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Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have attracted growing interests as new material platform for a range of applications. In this study, a triazine‐carbazole‐based covalent organic framework (COF‐TCZ) was designed as highly porous material with conjugated donor‐acceptor networks, and feasibly synthesized by the Schiff condensation of 4,4′,4′′‐(1,3,5‐triazine‐2,4,6‐triyl)tr ianiline (TAPB) and 9‐(4‐formylphenyl)‐9H‐carbazole‐3,6‐dicarbaldehyde (CZTA) under the solvothermal condition. Considering the effect of linkage, the imine‐linked COF‐TCZ was further oxidized to obtain an amide‐linked covalent organic framework (COF‐TCZ‐O). The as‐synthesized COFs show high crystallinity, good thermal and chemical stability, and excellent photoactive properties. Two π‐conjugated triazine‐carbazole‐based COFs with tunable linkages are beneficial for light‐harvesting capacity and charge separation efficiency, which are empolyed as photocatalysts for the oxidation reaction of N‐aryltetrahydroisoquinoline. The COFs catalyst systems exhibit the outstanding photocatalytic performance with high conversion, photostability and recyclability. Photoelectrochemical tests were employed to examine the behavior of photogenerated charge carriers in photo‐illumination system. The control experiments provide further insights into the nature of photocatalysis. In addition, the current research also provided a valuable approach for developing photofunctional COFs to meet challenge in achieving the great potential of COFs materials in organic conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT As one of the most potential platforms for heterogeneous catalysis, two‐dimensional porphyrin‐based covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have attracted great research interests. In this work, following the correlation of COF structure and their performance, a type of donor–acceptor 2D COF (Por‐COF‐Zn) based on porphyrin and thiophene units was designed and easily constructed by one‐pot method using 5,10,15,20‐tetra‐(4‐aminophenyl)porphyrin (TAPP), thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene‐2,5‐dicarbaldehyde, and zinc acetate. The as‐synthesized COF material is tested to show high crystallinity and good thermal and chemical stability. The Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) measure results show that the specific surface area of Por‐COF‐Zn is 413.6 m2g−1, and the pore volume is 0.279 cm3g−1. Transient photocurrent response and EIS measurement also demonstrate that Por‐COF‐Zn exhibits an efficient separation of photogenerated electron/hole pairs. The photocatalytic performance of the resulted COF was further evaluated by using intramolecular cyclization of N‐phenyl‐o‐phenylenediamine and benzaldehyde to form benzimidazole derivative. The catalyst system exhibited good to high conversion efficiency, moderate substrate applicability, and excellent stability and recyclability for the catalytic cyclization approach of benzimidazoles. The catalytic mechanism should be contributed to the synergistic effect of organic framework and metallic zinc. Our current work also provides valuable information for understanding COF‐based photocatalytic systems and further highlight new insights to meet new challenges of heterogeneous photocatalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The thymus, a site to culture the naïve T lymphocytes, is susceptible to atrophy or involution due to aging, inflammation, and oxidation. Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) has been proven to possess anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, and antitumor activity. Here, we investigate the effects of EGCG on thymic involution induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), an endotoxin derived from Gram‐negative bacteria. The methodology included an in vivo experiment on female Kunming mice exposed to LPS and EGCG. Morphological assessment of thymic involution, immunohistochemical detection, and thymocyte subsets analysis by flow cytometry were further carried out to evaluate the potential role of EGCG on the thymus. As a result, we found that EGCG alleviated LPS‐induced thymic atrophy, increased mitochondrial membrane potential and superoxide dismutase levels, and decreased malondialdehyde and reactive oxygen species levels. In addition, EGCG pre‐supplement restored the ratio of thymocyte subsets, the expression of autoimmune regulator, sex‐determining region Y‐box 2, and Nanog homebox, and reduced the number of senescent cells and collagen fiber deposition. Western blotting results indicated that EGCG treatment elevated LPS‐induced decrease in pAMPK, Sirt1 protein expression. Collectively, EGCG relieved thymus architecture and function damaged by LPS via regulation of AMPK/Sirt1 signaling pathway. Our findings may provide a new strategy on protection of thymus from involution caused by LPS by using EGCG. And EGCG might be considered as a potential agent for the prevention and treatment of thymic involution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Textiles with outstanding moisture transport characteristics and excellent flammability is of vital importance for human beings. In this work, the poly(arylene sulfide sulfone)–polydopamine/polyphenylene sulfide–polydopamine/poly(arylene sulfide sulfone) (PASS‐PDA/PPS‐PDA/PASS) composite fibric with multigradient porous structures from macro to submicron levels prepared via micrometer and nanometer fibers for water transport and evaporation has been fabricated. The introduction of PDA can effectively improve the hydrophilicity of the composite membrane. Meanwhile, superhydrophobic PASS layer with beaded structure was obtained by electrospray as the inner layer. It is found that PASS‐PDA‐72 fabric exhibited outstanding water diffusion property (spreading diameter = 10.47 cm) and ultrafast the water evaporation (0.20 g h−1). Meanwhile, the beaded‐structure PASS fabrics with high hydrophobicity (water contact angle is 130°C) was selected to absorb water from the surface of human skin and transport it to the other side to evaporate quickly, giving the surface of human skin a comfortable and dry environment. What is more, the PASS‐PDA/PPS‐PDA/PASS composite membrane exhibited excellent thermal stability (Tdmax = 544°C) and flame retardancy, which will have potential for the application in the field of fire protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To assess the excess risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) associated with different criteria for metabolic health, and the interplay of body size, insulin sensitivity and metabolic health with CVD risk. Materials and Methods: We conducted a prospective study involving 115 638 participants from the China Cardiometabolic Disease and Cancer Cohort (4C) Study. Metabolic health was defined using three different definitions: (1) insulin sensitivity defined by homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance index; (2) absence of metabolic syndrome according to the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criteria; and (3) simultaneous absence of metabolic abnormalities (diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidaemia). The primary endpoint was a composite of incident CVD events comprising the first occurrence of myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure, or cardiovascular death. Results: During a mean 3.61‐year follow‐up period, obese individuals with insulin sensitivity (multivariable‐adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.69, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.37–2.08), or without metabolic syndrome (HR 1.46, 95% CI 1.13–1.89) still exhibited increased CVD risks, when compared to their normal‐weight counterparts. Otherwise, those with obesity but simultaneous absence of metabolic abnormalities demonstrated similar CVD risk compared to normal‐weight individuals (HR 0.91, 95% CI 0.53–1.59). CVD risk increased with the number of abnormalities across body mass index categories, regardless of insulin sensitivity. Conclusions: This study emphasizes the need for refined definitions of metabolic health and advocates for meticulous screening for metabolic abnormalities to reduce cardiovascular risks, even in individuals with normal weight and insulin sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Cry1Ab has emerged as a bio‐insecticide to control Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). However, the sublethal effects of Cry1Ab on the physiological changes and molecular level of S. litura have not been well documented. Our aims in this study were to assess the sublethal effect of Cry1Ab on S. litura, including midgut and Malpighian tubules as targets. RESULTS: After sublethal Cry1Ab exposure, distinct histological alterations were mainly observed in the midgut. Furthermore, the results of comparative RNA sequencing and tandem mass tag‐based proteomics showed that, in the midgut, most differential expression genes (DEGs) were up‐regulated and significantly enriched in the serine protease activity pathway, and up‐regulated differential expression proteins (DEPs) were mainly associated with the oxidative phosphorylation pathway, whereas the down‐regulated involved in the ribosome pathways. In the Malpighian tubules, DEGs and DEPs were significantly enriched in the ribosome pathway. We proposed that ribosome may act as a universal target in energy metabolism with other pathways via the results of protein–protein interaction analysis. Further, by verification of the mRNA expression of some Cry protein receptor and detoxification genes after Cry1Ab treatment, it was suggested that the ribosomal proteins (RPs) possibly participate in influencing the Bt‐resistance of S. litura larvae under sublethal Cry1Ab exposure. CONCLUSION: Under sublethal Cry1Ab exposure, the midgut of S. litura was damaged, and the proteotranscriptomic analysis elucidated that Cry1Ab disrupted the energy homeostasis of larvae. Furthermore, we emphasized the potential role of ribosomes in sublethal Cry1Ab exposure. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The novel HLA‐A*02:1144 allele differs from HLA‐A*02:03:01:01 by 3 nucleotides in exon 7. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

HLA‐B*40:86 differs from B*40:06:01:03 by a single nucleotide exchange in exon 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Diabetes is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

HLA‐A*26:206:02N differs from A*26:01:01:01 by a single nucleotide exchange in exon 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The association between sugar‐sweetened beverages and metabolic disorders has been well studied. However, it has not been determined whether fasting serum fructose is associated with metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). Methods: Participants were enrolled from 2011 to 2012 in Shanghai. Fasting serum fructose concentration was measured with a validated liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method. Results: A total of 954 participants without diabetes were included. They were followed for an average of 3.5 years. A total of 320 (33.5%) participants had MAFLD at baseline. With the increase in fasting serum fructose level by quartile, the MAFLD prevalence was increased by 27.0%, 25.0%, 37.4%, and 44.5%, respectively (p < 0.001). Each SD increase in fasting serum fructose level was associated with a 60% increased risk of MAFLD (odds ratio 1.60; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.36–1.88; p < 0.001). Fasting serum fructose levels were more closely associated with four components of MAFLD (hepatic steatosis, prediabetes, insulin resistance, and low high‐density lipoprotein). We built a diagnostic model named the fructose fat index (FFI). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the FFI was 0.879 (95% CI, 0.850–0.908) in the derivation cohort and 0.827 (95% CI, 0.776–0.878) in the validation cohort. Subsequent prospective studies found that the incidence risk of MAFLD was 2.26 times higher in the high‐fructose group than in the low‐fructose group among female participants (95% CI, 1.46–3.49; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Fasting serum fructose concentration, which mostly reflects endogenous fructose, was associated with a higher risk of MAFLD. The FFI derived from fasting serum fructose could be used to predict MAFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evidence points to the indispensable function of alveolar macrophages (AMs) in normal lung development and tissue homeostasis. However, the importance of AMs in bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) has not been elucidated. Here, we identified a significant role of abnormal AM proliferation and polarization in alveolar dysplasia during BPD, which is closely related to the activation of the IL‐33‐ST2 pathway. Compared with the control BPD group, AMs depletion partially abolished the epithelialmesenchymal transition process of AECII and alleviated pulmonary differentiation arrest. In addition, IL‐33 or ST2 knockdown has protective effects against lung injury after hyperoxia, which is associated with reduced AM polarization and proliferation. The protective effect disappeared following reconstitution of AMs in injured IL‐33 knockdown mice, and the differentiation of lung epithelium was blocked again. In conclusion, the IL‐33‐ST2 pathway regulates AECII transdifferentiation by targeting AMs proliferation and polarization in BPD, which shows a novel strategy for manipulating the IL‐33–ST2‐AMs axis for the diagnosis and intervention of BPD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Observational epidemiology studies suggested a relationship between the gut microbiome and primary liver cancer. However, the causal relationship remains unclear because of confounding factors and reverse causality. We aimed to explore the causal role of the gut microbiome in the development of primary liver cancer, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). Methods: Mendelian randomization (MR) study was conducted using summary statistics from genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) of the gut microbiome and liver cancer, and sequencing data from a case–control study validated the findings. A 5‐cohort GWAS study in Germany (N = 8956) served as exposure, whilst the UK biobank GWAS study (N = 456 348) served as an outcome. The case–control study was conducted at the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University from December 2018 to October 2020 and included 184 HCC patients, 63 ICC patients and 40 healthy controls. Results: A total of 57 features were available for MR analysis, and protective causal associations were identified for Family_Ruminococcaceae (OR = 0.46 [95% CI, 0.26–0.82]; p =.009) and Genus_Porphyromonadaceae (OR = 0.59 [95% CI, 0.42–0.83]; p =.003) with HCC, and for Family_Porphyromonadaceae (OR = 0.36 [95% CI, 0.14–0.94]; p =.036) and Genus_Bacteroidetes (OR = 0.55 [95% CI, 0.34–0.90]; p =.017) with ICC respectively. The case–control study results showed that the healthy controls had a higher relative abundance of Family_Ruminococcaceae (p =.00033), Family_Porphyromonadaceae (p =.0055) and Genus_Bacteroidetes (p =.021) than the liver cancer patients. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that Ruminococcaceae, Porphyromonadaceae and Bacteroidetes are related to a reduced risk of liver cancer (HCC or ICC), suggesting potential significance for the prevention and control of liver cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lack of physical activity and excessive sitting time contributed to ectopic fat accumulation, especially in the liver. Previous studies have illustrated the harm of sedentary behaviour and the benefits of physical activity on fatty liver disease. We aimed to explore the association between the behaviour patterns and the risk of metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) using isotemporal substitution model to examine the effect of replacing one behaviour to another while keeping the total time and other behaviours fixed among Chinese middle‐aged and elderly population. Methods: This study included 161 147 participants aged ≥40 years old from the nationwide, population‐based cohort of the REACTION study. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire was used to measure self‐reported time for sleeping, sitting, walking and moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (MVPA). MAFLD was defined by evidence of fatty liver index (FLI) ≥ 60 in addition to one of the following three patterns, namely overweight/obesity, presence of diabetes, or evidence of metabolic dysregulation. Isotemporal substitution models using logistic regression models to evaluate the association of replacement of different behaviour patterns with each other and the risk of MAFLD. Results: Substitution of 60 minutes per day of sleeping, walking or total MVPA for sitting was associated with a 2%–8% reduction of MAFLD risk in overall participants. In employed individuals, replacing sitting time with occupational MVPA or nonoccupational MVPA both could bring benefits to liver steatosis. Stratified analysis found that replacing 60 minutes of sitting time with an equivalent time of other behaviour pattern could reduce approximately 8% of the risk among MAFLD participants with metabolic abnormalities. Such a relationship might be explained by the important mediated role of metabolic elements, such as waist circumference, body mass index, triglycerides and homoeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance. Furthermore, replacing sitting with MVPA showed a stronger association among participants who got enough sleep (sleep duration ≥7 hours per day). Conclusion: Replacing sitting with other behaviour patterns could reduce the prevalence of MAFLD, and such substitution effect was much remarkably in individuals with abnormal metabolic status. Observably, obese individuals were more likely to benefit from appropriate changes in behaviour patterns. Moreover, the analysis of sleep duration stratification appealed that the adequacy of individual sleep duration also had a significant impact on the substitution effect. It is worth noting that adjusting the time allocation of behaviour patterns might have a beneficial impact on liver‐metabolic health, and these findings might help us better recognize the importance of reasonable arrangement of behaviour patterns according to the individual's situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Diabetes is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

HLA‐B*58:01:40 differs from HLA‐B*58:01:01 by a single nucleotide change in exon 3, 507 C‐ > T (codon 145.3 CGC‐ > CGT). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A wearable hyperthermia device that allows for tumor treatment without interfering with daily activities is of clinical and social significance. However, the wide adaptation of local hyperthermia from such wearable devices in clinical practice has been hindered mainly due to several critical challenges in existing hyperthermia devices, such as the contradiction of high electrical conductivity and high optical transparency of the device while in a thin, deformable format. Here a soft, skin‐mountable, hyperthermia patch (HTP) is reported with unusual optical and electrical characteristics based on unidirectional silver nanofibers (AgNFs) network with low‐voltage operation and uniform heating even under mechanical deformation. The patch presents both high electrical conductivity and highly optical transparency simultaneously thus allowing real time inspection of the subcutaneous tumor treatment and skin response during the treatment. The unidirectional nature of the AgNFs network renders the key features of high optical transparency, low electrical resistivity, excellent electrothermal performances, and mechanical deformability. Effective treatment of subcutaneous tumors in mice is demonstrated with the skin worn HTP while the skin response is visually tracked. Systematic studies reveal the physiological mechanisms of Notch signaling in inducing tumor cell apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comprehensive Summary The cyanide anion (CN–) is known to be one of the most toxic anions. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a reliable, sensitive, selective, rapid and effective method for the detection of CN–. Here, a self‐assembly strategy based on pillar[5]arene P5 and azine derivative AZ was used to construct supramolecular sensors, and it was found that the detection effect of CN– was significantly improved by the assembly strategy. The sensitivity of the assembled sensor P5‐AZ to CN– is more than 10 times higher than that of AZ. The detect mechanism was further investigated by theoretical calculations and 1H NMR. The results showed that AZ detects CN– by a deprotonation process with fluorescence enhancement, while P5‐AZ improves the sensitivity of CN– recognition through hydrogen bonding, anion‐π and anion‐dipole interactions, as well as the strong bonding ability of the assembly. Supramolecular assembly P5‐AZ has the advantages of low toxicity, high sensitivity, and more importantly, it provides a method to detect CN– sensitivity in the aqueous phase and organisms by host‐guest assembly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article, titled "Front Cover," is based on a study conducted in China called the China Cardiometabolic Disease and Cancer Cohort (4C) study. The study examines the relationship between body size, insulin sensitivity, metabolic health, and the risk of cardiovascular disease in Chinese adults. The study involved a large number of participants and provides insights into these important health factors. The article is authored by a diverse group of researchers and provides valuable information for individuals conducting research on these topics. [Extracted from the article]

With the increase of PM2.5 and bacteria contamination in the atmosphere, an antibacterial PM2.5 filter is the need of the hour. In this study, a polyarylene sulfide sulfone/Ag/ZnO (PASS/Ag/ZnO) membrane (membrane) was fabricated via the electrospinning technology for simultaneous removal of PM2.5 and bacteria. The membrane exhibits outstanding hydrophobicity (156°), mechanical property (2.67 MPa), and thermal performance (415°C). The filtration efficiency of PASS/Ag/ZnO membrane for PM2.5 is 99.41% and 99.89% under the airflow rate of 0.5 and 2 m/s, respectively, while the filtration pressure drop is only 42 and 79 Pa. More importantly, PASS/Ag/ZnO membrane shows excellent synergistic antibacterial abilities against both Gram‐negative bacteria Escherichia coli and Gram‐positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, the antibacterial rate was up to 96.70% for E. coli and 95.41% for S. aureus, respectively. This composite membrane not only has broad application prospects but also opens new avenues for removing air pollutants including PM2.5 and bacteria from the air in a more cost‐effective method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study deals with developing novel 1,3,5‐triazine‐nicotinohydrazide derivatives as potent CDK9 inhibitors in a straightforward synthetic route with potent anti‐osteosarcoma activity. The most potent CDK9 inhibitor compound 5k inhibits proliferation of MG‐63 cells via induction of apoptosis and G2/M cell cycle arrest. It reduces tumor progression in the patient‐derived orthotopic xenograft (PDOX) mouse model with significant antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activity. In tumor tissue homogenates, it caused significant inhibition of CDK9 and inhibited the phosphorylation of RNAPII ser2 and reduced MCL‐1 expression in Western blot analysis. Compound 5k also showed considerable bioavailability in SD mice. Our results demonstrated that compound 5k inhibits growth of OS in vitro and in vivo via inhibition of CDK9 which attenuated the downstream phosphorylation of RNAPII ser2 and represses expression of the anti‐apoptotic protein, MCL‐1 for the induction of apoptosis in OS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is now regarded as the hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Recent research has suggested that serum creatinine (SCr) may be an indicator of MetS and its related diseases. We aimed to investigate the association between SCr and NAFLD in Chinese adults. Methods: A cross‐sectional sample of 8862 subjects aged 40 years or older (40–73 years) from China were analysed in this study. The anthropometric measurements, laboratory tests, and hepatic ultrasonography were conducted. NAFLD presence was defined by hepatic ultrasound in the absence of other liver diseases. Results: NAFLD subjects had higher SCr than those without NAFLD (66.8 μmol/L vs. 65.6 μmol/L, p < 0.001). Moreover, SCr levels were correlated with alanine aminotransferase (β = 0.099, p < 0.001), aspartate aminotransferase (β = 0.135, p < 0.001), γ‐glutamyltransferase (β = 0.039, p < 0.001), and insulin resistance (β = 0.027, p = 0.014) after adjusted for potential covariates. In the multivariable‐adjusted logistic regression analyses, compared to the first SCr quintile, the odds ratio for NAFLD was 1.35 (95% confidence interval 1.14–1.60, p < 0.001) for the fifth quintile after adjusting multiple measured confounders. Conclusion: SCr concentration is independently associated with NAFLD in a middle aged and older Chinese population. Elevated SCr levels, even within normal ranges, were associated with higher risk of NAFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Diabetes is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Diabetes is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective: To investigate the effect of a new powered toothbrush with tapered bristles on the brush head for the reduction of dental plaque and gingivitis. Methods: This was a single‐centre, single‐group, longitudinal clinical trial. Thirty‐two participants who were typical manual toothbrush users were recruited and assigned the sonic‐powered brush. Interviews were arranged on the 1st, 4th, and 15th days which represented the baseline (T1), middle (T2) and final (T3) time points, respectively. At each visit, the plaque index (PlI), gingival index (GI), bleeding on probing (BOP) and probing depth (PD) were recorded for the Ramfjord index teeth, gingival crevicular fluid(GCF) samples were collected and the proportions of eight periodontal pathogenic bacteria were analysed. Repeated‐measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used for comparisons at different time points. Results: PlI was significantly reduced by 41.67% from T1 to T2 (p<0.001) and decreased by 18.57% from T2 to T3 (p=0.003). GI also varied significantly from T1 to T2 (p=0.018) and T1 to T3 (p=0.037). A 35.86% reduction in the BOP percentage occurred after using the sonic‐powered toothbrush for 3 days (p=0.001). However, no significant difference was observed in the mean values of PD at different examination intervals (p=0.529). There was no significant difference in the proportions of bacteria between T1 and T3 (p>0.05). Conclusion: This research demonstrated the efficacy of the sonic‐powered brush handle together with tapered bristles on the brush in reducing plaque and gingivitis within a short time period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: The aims of this study were to evaluate the associations of metabolic abnormalities with incident diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and to explore whether dyslipidaemia, particularly high fasting triglyceride (TG), was associated with the development of DKD. Methods: In total, 11 142 patients with new‐onset type 2 diabetes with baseline estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFR) ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2 were followed up during 2011‐2016. Incident DKD was defined as eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 at follow‐up. Multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted to explore the relationship of metabolic abnormalities at baseline and at follow‐up with risks of DKD. High TG was defined by TG ≥1.70 mmol/L. Low high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐c) was defined by HDL‐c <1.0 mmol/L for men or <1.3 mmol/L for women. Results: Participants who developed DKD had higher levels of waist circumference and systolic blood pressure, and lower levels of HDL‐c at both baseline and follow‐up visits. The DKD group also had higher levels of post‐load plasma glucose and TG at follow‐up. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that both high TG at baseline [odds ratio (OR) = 1.37, p =.012) and high TG at follow‐up (OR = 1.71, p <.001) were significantly associated with increased risks of DKD. Patients with high TG levels at both baseline and follow‐up had higher risk of DKD compared with constantly normal TG (OR = 1.65, p <.001) after adjustment for covariates. Conclusions: In a large population of patients with new‐onset type 2 diabetes, a high TG level was an independent risk factor for the development of DKD. Tight TG control might delay the occurrence of DKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Chronification of postoperative pain is a common clinical phenomenon following surgical operation, and it perplexes a great number of patients. Estrogen and its membrane receptor (G protein‐coupled estrogen receptor, GPER) play a crucial role in pain regulation. Here, we explored the role of GPER in the rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM) during chronic postoperative pain and search for the possible mechanism. Methods and Results: Postoperative pain was induced in mice or rats via a plantar incision surgery. Behavioral tests were conducted to detect both thermal and mechanical pain, showing a small part (16.2%) of mice developed into pain persisting state with consistent low pain threshold on 14 days after incision surgery compared with the pain recovery mice. Immunofluorescent staining assay revealed that the GPER‐positive neurons in the RVM were significantly activated in pain persisting rats. In addition, RT‐PCR and immunoblot analyses showed that the levels of GPER and phosphorylated μ‐type opioid receptor (p‐MOR) in the RVM of pain persisting mice were apparently increased on 14 days after incision surgery. Furthermore, chemogenetic activation of GPER‐positive neurons in the RVM of Gper‐Cre mice could reverse the pain threshold of pain recovery mice. Conversely, chemogenetic inhibition of GPER‐positive neurons in the RVM could prevent mice from being in the pain persistent state. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrated that the GPER in the RVM was responsible for the chronification of postoperative pain and the downstream pathway might be involved in MOR phosphorylation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

HLA‐A*11:452N differs from A*11:01:01:01 by a single nucleotide exchange in exon 1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

HLA‐C*08:99 differs by one non‐synonymous nucleotide from C*08:01:01 in exon 5, codon 288 GTT>ATT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Diabetes is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are at risk of developing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and chronic kidney disease (CKD), which are important causes of disabling and death in patients with T2DM. For the prevention and management of ASCVD or CKD, cardiovascular risk factors should be systematically evaluated, and ASCVD and CKD should be screened in patients with T2DM. In this consensus, we recommended that metformin should be used as the first‐line therapy for patients with T2DM and ASCVD or very high cardiovascular risk, heart failure (HF) or CKD, and should be retained in the treatment regimen unless contraindicated or not tolerated. In patients with T2DM and established ASCVD or very high cardiovascular risk, addition of a glucagon‐like peptide 1 receptor agonist (GLP‐1RA) or sodium–glucose cotransporter type 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor with proven cardiovascular benefits should be considered independent of individualised glycated haemoglobin (HbA1C) targets. In patients with T2DM and HF, an SGLT2 inhibitor should be preferably added regardless of HbA1C levels. In patients with T2DM and CKD, SGLT2 inhibitors should be preferred for the combination therapy independent of individualised HbA1C targets, and GLP‐1RAs with proven renal benefits would be alternative if SGLT2 inhibitors are contraindicated. Moreover, the prevention of hypoglycaemia and management of multiple risk factors by comprehensive regimen, including lifestyle intervention, antihypertensive therapies, lipid‐lowering treatment and antiplatelet therapies, should be kept in mind in treating patients with T2DM and ASCVD, HF or CKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Target identification for bioactive molecules augments modern drug discovery efforts in a range of applications, from the elaboration of mode‐of‐action of drugs to the drug repurposing to even the knowledge of side‐effects and further optimization. However, the traditional labor‐intensive and time‐consuming experiment methods obstructed the development. Driven by massive bioactivity data deposited in chemogenomic databases, computational alternatives have been proposed and widely developed to expedite the validation process. By screening a compound against a protein database, it is possible to identify potential target candidates that fit with this specific compound for subsequent experimental validation. In particular, ligand‐based target prediction methods have made tremendous progress in the past decade due to their flexibility, relatively low computational cost, and remarkable predictive performance, and are still moving forward. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of ligand‐based target prediction methods including similarity searching, machine learning and algorithm stacking, and the strategies to validate these methods. We also discuss the strength and weakness of the existing data sources for model development and outline the challenges and prospects of ligand‐based target prediction. It is expected that the topic discussed in this review should guide the development and application of ligand‐based target prediction and be of interest to the audiences for wider scientific community. This article is categorized under:Data Science > Chemoinformatics [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: A new estimation of distribution algorithm based on normalized mutual information (NMIEDA) is proposed for overcoming the premature convergence of bivariate estimation of distribution algorithms. NMIEDA first uses normalized mutual information to measure the interaction between two variables and then generate a dependency forest model. Second, based on the concept of sporadic model building and a reward and punishment scheme in Selfish Gene, NMIEDA provides a new updating mechanism that accelerates the convergence speed. Finally, a new sampling mechanism is adopted in NMIEDA to improve the efficiency of sampling, which combines stochastic sampling, the opposition‐based learning scheme and the mutation operator. The simulation results on benchmark problems and real‐world problems demonstrate that NMIEDA often outperforms several other bivariate algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The HLA‐DRB3*02:02:19 allele differs from DRB3*02:02:01:02 by a single nucleotide change in exon 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), characterized by an increase in hepatic triglyceride (TG) content, is the most common liver disease worldwide. Aging has been shown to increase susceptibility to NAFLD; however, the underlying molecular mechanism remains poorly understood. In the present study, we examined hepatic TG content and gene expression profiles in body weight‐matched young (3 months old), middle‐aged (10 months old), and old (20 months old) C57BL/6 mice and found that TGs were markedly accumulated while mitochondrial β‐oxidation‐related genes, including PPARα, were downregulated in the liver of old mice. In addition, advanced glycation end product receptor (RAGE), a key regulator of glucose metabolism, was upregulated in the old mice. Mechanistically, suppression of RAGE upregulated PPARα and its downstream target genes, which in turn led to reduced TG retention. Finally, we found that hepatic RAGE expression was increased in aging patients, a finding that correlated with decreased PPARα levels. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that the upregulation of RAGE may play a critical role in aging‐associated liver steatosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nucleotide‐binding domain, leucine‐rich repeat family with a caspase activation and recruitment domain 3 (NLRC3) participates in both immunity and cancer. The aim of this study was to determine the role of NLRC3 in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the underlying mechanisms. We collected human liver tissues from nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), HCC, and adjacent normal tissues to characterize the pattern of NLRC3 expression by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry. Then, we used the HCC cell line, HuH‐7, transfected with small interfering RNA to silence the NLRC3 expression. 5‐Ethynyl‐2'‐deoxyuridine assay, scratch assay, and transwell invasion assay were used for assessing proliferation, migration, and invasion, respectively. Flow cytometry and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay were conducted to assess cell apoptosis. The expression of NLRC3 was reduced in human HCC tissues, compared with normal liver and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis tissues. After knocking down of NLRC3, the proliferation, migration, and invasion were increased in HuH‐7 cells. And flow cytometry and TUNEL assay showed that HuH‐7 cell apoptosis was suppressed after NLRC3 knockdown. As for the underlying mechanisms, knockdown of NLRC3 in HuH‐7 cells was associated with the activation of Janus kinase 2/signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (JAK2/STAT3) pathway under interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) stimulation. NLRC3 expression was downregulated in human HCC tissues. NLRC3 silencing in HuH‐7 cells can promote the proliferation, migration, and invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. JAK2/STAT3 pathway activation induced by IL‐6 may be the underlying mechanism for HCC when NLRC3 expression is silenced. And the invasion of HuH‐7 cells was partially suppressed by the STAT3 specific inhibitor (cryptotanshinone). Therefore, NLRC3 may play a significant role in HCC and might be a therapeutic target for the treatment of HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geophysics has a role to play in the development of "smart cities". This is particularly true for Singapore, one of the world's most densely populated countries. Imaging of Singapore's subsurface is required to identify geological faults, model shaking from future earthquakes, and provide a framework for underground development. A noninvasive geophysical technique that is well suited for urban areas is passive seismic surveys using compact seismic instruments called nodes. Here we image Singapore's crustal structure using receiver functions generated by a 40‐day deployment of a 88 station nodal array. We generate high resolution receiver functions, despite the noisy environment and short recording time and also create common‐conversion point images. Our results reveal a complex crustal structure, containing multiple discontinuities. Azimuthal variations indicate a distinct change in crustal structure on either side of the postulated Bukit Timah fault, which has implications for seismic hazard. Plain Language Summary: By 2050 over two thirds of the global population is expected to live in cities (United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, 2019). Such dense population centers increase the exposure to nearby natural hazards such as earthquakes. Rapid urbanization also creates an ever pressing need to understand the subsurface of our cities, for example, for underground development. One technological advancement that allows us to image the subsurface of cities are passive seismic surveys using nodes. Nodes are small seismic instruments that can be deployed in urban areas such as schools and parks. We present results of a passive seismic survey using 88 nodes deployed in Singapore for 40 days. We generate high resolution receiver functions across the array, despite the short recording time, by using array stacking techniques. The dense nature of the array also allows continuous high frequency signals to be traced. Our results reveal that the structure of the crust is different on either side of the Bukit Timah fault, which agrees with geological information. Ancient faults in peninsula Malaysia have been reactivated in the recent past due to stress transfer from the Sumatran subduction zone; therefore, a geological fault under a densely populated urban center warrants further study for seismic hazard. Key Points: Robust receiver functions are generated from a temporary dense nodal array in a noisy urban environmentHigh frequency receiver functions reveal Singapore's crustal structure with direct implications for seismic hazard analysisAzimuthal variations reveal distinct crustal structure on either side of the Bukit Timah fault [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Diabetes is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The study investigated the effect of native cassava starch (NCS), hydroxypropylated starch, acetic acid esterification starch (AAES), acetylated distarch phosphate on gel properties and protein conformation of Nemipterus virgatus surimi. Addition of 10 g kg−1 NCS or 20 g kg−1 AAES could significantly promote the gel strength and textural profiles of the surimi gels (p <.05). The water holding ability and whiteness of surimi were remarkably increased when the four types of starch were added at all concentrations (p <.05). In rheological test, the lower G′ was observed in surimi samples added with starch at low temperature, suggesting starch played an inactive filler role in surimi. Along with the increase of starch additive amount, ionic bond and hydrophobic interaction first increased and then decreased, while hydrogen bond first decrease and then increased. According to Raman spectroscopy data, small content of starch promoted the heat‐induced conformational transition of surimi protein from α‐helix to β‐sheet, leading to the change in gel properties of surimi gels. Scanning electron microscopy photographs showed surimi gels added with 20 g kg−1 starch had the finer and denser network structure. Therefore, 20 g kg−1 AAES or 10 g kg−1 NCS or 10 g kg−1 HS could be proposed to a potential modifier to effectively improve the quality of surimi products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: (Pro)renin receptor (PRR), a novel member of the renin–angiotensin system, participates in various cardiovascular diseases. However, the role of PRR in alcoholic cardiomyopathy (ACM), which is caused by alcohol intake and manifests as myocardial damage and cardiac dysfunction, remains unclear. Methods: PRR gene silencing was achieved by transfecting recombinant adenovirus expressing anti‐PRR short hairpin RNA (PRR‐shRNA). In vitro, primary rat cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) were cultured with the stimulation of alcohol (200 mM), with or without PRR‐shRNA and PD98059. Immunofluorescence, RT‐PCR, and Western blot were used to measure the protein and messenger (mRNA) expression of PRR, fibrotic factors, and members of related signaling pathways. In vivo, Wistar rats were fed a diet containing 9% (v/v) alcohol or a normal diet for 3 months, with or without PRR‐shRNA. Sirius Red staining, immunohistochemical staining, and toluidine blue staining were used to evaluate myocardial fibrosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation response. Results: Alcohol markedly increased PRR mRNA and protein expression in a time‐ and concentration‐dependent manner in CFs. The increased expression of fibrotic factors induced by alcohol was prevented by PRR‐shRNA and PD98059. Moreover, PRR‐shRNA decreased the phosphorylation of extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK) 1/2 in CFs. Furthermore, PRR‐shRNA decreased cardiac fibrosis, reduced oxidative stress, and alleviated inflammation response in the myocardial tissue. Conclusions: Our results show that PRR‐ERK1/2 signaling was involved in the development of ACM and that PRR could be a new target for the treatment of ACM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

HLA‐DPB1*1104:01 differs from HLA‐DPB1*540:01 by a single nucleotide change in exon 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The HLA‐DPA1*02:33 allele differs from DPA1*02:02:02:04 by two nucleotide change in exon 4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

HLA‐C*08:236N differs from C*08:01:01 by a single nucleotide exchange in exon 5 at position 1991. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

HLA‐A*24:02:78 differs from HLA‐A*24:02:01:01 in exon 3 by a single nucleotide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Diabetes is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)