Ultra-High Proportion of Grain Boundaries in Zinc Metal Anode Spontaneously Inhibiting Dendrites Growth

Aqueous Zn-ion batteries are an attractive electrochemical energy storage solution for their budget and safe properties. However, dendrites and uncontrolled side reactions in anodes detract the cycle life and energy density of the batteries.Grain boundaries in metals are generally considered as the source of the above problems but we present a diverse result. This study introduces an ultra-high proportion of grain boundaries on zinc electrodes through femtosecond laser bombardment to enhance stability of zinc metal/electrolyte interface.The ultra-high proportion of grain boundaries promotes the homogenization of zinc growth potential, to achieve uniform nucleation and growth, thereby suppressing dendrite formation. Additionally, the abundant active sites mitigate the side reactions during the electrochemical process. Consequently, the 15-μm-Fs-Zn||MnO2 pouch cell achieves an energy density of 249.4 Wh kg-1 and  operates for over 60 cycles at a depth-of-discharge of 23%. The recognition of the favorable influence exerted by UP-GBs paves a new way for other metal batteries.

Rational Design of an In-Situ Polymer-Inorganic Hybrid Solid Electrolyte Interphase for Realising Stable Zn Metal Anode under Harsh Conditions

The in-depth understanding of the composition-property-performance relationship of solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) is the basis of developing a reliable SEI to stablize the Zn anode-electrolyte interface, but it remains unclear in rechargeable aqueous zinc ion batteries. Herein, a well-designed electrolyte based on 2 M Zn(CF3SO3)2-0.2 M acrylamide-0.2 M ZnSO4 is proposed. A robust polymer (polyacrylamide)-inorganic (Zn4SO4(OH)6.xH2O) hybrid SEI is in situ constructed on Zn anodes through controllable polymerization of acrylamide and coprecipitation of SO4 2- with Zn2+ and OH-. For the first time, the underlying SEI composition-property-performance relationship is systematically investigated and correlated. The results showed that the polymer-inorganic hybrid SEI, which integrates the high modulus of the inorganic component with the high toughness of the polymer ingredient, can realize high reversibility and long-term interfacial stability, even under ultrahigh areal current density and capacity (30 mA cm-2~30 mAh cm-2). The resultant Zn||NH4V4O10 cell also exhibits excellent cycling stability. This work will provide a guidance for the rational design of SEI layers in rechargeable aqueous zinc ion batteries.

Freestanding Ammonium Vanadate Composite Cathodes with Lattice Self-Regulation and Ion Exchange for Long-Lasting Ca-Ion Batteries

Calcium-ion batteries (CIBs) have emerged as a promising alternative for electrochemical energy storage. The lack of high-performance cathode materials severely limits the development of CIBs. Vanadium oxides are particularly attractive as cathode materials for CIBs, and preinsertion chemistry is often used to improve their calcium storage performance. However, the room temperature cycling lifespan of vanadium oxides in organic electrolytes still falls short of 1000 cycles. Here, based on preinsertion chemistry, the cycling life of vanadium oxides is further improved by integrated electrode and electrolyte engineering. Utilizing a tailored Ca electrolyte, the constructed freestanding (NH4)2V6O16·1.35H2O@graphene oxide@carbon nanotube (NHVO-H@GO@CNT) composite cathode achieves a 305 mAh g-1 high capacity and 10 000 cycles record-long life. Additionally, for the first time, a Ca-ion hybrid capacitor full cell is assembled and delivers a capacity of 62.8 mAh g-1. The calcium storage mechanism of NHVO-H@GO@CNT based on a two-phase reaction and the exchange of NH4 + and Ca2+ during cycling are revealed. The lattice self-regulation of V─O layers is observed and the layered vanadium oxides with Ca2+ pillars formed by ion exchange exhibit higher capacity. This work provides novel strategies to enhance the calcium storage performance of vanadium oxides via integrated structural design of electrodes and electrolyte modification.

Vesical Imaging-Reporting and Data System (VI-RADS) as a grouping imaging biomarker combined with a decision-tree mode to preoperatively predict the pathological grade of bladder cancer

AIM

To investigate whether the Vesical Imaging-Reporting and Data System (VI-RADS) could be used to develop a new non-invasive preoperative grade-prediction system to partially predict high-grade bladder cancer (HG-BC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The present study enrolled 89 primary BC patients prospectively from March 2022 to June 2023. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of VI-RADS for predicting HG-BC and muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) in the entire group. In the low VI-RADS (≤2) group, the decision tree-based method was used to obtain significant predictors and construct the decision-tree model (DT model). The performance of the DT model and low VI-RADS scores for predicting HG-BC was determined using ROC, calibration, and decision curve analyses.

RESULTS

At a cut-off of ≥3, the specificity and positive predictive value of VI-RADS for predicting HG-BC in the entire group was 100%, and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.697. Among 65 patients with low VI-RADS scores, the DT model showed an AUC of 0.884 in predicting HG-BC compared to 0.506 for low VI-RADS scores. Calibration and decision curve analyses showed that the DT model performed better than the low VI-RADS scores.

CONCLUSION

Most VI-RADS scores ≥3 correspond to HG-BCs. VI-RADS could be used as a grouping imaging biomarker for a pathological grade-prediction procedure, which in combination with the DT model for low VI-RADS (≤2) populations, would provide a potential preoperative non-invasive method of predicting HG-BC.

Optical wireless communication using a flexible and waterproof perovskite color converter

In this Letter, the CH3NH3PbBr3 nanocrystals (NCs) are embedded into the interstices of the fluorine (polyvinyl fluoride/polyvinylidene fluoride, PVF/PVDF) matrix on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate to introduce new advantages, such as being flexible and waterproof, while maintaining the high optical performance of perovskites. The sample's photoluminescence (PL) spectra under 325 nm laser is a green emission peaked at 537 nm with full width at half maximum (FWHM) of about 21.2 nm and a fast PL decay time. As a color converter, it shows high optical absorption and can transform light from solar-blind ultraviolet to a blue region into a green region in air, water, and bending conditions. While excited by a 270 nm ultraviolet light-emitting diode (LED), the system's observed -3 dB bandwidth with the color converter is near 4.4 MHz in air and water conditions with well-eye diagrams at a data rate of 30 Mbps. Finally, we demonstrate an audio transmission application with an ultraviolet light source, a color conversion layer, and a low-cost silicon-based photodetector.

[Construction of a model based on multipoint full-layer puncture biopsy for predicting pathological complete response after neoadjuvant therapy for locally advanced rectal cancer]

Objective: To investigate the value of transanal multipoint full-layer puncture biopsy (TMFP) in predicting pathological complete response (pCR) after neoadjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy (nCRT) in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) and to establish a predictive model for providing clinical guidance regarding the treatment of LARC. Methods: In this multicenter, prospective, cohort study, we collected data on 110 LARC patients from four hospitals between April 2020 and March 2023: Beijing Chaoyang Hospital of Capital Medical University (50 patients), Beijing Friendship Hospital of Capital Medical University (41 patients), Qilu Hospital of Shandong University (16 patients), and Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University (three patients). The patients had all received TMFP after completing standard nCRT. The variables studied included (1) clinicopathological characteristics; (2) clinical complete remission (cCR) and efficacy of TMFP in determining pCR after NCRT in LARC patients; and (3) hospital attended, sex, age, clinical T- and N-stages, distance between the lower margin of the tumor and the anal verge, baseline and post-radiotherapy serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and carbohydrate antigen (CA)19-9 concentrations, chemotherapy regimen, use of immunosuppressants with or without radiotherapy, radiation therapy dosage, interval between surgery and radiotherapy, surgical procedure, clinical T/N stage after radiotherapy, cCR, pathological results of TMFP, puncture method (endoscopic or percutaneous), and number and timing of punctures. Single-factor and multifactorial logistic regression analysis were used to determine the factors affecting pCR after NCRT in LARC patients. A prediction model was constructed based on the results of multivariat analysis and the performance of this model evaluated by analyzing subject work characteristics (ROC), calibration, and clinical decision-making (DCA) curves. pCR was defined as complete absence of tumor cells on microscopic examination of the surgical specimens of rectal cancer (including lymph node dissection) after NCRT, that is, ypT0+N0. cCR was defined according to the Chinese Neoadjuvant Rectal Cancer Waiting Watch Database Study Collaborative Group criteria after treatment, which specify an absence of ulceration and nodules on endoscopy; negative rectal palpation; no tumor signals on rectal MRI T2 and DWI sequences; normal serum CEA concentrations, and no evidence of recurrence on pelvic computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging. Results: Of the 110 patients, 45 (40.9%) achieved pCR after nCRT, which was combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors in 34 (30.9%). cCR was diagnosed before puncture in 38 (34.5%) patients, 43 (39.1%) of the punctures being endoscopic. There were no complications of puncture such as enterocutaneous fistulae, vaginal injury, prostatic injury, or presacral bleeding . Only one (2.3%) patient had a small amount of blood in the stools, which was relieved by anal pressure. cCR had a sensitivity of 57.8% (26/45) for determining pCR, specificity of 81.5% (53/65), accuracy of 71.8% (79/110), positive predictive value 68.4% (26/38), and negative predictive value of 73.6% (53/72). In contrast, the sensitivity of TMFP pathology in determining pCR was 100% (45/45), specificity 66.2% (43/65), accuracy 80.0% (88/110), positive predictive value 67.2% (45/67), and negative predictive value 100.0% (43/43). In this study, the sensitivity of TMFP for pCR (100.0% vs. 57.8%, χ2=24.09, P<0.001) was significantly higher than that for cCR. However, the accuracy of pCR did not differ significantly (80.0% vs. 71.8%, χ2=2.01, P=0.156). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that a ≥4 cm distance between the lower edge of the tumor and the anal verge (OR=7.84, 95%CI: 1.48-41.45, P=0.015), non-cCR (OR=4.81, 95%CI: 1.39-16.69, P=0.013), and pathological diagnosis by TMFP (OR=114.29, the 95%CI: 11.07-1180.28, P<0.001) were risk factors for pCR after NCRT in LARC patients. Additionally, endoscopic puncture (OR=0.02, 95%CI: 0.05-0.77, P=0.020) was a protective factor for pCR after NCRT in LARC patients. The area under the ROC curve of the established prediction model was 0.934 (95%CI: 0.892-0.977), suggesting that the model has good discrimination. The calibration curve was relatively close to the ideal 45° reference line, indicating that the predicted values of the model were in good agreement with the actual values. A decision-making curve showed that the model had a good net clinical benefit. Conclusion: Our predictive model, which incorporates TMFP, has considerable accuracy in predicting pCR after nCRT in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer. This may provide a basis for more precisely selecting individualized therapy.

MRI-based bone marrow radiomics for predicting cytogenetic abnormalities in multiple myeloma

AIM

To develop a radiomics signature applied to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-images to predict cytogenetic abnormalities in multiple myeloma (MM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with newly diagnosed MM were enrolled retrospectively from March 2019 to September 2022. They were categorised into the high-risk cytogenetics (HRC) group and standard-risk cytogenetics (SRC) group. The patients were allocated randomly at a ratio of 7:3 into training and validation cohorts. Volumes of interest (VOI) was drawn manually on fat suppression T2-weighted imaging (FS-T2WI) and copied to the same location of the T1-weighted imaging (T1WI) sequence. Radiomics features were extracted from two sequences and selected by reproducibility and redundant analysis. The least absolute shrinkage selection operation (LASSO) algorithm was applied to build the radiomics signatures. The performance of the radiomics signatures to distinguish HRC with SRC was evaluated by ROC curves. The area under the curve (AUC), specificity, and sensitivity were also calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 105 MM patients were enrolled in this study. The four and 11 most significant and relevant features were selected separately from T1WI and FS-T2WI sequences to build the radiomics signatures based on the training cohort. Compared to the T1WI sequence, the radiomics signature based on the FS-T2WI sequence achieved better performance with AUCs of 0.896 and 0.729 in the training and validation cohorts respectively. A sensitivity of 0.833, specificity of 0.667, and Youden index of 0.500 were achieved for the FS-T2WI radiomics signature in the validation cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

The radiomics signature based on MRI provides a non-invasive and convenient tool to predict cytogenetic abnormalities in MM patients.

Inhibition of Vanadium Cathodes Dissolution in Aqueous Zn-Ion Batteries

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) have experienced a rapid surge in popularity, as evident from the extensive research with over 30 000 articles published in the past 5 years. Previous studies on AZIBs have showcased impressive long-cycle stability at high current densities, achieving thousands or tens of thousands of cycles. However, the practical stability of AZIBs at low current densities (<1C) is restricted to merely 50-100 cycles due to intensified cathode dissolution. This genuine limitation poses a considerable challenge to their transition from the laboratory to the industry. In this study, leveraging density functional theory (DFT) calculations, an artificial interphase that achieves both hydrophobicity and restriction of the outward penetration of dissolved vanadium cations, thereby shifting the reaction equilibrium and suppressing the vanadium dissolution following Le Chatelier's principle, is described. The approach has resulted in one of the best cycling stabilities to date, with no noticeable capacity fading after more than 200 cycles (≈720 h) at 200 mA g-1 (0.47C). These findings represent a significant advance in the design of ultrastable cathodes for aqueous batteries and accelerate the industrialization of aqueous zinc-ion batteries.

[Anticancer effect of parasites and its underlying mechanisms: a review]

Both parasitic diseases and cancers are disorders that seriously threaten human health. A strong correlation has been recently found between parasitic infections and cancers, and multiple species of parasites and their derived products have shown effective to suppress cancer development, progression and metastasis. Therefore, deciphering the interaction among parasites, cancers and hosts not only provides new insights into the development of cancer therapy, but also provides the basis for screening of parasites-derived active anticancer molecules. This review summarizes the latest advances in the anticancer activity of parasites and underlying mechanisms.

Discriminating minimal residual disease status in multiple myeloma based on MRI: utility of radiomics and comparison of machine-learning methods

AIM

To explore the possibility of discriminating minimal residual disease (MRD) status in multiple myeloma (MM) based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and identify optimal machine-learning methods to optimise the clinical treatment regimen.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 83 patients were analysed retrospectively. They were divided randomly into training and validation cohorts. The regions of interest were segmented and radiomics features were extracted and analysed on two sequences, including T1-weighted imaging (WI) and fat saturated (FS)-T2WI, and then radiomics models were built in the training cohort and evaluated in the validation cohort. Clinical characteristics were calculated to build a traditional model. A combined model was also built using the clinical characteristics and radiomics features. Classification accuracy was assessed using area under the curve (AUC) and F1 score.

RESULTS

In the training cohort, only the bone marrow (BM) infiltrate ratio (p=0.005) was retained after univariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis. In T1WI, the linear support vector machine (SVM) achieved the best performance compared to other classifiers, with AUCs of 0.811 and 0.708 and F1 scores of 0.792 and 0.696 in the training and validation cohorts, respectively. Similarly, in FS-T2WI sequence, linear SVM achieved the best performance with AUCs of 0.833 and 0.800 and F1 score of 0.833 and 0.800. The combined model constructed by the FS-T2WI-linear SVM and BM infiltrate ratio outperformed the traditional model (p=0.050 and 0.012, Delong test), but showed no significant difference compared with the radiomics model (p=0.798 and 0.855).

CONCLUSION

The linear SVM-based machine-learning method can offer a non-invasive tool for discriminating MRD status in MM.

Hepatitis C virus infection is associated with high risk of breast cancer: a pooled analysis of 68,014 participants

Introduction

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among women. Previous studies had shown that hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection might serve as a risk factor for breast cancer, while some studies failed to find such an association.

Methods

In this study, we presented a first attempt to capture and clarify this clinical debate via a cumulative analysis (registration ID: CRD42023445888).

Results

After systematically searching and excluding the irrelevant publications, five case-control or cohort studies were finally included. The synthetic effect from the eligible studies showed that patients with HCV infection had a significantly higher prevalence of breast cancer than non-HCV infected general population (combined HR= 1.382, 95%CI: 1.129 to 1.692, P=0.002). There was no evidence of statistical heterogeneity during this pooled analysis (I2 = 13.2%, P=0.33). The sensitivity analyses confirmed the above findings. No significant publication bias was observed among the included studies. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms for this relationship might be associated with persistent infection/inflammation, host immune response, and the modulation of HCV-associated gene expression.

Discussion

Though the causal association between HCV infection and breast cancer did not seem quite as strong, screening for HCV might enable the early detection of breast cancer and help to prevent the progression of the disease. Since the topic of this study remains a matter of clinical debate, further studies are still warranted to validate this potential association.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42023445888.

Bio-Inspired Polyanionic Electrolytes for Highly Stable Zinc-Ion Batteries

For zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs), the non-uniform Zn plating/stripping results in a high polarization and low Coulombic efficiency (CE), hindering the large-scale application of ZIBs. Here, inspired by biomass seaweed plants, an anionic polyelectrolyte alginate acid (SA) was used to initiate the in situ formation of the high-performance solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer on the Zn anode. Attribute to the anionic groups of -COO- , the affinity of Zn2+ ions to alginate acid induces a well-aligned accelerating channel for uniform plating. This SEI regulates the desolvation structure of Zn2+ and facilitates the formation of compact Zn (002) crystal planes. Even under high depth of discharge conditions (DOD), the SA-coated Zn anode still maintains a stable Zn stripping/plating behavior with a low potential difference (0.114 V). According to the classical nucleation theory, the nucleation energy for SA-coated Zn is 97 % less than that of bare Zn, resulting in a faster nucleation rate. The Zn||Cu cell assembled with the SA-coated electrode exhibits an outstanding average CE of 99.8 % over 1,400 cycles. The design is successfully demonstrated in pouch cells, where the SA-coated Zn exhibits capacity retention of 96.9 % compared to 59.1 % for bare Zn anode, even under the high cathode mass loading (>10 mg/cm2 ).

[Diagnosis status and genetic characteristics analysis of Fanconi anemia in China]

Objective: To analyze the clinical and molecular diagnostic status of Fanconi anemia (FA) in China. Methods: The General situation, clinical manifestations and chromosome breakage test and genetic test results of 107 pediatric FA cases registered in the Chinese Blood and Marrow Transplantation Registry Group (CBMTRG) and the Chinese Children Blood and Marrow Transplantation Registry Group (CCBMTRG) from August 2009 to January 2022 were analyzed retrospectively. Children with FANCA gene variants were divided into mild and severe groups based on the type of variant, and Wilcoxon-test was used to compare the phenotypic differences between groups. Results: Of the 176 registered FA patients, 69 (39.2%) cases were excluded due to lack of definitive genetic diagnosis results, and the remaining 107 children from 15 hospitals were included in the study, including 70 males and 37 females. The age at transplantation treatment were 6 (4, 9) years. The enrolled children were involved in 10 pathogenic genes, including 89 cases of FANCA gene, 7 cases of FANCG gene, 3 cases of FANCB gene, 2 cases of FANCE gene and 1 case each of FANCC, FANCD1, FANCD2, FANCF, FANCJ, and FANCN gene. Compound heterozygous or homozygous of loss-of-function variants account for 69.2% (72/104). Loss-of-function variants account for 79.2% (141/178) in FANCA gene variants, and 20.8% (37/178) were large exon deletions. Fifty-five children (51.4%) had chromosome breakage test records, with a positive rate of 81.8% (45/55). There were 172 congenital malformations in 80 children.Café-au-Lait spots (16.3%, 28/172), thumb deformities (16.3%,28/172), polydactyly (13.9%, 24/172), and short stature (12.2%, 21/172) were the most common congenital malformations in Chinese children with FA. No significant difference was found in the number of congenital malformations between children with severe (50 cases) and mild FANCA variants (26 cases) (Z=-1.33, P=0.185). Conclusions: FANCA gene is the main pathogenic gene in children with FA, where the detection of its exon deletion should be strengthened clinically. There were no phenotypic differences among children with different types of FANCA variants. Chromosome break test is helpful to determine the pathogenicity of variants, but its accuracy needs to be improved.

How risk perception and loss aversion affect farmers' willingness to withdraw from rural homesteads: Mediating role of policy identity

Government-guided withdrawal from rural homesteads is a sustainable solution to the problem of vacant rural residential land. Nonetheless, few studies have considered the influence of risk perception and loss aversion on farmers' decisions to withdraw from rural homesteads, and even fewer have investigated the role of policy identity. Using fieldwork-collected primary data and a lottery-choice experiment from a reform pilot area of southwestern China, this study aimed to provide a new focus for risk perception and loss aversion in farmers' intention to withdraw from rural homesteads through policy identity. According to our findings, only 45.30 % are willing to withdraw from their homesteads. Farmers typically perceive two to three categories of risks among residence risk, livelihood risk, security risk, and policy risk. Only 29.28 % of respondents report a low level of loss aversion, with the remainder reporting a moderate or high level. More than half demonstrate a high level of policy identity. Most notably, after dealing with endogeneity, risk perception has a negative impact on farmers' intention to withdraw from rural homesteads, whereas loss aversion has a positive impact. Policy identity has a positive influence on farmers' intention, partially mediating the negative path of risk perception and entirely mediating the positive path of loss aversion. Robust concluding remarks advocate for the improvement of farmers' policy identity based on heterogeneous characteristics of risk perception and loss aversion, as well as a more individualized consideration of land withdrawal options.

Modelling enzyme inhibition toxicity of ionic liquid from molecular structure via convolutional neural network model

Deep learning (DL) methods further promote the development of quantitative structure-activity/property relationship (QSAR/QSPR) models by dealing with complex relationships between data. An acetylcholinesterase inhibitory toxicity model of ionic liquids (ILs) was established using a convolution neural network (CNN) combined with support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF) and multilayer perceptron (MLP). A CNN model was proposed for feature self-learning and extraction of ILs. By comparing with the model results through feature engineering (FE), the model regression results based on the CNN model for feature extraction have been substantially improved. The results showed that all six models (FE-SVM, FE-RF, FE-MLP, CNN-SVM, CNN-RF, and CNN-MLP) had good prediction accuracy, but the results based on the CNN model were better. The hyperparameters of six models were optimized by grid search and the 10-fold cross validation. Compared with the existing models in the literature, the model performance has been further improved. The model could be used as an intelligent tool to guide the design or screening of low-toxicity ILs.

[Cross - species regulation and underlying mechanisms of parasite - derived non-coding RNAs: a review]

Parasite-derived non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) not only contribute to life activities of parasites, and microRNA (miRNA), long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), and circular RNA (circRNA) may generate a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) regulatory network with host miRNAs and mRNAs via extracellular vesicles, thereby participating in infection and pathogenic processes. This article presents an overview of characterizing ncRNAs derived from parasites and the cross-species regulatory role of parasite-derived ncRNAs in host gene expression and its underlying mechanisms.

[Clinical characteristics and prognosis of patients with therapy-related myelodysplastic syndrome and acute myeloid leukemia arising from malignant tumors]

Objective: To investigate the clinical characteristics, cytogenetics, molecular biology, treatment, and prognosis of patients with therapy-related myelodysplastic syndrome and acute myeloid leukemia (t-MDS/AML) secondary to malignancies. Methods: The clinical data of 86 patients with t-MDS/AML in West China Hospital of Sichuan University between January 2010 and April 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. The clinical characteristics, primary tumor types, and tumor-related therapies were analyzed. Results: The study enrolled a total of 86 patients with t-MDS/AML, including 67 patients with t-AML, including 1 patient with M(0), 6 with M(1), 27 with M(2), 9 with M(3), 12 with M(4), 10 with M(5), 1 with M(6), and 1 with M(7). Sixty-two patients could be genetically stratified, with a median overall survival (OS) of 36 (95% CI 22-52) months for 20 (29.9%) patients in the low-risk group and 6 (95% CI 3-9) months for 10 (14.9%) in the intermediate-risk group. The median OS time was 8 (95% CI 1-15) months in 32 (47.8%) patients in the high-risk group. For patients with non-acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) and AML, the median OS of the low-risk group was 27 (95% CI 18-36) months, which was significantly longer than that of the non-low-risk group (χ(2)=5.534, P=0.019). All 9 APL cases were treated according to the initial treatment, and the median OS was not reached, and the 1-, 2-, and 3-year OS rates were 100.0%, (75.0±6.2) %, and (75.0±6.2) % respectively. Of the 58 patients with non-APL t-AML (89.7%), 52 received chemotherapy, and 16 achieved complete remission (30.8%) after the first induction chemotherapy. The 1-, 2-, and 3-year OS rates of the non-APL t-AML group were (42.0 ± 6.6) %, (22.9±5.7) %, and (13.4±4.7) %, respectively. The median OS of patients who achieved remission was 24 (95% CI 18-30) months, and the median OS of those who did not achieve remission was 6 (95% CI 3-9) months (χ(2)=10.170, P=0.001). Bone marrow CR was achieved in 7 (53.8%) of 13 patients treated with vineclar-containing chemotherapy, with a median OS of 12 (95% CI 9-15) months, which was not significantly different from that of vineclar-containing chemotherapy (χ(2)=0.600, P=0.437). In 19 patients with t-MDS, the 1-, 2-, and 3-year OS rates were (46.8±11.6) %, (17.5±9.1) %, and (11.7±9.1) % with a median OS of 12 (95% CI 7-17) months, which was not significantly different from that in t-AML (χ(2)=0.232, P=0.630) . Conclusions: Breast cancer, bowel cancer, and other primary tumors are common in patients with t-MDS/AML, which have a higher risk of adverse genetics. Patients with APL had a high induction remission rate and a good long-term prognosis, whereas patients without APL had a low remission rate and a poor long-term prognosis.

[The value of transanal multipoint full-layer puncture biopsy in determining the response degree of rectal cancer following neoadjuvant therapy: a prospective multicenter study]

Objective: To verify the feasibility and accuracy of the transanal multipoint full-layer puncture biopsy (TMFP) technique in determining the residual status of cancer foci after neoadjuvant therapy (nCRT) in rectal cancer. Methods: Between April 2020 and November 2022, a total of 78 patients from the Beijing Chaoyang Hospital of Capital Medical University, the Beijing Friendship Hospital of Capital Medical University, the Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, the Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University with advanced rectal cancer received TMFP after nCRT participated in this prospective multicenter trial. There were 53 males and 25 females, aged (M(IQR)) 61 (13) years (range: 35 to 77 years). The tumor distance from the anal verge was 5 (3) cm (range: 2 to 10 cm). The waiting time between nCRT and TMFP was 73 (26) days (range: 33 to 330 days). 13-point transanal puncture was performed with a 16 G tissue biopsy needle with the residual lesion as the center. The specimens were submitted for independent examination and the complications of the puncture were recorded. The consistency of TMFP and radical operation specimen was compared. The consistency of TMPF with clinical remission rates for the diagnosis of complete pathological remission was compared by sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value, positive predictive value and accuracy. Statistical analysis between groups was performed using the χ2 analysis, and a paired χ2 test was used to compare diagnostic validity. Results: Before TMFP, clinical complete response (cCR) was evaluated in 27 cases. Thirty-six cases received in vivo puncture, the number of punctures in each patient was 13 (8) (range: 4 to 20), 24 cases of tumor residue were found in the puncture specimens. The sensitivity to judgment (100% vs. 60%, χ2=17.500, P<0.01) and accuracy (88.5% vs. 74.4%, χ2=5.125, P=0.024) of TMFP for the pathologic complete response (pCR) were significantly higher than those of cCR. Implement TMFP based on cCR judgment, the accuracy increased from 74.4% to 92.6% (χ2=4.026, P=0.045). The accuracy of the in vivo puncture was 94.4%, which was 83.3% of the in vitro puncture (χ2=1.382, P=0.240). Overall, the accuracy of TMFP improved gradually with an increasing number of cases (χ2=7.112, P=0.029). Conclusion: TMFP is safe and feasible, which improves the sensitivity and accuracy of rectal cancer pCR determination after nCRT, provides a pathological basis for cCR determination, and contributes to the safe development of the watch and wait policy.

"Mn-locking" effect by anionic coordination manipulation stabilizing Mn-rich phosphate cathodes

High-voltage cathodes with high power and stable cyclability are needed for high-performance sodium-ion batteries. However, the low kinetics and inferior capacity retention from structural instability impede the development of Mn-rich phosphate cathodes. Here, we propose light-weight fluorine (F) doping strategy to decrease the energy gap to 0.22 eV from 1.52 eV and trigger a "Mn-locking" effect-to strengthen the adjacent chemical bonding around Mn as confirmed by density functional theory calculations, which ensure the optimized Mn ligand framework, suppressed Mn dissolution, improved structural stability and enhanced electronic conductivity. The combination of in situ and ex situ techniques determine that the F dopant has no influence on the Na+ storage mechanisms. As a result, an outstanding rate performance up to 40C and an improved cycling stability (1000 cycles at 20C) are achieved. This work presents an effective and widely available light-weight anion doping strategy for high-performance polyanionic cathodes.

Surface passivation for highly active, selective, stable, and scalable CO2 electroreduction

Electrochemical conversion of CO2 to formic acid using Bismuth catalysts is one the most promising pathways for industrialization. However, it is still difficult to achieve high formic acid production at wide voltage intervals and industrial current densities because the Bi catalysts are often poisoned by oxygenated species. Herein, we report a Bi3S2 nanowire-ascorbic acid hybrid catalyst that simultaneously improves formic acid selectivity, activity, and stability at high applied voltages. Specifically, a more than 95% faraday efficiency was achieved for the formate formation over a wide potential range above 1.0 V and at ampere-level current densities. The observed excellent catalytic performance was attributable to a unique reconstruction mechanism to form more defective sites while the ascorbic acid layer further stabilized the defective sites by trapping the poisoning hydroxyl groups. When used in an all-solid-state reactor system, the newly developed catalyst achieved efficient production of pure formic acid over 120 hours at 50 mA cm-2 (200 mA cell current).

Liquid metal droplets bouncing higher on thicker water layer

Liquid metal (LM) has gained increasing attention for a wide range of applications, such as flexible electronics, soft robots, and chip cooling devices, owing to its low melting temperature, good flexibility, and high electrical and thermal conductivity. In ambient conditions, LM is susceptible to the coverage of a thin oxide layer, resulting in unwanted adhesion with underlying substrates that undercuts its originally high mobility. Here, we discover an unusual phenomenon characterized by the complete rebound of LM droplets from the water layer with negligible adhesion. More counterintuitively, the restitution coefficient, defined as the ratio between the droplet velocities after and before impact, increases with water layer thickness. We reveal that the complete rebound of LM droplets originates from the trapping of a thinly low-viscosity water lubrication film that prevents droplet-solid contact with low viscous dissipation, and the restitution coefficient is modulated by the negative capillary pressure in the lubrication film as a result of the spontaneous spreading of water on the LM droplet. Our findings advance the fundamental understanding of complex fluids' droplet dynamics and provide insights for fluid control.

Bisphenol P and bisphenol M promote triple-negative breast cancer metastasis through activation of AKT pathways

Bisphenol P (BPP) and bisphenol M (BPM) are increasing in our living environment as analogues of bisphenol A (BPA), but little is known about their biological effect. In this study, we investigated the effects of low to medium dose exposure of BPP and BPM on triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). We found that BPP and BPM exposure didn't affect proliferation of TNBC cell lines MDA-MB-231 and 4 T1, but significantly promoted cells migration and invasion. The effect of BPP and BPM on promoting TNBC metastasis was further confirmed in mouse models. Low concentrations of BPP and BPM significantly increased the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) marker and related proteins such as N-cadherin, MMP-9, MMP-2 and Snail, and also enhanced phosphorylation of AKT both in vitro and in vivo. When PI3K inhibitor wortmannin was applied to specifically inhibit phosphorylation of AKT, the expression of target genes markedly decreased, and the TNBC metastasis induced by low-concentration BPP and BPM were reversed. In conclusion, these results showed that PI3K/AKT signaling regulate BPP/BPM-induced metastasis of TNBC by triggering EMT. This study provides insights into the effects and the potential mechanisms of BPP and BPM on TNBC, raising concerns about the risk of using these two bisphenols as the alternative of BPA.

Enabling early detection of knee osteoarthritis using diffusion-relaxation correlation spectrum imaging

AIM

To present a technique that enables detection of early stage OA of the knee using diffusion-relaxation correlation spectrum imaging (DR-CSI).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty-five early osteoarthritis patients (OA, Kellgren-Lawrence [KL] score 1 to 2; mean age, 56.4 years) and 49 healthy volunteers (mean age, 56.7 years) were underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with T2-mapping and DR-CSI techniques. Maps of mean apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), T2 relaxation time and volume fraction Vi for DR-CSI compartment i (A, B, C, D) sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative likelihood ratio (PLR, NLR) were assessed to determine the diagnostic accuracy for detection of early-stage degeneration of knee articular cartilage. The structural abnormalities of articular cartilage were evaluated using modified Whole-Organ MR Imaging Scores (WORMS).

RESULTS

All intra- and interobserver agreements for DR-CSI compartment volume fractions and modified WORMS of cartilage were excellent. Early OA versus the controls had higher V_C, lower V_A and V_B (p<0.001), but comparable V_D (p>0.05). V_A, V_B and V_C had a moderate association with WORMS. No significant correlation was identified between V_D and WORMS. V_C had better ability than V_A,V_B, V_D, T2 and ADC to discriminate early OA patients from healthy controls (area under the curve, 0.898). Sensitivity, specificity, PLR, and NLR of V_C with a cut-off value of 29.9% were 81.8% (95% confidence interval [CI], 69.1-90.9%), 95.9% (86-99.5%), 20.05% (5.13-78.34%), and 0.19% (0.11-0.33%).

CONCLUSIONS

DR-CSI compartment volume fractions may be sensitive indicators for detecting early-stage degeneration in knee articular cartilage.

Reversible Zn Metal Anodes Enabled by Trace Amounts of Underpotential Deposition Initiators

Routine electrolyte additives are not effective enough for uniform zinc (Zn) deposition, because they are hard to proactively guide atomic-level Zn deposition. Here, based on underpotential deposition (UPD), we propose an "escort effect" of electrolyte additives for uniform Zn deposition at the atomic level. With nickel ion (Ni2+ ) additives, we found that metallic Ni deposits preferentially and triggers the UPD of Zn on Ni. This facilitates firm nucleation and uniform growth of Zn while suppressing side reactions. Besides, Ni dissolves back into the electrolyte after Zn stripping with no influence on interfacial charge transfer resistance. Consequently, the optimized cell operates for over 900 h at 1 mA cm-2 (more than 4 times longer than the blank one). Moreover, the universality of "escort effect" is identified by using Cr3+ and Co2+ additives. This work would inspire a wide range of atomic-level principles by controlling interfacial electrochemistry for various metal batteries.

Bio-Inspired Aerobic-Hydrophobic Janus Interface on Partially Carbonized Iron Heterostructure Promotes Bifunctional Nitrogen Fixation

Overwhelming competition from hydrogen/oxygen evolution reactions and low solubility of N2 in aqueous systems drain on selectivity and activity on nitrogen fixation reaction. Herein, we design an aerobic-hydrophobic Janus structure by introducing fluorinated modification on porous carbon nanofibers embedded with partially carbonized iron heterojunctions (Fe3C/Fe@PCNF-F). The simulations prove that the Janus structure can keep the internal Fe3C/Fe@PCNF-F away from water infiltration and endow a N2 molecule-concentrating effect, suppressing the competing reactions and overcoming the mass-transfer limitations to build a robust "quasi-solid-gas" state micro-domain around the catalyst surface. In this proof-of-concept system, the Fe3C/Fe@PCNF-F exhibits excellent electrocatalytic performance for nitrogen fixation (NH3 yield rate up to 29.2 μg h-1 mg-1cat. and Faraday efficiency (FE) up to 27.8% in NRR; NO3- yield rate up to 15.7 μg h-1 mg-1cat. and FE up to 3.4 % in NOR).

Coordinating the Edge Defects of Bismuth with Sulfur for Enhanced CO2 Electroreduction to Formate

Bismuth-based materials have been recognized as promising catalysts for the electrocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction (ECO2RR). However, they poor selectivity due to competing hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) remains challenging. In this study, we have developed an edge defect modulation strategy for Bi by coordinating the edge defects of bismuth (Bi) with sulfur, to promote ECO2RR selectivity and inhibit the competing HER. The prepared catalysts demonstrate excellent product selectivity, with a high HCOO- Faraday efficiency of ~95% and an HCOO- partial current of ~250 mA cm-2 under alkaline electrolytes. Density function theory calculations reveal that sulfur tends to bind to the Bi edge defects, reducing the coordination-unsaturated Bi sites (*H adsorption sites), and regulating the charge states of neighboring Bi sites to improve *OCHO adsorption. This work deepens our understanding of ECO2RR mechanism on bismuth-based catalysts, guiding for the design of advanced ECO2RR catalysts.

[NKD1 promotes glucose uptake in colon cancer cells by activating YWHAE transcription]

OBJECTIVE

Bo investigate the regulatory relationship between NKD1 and YWHAE and the mechanism of NKD1 for promoting tumor cell proliferation.

METHODS

HCT116 cells transfected with pcDNA3.0-NKD1 plasmid, SW620 cells transfected with NKD1 siRNA, HCT116 cells with stable NKD1 overexpression (HCT116-NKD1 cells), SW620 cells with nkd1knockout (SW620-nkd1^-/- cells), and SW620-nkd1^-/- cells transfected with pcDNA3.0-YWHAE plasmid were examined for changes in mRNA and protein expression levels of YWHAE using qRT-PCR and Western blotting. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay was used to detect the binding of NKD1 to the promoter region of YWHAE gene. The regulatory effect of NKD1 on YWHAE gene promoter activity was analyzed by dual-luciferase reporter gene assay, and the interaction between NKD1 and YWHAE was analyzed with immunofluorescence assay. The regulatory effect of NKD1 on glucose uptake was examined in the tumor cells.

RESULTS

In HCT116 cells, overexpression of NKD1 significantly enhanced the expression of YWHAE at both the mRNA and protein levels, while NKD1 knockout decreased its expression in SW620 cells (P < 0.001). ChIP assay showed that NKD1 protein was capable of binding to the YWHAE promoter sequence; dual luciferase reporter gene assay showed that NKD1 overexpression (or knockdown) in the colon cancer cells significantly enhanced (or reduced) the transcriptional activity of YWHAE promoter (P < 0.05). Immunofluorescence assay demonstrated the binding of NKD1 and YWHAE proteins in colon cancer cells. NKD1 knockout significantly reduced glucose uptake in colon cancer cells (P < 0.01), while YWHAE overexpression restored the glucose uptake in NKD1-knockout cells (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

NKD1 protein activates the transcriptional activity of YWHAE gene to promote glucose uptake in colon cancer cells.

When It's Heavier: Interfacial and Solvation Chemistry of Isotopes in Aqueous Electrolytes for Zn-ion Batteries

The electrochemical effect of isotope (EEI) of water is introduced in the Zn-ion batteries (ZIBs) electrolyte to deal with the challenge of severe side reactions and massive gas production. Due to the low diffusion and strong coordination of ions in D2 O, the possibility of side reactions is decreased, resulting in a broader electrochemically stable potential window, less pH change, and less zinc hydroxide sulfate (ZHS) generation during cycling. Moreover, we demonstrate that D2 O eliminates the different ZHS phases generated by the change of bound water during cycling because of the consistently low local ion and molecule concentration, resulting in a stable interface between the electrode and electrolyte. The full cells with D2 O-based electrolyte demonstrated more stable cycling performance which displayed ∼100 % reversible efficiencies after 1,000 cycles with a wide voltage window of 0.8-2.0 V and 3,000 cycles with a normal voltage window of 0.8-1.9 V at a current density of 2 A g-1 .

Trace Amounts of Triple-Functional Additives Enable Reversible Aqueous Zinc-Ion Batteries from a Comprehensive Perspective

Although their cost-effectiveness and intrinsic safety, aqueous zinc-ion batteries suffer from notorious side reactions including hydrogen evolution reaction, Zn corrosion and passivation, and Zn dendrite formation on the anode. Despite numerous strategies to alleviate these side reactions have been demonstrated, they can only provide limited performance improvement from a single aspect. Herein, a triple-functional additive with trace amounts, ammonium hydroxide, was demonstrated to comprehensively protect zinc anodes. The results show that the shift of electrolyte pH from 4.1 to 5.2 lowers the HER potential and encourages the in situ formation of a uniform ZHS-based solid electrolyte interphase on Zn anodes. Moreover, cationic NH4+ can preferentially adsorb on the Zn anode surface to shield the "tip effect" and homogenize the electric field. Benefitting from this comprehensive protection, dendrite-free Zn deposition and highly reversible Zn plating/stripping behaviors were realized. Besides, improved electrochemical performances can also be achieved in Zn//MnO2 full cells by taking the advantages of this triple-functional additive. This work provides a new strategy for stabilizing Zn anodes from a comprehensive perspective.

[Dysphagia and respiratory rehabilitation in patients with Post-ICU Syndrome]

Post-ICU Syndrome (PICS) is a complex disease with multiple aspects, including physical, cognitive, and psychological health problems. Dysphagia persists in patients with PICS and is independently associated with adverse clinical outcomes after discharge. With the development of the level of intensive care, dysphagia of PICS needs more attention. Although several risk factors related to dysphagia in PICS have been proposed, the exact mechanism is still unclear. Respiratory rehabilitation is an important non-pharmacological therapy, which offers short-and long-term rehabilitation in critical patients, but its application is insufficient in dysphagia of PICS. In view of the lack of consensus on the rehabilitation treatment of dysphagia after PICS currently, the article elaborates on the related concepts, epidemiology, potential mechanisms and the application of respiratory rehabilitation in patients with dysphagia of PICS, in order to provide a reference for the clinical development of respiratory rehabilitation in patients with dysphagia of PICS.

Anomalous reflection with customized high-efficiency bandwidth

Anomalous reflection from metasurfaces with 100% efficiency at optical frequencies was not achieved until an all-dielectric quasi-three-dimensional subwavelength structure was proposed. The desired nonlocal control of light waves is realized by designing phase responses of multilayer films at a single wavelength. However, a high-efficiency bandwidth is not controllable by designing only the phase response at a single wavelength. Here, we propose the use of a multilayer metasurface to achieve anomalous reflection with a customized high-efficiency bandwidth. The interference of the successive light waves scattered from the structure at multiple wavelengths is controlled by phase dispersion regulation of multilayer films. As a proof of concept, two sets of multilayer films with different phase dispersions were designed to realize broadband (∼110 nm) and narrowband (∼15 nm) anomalous reflections, both with an efficiency of over 80%. The results offer a general strategy to design high-efficiency anomalous reflection with arbitrary bandwidth and might stimulate various potential applications for metadevices.

Highly Reversible Zinc Metal Anode in a Dilute Aqueous Electrolyte Enabled by a pH Buffer Additive

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries have drawn increasing attention due to the intrinsic safety, cost-effectiveness and high energy density. However, parasitic reactions and non-uniform dendrite growth on the Zn anode side impede their application. Herein, a multifunctional additive, ammonium dihydrogen phosphate (NHP), is introduced to regulate uniform zinc deposition and to suppress side reactions. The results show that the NH₄ ⁺ tends to be preferably absorbed on the Zn surface to form a "shielding effect" and blocks the direct contact of water with Zn. Moreover, NH₄ ⁺ and (H₂ PO₄ )^- jointly maintain pH values of the electrode-electrolyte interface. Consequently, the NHP additive enables highly reversible Zn plating/stripping behaviors in Zn//Zn and Zn//Cu cells. Furthermore, the electrochemical performances of Zn//MnO₂ full cells and Zn//active carbon (AC) capacitors are improved. This work provides an efficient and general strategy for modifying Zn plating/stripping behaviors and suppressing side reactions in mild aqueous electrolyte.

Famine Exposure during Early Life and Risk of Cancer in Adulthood: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVES

Emerging evidences have explored the association between famine exposure during early life and cancer risk in adulthood, but the results remain controversial and inconsistent. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive evidence on the relation of famine exposure to later cancer risk.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

Relevant reports published up to March, 2022 were identified by searching PubMed, Embase, Web of sciences and Medline databases. Pooled relative ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to evaluate the effect famine exposure on cancer risk.

RESULTS

Totally, 18 published articles with 6,061,147 subjects were included in this study. Compared with unexposed group, early life famine exposure dramatically increased the risk of cancer in adulthood (RR=1.13, 95% CI: 1.04-1.22). The pooled RRs were different in terms of sex, exposure severity, exposure period, famine type, study design type and cancer location. A remarkably elevated risk for cancer was discerned in women exposed to famine (RR=1.09, 95% CI: 1.00-1.18), severe exposure (RR=1.12, 95% CI: 1.02-1.22) and adolescence exposure (RR=1.76, 95% CI: 1.02-2.50), Chinese famine exposure (RR=1.55, 95% CI: 1.29-1.82) and cohort studies (RR=1.28, 95% CI: 1.13-1.42). Moreover, a significant association of early-life famine exposure with increased risk of breast (RR=1.16, 95% CI: 1.05-1.27) and stomach cancers (RR=1.89, 95% CI: 1.24-2.54) was observed.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis suggests that exposure to famine during early life may increase the risk of cancer in adulthood. The above-mentioned association is pronounced in women exposed to famine, severe exposure, adolescence exposure, Chinese famine, cohort studies, breast and stomach cancers. It is essential for decision-makers to take targeted measures for improving population awareness regarding the long-term effect of early life nutritional status.

Robust Bioinspired MXene-Hemicellulose Composite Films with Excellent Electrical Conductivity for Multifunctional Electrode Applications

MXene-based structural materials with high mechanical robustness and excellent electrical conductivity are highly desirable for multifunctional applications. The incorporation of macromolecular polymers has been verified to be beneficial to alleviate the mechanical brittleness of pristine MXene films. However, the intercalation of a large amount of insulating macromolecules inevitably compromises their electrical conductivity. Inspired by wood, short-chained hemicellulose (xylo-oligosaccharide) acts as a molecular binder to bind adjacent MXene nanosheets together; this work shows that this can significantly enhance the mechanical properties without introducing a large number of insulating phases. As a result, MXene-hemicellulose films can integrate a high electrical conductivity (64,300 S m^-1) and a high mechanical strength (125 MPa) simultaneously, making them capable of being high-performance electrode materials for supercapacitors and humidity sensors. This work proposes an alternative method to manufacture robust MXene-based structural materials for multifunctional applications.

[Influence of Helicobacter pylori infection and its eradication treatment on small intestinal bacterial overgrowth]

Objectives: To analyze the effects of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection and eradication therapy on small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). Methods: From September to December 2021, patients with abdominal symptoms who received ¹³C urea breath test at the Department of Gastroenterology in Peking University First Hospital were enrolled.¹³C urea breath test was used to detect H. pylori infection and patients were divided into H. pylori positive and negative groups accordingly. Lactulose hydrogen methane breath test was performed to determine SIBO. H. pylori positive patients were treated with quadruple therapy including amoxicillin, metronidazole, rabeprazole and bismuth potassium citrate. ¹³C urea breath test and lactulose hydrogen methane breath test were reexamined 6 weeks after the treatment. Results: A total of 102 patients (49 males and 53 females) were enrolled, with a mean age of (42.1±9.9) years. Among them, 49 patients were H. pylori negative and 53 were H. pylori positive. Moreover, 47 patients were SIBO positive and 55 were SIBO negative. There was no significant difference in age, sex, body mass index, abdominal symptoms and the diagnosis of chronic atrophic gastritis between H. pylori positive and negative patients at the enrollment (all P>0.05). The detection rate of SIBO in H. pylori infected patients was higher than that in uninfected patients, and the difference was statistically significant (60.4% vs 30.6%, P=0.003). Patients with SIBO had significantly more frequent abdominal distension (36.2% vs 10.9%, P=0.002) and constipation (27.7% vs 1.8%, P<0.001) than patients without SIBO. The rate of SIBO after H. pylori eradication treatment was significantly lower than that before treatment (20.8% vs 60.4%, P<0.001). The remission rate of SIBO after eradication therapy was 66.7% (20/30). Besides, patients had obvious improvement of constipation (6.0% vs 18.9%, P=0.008), and the incidence of other abdominal symptoms decreased to various degrees including diarrhea, abdominal pain, abdominal distention and poor appetite. Conclusion: H. pylori infection increases the risk of SIBO, and the quadruple regimen containing amoxicillin and metronidazole has a therapeutic effect for patients with H.pylori infection and concomitant SIBO.

Ultralight type I transvaginal mesh: an alternative for recurrent severe posterior vaginal prolapse

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to analyze the medium-term outcomes of ultralight type I mesh for postmenopausal women with recurrent severe posterior vaginal prolapse (PVP).

METHODS

All participants underwent transvaginal ultralight type I mesh repair between April 2016 and April 2021 and were followed until May 2022. Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification System (POP-Q) staging, mesh-related complications, Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I) scale and quality of life questionnaire responses were evaluated. The primary outcome was composite surgical success rate at the last follow-up, composite success being defined as no vaginal bulge symptoms, no POP-Q point at or beyond the hymen and no re-treatment for POP. Secondary outcomes included anatomic outcomes (POP-Q score), symptomatic relief and complications.

RESULTS

The median follow-up was 37.3 months. At the last follow-up, the composite success rate was 75%, and POP-Q scores for the vault and posterior wall and quality of life questionnaire scores were significantly improved (p < 0.01). The subjective satisfaction (PGI-I ≤ 2) rate was 83.3%. There were no mesh-related complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Ultralight mesh can achieve good clinical outcomes and substantially improve the quality of life of patients with severe recurrent PVP in the medium term, and may thus be a viable alternative for treating this condition.

Work-function-induced Interfacial Built-in Electric Fields in Os-OsSe2 Heterostructures for Active Acidic and Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution

Theoretical calculations unveil that the formation of Os-OsSe₂ heterostructures with neutralized work function (WF) perfectly balances the electronic state between strong (Os) and weak (OsSe₂ ) adsorbents and bidirectionally optimizes the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity of Os sites, significantly reducing thermodynamic energy barrier and accelerating kinetics process. Then, heterostructural Os-OsSe₂ is constructed for the first time by a molten salt method and confirmed by in-depth structural characterization. Impressively, due to highly active sites endowed by the charge balance effect, Os-OsSe₂ exhibits ultra-low overpotentials for HER in both acidic (26 mV @ 10 mA cm^-2 ) and alkaline (23 mV @ 10 mA cm^-2 ) media, surpassing commercial Pt catalysts. Moreover, the solar-to-hydrogen device assembled with Os-OsSe₂ further highlights its potential application prospects. Profoundly, this special heterostructure provides a new model for rational selection of heterocomponents.

[Role of alternative activation of macrophages in hookworm therapy for inflammatory diseases: a review]

As a type of highly plastic innate immune cells, macrophages may be differentiated into M1 and M2 macrophages upon different stimuli, and M2 macrophages are involved in immune regulation, tissue remodeling and regeneration, and wound healing. Previous epidemiological studies have shown a significant negative correlation between the prevalence of helminth infections and the incidence of inflammatory diseases, such as allergy and autoimmune diseases. As a common type of intestinal helminths, hookworm infection may trigger high levels of type II host immune responses, with alternative activation of macrophages, which are effective to inhibit the development and progression of inflammatory diseases. This review summarizes the advances in alternative activation of macrophages in hookworm therapy for inflammatory diseases.

Fourfold Anisotropic Magnetoresistance of L1_{0} FePt Due to Relaxation Time Anisotropy

Experimental measurements show that the angular dependence of the anisotropic magnetoresistance (AMR) in L1_{0} ordered FePt epitaxial films on the current orientation and magnetization direction is a superposition of the corresponding dependences of twofold and fourfold symmetries. The twofold AMR exhibits a strong dependence on the current orientation, whereas the fourfold term only depends on the magnetization direction in the crystal and is independent of the current orientation. First-principles calculations reveal that the fourfold AMR arises from the relaxation time anisotropy due to the variation of the density of states near the Fermi energy under rotation of the magnetization. This relaxation time anisotropy is a universal property in ferromagnetic metals and determines other anisotropic physical properties that are observable in experiment.