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Drawing inspiration from the jumping mechanisms of insects (e.g., click beetles), bistable structures can convert slow deformations of soft actuating material into fast jumping motions (i.e., power amplification). However, bistable jumpers often encounter large energy barriers for energy release/re‐storage, posing a challenge in achieving multimodal (i.e., height/distance) and continuous jumps at the insect scale (body length under 20 mm). Here, a new offset‐buckling bistable design is introduced that features antisymmetric equilibrium states and tunable energy barriers. Leveraging this design, a Boundary Actuation Tunable Energy‐barrier (BATE) jumper (body length down to 15 mm) is developed, and transform BATE jumper from height‐jump mode (up to 12.7 body lengths) to distance‐jump mode (up to 20 body lengths). BATE jumpers can perform agile continuous jumping (within 300 ms for energy release/re‐storage times) and real‐time status detection is further demonstrated. This insect‐level performance of the proposed BATE jumper showcases its potential toward future applications in exploration, search, and rescue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The buried interface between the electron transport layer (ETL) and the perovskite layer plays a crucial role in enhancing the power conversion efficiency (PCE) and stability of n–i–p type perovskite solar cells (PSCs). In this study, the interface between the chemical bath deposited (CBD) titanium oxide (TiO2) ETL and the perovskite layer using multi‐functional potassium trifluoromethyl sulfonate (SK) is modified. Structural and elemental analyses reveal that the trifluoromethyl sulfonate serves as a crosslinker between the TiO2 and the perovskite layer, thus improving the adhesion of the perovskite to the TiO2 ETL through strong bonding of the ─CF3 and ─SO3− terminal groups. Furthermore, the multi‐functional modifiers reduced interface defects and suppressed carrier recombination in the PSCs. Consequently, devices with a champion PCE of 25.22% and a fill factor (FF) close to 85% is achieved, marking the highest PCE and FF observed for PSCs based on CBD TiO2. The unencapsulated device maintained 81.3% of its initial PCE after operating for 1000 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Emerging evidence suggests a detrimental impact of high red meat intake on hepatic steatosis. We investigated the potential interplay between red meat intake and gut microbiome on circulating levels of trimethylamine N‐oxide (TMAO) and hepatic steatosis risk. Methods: This cross‐sectional study was conducted in a representative sample of 754 community‐dwelling adults in Huoshan, China. Diet was collected using 4 quarterly 3 consecutive 24‐h dietary (12‐day) recalls. We profiled faecal microbiome using 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing and quantified serum TMAO and its precursors using LC‐tandem MS (n = 333). We detected hepatic steatosis by FibroScan. The adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using logistic regression. Results: TMAO levels but not its precursors were positively associated with the likelihood of hepatic steatosis (aOR per 1‐SD increment 1.86, 95% CI 1.04–3.32). We identified 14 bacterial genera whose abundance was associated with TMAO concentration (pFDR <.05) belonging to the phyla Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria families. Per 10 g/day increase in red meat intake was positively associated with TMAO levels among participants who had higher red meat intake (>70 g/day) and higher TMAO‐predicting microbial scores (TMS, β =.045, p =.034), but not among others (pinteraction =.030). TMS significantly modified the positive association between red meat and steatosis (pinteraction =.032), with a stronger association being observed among participants with higher TMS (aOR 1.30, 95% CI 1.07–1.57). Conclusions: The bacterial genera that predicted TMAO levels may jointly modify the association between red meat intake and TMAO levels and the subsequent risk of hepatic steatosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing cost‐effective and sustainable acidic water oxidation catalysts requires significant advances in material design and in‐depth mechanism understanding for proton exchange membrane water electrolysis. Herein, we developed a single atom regulatory strategy to construct Co−Co dinuclear active sites (DASs) catalysts that atomically dispersed zirconium doped Co9S8/Co3O4 heterostructure. The X‐ray absorption fine structure elucidated the incorporation of Zr greatly facilitated the generation of Co−Co DASs layer with stretching of cobalt oxygen bond and S−Co−O heterogeneous grain boundaries interfaces, engineering attractive activity of significantly reduced overpotential of 75 mV at 10 mA cm−2, a breakthrough of 500 mA cm−2 high current density, and water splitting stability of 500 hours in acid, making it one of the best‐performing acid‐stable OER non‐noble metal materials. The optimized catalyst with interatomic Co−Co distance (ca. 2.80 Å) followed oxo‐oxo coupling mechanism that involved obvious oxygen bridges on dinuclear Co sites (1,090 cm−1), confirmed by in situ SR‐FTIR, XAFS and theoretical simulations. Furthermore, a major breakthrough of 120,000 mA g−1 high mass current density using the first reported noble metal‐free cobalt anode catalyst of Co−Co DASs/ZCC in PEM‐WE at 2.14 V was recorded. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Previous studies have found satisfactory clinical results with the nano‐hydroxyapatite/polyamide 66 (n‐HA/PA66) cage to reconstruct the stability of anterior cervical column. However, studies evaluating the long‐term outcomes of the n‐HA/PA66 cage in multi‐level degenerative cervical myelopathy (MDCM) have not been reported. This study aims to compare the outcomes of corpectomy anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) hybrid procedures between the n‐HA/PA66 cage and titanium mesh cage (TMC) to treat MDCM. Methods: After the screening for eligibility, this retrospective study involved 90 patients who underwent corpectomy ACDF hybrid (CACDFH) procedure from June 2013 to June 2018. The CACDFH procedure is the combination of ACDF and anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion (ACCF). According to the cage utilized, we categorized patients into a n‐HA/PA66 cage group and a TMC group. Then, stepwise propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to maintain comparable clinical data between groups. All the patients were followed up ≥4 years and the longest follow‐up time was 65.43 (±11.49) months. Cage subsidence, adjacent segment degeneration (ASD), segmental height (SH), segmental angle (SA), cervical lordosis (CL), and clinical data (visual analogue scale [VAS] and Japanese Orthopaedic Association [JOA] score) was evaluated preoperatively, at 1 week, and at the final surgery follow‐up. The independent student's t test and chi‐square test were applied to compare the differences between groups. Results: Through PSM analysis, 25 patients from the n‐HA/PA66 group were matched to 25 patients in the TMC group. The occurrence of ASD was 16.0% (4/25) in the n‐HA/PA 66 group, which was significantly less than in the TMC group at 44.0% (11/25) (p = 0.031). Moreover, the cage subsidence rate was significantly higher in the TMC group as compared to the n‐HA/PA 66 group (40.0% vs. 12.0%, p = 0.024). But there was no significant difference in SH, SA, and CL at any time after surgery as determined through follow‐up. The VAS and JOA scores significantly improved in both groups at 3 months postoperative and at final follow‐up. However, there were no significant differences in the VAS and JOA score at any time between the two groups in preoperative (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The n‐HA/PA66 cage is associated with lower rate of cage subsidence and ASD than the TMC in the treatment of MDCM. The n‐HA/PA66 cage could be superior to the TMC in corpectomy ACDF hybrid procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Cervical tuberculosis (CTB) readily causes local kyphosis, and its surgical strategy remains controversial. Although some previous studies suggested that the anterior approach could effectively treat CTB, patients in these studies only suffered mild to moderate kyphosis. Therefore, little is known about whether the anterior approach can achieve satisfactory outcomes in CTB patients with severe kyphosis. This study was performed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of preoperative skull traction combined with anterior surgery for the treatment of CTB patients with a severe kyphosis angle of more than 35°. Methods: In this retrospective study, we enrolled 31 CTB patients with severe kyphosis who underwent preoperative skull traction combined with anterior surgery from April 2015 to January 2021. Patients were followed up for at least 2 years. Clinical data, such as operative time, blood loss, and postoperative hospital stay, were collected. The clinical outcomes included American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) spinal cord injury grade, Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, visual analog scale (VAS) score, and related complications. The radiological outcomes included the Cobb angle of cervical kyphosis at each time point and the bony fusion state. Clinical efficacy was evaluated by paired Student's t‐test, Mann–Whitney U‐test, and others. Results: Six patients had involvement of one vertebra, 21 had involvement of two vertebrae, and four had involvement of three vertebrae. The most common level of vertebral involvement was C4‐5, whereas the most common apical vertebra of kyphosis was C4. The mean kyphosis angle was 46.1° ± 7.7° preoperatively, and the flexibility on dynamic extension‐flexion X‐rays and cervical MRI was 17.5% ± 7.8% and 43.6% ± 11.0%, respectively (p = 0.000). The kyphosis angle significantly decreased to 13.2° ± 3.2° after skull traction, and it further corrected to −6.1° ± 4.3° after surgery, which was well maintained at the final follow‐up with a mean Cobb angle of −5.4° ± 3.9°. The VAS and JOA scores showed significant improvement after surgery. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels normalized at 3 months after surgery. All patients achieved solid bone fusion, and no complications related to the instrumentation or recurrence were observed. Conclusion: Preoperative skull traction combined with anterior debridement, autologous iliac bone grafting, and internal plate fixation can be an effective and safe surgical method for the treatment of cervical tuberculosis with severe kyphosis. Skull traction can improve the safety and success rate of subsequent anterior corrective surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Although direct isthmic repair, such as PSVPH, did not affect the mobility of the fixed segment and adjacent segment, it has a relatively low rate of isthmic fusion compared with conventional fusion. The Isobar TTL dynamic internal fixation system has been widely used in clinical practice and has achieved satisfactory clinical results. However, the use of the Isobar TTL system in combination with direct isthmic repair for lumbar spondylolysis has rarely been reported. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical and radiologic outcomes between patients who underwent Isobar TTL system and PSVPH with direct repair of defect for lumbar spondylolysis. Methods: Stepwise propensity score matching (PSM) for age and sex were performed to keep comparable clinical data between groups in this retrospective and matched‐pair case control study. A total of 50 patients diagnosed with lumbar spondylolysis underwent surgical implantation of the Isobar TTL group (n = 25) or PSVPH group (n = 25) from June 2009 to June 2016. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Oswestry disability index (ODI), and visual analog score (VAS). Radiographic evaluations included range of motion (ROM) and the disc heights of stabilized segment and adjacent segment, adjacent segment degeneration (ASD) and bony fusion. Three‐dimensional reconstruction of lumbar CT scan was obtained to evaluate bone fusion of the isthmic at final follow‐up. The independent Student's t test and chi‐square test were applied to compare the differences between groups. Results: A total of 25 patients from TTL group were matched to 25 patients in PSVPH group for age, sex, body mass index (BMI), defect side, spondylolisthesis meyerding, and follow‐up duration. The intervertebral space height (IH) of stabilized segment at postoperative 1 week and final follow‐up in the TTL group was higher than those in the PSVPH group, respectively (P = 0.030; P = 0.013). The ROM of stabilized segment at final follow‐up in the TTL group was significantly lower than that in the PSVPH group (P < 0.001). The bony fusion rate at the final follow‐up was 88.0% (22/25 cages) in the TTL group and 80.0% (20/25 cages) in the PSVPH group. The ODI score at final follow‐up in the TTL group was significantly lower than that in the PSVPH group (P = 0.007). Conclusion: Overall, our data suggest that the Isobar TTL system outcomes are comparable to those in the PSVPH, with a similar high bony fusion rate as PSVPH, especially its wider indications as a new surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Capsule catalysts offer a unique spatial confinement effect, which effectively minimizes byproduct formation, enhances catalyst life, and promotes tandem reactions, thus reducing energy, time, and raw material consumption. This review presents an overview of recent advances and research progress in capsule catalysts, highlighting major breakthroughs in preparation strategies over the past decade. Innovative synthesis methods are discussed based on synthesis principles, difficulty, and effectiveness, along with an analysis of growth mechanisms and the advantages and disadvantages of zeolite shells. Application status of capsule catalysts in high‐value hydrocarbon synthesis from syngas, low‐carbon alkane dehydroaromatization, and CO2 hydrogenation reactions is explored. Finally, challenges and future prospects for scientific research and industrial applications of capsule catalysts are addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma tends to metastasize to cervical lymphatic nodes early which leads to a 50% drop of survival rate. CXCL1 could be secreted by LNMTca8113 cell induced lymphatic endothelial cells and promoted LNMTca8113 cell migration. The current study aimed to further explore the effect of CXCL1 on the proliferation and migration abilities of tongue cancer cells and the prognostic value of serum CXCL1 in oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma. Methods: Cell proliferation and migration ability were analysed by CCK8 assays and transwell migration assays. Immunofluorescence technique was used to show cytoskeleton. GST pull‐down assay was applied to quantify the activation of GTPases. Blood samples of patients were collected and clinicopathological characteristics were analysed. Results: CXCL1 could promote cancer cell proliferation in appropriate concentration by PI3K/AKT pathway. It also regulated the activation of Rho GTPases to mediate the rearrangements of cytoskeleton to promote tumour cell migration. Level of plasma CXCL1 could predict the possibility of early lymphatic metastasis and had a predictive value in progression‐free survival and overall survival. Conclusions: CXCL1 could promote oral cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro and contributed theoretical knowledge for the target selection in molecular targeted therapy. Level of plasma CXCL1 might serve as a biomarker for prognosis in oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: There has been increasing concern about the importance of sagittal alignment in the evaluation and treatment of spinal scoliosis. However, recent studies have only focused on patients with mild to moderate scoliosis. To date, little is known about the sagittal alignment in patients with severe and rigid scoliosis (SRS). This study was performed to evaluate the sagittal alignment in patients with SRS, and to analyze how it was altered after corrective surgery. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, we included 58 patients with SRS who underwent surgery from January 2015 to April 2020. Preoperative and postoperative radiographs were reviewed, and the sagittal parameters mainly included thoracic kyphosis (TK), lumbar lordosis (LL), pelvic incidence (PI), pelvic tilt (PT), sacrum slope (SS), and sagittal vertical axis (SVA). The sagittal balance state was evaluated according to whether the PI minus the LL (PI‐LL) was less than 9°, and the patients were divided into thoracic hyperkyphosis and normal groups based on whether the TK exceeded 40°. The Student's t test, Pearson's test, and Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis were used to compare related parameters between the different groups. Results: The mean follow‐up duration was 2.8 years. Preoperatively, the mean PI was 43.6 ± 9.4°, and the mean LL was 65.2 ± 13.9°. Sixty‐nine percent of patients showed sagittal imbalance, and they showed larger TK and LL values and smaller PI and SVA values than those with sagittal balance. Additionally, most patients (44/58) presented with thoracic hyperkyphosis; this group had smaller PI and SVA values than the normal patients. Patients with syringomyelia‐associated scoliosis were more likely to present with thoracic hyperkyphosis. The TK and LL values were significantly decreased, and 45% of patients with preoperative sagittal imbalance recovered after surgery. These patients had a larger PI (46.4 ± 9.0° vs 38.3 ± 8.8°, P = 0.003) and a smaller TK (25.5 ± 5.2° vs 36.3 ± 8.0°, P = 0.000) at the final follow‐up. Conclusion: Preoperative sagittal imbalance appears in the majority of SRS patients, accounting for approximately 69% of our cohort. Patients with small PI values or syringomyelia‐associated scoliosis were more likely to present with thoracic hyperkyphosis. Sagittal imbalance can generally be corrected by surgery, except in patients with a PI less than 39°. To achieve good postoperative sagittal alignment, we recommend controlling the TK to within 31°. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Both anterior and combined anterior and posterior approaches have been used to treat lumbosacral tuberculosis. However, long‐term follow‐up studies of each approach have not been conducted. We aimed to compare the long‐term clinical and radiographical outcomes between the two approaches. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, we included 49 patients with a minimum 6‐year follow‐up between January 2008 and March 2012. Twenty‐four patients underwent the anterior approach (anterior group), and 25 underwent the combined anterior and posterior approach (anterior–posterior group). Student's t test, Mann–Whitney U test, and Pearson's chi‐square test were used to compare the two groups regarding clinical data, such as visual analogue scale scores, Oswestry disability index scores and neurological status, and radiographical data, such as lumbosacral angle, lumbar lordosis, and L5‐S1 height. Furthermore, operative time, length of stay, and intraoperative and postoperative blood loss (IBL, PBL) were recorded. Results: Both groups had satisfactory clinical and radiographical outcomes until the final follow‐up. All patients achieved bony fusion, and no group differences were found in any of the clinical indices. Both groups corrected and maintained the lumbosacral angle, lumbar lordosis, and L5‐S1 height. However, the operative time, length of stay, maximum Hb drop, IBL, and PBL of the anterior group (140.63 ± 24.73 min, 12.58 ± 2.45 days, 28.33 ± 9.70 g/L, 257.08 ± 110.47 ml, and 430.60 ± 158.27 ml, respectively) were significantly lower than those of the anterior–posterior group (423.60 ± 82.81 min, P < 0.001; 21.32 ± 3.40 days, P < 0.001; 38.48 ± 8.03 g/L, P < 0.001; 571.60 ± 111.04 ml, P < 0.001; and 907.01 ± 231.99 ml, P < 0.001). Conclusion: This retrospective study demonstrated long‐term efficacy of the anterior approach with a single screw fixation, which was as effective as that of the combined anterior and posterior approach, with the advantage of less trauma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Postoperative ileus (POI) is a relatively common complication after spinal fusion surgery, which can lead to delayed recovery, prolonged length of stay and increased medical costs. However, little is known about the incidence and risk factors of POI after corrective surgery for patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). This study was performed to report the incidence of POI and identify the independent risk factors for POI after postoperative corrective surgery. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, A total of 318 patients with AIS who underwent corrective surgery from April 2015 to February 2021 were enrolled and divided into two groups: those with POI and those without POI. The Student's t test, Mann–Whitney U test, and Pearson's chi‐square test were used to compare the two groups regarding patient demographics and preoperative characteristics (age, sex and the major curve type), intraoperative and postoperative parameters (lowest instrumented vertebra [LIV], number of screws, and length of stay), radiographic parameters (T5–12 thoracic kyphosis [TK], T10–L2 thoracolumbar kyphosis and height [TLK and T10–L2 height], L1–S1 lumbar lordosis [LL], and L1–5 height). Then, a multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent risk factors for POI, and a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was performed to assess the predictive values of these risk factors. Results: Forty‐two (13.2%) of 318 patients who developed POI following corrective surgery were identified. The group with POI had a significantly longer length of stay, more lumbar screws, higher proportions of a major lumbar curve and lumbar anterior screw breech, and a lower LIV. Among radiographic parameters, the mean lumbar Cobb angle at baseline, the changes in the lumbar Cobb angle, and T10–L2 and L1–5 height from before to after surgery were significantly larger in the group with POI than in the group without POI. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that large changes in T10–L2 (odds ratio [OR] =2.846, P = 0.007) and L1–5 height (OR = 31.294, p = 0.000) and lumbar anterior screw breech (OR = 5.561, P = 0.006) were independent risk factors for POI. The cutoff values for the changes in T10–L2 and L1–5 height were 1.885 cm and 1.195 cm, respectively. Conclusion: In this study, we identified that large changes in T10–L2 and L1–5 height and lumbar anterior screw breech were independent risk factors for POI after corrective surgery. Improving the accuracy of pedicle screw placement might reduce the incidence of POI, and greater attention should be given to patients who are likely to have large changes in T10–L2 and L1–5 height after corrective surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research Question/Issue: We examine the role of corporate executives in dividend tunneling activity by controlling shareholders and whether the correlation between executive ownership and dividend tunneling is influenced by internal and external governance mechanisms. Research Findings/Insights: We find increased executive ownership may lead to a higher level of dividend tunneling. This is further strengthened by our finding that the positive effect of executive ownership on dividend tunneling is more pronounced for firms with weaker minority shareholder protection. In addition, our results show that higher degrees of state ownership may further intensify this positive association. Finally, we find that analyst coverage has a moderating effect and constrains the collusion between controlling shareholders and executives in dividend tunneling activity. Theoretical/Academic Implications: Our study contributes to the literature on the role of managerial ownership in controlling shareholders' dividend tunneling activity. We fill a gap in the literature on the corporate agency problem by providing evidence that dividends have been employed by controlling shareholders as a means of tunneling and that executives with higher ownership are more likely to collude with controlling shareholders in dividend tunneling activities. Practitioner/Policy Implications: This study contributes to the debates around the promotion of the cash dividend policy in China, as our findings show that cash dividends are used as a tunneling vehicle. Providing important evidence to regulators, our findings support the argument that external monitoring by financial analysts can effectively constrain dividend tunneling by dominant shareholders, especially in the context of emerging stock markets with high ownership concentration, weak minority shareholder protection, and an underdeveloped legal system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) is a cosmopolitan insect pest causing serious damage to crop production. Cytochromes P450 (CYPs) of B. tabaci are widely known to be involved in the metabolic resistance to a variety of insecticides, continuously increasing the difficulty in controlling this pest. In this study, four P450 genes (CYP6CM1, CYP6CX1, CYP6CX3, and CYP402C1) in B. tabaci exhibited correlations with the resistance to imidacloprid. We have focused on trying to understand the function and metabolism capacity of CYP402C1. The expression profiles of CYP402C1 were examined by reverse transcription quantitative real‐time PCR and fluorescence in situ hybridizations. Its role in resistance to imidacloprid was investigated by RNA interference, transgenic Drosophila melanogaster, and heterologous expression. The results showed that CYP402C1 was highly expressed in the active feeding stages of B. tabaci, such as nymphs and female adults. CYP402C1 was mainly expressed in midguts of nymphs and adults, especially in the filter chamber. Knockdown of CYP402C1 significantly decreased the resistance of B. tabaci to imidacloprid by 3.96‐fold (50% lethal concentration: 186.46 versus 47.08 mg/L). Overexpression of CYP402C1 in a transgenic D. melanogaster line (Gal4 > UAS‐CYP402C1) significantly increased the resistance to imidacloprid from 12.68‐ to 14.92‐fold (129.01 and 151.80 mg/L versus 1925.14 mg/L). The heterologous expression of CYP402C1 showed a metabolism ability of imidacloprid (imidacloprid decreased by 12.51% within 2 h). This study provides new insights for CYP402C1 function in B. tabaci and will help develop new strategies in B. tabaci control and its insecticide resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decade, perovskite solar cells have witnessed great progress with a certified photoelectric conversion efficiency of 25.7%, which is comparable to single‐crystal silicon solar cells, but the stability issue still restricts commercialization. As a solution to stability improvement, inorganic hole transport materials (HTMs) are widely studied due to their excellent stability compared to traditional organic HTMs, as well as low fabrication cost and high conductivity. Herein, the intrinsic properties of widely studied inorganic p‐type materials for HTMs, their fabrication methods, and the progress that has been made with them are summarized. In addition, the cost of various inorganic HTMs is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The nanohydroxyapatite/polyamide‐66 (n‐HA/PA66) cage is a novel bioactive nonmetal cage that is now used in some medical centers, while the polyetheretherketone (PEEK) cage is a typical device that has been widely used for decades with excellent clinical outcomes. This study was performed to compare the long‐term radiographic and clinical outcomes of these two different cages used in transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF). Methods: In this retrospective and matched‐pair case control study, we included 200 patients who underwent TLIF from January 2010 to December 2014 with a minimum 7‐year follow‐up. One hundred patients who used n‐HA/PA66 cages were matched with 100 patients who used PEEK cages for age, sex, diagnosis, and fusion level. The independent student's t‐test and Pearson's chi‐square test were used to compare the two groups regarding radiographic (fusion status, cage subsidence rate, segmental angle [SA], and interbody space height [IH]) and clinical (Oswestry Disability Index [ODI], and Visual Analog Scale [VAS] for back and leg) parameters preoperatively, postoperatively, and at the final follow‐up. Results: The n‐HA/PA66 and PEEK groups had similar fusion rates of bone inside and outside the cage at the final follow‐up (95.3% vs 91.8%, p = 0.181, 92.4% vs 90.1%, p = 0.435). The cage union ratios exposed to the upper and lower endplates of the n‐HA/PA66 group were significantly larger than those of the PEEK group (p < 0.05). The respective cage subsidence rates in the n‐HA/PA66 and PEEK groups were 10.5% and 17.5% (p = 0.059). There were no significant differences between the two groups in the SA, IH, ODI scores, or VAS scores at any time point. The n‐HA/PA66 group showed high fusion and low subsidence rates during long‐term follow‐up. Conclusion: Both n‐HA/PA66 and PEEK cages can achieve satisfactory long‐term clinical and radiographic outcomes in TLIF. However, the n‐HA/PA66 group showed significantly larger cage union ratios than the PEEK group. Therefore, the results indicated that the n‐HA/PA66 cage is an ideal alternative material comparable to the PEEK cage in TLIF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fe−TAML is a well‐known green catalyst for bleaching and wastewater treatments. Quantitative analysis of Fe−TAML is important to understand its activity and lifetime in these applications. However, because of its sub‐parts‐per‐million dosage and the presence of interfering substances, it is very challenging to detect Fe−TAML specifically and quantitatively at this level. To overcome these issues, we develop a quantitative assay for Fe−TAML, which is based on its catalytic reaction with a blue dye (Reactive Blue 19) and H2O2. This assay is highly specific, and shows no interference for iron species. Moreover, the colorimetric assay can be carried out for fast screening of Fe−TAML with a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.39±0.08 μg L−1. Finally, this assay was successfully applied to understand the stability of Fe−TAML under various conditions, and monitoring the activity of Fe−TAML during wastewater treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study assessed the cross‐sectional associations of low‐carbohydrate diets (LCDs) and low‐fat diets (LFDs) with hepatic steatosis in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Methods: Diet was measured using the 24‐hour recalls. Hepatic steatosis was defined by vibration‐controlled transient elastography. The odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using logistic regression. Substitution analysis was performed using the leave‐one‐out model. Results: Participants with higher adherence scores (comparing extreme tertiles) for an overall (OR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.61‐0.96, ptrend = 0.049) or a healthful LCD (OR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.43‐0.87, ptrend < 0.001) exhibited lower odds of steatosis. Replacing 5% of the energy from carbohydrates with total fat and protein (OR = 0.91, 95% CI: 0.83‐0.99) or unsaturated fat and plant protein (OR = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.84‐0.94) was associated with lower steatosis prevalence. High overall (OR = 1.65, 95% CI: 1.13‐2.40, ptrend = 0.006) or unhealthful (OR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.10‐1.80, ptrend < 0.001) LFD scores were associated with increased likelihood of steatosis. Conclusions: These findings suggest that the associations between LCDs and LFDs and steatosis may depend on the quality and food sources of the macronutrients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large current‐driven alkaline water splitting for large‐scale hydrogen production generally suffers from the sluggish charge transfer kinetics. Commercial noble‐metal catalysts are unstable in large‐current operation, while most non‐noble metal catalysts can only achieve high activity at low current densities <200 mA cm−2, far lower than industrially‐required current densities (>500 mA cm−2). Herein, a sulfide‐based metallic heterostructure is designed to meet the industrial demand by regulating the electronic structure of phase transition coupling with interfacial defects from Mo and Ni incorporation. The modulation of metallic Mo2S3 and in situ epitaxial growth of bifunctional Ni‐based catalyst to construct metallic heterostructure can facilitate the charge transfer for fast Volmer H and Heyrovsky H2 generation. The Mo2S3@NiMo3S4 electrolyzer requires an ultralow voltage of 1.672 V at a large current density of 1000 mA cm−2, with ≈100% retention over 100 h, outperforming the commercial RuO2||Pt/C, owing to the synergistic effect of the phase and interface electronic modulation. This work sheds light on the design of metallic heterostructure with an optimized interfacial electronic structure and abundant active sites for industrial water splitting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highly‐polarizable materials are favorable for photoelectric conversion due to their efficient charge separation, while precise design of them is still a big challenge. Herein a novel polar oxyselenide, Sr6Cd2Sb6O7Se10, is rationally designed. It contains lateral sublattices of polarizable [Sb2OSe4]4− chains and highly‐orientated [CdSe3]4− chains. The intense polarization was evaluated by significant second‐harmonic generation (SHG) signal (maximum: 12.6×AgGaS2) in broad spectrum range. The polarization was found to mainly improve the carrier separation with a much longer recombination lifetime (76.5 μs) than that of the nonpolar compound Sr2Sb2O2Se3 (18.0 μs), resulting in better photoelectric performance. The single‐crystal photoelectric device exhibited excellent response covering broad spectrum in 500–1000 nm with stable reproducibility. This work provides some new insights into the structure design of highly‐polarizable heteroanionic materials for photoelectric conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Aobaotu Pb–Zn deposit (470,700 t; 1.51% Pb, 2.30% Zn) in the southern Great Xing'an Range, northeastern China, is hosted by the Late Jurassic volcanic tuff and structurally controlled by a near‐east–west‐trending fault. Three stages of mineralization were identified, namely, stage I of quartz ± pyrite veins, stage II of quartz–polymetallic sulphide veins, and stage III of late quartz–calcite veins. The quartz and calcite that formed in the three stages were selected for fluid inclusion and C–H–O isotope analyses. The results show that the ore‐forming fluid of the deposit belongs to the H2O–CO2–NaCl system at a medium temperature (concentrated at 220–300°C) and in low salinity (0.7–12.1 wt% NaCl equiv). The δ13C values of the calcite and ankerite are in the range of −8.4 to −4.8‰, indicating that as a source of deep magma. The δDV‐SMOW and δ18OH2O values of quartz range from −108 to −88‰ and 4.55 to 5.85‰, respectively, indicating that the initial fluid of the Aobaotu deposit was a mixture of residual magmatic and meteoric water. Sulphur isotope analysis of the sulphide minerals, that is, sphalerite, galena, pyrite, and chalcopyrite, yield δ34S value in a range of 1.44–4.94‰, indicating that sulphur is mainly derived from magma. In addition, the Pb isotopic composition of the sulphides indicates that the ore‐forming material has a mixed crust–mantle source. Zircon U–Pb dating suggests that the formation of the Aobaotu deposit is genetically related to the granodiorite porphyry (130.3 ± 0.9 Ma). The combined geochronology and isotopic evidence suggest that the Aobaotu deposit is a magmatic‐hydrothermal vein‐type Pb–Zn deposit, opposite to a volcanic Pb–Zn deposit as suggested before. The Aobaotu deposit formed in an extensional tectonic setting caused by the rollback of the Palaeo‐Pacific Plate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Hyperinsulinaemia and insulin resistance play a central role in the progression of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis, and diet can modulate insulin response. We thus hypothesised that diet with higher insulinaemic potential is associated with an increased risk of these conditions. Methods: Two empirically dietary indices for hyperinsulinaemia (EDIH) and insulin resistance (EDIR) were derived to identify food groups most predictive of fasting concentrations of C‐peptide and insulin and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance respectively. Hepatic steatosis and fibrosis were defined by controlled attenuation parameter and liver stiffness measurement using transient elastography (TE). Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated by logistic regression. Results: Of the 4171 participants with TE examination, 1436 (age‐standardised prevalence, 33.8%) were diagnosed with steatosis, 255 (5.6%) with advanced fibrosis and 101 (2.2%) with cirrhosis. The multivariable‐adjusted ORs for participants comparing the highest to the lowest EDIH tertile were 1.17 (95% CI: 0.99‐1.39, Ptrend =.005) for steatosis, 1.74 (95% CI: 1.24‐2.44, Ptrend =.001) for advanced fibrosis and 2.05 (95% CI: 1.21‐3.46, Ptrend =.004) for cirrhosis. Similar associations were observed for EDIR with ORs of 1.32 (95% CI: 1.11‐1.55, Ptrend <.001) for steatosis and 1.43 (95% CI: 1.03‐1.99, Ptrend =.006) for advance fibrosis. These positive associations remained among never drinkers and individuals who were free of hepatitis B and/or C. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that hyperinsulinaemia and insulin resistance may partially underlie the influence of diet on hepatic steatosis and fibrosis, and highlight the importance of reducing or avoiding insulinaemic dietary pattern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To evaluate the role of postoperative treatment in parotid gland carcinoma (PGC) based on risk stratification. Material and Methods: A total of 301 PGC patients were retrospectively analyzed using risk stratification. The Kaplan–Meier method and Cox analysis were performed to conduct survival analysis. Results: In the high‐risk group, those treated with postoperative radiotherapy (RT) had a better 5‐year disease‐free survival (DFS) than those treated with surgery alone. In the low‐risk group, both surgery + RT and surgery + chemotherapy (CT) significantly improved DFS when compared with surgery alone. Cox analysis showed that patients who underwent surgery + RT or surgery + CT had a lower risk of disease progression than those who underwent surgery alone in the low‐risk group. In the high‐risk group, patients who underwent surgery + RT had a lower risk of disease progression. Conclusions: Postoperative RT showed considerable benefit in improving disease control in patients with PGC, even in those without high‐risk factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The commercialization of perovskite solar cells is mainly limited by their operational stability. Interlayer modification by thin interface materials between the perovskite and the charge transport layers is one of the most effective methods to promote the efficiency and stability of perovskite devices. However, the commonly used interlayer materials do not fulfill all the demands, including good film quality, excellent stability, and passivation capability without interfering with the charge transport. In this work, a water stable haloplumbate [TBA]PbI3 for interfacial modification that meets these demands is proposed, which is formed on the perovskite surface in situ by tetra‐butylammonium iodide treatment. Benefiting from its passivation effect and robustness, the modified devices result in a power conversion efficiency of 22.90% with enhanced environmental and operational stability. In addition, the self‐limiting effect of the reaction contributes to the controllability of device fabrication and the repeatability of device performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inorganic cesium lead halide perovskite solar cells are promising candidates for next‐generation photovoltaic applications. However, their phase instability and relatively low efficiency hinder their commercialization. Herein, hydrophobic organic ammonium halides (Cl, Br, and I) are rationally used for the modification of inorganic CsPb(I0.75Br0.25)3 perovskite solar cells. Benefiting from their passivation effects and hydrophobic long alkyl chain, the modified devices exhibit enhanced efficiency and stability. Among them, the hexadecyltrimethylammonium chloride (CTAC)‐modified device shows the best performance with a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 18.05%. Furthermore, a gradient triple anion inorganic perovskite CsPb(I0.75Br0.25)3−xClx layer is formed in situ during the CTAC modification, which demonstrates better phase stability than CsPb(I0.75Br0.25)3. As a result, the modified device also shows excellent stability, maintaining 94% of the initial efficiency after 35 days in N2 atmosphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Litter size is an important factor that significantly affects the development of the sheep industry. Our previous TMT proteomics analysis found that three key proteins in the ovarian steroidogenesis pathway, STAR, HSD3B1, and CYP11A1, may affect the litter size trait of Small Tail Han sheep. Objective: The purpose of this study was to better understand the relationship between polymorphisms of these three genes and litter size. Material and Method: Sequenom MassARRAY detected genetic variance of the three genes in 768 sheep. Real‐time qPCR of the three genes was used to compare their expression in monotocous and polytocous sheep in relevant tissues. Finally, bioinformatics analysis predicted the protein sequences of the different SNP variants. Result: Association analysis showed that there was a significant difference in litter size among the genotypes at two loci of the CYP11A1 gene (p < 0.05), but no significant difference was observed in litter size among all genotypes at all loci of the STAR and HSD3B1 genes (p > 0.05). However, STAR expression was significantly different in polytocous and monotocous sheep in the pituitary (p < 0.01). Tissue‐specific expression in the ovary was observed for HSD3B1 (p < 0.05), but its expression was not different between polytocous and monotocous sheep. Bioinformatics analysis showed that the g.33217408C > T mutation of CYP11A1 resulted in major changes to the secondary and tertiary structures. In contrast, gene polymorphisms in STAR and HSD3B1 had minimal impacts on their protein structures. Discussion: This may explain why the CYP11A1 variant impacted litter size while the others did not. The single nucleotide polymorphism of the CYP11A1 gene would serve as a good molecular marker when breeding to increase litter size in sheep. Our study provides a basis for further revealing the function of the ovarian steroidogenesis pathway in sheep reproduction and sheep breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, four specimens of hypo‐eutectic Al–7Si–0.35Mg–0.2Ti–xZr (x = 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3 wt%) cast alloys were fabricated via a traditional casting method. The effect of different concentrations of Zr on the microstructure and mechanical properties of cast alloys was investigated through metallographic observation, SEM analysis, TEM observations, tensile strength testing, and Vickers hardness test. The results show that the plate‐like shape eutectic Si phase is gradually transformed into fine fibrous eutectic Si phase, and is more evenly distributed as the content of Zr increased. The α‐Al matrix grains are transformed from dendrites to isometric grains, of which the grains sizes became smaller. The results of the tensile test show that with the addition of 0.2% Zr, Al–7Si–0.35Mg–0.2Ti alloys obtain the best tensile properties. The ultimate tensile strength and elongation values are 221 MPa and 11%, the number of which is increased by 14.5 and 71.9% than base alloy, respectively. Additionally, the alloy's yield strength, Vickers hardness, and other comprehensive mechanical properties have also improved significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using a sample of 1,632 U.K. firm‐year observations from 2002 to 2013, this paper investigates the impact of multidimensional corporate environmental performance (CEP) on firm risk. Considering two dimensions of CEP, namely environmental management performance (EMP) and environmental operational performance (EOP), we find that EMP serves as an effective mechanism in reducing firm risk, and such an effect is mainly driven by the manufacturing sector. Meanwhile, there is no clear association between EOP and firm risk. However, our findings highlight a moderating effect of EOP on the relationship between negative EMP and firm risk. This provides new insights into the value of multidimensional CEP and suggests that the complex relationship between outcome‐ and process‐based environmental performance is important for understanding the real effects of CEP on firm risk. Our results have important implications for managerial decision‐making in strategy and risk management, as well as for policymaking in environmental regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: With the rapid development of the socioeconomic status, the mortality of several cancers has been changed in China during the past 30 years. We aimed to estimate the trends of mortality and years of life lost (YLLs) of various cancers in urban and rural areas of China from 1990 to 2017. Methods: The mortality data were collected from Chinese yearbooks and the age structure of population from the Chinese sixth population census were used as reference to calculate age‐standardized mortality rates (ASMRs) and YLLs rates. Joinpoint regression analysis was implemented to calculate the annual percent change (APC) of mortality rates and YLL rates for cancers. YLLs owing to premature death were calculated as age‐specific cancer deaths multiplied by the reference life expectancy at birth of 80 years for male and 82.5 years for female. Results: The ASMRs of all cancers showed significant decreasing trends for urban residents from 1990 to 2017, such downward trend without significance was also observed among rural residents. Interestingly, ASMRs of lung cancer and breast cancer have raised continuously in rural areas since 1990. The age‐standardized YYL rates for urban and rural residents decreased with 1.02% and 0.85% per year, respectively. YLLs in rural areas were higher than those in urban areas, whereas YLLs of urban outstripped those of rural finally with the increasing in YLLs of urban areas (216.71% for men and 207.87% for women). Conclusion: The ASMRs and YLL rates of all cancers have declined in urban and rural areas from 1990 to 2017. YLLs increased in urban areas and remained higher level in rural areas after 2014 year. Preventive measures should be strengthened to against cancer, especially for lung cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (ox‐LDL) can damage vascular endothelial cells and cause atherosclerosis, but its epigenetic regulatory mechanism has not been fully elucidated. We show that ox‐LDL induced significant apoptosis and loss of function in human umbilical vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs). At the same time, ox‐LDL significantly decreased the expression of Hippo–YAP/ZAP (Yes‐associated protein/YLP motif–containing 1) pathway proteins as compared to that of the control. The luciferase reporter system confirmed that microRNA (miR)‐496 silenced YAP gene expression by binding to its 3′ untranslated region (3′ UTR). Ox‐LDL–treated miR‐496 overexpression HUVECs had a higher apoptosis rate and more severe dysfunction compared to the control cells. This in‐depth study shows that ox‐LDL inhibits YAP protein expression by inducing miR‐496 expression, leading to its inability to enter the nucleus, thereby losing its function as a transcriptional cofactor for activating the downstream genes. Our findings reveal that, through epigenetic modification, ox‐LDL can inhibit the normal expression of Hippo–YAP/ZAP pathway proteins via miR‐496 expression and induce vascular endothelial cell dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xanthoangelol (XAG), a prenylated chalcone isolated from the Japanese herb Angelica keiskei Koidzumi, has been reported to exhibit antineoplastic properties. However, the specific anti‐tumor activity of XAG in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and the relevant mechanisms are not known. Herein, we evaluated the effect of XAG against HCC in vitro and in vivo. Although XAG treatment did not significantly reduce the viability of the Hep3B and Huh7 cell lines, it suppressed cell migration, invasion, and EMT. This anti‐metastatic effect of XAG was due to induction of autophagy, because treatment with the autophagy inhibitor 3‐methyadenine (3‐MA) or knockdown of the pro‐autophagy Beclin‐1 effectively abrogated the XAG‐induced suppression of metastasis. Mechanistically, XAG induced autophagy via activation of the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway, and XAG treatment dramatically increased the expression of p‐AMPK while decreasing p‐mTOR expression. In addition, blocking AMPK/mTOR axis with compound C abrogated the autophagy‐mediated inhibition of metastasis. The murine model of HCC metastasis also showed that XAG effectively reduced the number of metastatic pulmonary nodules. Taken together, our results revealed that autophagy via the activation of AMPK/mTOR pathway is essential for the anti‐metastatic effect of XAG against HCC. These findings not only contribute to our understanding of the anti‐tumor activity of XAG but also provide a basis for its clinical application in HCC. Before this study, evidence of XAG on HCC was purely anecdotal; present study provides the first comprehensive assessments of XAG on HCC metastasis and investigates its underlying mechanism. Results suggest that XAG exerts anti‐metastatic properties against HCC through inducing autophagy which is mediated by the activation of AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway. This research extends our knowledge about the antineoplastic properties of XAG and suggests that induction autophagy may represent future treatment strategies for metastatic HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims/Introduction In previous studies, hydrogen gas (H2) administration has clearly shown effectiveness in inhibiting diabetes. Here, we evaluated whether subcutaneous injection of H2 shows enhanced efficacy against type 2 diabetes mellitus induced in mice by a high-fat diet and low-dose streptozotocin treatment. Material and Methods H2 was injected subcutaneously at a dose of 1 mL/mouse/week for 4 weeks. Type 2 diabetes mellitus-associated parameters were then evaluated to determine the effectiveness of subcutaneous H2 administration. Results The bodyweight of H2-treated mice did not change over the course of the experiment. Compared with the untreated control animals, glucose, insulin, low-density lipoprotein and triglyceride levels in the serum were significantly lower in treated mice, whereas high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in the serum was significantly higher. Glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity were both improved in H2-treated mice. Diabetic nephropathy analysis showed significant reductions in urine volume, urinary total protein and β2-microglobulin, kidney/bodyweight ratio, and kidney fibrosis associated with subcutaneous injection of H2. Conclusions Subcutaneous injection of H2 significantly improves type 2 diabetes mellitus and diabetic nephropathy-related outcomes in a mouse model, supporting further consideration of subcutaneous injection as a novel and effective route of clinical H2 administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate determinants of financial distress in large financial institutions based on the Distance-to-Default and Z-Scores measures. Using data of U.S. bank holding companies ( BHCs), we find that the housing price index is a consistently significant factor across all BHCs and the non-performing loan ratio is the most powerful indicator for financial distress. Short-term wholesale funding is also a reliable default risk indicator. We additionally find that all the three regulatory capital requirements are very important for controlling default risk, particularly in the post-crisis period. ( JEL C53, G14, G21, G28) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the optimal currency composition for a country's foreign reserves. In the context of China, we examine the asymmetric, fat‐tail and complex dependence structure in distributions of currency returns. A skewed, fat‐tailed and pair‐copula construction is then built to capture features of higher moments. In a D‐vine copula approach, we show that under the disappointment aversion effect, the central bank in our model can achieve sizeable gains in expected economic value from switching from the mean‐variance to copula modelling. We find that this approach will lead to an optimal currency composition that allows China to have more space for international currency diversification while maintaining the leading position of the US dollar in the currency shares of China's reserves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oncogene activation or inactivation of tumor suppressor genes are crucial to tumor initiation and progression. DNA copy number amplification is one of many mechanisms that activate oncogenes in many tumors, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Although it has been known that some oncogenes such as c-myc amplification is involved in HCC pathogenesis, more oncogenes with DNA copy amplification contribute to HCC initiation and progression remain to be characterized. Here, we identified NOXIN as a novel potential oncogene with DNA copy number amplification by Single Nucleotide Polymorphism microarray-based genome-wide DNA copy number analysis of 43 human HCC samples. We identified the focal DNA gain and amplification region containing NOXIN on chromosome 11q14.1 and NOXIN overexpression significantly associated with HCC progression. We then assessed the role of NOXIN in HCC cells. NOXIN overexpression promoted cellular proliferation, colony formation, cellular migration and in vivo tumorigenicity, whereas NOXIN knockdown attenuated these effects. Interestingly, NOXIN overexpression accelerated the G1-S phase transition by enhancing DNA synthesis. Furthermore, we found that NOXIN interacts with DNA polymerase α, suggesting that NOXIN may promote de novo DNA synthesis by promoting DNA polymerase-primase complex formation. These collective data indicated that NOXIN overexpression, as a result of genomic DNA gain or amplification, promotes HCC tumorigenesis by accelerating DNA synthesis and cell cycle progression, where NOXIN functions as a cofactor of DNA polymerase-primase complex by associating with DNA polymerase α. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper studies China's national level currency exposure since 2005 when the country adopted a new exchange rate regime allowing the renminbi (RMB) to move towards greater flexibility. Using generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedastic and constant conditional correlation‐generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedastic methods to estimate the augmented capital asset pricing models with orthogonalized stock returns, we find that China equity indexes are significantly exposed to exchange rate movements. In a static setting, there is strong sensitivity of stock returns to movements of China's tradeweighted exchange rate, and to the bilateral exchange rates except the RMB/dollar rate. However, in a dynamic framework, exposure to all the bilateral currency pairs under examination is significant. The results indicate that under the new exchange rate regime, China's gradualist approach to moving towards greater exchange rate flexibility has managed to keep exposure to a moderate level. However, we find evidence that in a dynamic setting, the exposure of the RMB to the dollar and other major currencies is significant. For China, the challenge of managing currency risk exposure is looming greater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A template-directed in situ polymerization preparation of nanocomposites of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS)-coated multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with greatly enhanced thermoelectric property is presented. The results reveal that monomeric 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene was successfully polymerized, enwrapping the surfaces of dispersed MWCNTs (templates) with the aid of PSS. The coated morphology was directly observed by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The coated layer was further characterized by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. In addition, the interfacial interaction between PEDOT:PSS and MWCNTs was studied by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Finally, the thermoelectric measurements show that the obtained PEDOT: PSS/MWCNT nanocomposites exhibited greatly enhanced electrical conductivities, Seebeck coefficients, and power factors when compared with those of neat PEDOT: PSS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we study strategic asset allocation for China's foreign reserves using a risk-based approach. Four aspects of the risk management are investigated: an investment universe, dependence structure, allocation strategies under risk minimization and trade-off between risks and returns. A regime-switching copula model is developed to investigate the dynamic dependence between assets. One regime emphasizes a short-term safe asset and the other regime emphasizes a long-term safe asset. The optimal allocation is derived following two strategies: risk minimization and trade-off between risks and returns in utility maximization with disappointment avoidance. If the central bank focuses solely on risk minimization, the asymmetries in the asset return dependence encourage the flight to safety. However, if higher risks are allowed in exchange for higher returns, even the exchange is very conservative, and the asymmetries would discourage the flight to safety. Therefore, we suggest that China should mitigate its flight to safety after 2008 and increase holdings of short-term bank deposits, long-term treasury bonds and euro bonds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The oncoprotein induced transcript 3 (OIT3), also named liver-specific zona pellucida domain-containing protein (LZP), has been shown to be expressed in kidney, and was confirmed to interact with the Tamm–Horsfall glycoprotein (THP). However, the function of OIT3 in kidney remains unclear. In this study we found that serum uric acid level of Oit3 null mice was significantly lower than that in wild type controls, whereas the excretion of uric acid in urine increased in the mutant mouse. Significantly, the excretion of THP in urine also increased while renal THP decreased in Oit3 null mice. Our data suggest that OIT3 could maintain urate homeostasis by regulating the excretion and reabsorption of uric acid in renal tubule via cooperating with THP. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

J Oral Pathol Med (2011) : 127-134 The aim of this study was to define the biomarkers of lymphatic spread which facilitate the appropriate therapy for oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (OTSCC) patients at early stage. Here, we investigated the expression levels of seven biomarkers in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) tissues as well as their associations with the clinicopathologic features of OTSCC patients. The OTSCC samples were obtained from 138 patients undergoing tumor resection. Immunohistochemical staining was performed by using ColIA, ColIVA, Fn1, MMP-1, MMP-2, uPA, and D2-40 antibodies. Expression level of theses biomarkers in normal and tumor tissues were compared. Risk factors of lymphatic dissemination were evaluated by logistic regression equation. LVD, MMP-1, MMP-2, and uPA in cancer tissues were significantly higher than those in normal tissue, and ColIA, ColIVA, and Fn1 in cancer tissue were significantly lower than those in normal tissue. Similar results were obtained from the comparison between metastatic tumor and non-metastatic tumor. All biomarker expressions were closely related with lymph node status and clinical stage. Additionally, the regression equation demonstrated that LVD is the risk factor of lymphatic metastasis in OTSCC patients (OR = 1.732; 95% CIs: 1.167-2.057; P < 0.05). Down-regulation of ColIA, ColIVA, and Fn1 and up-regulation of LVD, MMP-1, MMP-2, and uPA might be important features of OSCC progression, which may exert their functions and favorably predict lymphatic dissemination for OSCC patients at relatively early stage. Among these biomarkers, increased LVD is an independent risk factor of lymphatic metastasis, which could better predict whether metastasis will occur or not. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel reversible photo‐responsive polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/polyethylenimine (PEI) electrospinning nanofiber membrane (NFM), assembled with photochromic nanoparticles containing spiropyran, is herein presented and the water resistance, mechanical properties as well as photochromic properties are investigated systematically. Here, glutaraldehyde, which can undergo a cross‐linking reaction with PVA/PEI, is selected as a cross‐linker to enhance water resistance and mechanical behavior of the NFM. Photochromic polymer nanoparticles are prepared using octadecyl acrylate as polymer matrix monomer through miniemulsion polymerization. Effect factors of the whole preparation process such as the PVA/PEI mass ratio, the amount of emulsifier, and the amount of photochromic nanoparticles added are regulated to obtain the optimal experimental parameters. The surface morphology and microstructure, water resistance, and mechanical properties of NFMs are studied by thermal field emission scanning electron microscopy, static water contact angle tester, and tensile universal testing machine, respectively. Furthermore, UV–vis spectrophotometer is employed to investigate the photochromic performance and fatigue resistance of NFMs. Overall, analyses reveal that the reversible photo‐responsive electrospinning NFM exhibit excellent photoresponsivity, photoreversibility, and fatigue resistance upon UV irradiation, thus showing promising application in the field of ultraviolet intensity indicator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]