Spin-Phonon Coupling in Iron-Doped Ultrathin Bismuth Halide Perovskite Derivatives

Spin in semiconductors facilitates magnetically controlled optoelectronic and spintronic devices. In metal halide perovskites (MHPs), doping magnetic ions is proven to be a simple and efficient approach to introducing a spin magnetic momentum. In this work, we present a facile metal ion doping protocol through the vapor-phase metal halide insertion reaction to the chemical vapor deposition (CVD)-grown ultrathin Cs3BiBr6 perovskites. The Fe-doped bismuth halide (Fe:CBBr) perovskites demonstrate that the iron spins are successfully incorporated into the lattice, as revealed by the spin-phonon coupling below the critical temperature Tc around 50 K observed through temperature-dependent Raman spectroscopy. Furthermore, the phonons exhibit significant softening under an applied magnetic field, possibly originating from magnetostriction and spin exchange interaction. The spin-phonon coupling in Fe:CBBr potentially provides an efficient way to tune the spin and lattice parameters for halide perovskite-based spintronics.

Spatially Resolved Anion Diffusion and Tunable Waveguides in Bismuth Halide Perovskites

Bismuth halide perovskites are widely regarded as nontoxic alternatives to lead halide perovskites for optoelectronics and solar energy harvesting applications. With a tailorable composition and intriguing optical properties, bismuth halide perovskites are also promising candidates for tunable photonic devices. However, robust control of the anion composition in bismuth halide perovskites remains elusive. Here, we established chemical vapor deposition and anion exchange protocols to synthesize bismuth halide perovskite nanoflakes with controlled dimensions and variable compositions. In particular, we demonstrated the gradient bromide distribution by controlling the anion exchange and diffusion processes, which is spatially resolved by time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry. Moreover, the optical waveguiding properties of bismuth halide perovskites can be modulated by flake thicknesses and anion compositions. With a unique gradient anion distribution and controllable optical properties, bismuth halide perovskites provide new possibilities for applications in optoelectronic devices and integrated photonics.

Tuning Local Atomic Structures in MoS2 Based Catalysts for Electrochemical Nitrate Reduction

In recent years, there has been a substantial surge in the investigation of transition-metal dichalcogenides such as MoS2 as a promising electrochemical catalyst. Inspired by denitrification enzymes such as nitrate reductase and nitrite reductase, the electrochemical nitrate reduction catalyzed by MoS2 with varying local atomic structures is reported. It is demonstrated that the hydrothermally synthesized MoS2 containing sulfur vacancies behaves as promising catalysts for electrochemical denitrification. With copper doping at less than 9% atomic ratio, the selectivity of denitrification to dinitrogen in the products can be effectively improved. X-ray absorption characterizations suggest that two sulfur vacancies are associated with one copper dopant in the MoS2 skeleton. DFT calculation confirms that copper dopants replace three adjacent Mo atoms to form a trigonal defect-enriched region, introducing an exposed Mo reaction center that coordinates with Cu atom to increase N2 selectivity. Apart from the higher activity and selectivity, the Cu-doped MoS2 also demonstrates remarkably improved tolerance toward oxygen poisoning at high oxygen concentration. Finally, Cu-doped MoS2 based catalysts exhibit very low specific energy consumption during the electrochemical denitrification process, paving the way for potential scale-up operations.

Toward Controlled Synthesis of 2D Crystals by CVD: Learning from the Real-Time Crystal Morphology Evolutions

The rich morphology of 2D materials grown through chemical vapor deposition (CVD), is a distinctive feature. However, understanding the complex growth of 2D crystals under practical CVD conditions remains a challenge due to various intertwined factors. Real-time monitoring is crucial to providing essential data and enabling the use of advanced tools like machine learning for unraveling these complexities. In this study, we present a custom-built miniaturized CVD system capable of observing and recording 2D MoS2 crystal growth in real time. Image processing converts the real-time footage into digital data, and machine learning algorithms (ML) unveil the significant factors influencing growth. The machine learning model successfully predicts CVD growth parameters for synthesizing ultralarge monolayer MoS2 crystals. It also demonstrates the potential to reverse engineer CVD growth parameters by analyzing the as-grown 2D crystal morphology. This interdisciplinary approach can be integrated to enhance our understanding of controlled 2D crystal synthesis through CVD.

Identification of avian polyomavirus and its pathogenicity to SPF chickens

The research aimed to study an Avian polyomavirus strain that was isolated in Shandong, China. To study the pathogenicity of APV in SPF chickens, and provide references for epidemiological research and disease prevention and control of APV. The genetic characterization of APV strain (termed APV-20) was analyzed and the pathogenicity of APV was investigated from two aspects: different age SPF chickens, and different infection doses. The results revealed that the APV-20 exhibits a nucleotide homology of 99% with the other three APV strains, and the evolution of APV In China was slow. In addition, the APV-20 infection in chickens caused depression, drowsiness, clustering, and fluffy feathers, but no deaths occurred in the infected chickens. The main manifestations of necropsy, and Hematoxylin and Eosin staining (HE) showed that one-day-old SPF chickens were the most susceptible, and there was a positive correlation between viral load and infection dose in the same tissue. This study showed that SPF chickens were susceptible to APV, and an experimental animal model was established. This study can provide a reference for the pathogenic mechanism of immune prevention and control of APV.

Clinical characteristics and prognosis of pneumonia-related bloodstream infections in the intensive care unit: a single-center retrospective study

Background

Bloodstream infections (BSI) are one of the most severe healthcare-associated infections in intensive care units (ICU). However, there are few studies on pneumonia-related BSI (PRBSI) in the ICU. This study aimed to investigate the clinical and prognostic characteristics of patients with PRBSI in the ICU and to provide a clinical basis for early clinical identification.

Methods

We retrospectively collected data from patients with bacterial BSI in a single-center ICU between January 1, 2017, and August 31, 2020. Clinical diagnosis combined with whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was used to clarify the diagnosis of PRBSI, and patients with PRBSI and non-PRBSI were analyzed for clinical features, prognosis, imaging presentation, and distribution of pathogenic microorganisms.

Results

Of the 2,240 patients admitted to the MICU, 120 with bacterial BSI were included in this study. Thirty-two (26.7%) patients were identified as having PRBSI based on the clinical diagnosis combined with WGS. Compared to patients without PRBSI, those with PRBSI had higher 28-day mortality (81.3 vs.51.1%, p = 0.003), a higher total mortality rate (93.8 vs. 64.8%, p = 0.002), longer duration of invasive mechanical ventilation (median 16 vs. 6 days, p = 0.037), and prolonged duration of ICU stay (median 21 vs. 10 days, p = 0.004). There were no differences in other baseline data between the two groups, but patients with PRBSI had extensive consolidation on chest radiographs and significantly higher Radiographic Assessment of Lung Edema scores (mean 35 vs. 24, p < 0.001). The most common causative organisms isolated in the PRBSI group were gram-negative bacteria (n = 31, 96.9%), with carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacteria accounting for 68.8% (n = 22) and multidrug-resistant bacteria accounting for 81.3% (n = 26).

Conclusion

Pneumonia-related BSI is an important component of ICU-BSI and has a poor prognosis. Compared to non-PRBSI, patients with PRBSI do not have typical clinical features but have more severe lung consolidation lesions, and should be alerted to the possibility of their occurrence when combined with pulmonary gram-negative bacterial infections, especially carbapenem-resistant bacteria. Further multicenter, large-sample studies are needed to identify the risk factors for the development of PRBSI and prevention and treatment strategies.

Tuning the Surface Electron Accumulation Layer of In2 O3 by Adsorption of Molecular Electron Donors and Acceptors

In2 O3 , an n-type semiconducting transparent transition metal oxide, possesses a surface electron accumulation layer (SEAL) resulting from downward surface band bending due to the presence of ubiquitous oxygen vacancies. Upon annealing In2 O3 in ultrahigh vacuum or in the presence of oxygen, the SEAL can be enhanced or depleted, as governed by the resulting density of oxygen vacancies at the surface. In this work, an alternative route to tune the SEAL by adsorption of strong molecular electron donors (specifically here ruthenium pentamethylcyclopentadienyl mesitylene dimer, [RuCp*mes]2 ) and acceptors (here 2,2'-(1,3,4,5,7,8-hexafluoro-2,6-naphthalene-diylidene)bis-propanedinitrile, F6 TCNNQ) is demonstrated. Starting from an electron-depleted In2 O3 surface after annealing in oxygen, the deposition of [RuCp*mes]2 restores the accumulation layer as a result of electron transfer from the donor molecules to In2 O3 , as evidenced by the observation of (partially) filled conduction sub-bands near the Fermi level via angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy, indicating the formation of a 2D electron gas due to the SEAL. In contrast, when F6 TCNNQ is deposited on a surface annealed without oxygen, the electron accumulation layer vanishes and an upward band bending is generated at the In2 O3 surface due to electron depletion by the acceptor molecules. Hence, further opportunities to expand the application of In2 O3 in electronic devices are revealed.

Superior mechanical properties of multilayer covalent-organic frameworks enabled by rationally tuning molecular interlayer interactions

Two-dimensional (2D) covalent-organic frameworks (COFs) with a well-defined and tunable periodic porous skeleton are emerging candidates for lightweight and strong 2D polymeric materials. It remains challenging, however, to retain the superior mechanical properties of monolayer COFs in a multilayer stack. Here, we successfully demonstrated a precise layer control in synthesizing atomically thin COFs, enabling a systematic study of layer-dependent mechanical properties of 2D COFs with two different interlayer interactions. It was shown that the methoxy groups in COFTAPB-DMTP provided enhanced interlayer interactions, leading to layer-independent mechanical properties. In sharp contrast, mechanical properties of COFTAPB-PDA decreased significantly as the layer number increased. We attributed these results to higher energy barriers against interlayer sliding due to the presence of interlayer hydrogen bonds and possible mechanical interlocking in COFTAPB-DMTP, as revealed by density functional theory calculations.

Clinical characteristics and outcomes of immunocompromised patients with severe community-acquired pneumonia: A single-center retrospective cohort study

Background

Immunocompromised patients with severe community-acquired pneumonia (SCAP) warrant special attention because they comprise a growing proportion of patients and tend to have poor clinical outcomes. The objective of this study was to compare the characteristics and outcomes of immunocompromised and immunocompetent patients with SCAP, and to investigate the risk factors for mortality in these patients.

Methods

We conducted retrospective observational cohort study of patients aged ≥18 years admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of an academic tertiary hospital with SCAP between January 2017 and December 2019 and compared the clinical characteristics and outcomes of immunocompromised and immunocompetent patients.

Results

Among the 393 patients, 119 (30.3%) were immunocompromised. Corticosteroid (51.2%) and immunosuppressive drug (23.5%) therapies were the most common causes. Compared to immunocompetent patients, immunocompromised patients had a higher frequency of polymicrobial infection (56.6 vs. 27.5%, P < 0.001), early mortality (within 7 days) (26.1 vs. 13.1%, P = 0.002), and ICU mortality (49.6 vs. 37.6%, P = 0.027). The pathogen distributions differed between immunocompromised and immunocompetent patients. Among immunocompromised patients, Pneumocystis jirovecii and cytomegalovirus were the most common pathogens. Immunocompromised status (OR: 2.043, 95% CI: 1.114-3.748, P = 0.021) was an independent risk factor for ICU mortality. Independent risk factors for ICU mortality in immunocompromised patients included age ≥ 65 years (odds ratio [OR]: 9.098, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.472-56.234, P = 0.018), SOFA score [OR: 1.338, 95% CI: 1.048-1.708, P = 0.019), lymphocyte count < 0.8 × 10⁹/L (OR: 6.640, 95% CI: 1.463-30.141, P = 0.014), D-dimer level (OR: 1.160, 95% CI: 1.013-1.329, P = 0.032), FiO₂ > 0.7 (OR: 10.228, 95% CI: 1.992-52.531, P = 0.005), and lactate level (OR: 4.849, 95% CI: 1.701-13.825, P = 0.003).

Conclusions

Immunocompromised patients with SCAP have distinct clinical characteristics and risk factors that should be considered in their clinical evaluation and management.

An inflammation-targeted nanoparticle with bacteria forced release of polymyxin B for pneumonia therapy

The epidemic of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria is an ever-growing global concern. Polymyxin B (PMB), a kind of "old fashioned" antibiotic, has been revived in clinical practice and mainly used as last-line antibiotics for otherwise untreatable serious infections because the incidence of the resistance to PMB is currently relatively low in comparison with other antibiotics in vivo owing to the unique bactericidal mechanism of PMB. However, serious adverse side effects, including nephrotoxicity and neurotoxicity, hamper its clinical application. Herein, we describe the development of a nanoparticle that can target sites of inflammation and forcedly release PMB specifically in the area of Gram-negative bacteria. This particle was constructed through the electrostatic self-assembly of hyaluronic acid (HA) and PMB molecules in order to realize the safe and effective treatment of pneumonia. After systemic administration, PMB-HA nanoparticles were found to actively accumulate in the lungs, precisely target the CD44 receptors over-expressed on the membrane of activated endothelial cells in inflammatory sites, and then come into contact with the bacteria resident in the damaged alveolar-capillary membrane. Due to the electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions between PMB and the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in the outer membranes of bacteria, the PMB molecules in the PMB-HA nanoparticles are expected to escape from the nanoparticles to insert into the bacteria via competitive binding with LPS. Through shielding the cationic nature of PMB, PMB-HA nanoparticles also possess outstanding biosafety performance in comparison to free PMB. It is thus believed that this smart delivery system may pave a new way for the resurrection of PMB in the future clinical treatment of bacterial inflammatory diseases.

A Paired Comparison of Plasma and Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid for Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing in Critically Ill Patients with Suspected Severe Pneumonia

Purpose

Plasma metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) has emerged as an attractive and minimally invasive technique for pathogen detection. However, few studies have demonstrated the need for simultaneous plasma and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) mNGS in patients with severe pneumonia.

Patients and Methods

This study retrospectively performed a paired comparison of BALF and plasma mNGS in critically ill patients with suspected severe pneumonia from April 2019 to December 2020. The diagnostic performance of BALF and plasma mNGS was compared using the clinical composite diagnosis as the reference standard.

Results

In total, 57 patients were included in this study. Patients with positive plasma mNGS had shorter hospital stay days at the time of specimen acquisition (4.5 vs 11, P = 0.028) and a higher positivity rate of BALF culture (50% vs 22.9%, P = 0.033) than patients with negative plasma mNGS. Fifty-three patients (93%) were finally diagnosed with severe pneumonia. Significant differences were observed in the sensitivity of BALF and plasma mNGS (100% vs 42%, P < 0.001), and the diagnostic accuracy was 96% and 46%, respectively. The proportion of virus in positive plasma mNGS results was higher than that in BALF mNGS (23% vs 11%, P = 0.173) without significant difference. Although plasma mNGS detected additional microorganisms in 11/53 patients, the beneficial effect was observed in only 5/53 (9%) patients.

Conclusion

In this study, the clinical effect of simultaneously conducting mNGS of BALF and plasma samples was found to be limited. For patients with the suspected virus infection, plasma mNGS may be a supplementary test. Further studies are needed to identify the optimal indications for plasma mNGS.

Ultrahigh resistance of hexagonal boron nitride to mineral scale formation

Formation of mineral scale on a material surface has profound impact on a wide range of natural processes as well as industrial applications. However, how specific material surface characteristics affect the mineral-surface interactions and subsequent mineral scale formation is not well understood. Here we report the superior resistance of hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) to mineral scale formation compared to not only common metal and polymer surfaces but also the highly scaling-resistant graphene, making hBN possibly the most scaling resistant material reported to date. Experimental and simulation results reveal that this ultrahigh scaling-resistance is attributed to the combination of hBN’s atomically-smooth surface, in-plane atomic energy corrugation due to the polar boron-nitrogen bond, and the close match between its interatomic spacing and the size of water molecules. The latter two properties lead to strong polar interactions with water and hence the formation of a dense hydration layer, which strongly hinders the approach of mineral ions and crystals, decreasing both surface heterogeneous nucleation and crystal attachment.

Scale formation may have detrimental effects on the properties and functions of materials’ surfaces. Here the authors report the high scaling resistance of hexagonal boron nitride and relate it to the atomic level structure and interaction with water molecules.

Prognostic Value of Syndecan-1 in the Prediction of Sepsis-Related Complications and Mortality: A Meta-Analysis

Aim

Syndecan-1 (SDC-1) has been shown to have a high predictive value for sepsis development, though uncertainty around these results exists. The aim of this meta-analysis was to assess the prognostic ability of SDC-1 in predicting sepsis-related complications and mortality.

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar databases from January 01, 1990, to March 17, 2021, to identify eligible studies. The search terms used were “SDC-1,” “sepsis,” “severe sepsis,” and “septic shock,” and a meta-analysis was performed using the RevMan 5.4 software.

Results

Eleven studies with a total of 2,318 enrolled patients were included. SDC-1 concentrations were significantly higher in the composite poor outcome group [standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.55; 95% CI: 0.38–0.72; P < 0.001] as well as in deceased patients (SMD = 0.53; 95% CI: 0.40–0.67; P < 0.001), patients with septic shock (SMD = 0.81; 95% CI: 0.36–1.25; P < 0.001), and patients with acute kidney injury (SMD = 0.48; 95% CI: 0.33–0.62; P < 0.001). Statistical significance was also found in the subgroup analysis when stratified by different sepsis diagnostic criteria.

Conclusion

Baseline SDC-1 levels may be a useful predictor of sepsis-related complications and mortality.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021246344, PROSPERO, identifier: CRD42021246344.

The effect of water on colloidal quantum dot solar cells

Almost all surfaces sensitive to the ambient environment are covered by water, whereas the impacts of water on surface-dominated colloidal quantum dot (CQD) semiconductor electronics have rarely been explored. Here, strongly hydrogen-bonded water on hydroxylated lead sulfide (PbS) CQD is identified. The water could pilot the thermally induced evolution of surface chemical environment, which significantly influences the nanostructures, carrier dynamics, and trap behaviors in CQD solar cells. The aggravation of surface hydroxylation and water adsorption triggers epitaxial CQD fusion during device fabrication under humid ambient, giving rise to the inter-band traps and deficiency in solar cells. To address this problem, meniscus-guided-coating technique is introduced to achieve dense-packed CQD solids and extrude ambient water, improving device performance and thermal stability. Our works not only elucidate the water involved PbS CQD surface chemistry, but may also achieve a comprehensive understanding of the impact of ambient water on CQD based electronics.

Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing for Pathogenic Diagnosis and Antibiotic Management of Severe Community-Acquired Pneumonia in Immunocompromised Adults

Background

Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) is a promising technique for pathogens diagnosis. However, application of mNGS in immunocompromised adults with severe community-acquired pneumonia (SCAP) is relatively limited.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 23 immunocompromised and 21 immunocompetent SCAP patients with mNGS detection from April 2019 to December 2019. The performances of pathogenic diagnosis and subsequently antibiotic adjustment in immunocompromised SCAP patients were compared to immunocompetent SCAP patients. The defined by days of therapy (DOT) method was used for estimate daily antibiotic use.

Results

There was a significant difference in the diagnostic positivity rate between mNGS and conventional test in both groups (P<0.001). Compared to immunocompetent patients, more mixed pathogens in immunocompromised patients were found (P=0.023). Before the availability of mNGS, the DOTs in immunocompromise patients were higher than immunocompetent patients (3.0 [3.0, 4.0] vs. 3.0 [2.0, 3.0], P=0.013). Compared to immunocompetent patients, immunocompromised patients had fewer full pathogen covered empirical antibiotic therapy (14.7% vs. 57.1%, P=0.022), more adjustments of antibiotic treatment (87.0%) vs. 57.1%, P=0.027). More than a half (13 of 23) SCAP patients in immunosuppressed group had reduced or downgraded antibiotic adjustments based on the results.

Conclusions

mNGS may be a useful technique for detecting mixed pathogens and personalized antibiotic treatment in immunocompromised SCAP patients.

[Risk factors and diagnostic methods of intensive care unit-acquired weakness]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the risk factors of intensive care unit-acquired weakness (ICU-AW) and the characteristics of Medical Research Council (MRC) score and electromyogram.

METHODS

A case control study was conducted. Patients with mechanical ventilation ≥ 7 days and MRC score admitted to department of respiratory and critical care medicine of China-Japan Friendship Hospital from September 2018 to January 2020 were enrolled, and they were divided into ICU-AW group (MRC score < 48) and non-ICU-AW group (MRC score ≥ 48) according to MRC score. The general situation, past medical history, related risk factors, MRC score, respiratory support mode, laboratory examination results, electromyogram examination results, ICU-AW related treatment, outcome and length of ICU stay were collected, and the differences between the two groups were compared. The risk factors of ICU-AW were analyzed by binary multivariate Logistic regression, and the characteristics of MRC score and electromyogram were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 60 patients were enrolled in the analysis, including 17 patients in ICU-AW group and 43 patients in non-ICU-AW group. Univariate analysis showed that there were significant differences in acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II (APACHE II) score, sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score, brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) on the first day of ICU admission and the ratio of invasive mechanical ventilation between ICU-AW group and non-ICU-AW group [APACHE II score: 21 (18, 25) vs. 18 (15, 22), SOFA score: 7 (5, 12) vs. 5 (3, 8), BNP (ng/L): 364.3 (210.1, 551.2) vs. 160.1 (66.8, 357.8), BUN (mmol/L): 9.9 (6.2, 17.0) vs. 6.0 (4.8, 9.8), invasive mechanical ventilation ratio: 88.2% vs. 46.5%, all P < 0.05]. Binary multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed no independent risk factor for ICU-AW. The average MRC score of 17 ICU-AW patients was 33±11. The limb weakness was symmetrical, and the proximal limb weakness was the main manifestation. Electromyography examination showed that the results of nerve conduction examination in ICU-AW patients mainly revealed that the amplitude of compound muscle action potential (CMAP) and sensory nerve action potentials (SNAP) were decreased, and the conduction velocity was slowed down; needle electromyography showed increased area of motor unit potential (MUP), prolonged time limit and a large number of spontaneous potentials. Prognosis evaluation showed that compared with non-ICU-AW group, patients in ICU-AW group underwent more tracheotomy (70.6% vs. 11.6%), longer length of ICU stay (days: 57±52 vs. 16±8), and more rehabilitation treatment (58.8% vs. 14.0%), and the differences were statistically significant (all P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The occurrence of ICU-AW may be related to high APACHE II score and SOFA score, high levels of BNP and BUN on the first day of ICU admission and the proportion of invasive mechanical ventilation, but the above factors are not independent risk factors for ICU-AW. The MRC score of ICU-AW patients was characterized by symmetrical limb weakness, mainly proximal limb weakness; in electromyography examination, the nerve conduction examination results mainly showed that CMAP and SNAP amplitude were decreased, and conduction velocity was slowed down; needle electromyography examination showed increased MUP area, prolonged duration and a large number of spontaneous potentials.

Inflammatory risk factors for hypertriglyceridemia in patients with severe influenza

Objective

Inflammation and viral infections can induce significant changes in lipid metabolism. Hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) often occurs secondary to obesity, which is an independent risk factor for influenza virus infection. However, the inflammatory risk factors contributing to HTG in patients with severe influenza have yet to be elucidated.

Materials and methods

Plasma and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples were collected from 33 patients with severe influenza (n = 26 control patients with normal serum triglyceride levels and n = 7 HTG patients with serum triglycerides >2.3 mM). Levels of 45 putative inflammatory risk factors were quantitated using a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit.

Results

Plasma levels of interferon (IFN)-γ, interleukin (IL)-18, IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, macrophage inflammatory protein-1α, hepatocyte growth factor, stem cell factor, and vascular endothelial growth factor A were significantly higher in HTG patients compared with control patients. BALF samples from HTG patients contained significantly higher levels of IL-1RA and lower levels of IFN-γ-inducible protein-10.

Conclusion

HTG in patients with severe influenza is associated with alterations in several inflammatory risk factors. Our results provide new insights that may enable more effective clinical management of severe influenza combined with HCT.

Genome-wide identification and characterization of microRNAs responding to ABA and GA in maize embryos during seed germination

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are an important class of non-coding small RNAs that regulate the expression of target genes through mRNA cleavage or translational inhibition. Previous studies have revealed their roles in regulating seed dormancy and germination in model plants such as Arabidopsis thaliana, rice (Oryza sativa) and maize (Zea mays). However, the miRNA response to exogenous gibberellic acid (GA) and abscisic acid (ABA) during seed germination in maize has yet to be explored. In this study, small RNA libraries were generated and sequenced from maize embryos treated with GA, ABA or double-distilled water as control. A total of 247 miRNAs (104 known and 143 novel) were identified, of which 45 known and 53 novel miRNAs were differentially expressed in embryos in the different treatment groups. In total, 74 (37 up-regulated and 37 down-regulated) and 55 (23 up-regulated and 32 down-regulated) miRNAs were expressed in response to GA and to ABA, respectively, and a total of 18 known and 38 novel miRNAs displayed differential expression between the GA- and ABA-treated groups. Using bioinformatics tools, we predicted the target genes of the differentially expressed miRNAs. Using GO enrichment and KEGG pathway analysis of these targets, we showed that miRNAs differentially expressed in our samples affect genes encoding proteins involved in the peroxisome, ribosome and plant hormonal signalling pathways. Our results indicate that miRNA-mediated gene expression influences the GA and ABA signalling pathways during seed germination.

An Organic Borate Salt with Superior p-Doping Capability for Organic Semiconductors

Molecular doping allows enhancement and precise control of electrical properties of organic semiconductors, and is thus of central technological relevance for organic (opto-) electronics. Beyond single-component molecular electron acceptors and donors, organic salts have recently emerged as a promising class of dopants. However, the pertinent fundamental understanding of doping mechanisms and doping capabilities is limited. Here, the unique capabilities of the salt consisting of a borinium cation (Mes2B+; Mes: mesitylene) and the tetrakis(penta-fluorophenyl)borate anion [B(C6F5)4]- is demonstrated as p-type dopant for polymer semiconductors. With a range of experimental methods, the doping mechanism is identified to comprise electron transfer from the polymer to Mes2B+, and the positive charge on the polymer is stabilized by [B(C6F5)4]-. Notably, the former salt cation leaves during processing and is not present in films. The anion [B(C6F5)4]- even enables the stabilization of polarons and bipolarons in poly(3-hexylthiophene), not yet achieved with other molecular dopants. From doping studies with high ionization energy polymer semiconductors, the effective electron affinity of Mes2B+[B(C6F5)4]- is estimated to be an impressive 5.9 eV. This significantly extends the parameter space for doping of polymer semiconductors.

Biomolecular sensing by surface-enhanced Raman scattering of monolayer Janus transition metal dichalcogenide

In this work, we demonstrate that monolayer Janus MoSSe is an effective and universal platform for enhancing Raman signal and detecting biomolecules for the first time. The out-of-plane dipoles in monolayer Janus MoSSe redistribute charges of adsorbed biomolecules, polarize biomolecules and enhance their Raman vibrational intensity. The estimated Raman enhancement factor is higher than 10⁵, which is comparable with the highest reported enhancement factor for 2D substrates. The C-C stretching Raman peak around 1360 cm^-1 is used to indicate the glucose concentration, and its peak-integrated intensity increases linearly with the glucose concentration in the range of 1-10 mM. DFT calculations also confirm that charge redistribution in glucose induced by dipole interactions can enhance Raman intensity significantly when glucose molecules are adsorbed onto monolayer Janus MoSSe.

Enhanced Electrical and Mechanical Properties of Chemically Cross-Linked Carbon-Nanotube-Based Fibers and Their Application in High-Performance Supercapacitors

The electrical conductivity and mechanical strength of fibers constructed from single-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are usually limited by the weak interactions between individual CNTs. In this work, we report a significant enhancement of both of these properties through chemical cross-linking of individual CNTs. The CNT fibers are made by wet-spinning a CNT solution that contains 1,3,5-tris(2'-bromophenyl)benzene (2TBB) molecules as the cross-linking agent, and the cross-linking is subsequently driven by Joule heating. Cross-linking with 2TBB increases the conductivity of the CNT fibers by a factor of ∼100 and increases the tensile strength on average by 47%; in contrast, the tensile strength of CNT fibers fabricated without 2TBB decreases after the same Joule heating process. Symmetrical supercapacitors made from the 2TBB-treated CNT fibers exhibit a remarkably high volumetric energy density of ∼4.5 mWh cm^-3 and a power density of ∼1.3 W cm^-3.

Broad neutralization activity against both PRRSV-1 and PRRSV-2 and enhancement of cell mediated immunity against PRRSV by a novel IgM monoclonal antibody

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) is the most economically important infectious disease affecting the global swine industry, especially since vaccination has had limited impact on PRRSV prevention and control. In this study, the monoclonal antibody PR5nf1 (Mab-PR5nf1, IgM isotype) was shown to react with heterogeneous PRRSV isolates belonging to both PRRSV-1 and PRRSV-2 species. Pepsin digestion of Mab-PR5nf1 did not affect Mab binding to virions, as F(ab)₂ fragments demonstrated the same reactivity as undigested Mab. Upon further investigation, Mab-PR5nf1 could neutralize all tested PRRSV isolates of both PRRSV-1 and PRRSV-2, suggesting it was a broadly neutralizing Mab against PRRSV. Interestingly, Mab-PR5nf1 appeared to recognize a specific virus epitope that required post-translational modification within the host cellular Golgi apparatus. Deglycosylation of PRRSV virions with PNGase F abolished Mab binding, suggesting that a novel Mab-binding epitope may exist that confers cross-protection against isolates of both PRRSV species. Additionally, immunization of mice with a cocktail of inactivated PRRSV virus and Mab-PR5nf1 enhanced cell-mediated immunity, as determined by IFN-γ ELIspot. In conclusion, this is the first report describing a novel Mab that recognizes a conserved epitope common to both PRRSV-1 and PRRSV-2 and provides valuable insights to guide future PRRSV vaccine development.

The MAGI2 gene polymorphism rs2160322 is associated with Graves' disease but not with Hashimoto's thyroiditis

PURPOSE

Autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITDs) are chronic organ-specific autoimmune disorders, predominantly including Graves' disease (GD), and Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT). This study aimed to investigate whether single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in MAGI2 and MAGI3 gene contributed to the etiology of AITDs.

METHODS

We conducted a case-control study including 1001 patients with AITDs (625 GD, 376 HT) and 846 healthy controls. Subgroup analyses in GD and HT were also performed.

RESULTS

The genotypes of rs2160322 in MAGI2 showed a borderline association with AITDs (P = 0.048), and they had a strong correlation with GD (P = 0.012). The frequency of the minor allele G of rs2160322 was significantly higher in the GD patients than in the controls (P = 0.027; OR 1.91; 95% CI 1.020-1.391), especially for GD females (P = 0.008; OR 1.304; 95% CI 1.072-1.587), and those who had positive family history (P = 0.011; OR 1.412; 95% CI 1.083-1.843). For genetic model analysis, the recessive model and homozygous model of rs2160322 showed significant associations with AITDs (P = 0.009; P = 0.019) and GD (P = 0.004; P = 0.005). Nevertheless, our study could not identify any relationship between these SNPs and HT. Due to the low mutation rate of rs1343126 in MAGI3, we were unable to obtain a credible conclusion on its association with AITDs.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study identified that MAGI2 rs2160322 was strongly associated with GD susceptibility. The potential dysfunction of tight junction proteins and aberrant epithelial barrier caused by abnormal MAGI2 expression may be a novel mechanism of GD.

High serum clusterin levels are associated with premature coronary artery disease in a Chinese population

BACKGROUND

Clusterin plays an important role in the cardiovascular system, and serum levels of clusterin are higher in coronary artery disease patients. Here, we measured serum clusterin levels in premature coronary artery disease (PCAD) patients and explored the association of these levels with PCAD risk.

METHODS

Serum samples and general clinical information were obtained from 672 subjects including 364 PCAD subjects, 126 non-PCAD subjects, and 182 controls.

RESULTS

Serum clusterin levels were higher in PCAD patients than in controls, particularly in males with body mass index (BMI) < 25 kg/m² (P < 0.0001). Compared with the lowest tertile of clusterin, the odds ratio of PCAD in the highest tertile was higher in both a univariate and three adjustment models, and it was 3.146-fold higher in Model 3. This association was especially significant in subgroups with BMI < 25 kg/m² , total cholesterol < 5.7 mmol/L, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ≥ 1.0 mmol/L, Urea < 7.14 mmol/L, and estimated glomerular filtration rate < 90 mL/min/1.73 m² . Serum clusterin may be a potential diagnostic biomarker for PCAD (sensitivity 60.7%, specificity 51.6%, area under the curve 0.595 [95% CI, 0.544-0.647], P < 0.0001), and a combination of clusterin with clinical variables in Model 3 resulted in improved diagnostic accuracy (sensitivity 86.3%, specificity 64.2%, area under the curve 0.829 [95% CI, 0.782-0.877], P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Serum clusterin levels were increased in PCAD patients, especially for males with BMI < 25 kg/m² . Higher clusterin levels were independently associated with the presence of PCAD, particularly in subjects with normal BMI, lower total cholesterol, urea, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Clusterin might be a potential diagnostic biomarker for PCAD patients, especially in combination with clinical variables.

Development of a monoclonal antibody against swine leukocyte antigen (SLA)-DR α chain and evaluation of SLA-DR expression in bone marrow-derived dendritic cells after PRRSV infection

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) is one of the most common diseases in the global swine industry. PRRSV infection is highly restricted to cells of the monocyte-macrophage lineage. However, the lack of antibodies to swine monocyte-macrophage lineage markers significantly hampers PRRSV research. In this study, we have developed a monoclonal antibody against the swine leukocyte antigen (SLA)-DRα chain and confirmed its reactivity with endogenous expressed SLA-DR in a variety of cell lines and primary swine antigen-presenting cells (PAMs, PBMC and BM-DCs). Moreover, the level of SLA-DR expression after PRRSV infection were evaluated by our homemade Mab and a commercial anti-SLA-DR antibody. Based on our result, the protein level of SLA-DRα expression is increased after PRRSV infection in DC, while the mRNA of both SLA-DRα and SLA-DRβ were significantly inhibited by PRRSV replication. In conclusion, we successfully developed a MAb reactive with endogenous SLA-DR in western blotting, and this MAb could be a useful tool for further research and analysis. Moreover, the inconsistency of SLA-DR expression between protein and mRNA levels may suggest a novel role of DC played during the immune response after PRRSV infection.

Alternative Type Two-Dimensional-Three-Dimensional Lead Halide Perovskite with Inorganic Sodium Ions as a Spacer for High-Performance Light-Emitting Diodes

Two-dimensional (2D) lead halide perovskites with long-chain ammonium halides display high photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQYs), because of their size and dielectric confinement, which hold promise for a high-efficiency and low-cost light-emitting diode (LED). However, the presence of an insulating organic long-chain spacer cation (L) dramatically deteriorates the charge transport properties along the out-of-plane nanoplatelet direction or adjacent nanocrystals, which would limit the device performance of the LED. To overcome this issue, we successfully incorporate small alkaline ions such as sodium (Na⁺) to replace the long organic molecule. Grazing incidence X-ray diffraction measurements verify 2D layer formation with a preferred crystallite orientation. In addition, the incorporated sodium salt also generates amorphous sodium lead bromide (NaPbBr₃) in perovskite as spacers to form a nanocrystal-like halide perovskite film. The PLQY is dramatically improved in the sodium-incorporated film because of its enhanced photoluminescence lifetime. Upon incorporation of a low concentration of an organic additive, this two-dimensional-three-dimensional (2D-3D) perovskite can achieve a compact and uniform film. Therefore, a 2D-3D perovskite achieves a high external quantum efficiency of 15.9% with good operational stability. We develop a type of 2D-3D halide perovskite with various inorganic ions as spacers for promising high-performance optoelectronic devices.

Serum Zinc-α2-Glycoprotein Levels Were Decreased in Patients With Premature Coronary Artery Disease

Objectives: To explore serum zinc-α2-glycoprotein (ZAG) changes in patients with or without premature coronary artery disease (PCAD) and its association with several cardiovascular risk factors. Methods: A total of 3,364 patients who were undergone coronary angiography in Peking Union Medical College Hospital were screened. According to the degree of coronary artery stenosis, the number of 364 patients with PCAD (age <55 years in males and <65 years in females) and 126 age and gender matched patients without premature coronary artery disease (NPCAD) were recruited in our present study. In addition, 182 age and gender matched healthy controls were also enrolled. Serum ZAG levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Results: Serum ZAG were significantly lower in the PCAD (8.03 ± 1.01 vs. 8.78 ± 1.89 μg/mL, p < 0.05) and NPCAD groups (8.28 ± 1.61 vs. 8.78 ± 1.89 μg/mL, p < 0.05), respectively, when compared with the controls. Multiple regression analysis showed that PCAD was independently associated with serum ZAG levels (B = -0.289, p = 0.002). The probability of PCAD in subjects with low tertile ZAG levels was 2.48-fold higher than those with high tertile levels after adjusting for other confounders [OR = 3.476, 95% CI 1.387-8.711, p = 0.008]. This phenomenon was more likely to be observed in male subjects with BMI <24 kg/m². The receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis showed a weak diagnostic performance of serum ZAG for PCAD (AUC = 0.659, 95% CI 0.612-0.705, p < 0.05). At the cutoff value of 7.955 μg/mL serum ZAG, the sensitivity and specificity for differentiating patients with PCAD from controls were 50.5 and 78.0%, respectively. The combination of ZAG with other clinical variables including age, gender, BMI, SBP, FBG, TC, HDL-C, Cr, and Urea had significantly improved the diagnosis accuracy with a sensitivity of 82.6%, a specificity of 95.0%, and AUC of 0.957 (95% CI, 0.940-0.975, p < 0.05). Conclusion: Serum ZAG levels were firstly found to be decreased in Chinese PCAD patients. Subjects with lower ZAG levels were more likely to have PCAD, especially for male subjects with BMI <24 kg/m². ZAG might be the potential diagnostic biomarkers for PCAD patients, and the combination of ZAG and clinical variables had higher discriminative performance.

Sclerosing Stromal Ovarian Tumor Combined with Early Onset Severe Preeclampsia. A Case Report

BACKGROUND

Sclerosing stromal tumor (SST) of the ovary is an extremely rare, benign, sex cord-stromal tumor. The tumor consists of cells with the multilineage potential of undifferentiated mesenchymal cells and the ability to secrete estrogen or androgen. Current research suggests that the tumor originates in the ovarian cortex. SSTs of the ovary are predominantly found in young women aged 20-30 years; information describing SST during pregnancy is limited.

CASE

We report a case of SST of the ovary combined with early onset severe preeclampsia.

CONCLUSION

We document the clinical and pathological characteristics of the patient's disease, including the effects on the pregnancy and fetus.

Influence of grain orientations on the initiation of fatigue damage in an Al-Li alloy

The variation in microstructure and texture in a rectangular bar extruded from a billet of spray-cast 8090 Al-Li alloy has been examined. The fine grain size of the as sprayed billet and the moderate extrusion ratio ( approximately 25 : 1) were seen to cause geometric dynamic recrystallization (GDR) in regions of higher strain towards the edge of the bar. The grain morphology varied from the expected elongated grains at the centre of the bar to equiaxed grains where GDR occurred at the bar edges. A <111> + <100> double fibre texture, significantly distorted towards rolling components and varying through the bar thickness, was found using electron backscatter diffraction. Fatigue resulted in a high density of short secondary cracks, many of which had arrested at grain boundaries. The cracks preferentially nucleated in grains from the <100> fibre texture corresponding to high Schmid factors.

Nonlinear-optical studies of molybdenum metal organics

We have measured the third-order susceptibility, X((3)), versus concentration for a number of molybdenum-based metal-organic complexes in solution, using independent degenerate four-wave mixing and Z-scan techniques. Good agreement was obtained between the degenerate four-wave mixing and Z-scan measurements. The variation of X((3)) with concentration yielded the second-order hyperpolarizability gamma. A close correlation was observed between the number of delocalized pi electrons and the magnitude of gamma.