophilic CRSwNP, particularly in nasal epithelial cells. VDR and CYP27B1 expression in HNECs were downregulated by interferon y and poly (I:C). Polyp-derived epithelial cells demonstrated an impaired ability to convert 25VD3 to 1,25VD3 than control tissues. 1,25VD3 and 25VD3 suppressed IL-36y production in HNECs and polyp tissues, and the effect of 25VD3 was abolished by siCYP27B1 treatment. Tissue 25VD3 levels negatively correlated with IL-36y expression and neutrophilic inflammation in CRSwNP.

CONCLUSION

Reduced systemic 25VD3 level, local 1,25VD3 generation and VDR expression result in impaired VD3 signaling activation in nasal epithelial cells, thereby exaggerating IL-36y production and neutrophilic inflammation in CRSwNP.

Association of serum lipids and abnormal lipid score with cancer risk: a population-based prospective study

BACKGROUND

Serum lipid levels are associated with cancer risk. However, there still have uncertainties about the single and combined effects of low lipid levels on cancer risk.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study of 33,773 adults in Shanghai between 2016 and 2017 was conducted. Total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels were measured. Cox proportional hazard models were used to assess the association of single and combined lipids with overall, lung, colon, rectal, thyroid gland, stomach, and female breast cancers. The effect of the combination of abnormal lipid score and lifestyle on cancer was also estimated.

RESULTS

A total of 926 incident cancer cases were identified. In the RCS analysis, hazard ratios (HRs) of overall cancer for individuals with TC < 5.18 mmol/L or with LDL-C < 3.40 mmol/L were higher. Low TC was associated with higher colorectal cancer risk (HR [95% CI] = 1.76 [1.09-2.84]) and low HDL-C increased thyroid cancer risk by 90%. Abnormal lipid score was linearly and positively associated with cancer risk, and smokers with high abnormal lipid scores had a higher cancer risk, compared to non-smokers with low abnormal lipid scores (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Low TC levels were associated with an increased risk of overall and colorectal cancer. More attention should be paid to participants with high abnormal lipid scores and unhealthy lifestyles who may have a higher risk of developing cancer. Determining the specific and comprehensive lipid combinations that affect tumorigenesis remains a valuable challenge.

An ultrasmall organic synapse for neuromorphic computing

High-performance organic neuromorphic devices with miniaturized device size and computing capability are essential elements for developing brain-inspired humanoid intelligence technique. However, due to the structural inhomogeneity of most organic materials, downscaling of such devices to nanoscale and their high-density integration into compact matrices with reliable device performance remain challenging at the moment. Herein, based on the design of a semicrystalline polymer PBFCL10 with ordered structure to regulate dense and uniform formation of conductive nanofilaments, we realize an organic synapse with the smallest device dimension of 50 nm and highest integration size of 1 Kb reported thus far. The as-fabricated PBFCL10 synapses can switch between 32 conductance states linearly with a high cycle-to-cycle uniformity of 98.89% and device-to-device uniformity of 99.71%, which are the best results of organic devices. A mixed-signal neuromorphic hardware system based on the organic neuromatrix and FPGA controller is implemented to execute spiking-plasticity-related algorithm for decision-making tasks.

Recent advances in defect-engineered molybdenum sulfides for catalytic applications

Electrochemical energy conversion and storage driven by renewable energy sources is drawing ever-increasing interest owing to the needs of sustainable development. Progress in the related electrochemical reactions relies on highly active and cost-effective catalysts to accelerate the sluggish kinetics. A substantial number of catalysts have been exploited recently, thanks to the advances in materials science and engineering. In particular, molybdenum sulfide (MoSx) furnishes a classic platform for studying catalytic mechanisms, improving catalytic performance and developing novel catalytic reactions. Herein, the recent theoretical and experimental progress of defective MoSx for catalytic applications is reviewed. This article begins with a brief description of the structure and basic catalytic applications of MoS2. The employment of defective two-dimensional and non-two-dimensional MoSx catalysts in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is then reviewed, with a focus on the combination of theoretical and experimental tools for the rational design of defects and understanding of the reaction mechanisms. Afterward, the applications of defective MoSx as catalysts for the N2 reduction reaction, the CO2 reduction reaction, metal-sulfur batteries, metal-oxygen/air batteries, and the industrial hydrodesulfurization reaction are discussed, with a special emphasis on the synergy of multiple defects in achieving performance breakthroughs. Finally, the perspectives on the challenges and opportunities of defective MoSx for catalysis are presented.

Impact of shift work on dementia: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Although shift work has been reported as having a link to dementia, evidence remains inconsistent, and a comprehensive dose-response meta-analysis of the association is still lacking. We therefore conducted this meta-analysis to explore the association between shift work and the risk of dementia.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases were systematically searched. Fixed or random-effects models were used to estimate the summary relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). Generalized least squares regression was used to estimate dose-response associations, and restricted cubic splines were used to examine possible linear or non-linear associations.

RESULTS

Five articles (10 studies) with 72,999 participants and 23,067 cases were eventually included in the meta-analysis. The summary RRs and 95% CIs of dementia risk with shift work and night shift work versus daytime work were 1.13 (95% CI: 1.05-1.21, I2 = 46.70%) and 1.13 (95% CI: 1.03-1.24, I2 = 9.20%), respectively. The risk of dementia increased by 1% (RR = 1.01, 95% CI: 1.01-1.02, I2 = 41.3%) with each 1-year increase in the duration of shift work. We found a non-linear dose-response association between the duration of shift work and the risk of dementia (Pnon-linearity = 0.006). Though the shape of the curve was steeper with the duration of shift work <7 years, the increase was more gradual after 7 years.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that shift work may be a risk factor for future dementia and that controlling the length of shift work is a feasible measure that may contribute to prevent dementia.

Inhibition of defect-induced α-to-δ phase transition for efficient and stable formamidinium perovskite solar cells

Defects passivation is widely devoted to improving the performance of formamidinium lead triiodide perovskite solar cells; however, the effect of various defects on the α-phase stability is still unclear. Here, using density functional theory, we first reveal the degradation pathway of the formamidinium lead triiodide perovskite from α to δ phase and investigate the effect of various defects on the energy barrier of phase transition. The simulation results predict that iodine vacancies are most likely to trigger the degradation, since they obviously reduce the energy barrier of α-to-δ phase transition and have the lowest formation energies at the perovskite surface. A water-insoluble lead oxalate compact layer is introduced on the perovskite surface to largely suppress the α-phase collapse through hindering the iodine migration and volatilization. Furthermore, this strategy largely reduces the interfacial nonradiative recombination and boosts the efficiency of the solar cells to 25.39% (certified 24.92%). Unpackaged device can maintain 92% of its initial efficiency after operation at maximum power point under simulated air mass 1.5 G irradiation for 550 h.

[Epidemiological characteristics of incident cases and risk factors of hepatitis C infection in Beijing City from 2004 to 2021]

Objective: To analyze the epidemiological characteristics and related factors of hepatitis C in Beijing City from 2004 to 2021. Methods: Descriptive epidemiological method and Joinpoint regression were used to analyze the trend and other epidemiological characteristics of hepatitis C in Beijing City from 2004 to 2021 in National Notifiable Disease Reporting System. According to a 1∶1 matched case-control study design, logistic regression was used to investigate the risk factors of hepatitis C infection in 2021. Results: From 2004 to 2021, the reported incidence of hepatitis C in Beijing City ranged from 2.37/100 000 to 10.46/100 000. The reported cases were mainly aged 30-60 years, and most of them were chronic. The reported incidence of hepatitis C showed an initial increase from 2004 to 2006 (APC=45.37%, 95%CI:-1.56%-114.69%), and declined after 2006 (APC=-9.21%, 95%CI:-10.70%-7.70%). Logistic analysis showed that history of surgery (OR=1.84, 95%CI: 1.08-3.14) and previous blood transfusion (OR=34.22, 95%CI: 8.05-145.41) were risk factors for hepatitis C infection. Conclusion: The reported incidence of hepatitis C in Beijing City increases first and decreases later. It currently remains at a low level. The risk factors of infection are surgery and blood transfusion history. Safe blood supply and preventing iatrogenic transmission should be focused on the prevention of hepatitis C transmission.

[Comparison of aspirin treatment strategies for primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases: A decision-analytic Markov modelling study]

OBJECTIVE

To compare the expected population impact of benefit and risk of aspirin treatment strategies for the primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases recommended by different guidelines in the Chinese Electronic Health Records Research in Yinzhou (CHERRY) study.

METHODS

A decision-analytic Markov model was used to simulate and compare different strategies of aspirin treatment, including: Strategy ①: Aspirin treatment for Chinese adults aged 40-69 years with a high 10-year cardiovascular risk, recommended by the 2020 Chinese Guideline on the Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases; Strategy ②: Aspirin treatment for Chinese adults aged 40-59 years with a high 10-year cardiovascular risk, recommended by the 2022 United States Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement on Aspirin Use to Prevent Cardiovascular Disease; Strategy ③: Aspirin treatment for Chinese adults aged 40-69 years with a high 10-year cardiovascular risk and blood pressure well-controlled (< 150/90 mmHg), recommended by the 2019 Guideline on the Assessment and Management of Cardio-vascular Risk in China. The high 10-year cardiovascular risk was defined as the 10-year predicted risk over 10% based on the 2019 World Health Organization non-laboratory model. The Markov model simulated different strategies for ten years (cycles) with parameters mainly from the CHERRY study or published literature. Quality-adjusted life year (QALY) and the number needed to treat (NNT) for each ischemic event (including myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke) were calculated to assess the effectiveness of the different strategies. The number needed to harm (NNH) for each bleeding event (including hemorrhagic stroke and gastrointestinal bleeding) was calculated to assess the safety. The NNT for each net benefit (i.e., the difference of the number of ischemic events could be prevented and the number of bleeding events would be added) was also calculated. One-way sensitivity analysis on the uncertainty of the incidence rate of cardiovascular diseases and probabilistic sensitivity analysis on the uncertainty of hazard ratios of interventions were conducted.

RESULTS

A total of 212 153 Chinese adults, were included in this study. The number of people who were recommended for aspirin treatment Strategies ①-③ was 34 235, 2 813, and 25 111, respectively. The Strategy ③ could gain the most QALY of 403 [95% uncertainty interval (UI): 222-511] years. Compared with Strategy ①, Strategy ③ had similar efficiency but better safety, with the extra NNT of 4 (95%UI: 3-4) and NNH of 39 (95%UI: 19-132). The NNT per net benefit was 131 (95%UI: 102-239) for Strategy ①, 256 (95%UI: 181-737) for Strategy ②, and 132 (95%UI: 104-232) for Strategy ③, making Strategy ③ the most favorable option with a better QALY and safety, along with similar efficiency in terms of net benefit. The results were consistent in the sensitivity analyses.

CONCLUSION

The aspirin treatment strategies recommended by the updated guidelines on the primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases showed a net benefit for high-risk Chinese adults from developed areas. However, to balance effectiveness and safety, aspirin is suggested to be used for primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases with consideration for blood pressure control, resulting in better intervention efficiency.

Optical engineering of infrared PbS CQD photovoltaic cells for wireless optical power transfer systems

Infrared photovoltaic cells (IRPCs) have attracted considerable attention for potential applications in wireless optical power transfer (WOPT) systems. As an efficient fiber-integrated WOPT system typically uses a 1550 nm laser beam, it is essential to tune the peak conversion efficiency of IRPCs to this wavelength. However, IRPCs based on lead sulfide (PbS) colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) with an excitonic peak of 1550 nm exhibit low short circuit current (J_sc) due to insufficient absorption under monochromatic light illumination. Here, we propose comprehensive optical engineering to optimize the device structure of IRPCs based on PbS CQDs, for 1550 nm WOPT systems. The absorption by the device is enhanced by improving the transmittance of tin-doped indium oxide (ITO) in the infrared region and by utilizing the optical resonance effect in the device. Therefore, the optimized device exhibited a high short circuit current density of 37.65 mA/cm² under 1 sun (AM 1.5G) solar illumination and 11.91 mA/cm² under 1550 nm illumination 17.3 mW/cm². Furthermore, the champion device achieved a record high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 7.17% under 1 sun illumination and 10.29% under 1550 nm illumination. The PbS CQDs IRPCs under 1550 nm illumination can even light up a liquid crystal display (LCD), demonstrating application prospects in the future.

Clinical Relevance of Plaque Distribution for Basilar Artery Stenosis

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

There is no clear association between plaque distribution and postoperative complications in patients with basilar artery atherosclerotic stenosis. The aim of this study was to determine whether plaque distribution and postoperative complications after endovascular treatment for basilar artery stenosis are related.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Our study enrolled patients with severe basilar artery stenosis who were scanned with high-resolution MR imaging and followed by DSA before the intervention. According to high-resolution MR imaging, plaques can be classified as ventral, lateral, dorsal, or involved in 2 quadrants. Plaques affecting the proximal, distal, or junctional segments of the basilar artery were classified according to DSA. An experienced independent team assessed ischemic events after the intervention using MR imaging. Further analysis was conducted to determine the relationship between plaque distribution and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

A total of 140 eligible patients were included in the study, with a postoperative complication rate of 11.4%. These patients were an average age of 61.9 (SD, 7.7) years. Dorsal wall plaques accounted for 34.3% of all plaques, and plaques distal to the anterior-inferior cerebellar artery accounted for 60.7%. Postoperative complications of endovascular treatment were associated with plaques located at the lateral wall (OR = 4.00; 95% CI, 1.21-13.23; P = .023), junctional segment (OR = 8.75; 95% CI, 1.16-66.22; P = .036), and plaque burden (OR = 1.03; 95% CI, 1.01-1.06; P = .042).

CONCLUSIONS

Plaques with a large burden located at the junctional segment and lateral wall of the basilar artery may increase the likelihood of postoperative complications following endovascular therapy. A larger sample size is needed for future studies.

[Application of discrete event simulation model in analysis on cost-effectiveness of epidemiology screening]

Discrete event simulation (DES) model is based on individual data, by which discrete events over time are simulated to reflect disease progression. The effects of individual characteristics on disease progression could be considered in the DES model. Moreover, unlike state-transition models, DES model without setting of fixed cycle can contribute to more accurate estimation of event time, especially in the evaluation of the long-term effectiveness of screening strategies for complex diseases in which time dimension needs to be considered. This article introduces the general principles, construction steps, analytic methods and other relevant issues of the DES model. Based on a research case of estimating the cost-effectiveness of screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms in women aged 65 years and above in the United Kingdom, key points in applications of the DES model in analysis on effectiveness of complex disease screening are discussed in detail, including model construction and analysis and interpretation of the results. DES model can predict occurring time of discrete events accurately by establishing the distribution function of their occurring time and is increasingly used to evaluate the screening strategies for complex diseases in which time dimension needs to be considered. In the construction of DES model, it is necessary to pay close attention to the clear presentation of model structure and simulation process and follow the relevant reporting specification to conduct cost-effectiveness analysis to ensure the transparency and repeatability of the research.

Substrate engineering for wafer-scale two-dimensional material growth: strategies, mechanisms, and perspectives

The fabrication of wafer-scale two-dimensional (2D) materials is a prerequisite and important step for their industrial applications. Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) is the most promising approach to produce high-quality films in a scalable way. Recent breakthroughs in the epitaxy of wafer-scale single-crystalline graphene, hexagonal boron nitride, and transition-metal dichalcogenides highlight the pivotal roles of substrate engineering by lattice orientation, surface steps, and energy considerations. This review focuses on the existing strategies and underlying mechanisms, and discusses future directions in epitaxial substrate engineering to deliver wafer-scale 2D materials for integrated electronics and photonics.

Efficient thin-film perovskite solar cells from a two-step sintering of nanocrystals

Creating semiconductor thin films from sintering of colloidal nanocrystals (NCs) represents a very important technology for high throughput and low cost thin-film photovoltaics. Here we report the creation of all-inorganic cesium lead bromide (CsPbBr₃) polycrystalline films with grain size exceeding 1 μm from the bottom up by sintering of CsPbBr₃ NCs terminated with short and low-boiling-point alky ligands that are ideal for use in sintered photovoltaics. The grain growth behavior during the sintering process was carefully investigated and correlated to the solar cell performance. To achieve precise control over the microstructural development we propose a facile two-step sintering process involving the grain growth via coarsening at a relative low temperature followed by densification at a high temperature. Compared with the one-step sintering, the two-step process yields a more uniform CsPbBr₃ bulk film with larger grain size, higher density and lower trap density. Consequently, the photovoltaic device based on the two-step sintering process demonstrates a significant enhancement of efficiency with reduced hysteresis that approaches the best reported CsPbBr₃ solar cells using a similar configuration. Our study specifies a rarely addressed perspective concerning the sintering mechanism of perovskite NCs and should contribute to the development of high-performance bulk perovskite devices based on the building blocks of perovskite NCs.

Vitamin D supplementation and adverse skeletal and non-skeletal outcomes in individuals at increased cardiovascular risk: Results from the International Polycap Study (TIPS)-3 randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Vitamin D has mostly been tested in Western populations. We examined the effect of high dose vitamin D in a population drawn predominantly from outside of Western countries.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This randomized trial tested vitamin D 60,000 IU monthly in 5670 participants without vascular disease but at increased CV risk. The primary outcome was fracture. The secondary outcome was the composite of CV death, myocardial infarction stroke, cancer, fracture or fall. Death was a pre-specified outcome. Mean age was 63.9 years, and 3005 (53.0%) were female. 3034 (53.5%) participants resided in South Asia, 1904 (33.6%) in South East Asia, 480 (8.5%) in South America, and 252 (4.4%) in other regions. Mean follow-up was 4.6 years. A fracture occurred in 20 participants (0.2 per 100 person years) assigned to vitamin D, and 19 (0.1 per 100 person years) assigned to placebo (HR 1.06, 95% CI 0.57-1.99, p-value = 0.86). The secondary outcome occurred in 222 participants (1.8 per 100 person years) assigned to vitamin D, and 198 (1.6 per 100 person years) assigned to placebo (HR 1.13, 95% CI 0.93-1.37, p = 0.22). 172 (1.3 per 100 person years) participants assigned to vitamin D died, compared with 135 (1.0 per 100 person years) assigned to placebo (HR 1.29, 95% CI 1.03-1.61, p = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

In a population predominantly from South Asia, South East Asia and South America, high-dose vitamin D did not reduce adverse skeletal or non-skeletal outcomes. Higher mortality was observed in the vitamin D group.

REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT01646437.

Early Release Science of the exoplanet WASP-39b with JWST NIRSpec PRISM

Transmission spectroscopy1-3 of exoplanets has revealed signatures of water vapour, aerosols and alkali metals in a few dozen exoplanet atmospheres4,5. However, these previous inferences with the Hubble and Spitzer Space Telescopes were hindered by the observations' relatively narrow wavelength range and spectral resolving power, which precluded the unambiguous identification of other chemical species-in particular the primary carbon-bearing molecules6,7. Here we report a broad-wavelength 0.5-5.5 µm atmospheric transmission spectrum of WASP-39b8, a 1,200 K, roughly Saturn-mass, Jupiter-radius exoplanet, measured with the JWST NIRSpec's PRISM mode9 as part of the JWST Transiting Exoplanet Community Early Release Science Team Program10-12. We robustly detect several chemical species at high significance, including Na (19σ), H2O (33σ), CO2 (28σ) and CO (7σ). The non-detection of CH4, combined with a strong CO2 feature, favours atmospheric models with a super-solar atmospheric metallicity. An unanticipated absorption feature at 4 µm is best explained by SO2 (2.7σ), which could be a tracer of atmospheric photochemistry. These observations demonstrate JWST's sensitivity to a rich diversity of exoplanet compositions and chemical processes.

Metal-Organic Frameworks-Based Memristors: Materials, Devices, and Applications

Facing the explosive growth of data, a number of new micro-nano devices with simple structure, low power consumption, and size scalability have emerged in recent years, such as neuromorphic computing based on memristor. The selection of resistive switching layer materials is extremely important for fabricating of high performance memristors. As an organic-inorganic hybrid material, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have the advantages of both inorganic and organic materials, which makes the memristors using it as a resistive switching layer show the characteristics of fast erasing speed, outstanding cycling stability, conspicuous mechanical flexibility, good biocompatibility, etc. Herein, the recent advances of MOFs-based memristors in materials, devices, and applications are summarized, especially the potential applications of MOFs-based memristors in data storage and neuromorphic computing. There also are discussions and analyses of the challenges of the current research to provide valuable insights for the development of MOFs-based memristors.

A High-Quality Dopant-Free Electron-Selective Passivating Contact Made from Ultra-Low Concentration Water Solution

Crystalline silicon solar cells produced by doping processes have intrinsic shortages of high Auger recombination and/or severe parasitic optical absorption. Dopant-free carrier-selective contacts (DF-CSCs) are alternative routines for the next generation of highly efficient solar cells. However, it is difficult to achieve both good passivating and low contact resistivity for most DF-CSCs. In this paper, a high-quality dopant-free electron-selective passivating contact made from ultra-low concentration water solution is reported. Both low recombination current (J₀) ~10 fA/cm² and low contact resistivity (ρ_c) ~31 mΩ·cm² are demonstrated with this novel contact on intrinsic amorphous silicon thin film passivated n-Si. The electron selectivity is attributed to relieving of the interfacial Fermi level pinning because of dielectric properties (decaying of the metal-induced gap states (MIGS)). The full-area implementation of the novel passivating contact shows 20.4% efficiency on a prototype solar cell without an advanced lithography process. Our findings offer a very simple, cost-effective, and efficient solution for future semiconductor devices, including photovoltaics and thin-film transistors.

Solution-Processed Synaptic Memristors Based on Halide Perovskite Nanocrystals

Exploring new materials and structures to construct synaptic devices represents a promising route to fundamentally approach novel forms of computing. Nanocrystals (NCs) of halide perovskites possess unique charge transport characteristics, i.e., ionic-electronic coupling, holding considerable promise for energy-efficient and reconfigurable artificial synapses. Herein, we report solution-processed thin-film memristors from all-inorganic CsPbBr₃ perovskite NCs, functioning as an electrically programmable analog memory with good stability. The devices are demonstrated to successfully emulate a number of essential synaptic functions with low power consumption, including reversible potentiation and depression, short-term plasticity (STP), paired-pulse facilitation (PPF), and long-term plasticity (LTP), such as spike-number-dependent plasticity (SNDP), spike-rate-dependent plasticity (SRDP), spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP), and spike-voltage-dependent plasticity (SVDP). It is proposed that a coupled capacitive and inductive phenomenon originating from charge trapping and ion migration in CsPbBr₃ NC films, controlled by the amplitude and timing of the programming pulses, defines the degree of synaptic plasticity. A transition emerges from the fast trap-related capacitive regime to a slow ionic inductive regime, which enables continuous change of the film resistance and the magnitude of the electronic current, analogous to the synaptic weight modulation in biological synapses.

Current diagnosis and potential obstacles for post-neurosurgical bacterial meningitis

Despite the guidance of aseptic technology applied, bacterial meningitis seems to be an unavoidable obstacle in the process of neurosurgery, with high rates of disability and mortality. The diagnosis of post-neurosurgical bacterial meningitis (PNBM) mainly depends both on clinical symptoms and laboratory outcomes. Due to the excessive neuro-inflammatory reactions which are evoked by the primary brain disease or the craniotomy operation, the symptoms derived from the infection and aseptic may not be easily distinguished. On the other hand, the low positive rate and time-consuming character restrict the clinical practical values of bacterial culture. Therefore, it is always difficult to make a definite diagnosis of post-neurosurgical bacterial meningitis. Here, we reviewed the established literature about the diagnostic biomarkers for the PNBM and analyzed the potential obstacles in both clinical and scientific studies. Given the obstacle which has negative impacts on further investigation about the biology of PNBM, we only find relatively small numbers of study on PNBM. In this review, we summarize the established diagnostic methods and biomarkers for PNBM. Meanwhile, we also propose some potential investigation prospects. This review may help to better understand the character of PNBM in both clinical diagnosis and scientific investigations.

Dual Functional Dopant-Free Contacts with Titanium Protecting Layer: Boosting Stability while Balancing Electron Transport and Recombination Losses

Combining electron- and hole-selective materials in one crystalline silicon (Si) solar cell, thereby avoiding any dopants, is not considered for application to photovoltaic industry until only comparable efficiency and stable performance are achievable. Here, it is demonstrated how a conventionally unstable electron-selective contact (ESC) is optimized with huge boost in stability as well as improved electron transport. With the introduction of a Ti thin film between a-Si:H(i)/LiF and Al electrode, high-level passivation (S_eff  = 4.6 cm s^-1 ) from a-Si:H(i) and preferential band alignment (ρ_C  = 7.9 mΩ cm² ) from low work function stack of LiF/Ti/Al are both stably retained in the newly constructed n-Si/a-Si:H(i)/LiF/Ti/Al ESC. A detailed interfacial elements analysis reveals that the efficiently blocked inward diffusion of Al from electrode by the Ti protecting layer balances transport and recombination losses in general. This excellent electron-selective properties in combination with large process tolerance that enable remarkable device performance, particularly high efficiencies of 22.12% and 23.61%, respectively, are successfully approached by heterojunction solar cells with dopant-free ESC and dopant-free contacts for both polarities.

[Effectiveness of statin treatment strategies for primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases in a community-based Chinese population: A decision-analytic Markov model]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of statin treatment strategies based on risk assessment for the primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases by the Western guidelines in a community-based Chinese population from economically developed areas using data from the Chinese electronic health records research in Yinzhou (CHERRY) study.

METHODS

A Markov model was used to evaluate the effectiveness of the following statin treatment strategies, including: (1) usual care without cardiovascular risk assessment(Strategy 0); (2) using the World Health Organization (WHO) non-laboratory-based risk charts with statin treatment for high-risk group (risk ≥ 20%) (Strategy 1); (3) using the WHO laboratory-based risk charts with statin treatment for high-risk group (risk ≥ 20%) (Strategy 2); and (4) using the Prediction for Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease Risk in China (China-PAR) model with statin treatment for high-risk group (risk ≥ 10%, Strategy 3). According to the guidelines, adults in the medium-risk group received lifestyle intervention, and adults in the high-risk group received life-style intervention and statin treatment under these strategies. The Markov model simulated different strategies for ten years (cycles) using parameters from the CHERRY study, published data, meta-analyses and systematic reviews for Chinese. The number of cardiovascular events or deaths, as well as the number need to treat (NNT) with statin per cardiovascular event or death prevented, were calculated to compare the effectiveness of different strategies. One-way sensitivity analysis on the uncertainty of incidence rate of cardiovascular diseases, and probabilistic sensitivity analysis on the uncertainty of hazard ratios of interventions were conducted.

RESULTS

Totally 225 811 Chinese adults aged 40-79 years without cardiovascular diseases at baseline were enrolled. In contrast to the usual care without risk assessment-based statin treatment strategy, Strategy 1 using the WHO non-laboratory-based risk charts could prevent 3 482 [95% uncertainty interval (UI): 2 110-4 661] cardiovascular events, Strategy 2 using the WHO laboratory-based risk charts could prevent 3 685 (95%UI: 2 255-4 912) events, and Strategy 3 using the China-PAR model could prevent 3 895 (95%UI: 2 396-5 181) events. NNTs with statin per cardiovascular event prevented were 22 (95%UI: 14-54), 21 (95%UI: 14-52), and 27 (95%UI: 17-67), respectively. Strategy 3 could prevent more cardiovascular events, while Strategies 1 and 2 required fewer numbers need to treat with statin per cardiovascular event prevented. The results were consistent in the sensitivity analyses.

CONCLUSION

The statin treatment strategies based on risk assessment for the primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases recommended by the Western guidelines could achieve substantive health benefits in adults from developed areas of China. Using the China-PAR model for cardiovascular risk assessment could prevent more cardiovascular diseases while using the WHO risk charts seems more efficient.

[Applications of microsimulation model for cost-effectiveness analysis on screening in epidemiology]

Microsimulation model simulates individuals and estimates transition probabilities within the population using individual participant data. This approach could deal with the heterogeneous characteristics among the people or personal history of diseases and may be relevant in addressing cost-effectiveness problems of screening for complex conditions in epidemiology. This paper introduces the general principles, basic steps involved in implementation, analytic methods, and other related issues of the microsimulation model. Based on a practical research case of estimating the cost-effectiveness of microalbuminuria screening for chronic kidney disease in the United States, critical points in applications of the microsimulation model for cost-effectiveness analysis of screening were discussed in detail, including model development, model analysis, and the interpretation of the results. The microsimulation model considers the dynamic nature of complex diseases by estimating a broad range of individual characteristics and increasingly used to provide insights into complex problems that the Markov model does not efficiently address. For better supporting evidence-informed decision-making in public health, future studies should be aware of the accuracy of parameters in the decision-analytic model and the transparency of the models and results, as well as complying with the relevant reporting standards.

[Overlap esophagojejunostomy with multi-mode modifications in totally laparoscopic total gastrectomy: safety and feasibility of 152 cases from a single center]

Objective: Currently, the Overlap anastomosis is one of the most favored reconstruction methods of intracorporeal esophagojejunostomy (EJS). Despite many advantages of the method, it remains some shortcomings to be improved when it comes to the retraction of the esophagus stump, the insertion of the anvil fork of the linear stapler into a "pseudo" lumen, and the closure of the common entry hole. This study aims to investigate the safety and feasibility of a multi-mode modified Overlap anastomosis. Methods: A descriptive case series study was conducted. Medical records of 152 consecutive patients who underwent totally laparoscopic total gastrectomy (TLTG) with our multi-mode modified Overlap EJS method by the same surgical team at our department from February 2017 to June 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. The multi-mode modified Overlap method mainly included (1) After ensuring the safety of tumor resection margin (proximal margin was at least 3 cm from the tumor), the esophagus was partially transected from left to right (with 5-8 mm width esophagus continuation). The specimen was then placed in a plastic bag which was tied up at the mouth using strings with a part of the esophageal wall poking through. Then the plastic bag containing the specimen was transferred to the right lumbar region, while the patient's body position was adjusted so that the abdominal esophagus could be pulled by the gravity of the specimen. (2) Using the "three-direction traction" method. The esophageal lumen was properly exposed, then guided by the gastric tube, the anvil fork was accurately placed into the esophageal lumen for completing the side-to-side EJS. (3) The 3-0 barbed suture was used in the closure of the common entry hole of the stapler from dorsally to ventrally with simple one-layer continuous suture (the stitch going from inside to inside) followed by continuous Lembert's suture (the stitch going from outside to outside). Combined with clinicopathological characteristics, the perioperative outcomes and postoperative complications of the whole group were analyzed and evaluated. Results: The study cohort included 129 men and 23 women, with a mean age of (60.2±9.1) years and a mean body mass index (BMI) of (23.2±3.1) kg/m(2). Of the 152 patients, 23 patients (15.1%) had a history of previous abdominal surgery; dentate line was invaded by tumor in 21 patients (13.8%). The mean length of the proximal resection margin was (3.3±0.3) cm and the postoperative pathological examination indicated negative resection margin tumor. The mean operative time and anastomotic time were (302.1±39.9) minutes and (29.8±5.4) minutes, respectively. The mean estimated blood loss was (87.9±46.4) ml. The mean length of postoperative hospital stay was (12.3±7.3) days. The overall severe postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo ≥ II) occurred in 22 patients (14.5%). Six cases of pancreatic leakage were successfully recovered by adequate drainage, inhibition of pancreatic exocrine secretion and nutritional support. Ten cases of pneumonia and three cases of abdominal infection were cured with anti-infection and physical therapy. Two patients developed anastomotic leakage postoperatively. One case was caused by excessive tension of the Roux loop of the jejunum and excessive opening on the side of the jejunum after side-to-side anastomosis, and the other case was caused by an accidental intraoperative occurrence of "nasogastric tube stapled to the side-to-side anastomosis". Both of them recovered after conservative treatment including adequate drainage, anti-infection, and adequate nutritional support. One patient underwent immediate open surgery because of Peterson's hernia 7 days after TLTG, and the patient died due to extensive small bowel necrosis. Conclusions: Multi-mode modified overlap method simplifies the operation and reduces the difficulty of EJS. It is a safe and feasible method for EJS.

[Technical details of gastrointestinal reconstruction using linear stapler in totally laparoscopic total gastrectomy]

With the development of instrument, equipment and surgical skills, especially the emergence of a series of high-level medical evidence, the laparoscopic techniques in the field of gastric surgery has been further expanded. Totally laparoscopic total gastrectomy (TLTG) has certain technical difficulties, and more challenges are reflected in the digestive tract reconstruction. The use of linear staplers has reduced the difficulty of digestive tract reconstruction to a certain extent and has strongly promoted the transition from laparoscopic-assisted total gastrectomy to TLTG. However, for TLTG, there are still many details that should be carefully concerned, so as to effectively avoid the surgical pitfalls and ensure the fluency and safety of the procedure. In this article, we discuss the surgical details based on our own experiences, including how to obtain surgical field exposure well, how to manage specific accidents when using linear stapler for esophagojejunostomy, how to prevent intra-abdominal hernias and Roux stasis syndrome, and how to prevent the stapled lines of the esophageal or jejunal stumps from direct contact with aorta.

Leptin Aggravates Periodontitis by Promoting M1 Polarization via NLRP3

Periodontitis is characterized by periodontal pocket formation, loss of attachment, and alveolar bone resorption. Both innate and adaptive immunity are involved in the pathogenesis of this oral chronic inflammatory disease. Accumulating evidence indicates a critical role of leptin in periodontal diseases. However, the mechanism by which leptin promotes periodontitis pathogenesis remains unclear. In the present study, we observed an elevated expression of leptin in the serum of periodontitis mice compared to that in healthy controls. There was a higher extent of M1 phenotype macrophage infiltration in mice periodontitis samples than in healthy controls. A positive correlation was observed between the serum leptin levels and M1 macrophages. Treatment with leptin increased M1 macrophage polarization and decreased M2 macrophage polarization in RAW 264.7 cells. Moreover, leptin facilitated lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced M1 phenotype macrophage polarization in RAW 264.7 cells. In bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) generated from leptin-deficient obese (ob/ob) mice, M1 macrophage polarization was significantly attenuated after LPS stimulation compared to the healthy controls. With regards to the molecular mechanism, we found that leptin activated the NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome and promoted M1 polarization via the NLRP3 inflammasome in vitro. In BMDMs generated from Nlrp3^-/- mice, M1 macrophage polarization was significantly attenuated after synchronous stimulation with leptin and LPS compared with BMDMs produced by healthy controls. The NLRP3 inhibitor MCC950 also prevented leptin-mediated M1 macrophage polarization in RAW 264.7 cells. Nlrp3^-/- periodontitis models indicated that leptin aggravates the periodontal response to the ligature by promoting M1 macrophage polarization via the NLRP3 inflammasome. Taken together, we show that leptin promotes the progression of periodontitis via proinflammatory M1 macrophage skewing, and targeting leptin/NLRP3 signaling may be a feasible approach for treating periodontitis.

ELK1-induced up-regulation of KIF26B promotes cell cycle progression in breast cancer

KIF26B is a member of the kinesin superfamily that is up-regulated in various tumors, including breast cancer (BC), which can promote tumor progression. This study aimed to investigate the potential function of KIF26B in BC, and the underlying mechanisms, focusing mainly on cell proliferation. KIF26B expression was examined in BC tissue samples obtained from 99 patients. Then, we performed MTS, EdU and flow cytometry assays to detect cell proliferation, and western blotting to measure the expression of cell cycle-related proteins in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells following KIF26B knockdown. Promoter analysis was used to study the upstream regulatory mechanism of KIF26B. KIF26B was upregulated in BC tissues. High expression of KIF26B was associated with clinicopathological parameters, such as positive lymph node metastasis, higher tumor grade, and higher proliferative index in BC. Furthermore, knockdown of KIF26B expression inhibited MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cell proliferation, arresting cells in the G₁ phase of the cell cycle in vitro. Similarly, KIF26B silencing decreased the expression levels of Wnt, β-catenin, and cell cycle-related proteins such as c-Myc, cyclin D1, and cyclin-dependent kinase 4, while increasing the expression of p27. Moreover, ELK1 could bind to the core promoter region of KIF26B and activate its transcription. KIF26B acts as an oncogene in BC by regulating multiple proteins involved in the cell cycle. ELK1 activates KIF26B transcription.

Confronting the Air Instability of Cesium Tin Halide Perovskites by Metal Ion Incorporation

Tin halide perovskite's potential as a photovoltaic absorber has not been fully realized to date, largely due to its instability in ambient air. Here, we demonstrate by both experiments and simulations that the air instability of black-phase cesium tin iodide perovskite (γ-CsSnI₃) could be greatly lessened by a controlled incorporation of bismuth (Bi) ions into the crystal lattice. Hall effect measurements on films of γ-CsSnI₃ suggest the unwanted formation of a tin vacancy and p-type self-doping can be effectively suppressed by the Bi incorporation. Structural and optical results indicate that the Bi incorporation markedly enhances the air stability by impeding the direct conversion of γ-CsSnI₃ to zero-dimensional Cs₂SnI₆. By using a stochastic surface walking (SSW) method integrating neural network (NN) potential and density functional theory (DFT), it is revealed that the remarkable enhanced stability could be attributed to a combination of factors originating from lattice-contraction-induced strain, a suppressed tin vacancy, and an increased energy barrier for the transformation of γ-CsSnI₃ to Cs₂SnI₆. This study provides physical insights into the stabilization mechanism of tin perovskites by heterovalent B-site engineering, paving the way for realizing stable and efficient lead-free perovskite photovoltaics.

A Quantized Convolutional Neural Network Implemented With Memristor for Image Denoising and Recognition

The interference of noise will cause the degradation of image quality, which can have a negative impact on the subsequent image processing and visual effect. Although the existing image denoising algorithms are relatively perfect, their computational efficiency is restricted by the performance of the computer, and the computational process consumes a lot of energy. In this paper, we propose a method for image denoising and recognition based on multi-conductance states of memristor devices. By regulating the evolution of Pt/ZnO/Pt memristor wires, 26 continuous conductance states were obtained. The image feature preservation and noise reduction are realized via the mapping between the conductance state and the image pixel. Furthermore, weight quantization of convolutional neural network is realized based on multi-conductance states. The simulation results show the feasibility of CNN for image denoising and recognition based on multi-conductance states. This method has a certain guiding significance for the construction of high-performance image noise reduction hardware system.

Penta-PdPSe: A New 2D Pentagonal Material with Highly In-Plane Optical, Electronic, and Optoelectronic Anisotropy

Due to their low-symmetry lattice characteristics and intrinsic in-plane anisotropy, 2D pentagonal materials, a new class of 2D materials composed entirely of pentagonal atomic rings, are attracting increasing research attention. However, the existence of these 2D materials has not been proven experimentally until the recent discovery of PdSe₂ . Herein, penta-PdPSe, a new 2D pentagonal material with a novel low-symmetry puckered pentagonal structure, is introduced to the 2D family. Interestingly, a peculiar polyanion of [SePPSe]^4- is discovered in this material, which is the biggest polyanion in 2D materials yet discovered. Strong intrinsic in-plane anisotropic behavior endows penta-PdPSe with highly anisotropic optical, electronic, and optoelectronic properties. Impressively, few-layer penta-PdPSe-based phototransistor not only achieves excellent electronic performances, a moderate electron mobility of 21.37 cm² V^-1 s^-1 and a high on/off ratio of up to 10⁸ , but it also has a high photoresponsivity of ≈5.07 × 10³ A W^-1 at 635 nm, which is ascribed to the photogating effect. More importantly, penta-PdPSe also exhibits a large anisotropic conductance (σ_max /σ_max  = 3.85) and responsivity (R_max /R_min  = 6.17 at 808 nm), superior to most 2D anisotropic materials. These findings make penta-PdPSe an ideal material for the design of next-generation anisotropic devices.

Ultrathin NiSe Nanosheets on Ni Foam for Efficient and Durable Hydrazine-Assisted Electrolytic Hydrogen Production

Hydrazine-assisted electrochemical water splitting is an important avenue toward low cost and sustainable hydrogen production. An efficient and stable bifunctional electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and the anodic hydrazine oxidation reaction (HzOR) is fundamental to this goal. Herein, we employed a facile method to fabricate ultrathin NiSe nanosheet arrays on nickel foam (NiSe/NF), which exhibits predominant electrocatalytic activity for both HER and HzOR. Our investigations revealed that the excellent electrocatalytic activity of the NiSe/NF mainly arises from the abundant electrocatalytic active sites endowed by the ultrathin nanosheet morphology, the rugged feature of the extended (100) nanosheet surface, the rich presence of Se on the nanosheet surface, and the three-dimensional (3D) porous structure of the NF and other factors such as high conductivity of the NiSe/NF and strong NiSe-NF adhesion. We assembled a hydrazine-boosted electrochemical water splitting cell using NiSe/NF as a bifunctional catalyst for both of the electrodes, and the constructed cell exhibits an ultralow overpotential (310 mV at 10 mA cm^-2), which is robust for 30 h continuous electrolysis in a 1 M KOH electrolyte. This work provides a promising avenue toward low cost, high-efficiency, and stable hydrogen production based on hydrazine-assisted electrolytic water splitting for future.

MiR-587 acts as an oncogene in non-small-cell lung carcinoma via reducing CYLD expression

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to explore the cancer-associated functions of microRNA-587 (miR-587) in the development of non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) and the molecular mechanism.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Relative expression levels of miR-587 and CYLD in NSCLC samples were detected by quantitative Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). Proliferative and migratory abilities in A549 and H1299 cells with overexpressed miR-587 were examined by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and transwell assay, respectively. The regulatory interaction between miR-587 and CYLD was determined by Dual-Luciferase reporter assay and Pearson correlation test. At last, the co-regulation of miR-587 and CYLD on NSCLC cell functions was assessed by rescue experiments.

RESULTS

MiR-587 was upregulated in NSCLC samples and closely linked to tumor staging, whereas CYLD was downregulated and negatively correlated to that of miR-587. Survival analysis suggested that miR-587 was an unfavorable factor to the prognosis of NSCLC. Overexpression of miR-587 stimulated proliferative and migratory abilities in A549 and H1299 cells. CYLD was the downstream gene binding miR-587. Overexpression of CYLD could partially abolish the regulatory effects of overexpressed miR-587 on promoting proliferative and migratory abilities in NSCLC cells.

CONCLUSIONS

MiR-587 stimulates proliferative and migratory abilities in NSCLC by downregulating CYLD, thus aggravating the progression of NSCLC.

Province-specific recalibration of CVD risk models using population-specific routine data for Chinese people is important

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading causes of death in China. Since population CVD incidence and risk factor levels vary considerably across regions in China, geo-specific investment in the prevention of CVD could be advantageous. Risk prediction models are an integral part of CVD prevention guidelines and can be used to help guide intervention. However, there is no CVD model generalizable to the various incidence rates, risk-factor levels and composition of CVD in different regions of China.

Purpose

To construct a CVD risk estimation system, which is calibrated to CVD risk in different regions in China, and can be regularly updated in the future using routinely available aggregate level CVD incidence and risk factor data, in response to changing trends with time and divergent CVD rates.

Methods

The risk prediction model used was the WHO CVD score, initially calibrated to predict CVD mortality in the whole of mainland China. Further province-specific recalibration was then completed to give models tailored to the 31 provinces. The recalibration approach used aggregate level province, sex- and age group-specific levels of risk factors and CVD mortality. Risk factor values were estimated using 145 268 participants aged 40-80 years old from the China Chronic Disease and Risk Factors Surveillance, a nationally and provincially representative cross-sectional survey in 2015. Province-specific CVD mortality rates in 2017 were estimated based on published scientific reports, unpublished registry data, and health system administrative data.

Results

Compared with the province-specific models, the China-specific WHO score overestimated mortality risk in some provinces while underestimating risk in others. For example, while the predicted population risk of 10-year CVD mortality was 3.5% in male in both Shanghai and Hebei using the China-specific score (with province-specific observed risk factor values), the province-specific scores gave predicted population risks of 1.1% for Shanghai and 5.5% for Hebei. Accordingly, using the province-specific scores for an individual with the same combination of risk factors, the 10-year risk of CVD mortality differed substantially across provinces. For example, the estimated 10-year risk for a 60 year old, male smoker without diabetes and systolic blood pressure of 140 mmHg and total cholesterol 5 mmol/L ranged from 2.4% in Shanghai to 13.2% in Tibet. Similarly, the estimated 10-year risk for a female with the same risk factor profile ranged from 1.5% in Shanghai to 11.5% in Tibet.

Conclusion

We have developed a CVD risk estimation system, which is calibrated to CVD risk in different provinces of China, and can be regularly recalibrated in the future using routinely available information. Application of this approach should help accurately estimate CVD risk in individuals from China, and assist policy makers in making more appropriate decisions about allocation of preventative resources.

Abstract Figure. Predicted 10 year CVD mortality risk

[Applications of Markov model for cost-effectiveness analysis of screening in epidemiology]

Cost-effectiveness analysis of screening in epidemiology is essential for public health decision-making. This paper describes the general principles, basic steps involved in implementation, analytic methods and other related issues of Markov model. Based on a practical research case of evaluating the cost-effectiveness of primary open-angle glaucoma screening in a Chinese population, key points in applications of Markov model for cost-effectiveness analysis of screening were discussed in detail, including model development, parameters definition, available software, base case analysis, sensitivity analysis and the interpretation of the results. For better supporting evidence-informed decision making in public health, future studies should be aware of the accuracy of parameters in Markov models and the transparency of the models and results, as well as complying with the relevant reporting standards.

High expression of LINC0163 promotes progression of papillary thyroid cancer by regulating epithelial-mesenchymal transition MITF

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to detect the expression of long non-coding ribonucleic acid 00163 (LINC00163) in human papillary thyroid cancer (PTC), and to observe the influence of downregulated LINC00163 on the proliferative and metastatic capacities of human PTC cells.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Quantitative Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) assay was applied to measure the expression level of LINC00163 in PTC tissues and para-carcinoma tissues, as well as that in normal human thyroid cells (Nthy-ori3-1) and PTC cells. After the expression of LINC00163 in PTC cells was interfered, qRT-PCR assay was performed to determine the interference efficiency, and colony formation and Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assays were conducted to study the impacts of small interfering (si)-LINC00163 on the proliferative capacity of PTC cells. Moreover, wound healing and transwell assays were adopted to investigate the changes in the migratory and invasive abilities of PTC cells after the interference in the expression of LINC00163 in PTC cells. Finally, the changes in expressions of molecular markers in downstream signaling pathways after interference in LINC00163 expression were examined via Western blotting assay.

RESULTS

In 51 cases of PTC tissues and corresponding para-carcinoma tissues, 41 cases exhibited an up-regulated expression of LINC00163, and qRT-PCR results indicated that PTC cells also had an up-regulated expression of LINC00163 compared with normal human thyroid cells. After the expression of LINC00163 in PTC cells was interfered, the results of colony formation and CCK-8 assays manifested that the proliferative capacity of the cells declined. It was also shown in wound-healing and transwell assay results that the migratory and invasive abilities of the cells were weakened. In addition, the results of Western blotting assay revealed expression changes in the molecular markers of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT).

CONCLUSIONS

The expression of LINC00163 in NSCLC tissues and cells is upregulated, and highly expressed LINC00163 can promote PTC cell proliferation and metastasis by regulating the EMT.

A triple-classification radiomics model for the differentiation of pleomorphic adenoma, Warthin tumour, and malignant salivary gland tumours on the basis of diffusion-weighted imaging

AIM

To develop and validate a triple-classification radiomics model for the preoperative differentiation of pleomorphic adenoma (PA), Warthin tumour (WT), and malignant salivary gland tumour (MSGT) based on diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data from 217 patients with histopathologically confirmed salivary gland tumours (100 PAs, 68 WTs, and 49 MSGTs) from January 2015 to March 2019 were analysed retrospectively and divided into a training set (n=173), and a validation set (n=44). A total of 396 radiomic features were extracted from the DWI of all patients. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression were used to select radiomic features, which were then constructed using three classification models, namely, logistic regression method (LR), support vector machine (SVM), and K-nearest neighbor (KNN). The diagnostic performance of the radiomics model was quantified by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and area under the ROC curve (AUC) of the training and validation data sets.

RESULTS

The 20 most valuable features were investigated based on the LASSO regression. LR and SVM methods exhibited better diagnostic ability than KNN for multiclass classification. LR and SVM had the best performance and yielded the AUC values of 0.857 and 0.824, respectively, in the training data set and the AUC values of 0.932 and 0.912, respectively, in the validation data set of MSGT diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

DWI-based triple-classification radiomics model has predictive value in distinguishing PA, WT, and MSGT, which can be used for preoperative auxiliary diagnosis in clinical practice.

Stabilizing Fullerene for Burn-in-Free and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells under Ultraviolet Preconditioning and Light Soaking

It is crucial to make perovskite solar cells sustainable and have a stable operation under natural light soaking before they become commercially acceptable. Herein, a small amount of the small molecule bathophenanthroline (Bphen) is introduced into [6,6]-phenyl-C₆₁ -butyric acid methyl ester and it is found that Bphen can stabilize the C₆₀ -cage well through formation of much more thermodynamically stable charge-transfer complexes. Such a strengthened complex is used as an interlayer at the in-light perovskite/SnO₂ side to achieve a champion device with efficiency of 23.09% (certified 22.85%). Most importantly, the stability of the resulting devices can be close to meeting the requirements of the International Electrotechnical Commission 61215 standard under simulated UV preconditioning and light-soaking testing. They can retain over 95% and 92% of their initial efficiencies after 1100 h UV irradiation and 1000 h continuous illumination of maximum power point tracking at 60 °C, respectively.

Ultra-narrowband perfect absorption of monolayer two-dimensional materials enabled by all-dielectric subwavelength gratings

Monolayer two-dimensional materials (2DMs) have excellent optical and electrical properties and show great application potential in photodetectors. However, the thickness at the atomic scale leads to weak light absorption, which greatly limits the responsivity of corresponding photodetectors. Here we propose an all-dielectric sub-wavelength zero-contrast grating structure that enables a monolayer of MoS₂ with ultra-narrow bandwidth perfect light absorption. The absorption enhancement can be attributed to the critical coupling of guided mode resonances from two specific order diffractions in the structure, as confirmed by the planar waveguide theory and coupled mode theory. Such absorption enhancement can be generalized to any other absorptive atomically thin films, and the wavelength of perfect absorption can be tuned by scaling the dimension of the photonic structure. Our results offer a promising photonic approach to realize ultra-highly sensitive narrow-band photodetectors by using atomically thin materials.

Stabilizing γ-CsPbI3 Perovskite via Phenylethylammonium for Efficient Solar Cells with Open-Circuit Voltage over 1.3 V

Cesium lead iodide (CsPbI₃ ) perovskite has gained great attention due to its potential thermal stability and appropriate bandgap (≈1.73 eV) for tandem cells. However, the moisture-induced thermodynamically unstable phase and large open-circuit voltage (V_OC ) deficit and also the low efficiency seriously limit its further development. Herein, long chain phenylethylammonium (PEA) is utilized into CsPbI₃ perovskite to stabilize the orthorhombic black perovskite phase (γ-CsPbI₃ ) under ambient condition. Furthermore, the moderate lead acetate (Pb(OAc)₂ ) is controlled to combine with phenylethylammonium iodide to form the 2D perovskite, which can dramatically suppress the charge recombination in CsPbI₃ . Unprecedentedly, the resulted CsPbI₃ solar cells achieve a 17% power conversion efficiency with a record V_OC of 1.33 V, the V_OC deficit is only 0.38 V, which is close to those in organic-inorganic perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Meanwhile, the PEA modified device maintains 94% of its initial efficiency after exceeding 2000 h of storage in the low-humidity controlled environment without encapsulation.

MiR-203 regulates DJ-1 expression and affects proliferation, apoptosis and DDP resistance of pancreatic cancer cells

OBJECTIVE

DJ-1 is a negative regulator of PTEN and plays a role in tumorigenesis. Abnormal miR-203 expression is associated with pancreatic cancer. Bioinformatics analysis showed a targeted relationship between miR-203 and DJ-1 3'-UTR. This study investigated whether miR-203 regulates DJ-1 expression and its role in pancreatic cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis, and cisplatin (DDP) resistance.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Dual-Luciferase reporter gene assay validated the targeted regulation between miR-203 and DJ-1. The DDP-resistant cell line SW1990/DDP was established and divided into miR-NC group and miR-203 mimic group followed by analysis of the expression of DJ-1, PTEN and p-AKT, cell apoptosis, and proliferation.

RESULTS

There was a targeted relationship between miR-203 and DJ-1 mRNA. The expression of miR-203 in SW1990/DDP cells was significantly lower than that in SW1990 cells, while the expression of DJ-1 mRNA and protein was significantly higher than that in SW1990 cells. Compared with miR-NC group, the expression of DJ-1 and p-AKT protein in SW1990/DDP cells was significantly decreased in miR-203 mimic transfection group, while the expression of PTEN was significantly increased with increased cell apoptosis and decreased cell proliferation, as well as reduced DDP resistance.

CONCLUSIONS

The decreased expression of miR-203 and the increased expression of DJ-1 is associated with drug resistance in pancreatic cancer cells. Elevated miR-203 can inhibit the expression of DJ-1, affect the activity of PTEN-PI3K/AKT pathway, inhibit the proliferation of pancreatic cancer cells, induce cell apoptosis, and reduce DDP resistance of pancreatic cancer cells.