Search

The directly measured temperature change ΔT upon deformation (elastocaloric effect) of natural rubber was compared with indirect method, which is deduced from the Clausius-Clapeyron factor (∂σ/∂T)ε, where σ is the stress and ε is the strain. The factor (∂σ/∂T)ε can be measured by two different methods. One is to measure the stress vs. strain behavior at different static temperatures. It is found that the ΔT deduction is underestimated or even of opposite sign compared with the directly measured one. These behaviors are different from elastocaloric effect of shape memory alloys. An interpretation based on strain-induced crystallite is proposed. The other characterization is to measure the stress vs. temperature at constant strain. It results in a prediction, which is in good quantitative agreement with the directly measured one. The stress appears then to be a non-state variable, thus questioning the ergodicity of the material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of solid-state-cooling, the elastocaloric effect offers a very large controlled entropy change based in low-cost polymers, especially natural rubber which is environmentally friendly. However, large elastocaloric activity requires large elongation (>5), which makes this material impractical for cooling systems due to the large change in sample's area. By performing a pre-elongation, area change is limited, and β=-∂γ/∂λ (where γ is the specific entropy and λ is the elongation) is larger. The highest β value is obtained when pre-elongation is right before (at the "eve") the onset of the strain-induced crystallization, which is also interpreted in the view of molecular conformation. Experimental results obtained on a natural rubber sample showed an adiabatic temperature change of 4.3 °C for pre-elongation of 4 with further elongation of 4 (true strain change of 69%). Furthermore, the entropy exhibits a quasi-linear dependence on elongation, and the β value is found to be 6400 J K-1 m-3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calcium induces epidermal keratinocyte differentiation, but the mechanism is not completely understood. We have previously demonstrated that calcium-induced human keratinocyte differentiation requires an intracellular calcium rise caused by phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-dependent activation of phospholipase C-γ1. In this study we sought to identify the upstream signaling pathway necessary for calcium activation of PI3K and its subsequent activation of phospholipase C-γ1. We found that calcium induces the recruitment of PI3K to the E-cadherin-catenin complex at the plasma membrane of human keratinocytes. Knocking-down E-cadherin, β-catenin, or p120-catenin expression blocked calcium activation of PI3K and phospholipase C-γ1 and calcium-induced keratinocyte differentiation. However, knocking-down γ-catenin expression had no effect. Calcium-induced PI3K recruitment to E-cadherin stabilized by p120-catenin at the plasma membrane requires β-catenin but not γ-catenin. These data indicate that the recruitment of PI3K to the E-cadherin/β-catenin/p120-catenin complex via β-catenin at the plasma membrane is required for calcium-induced phospholipase C-γ1 activation and, ultimately, keratinocyte differentiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Humans with selected mutations in the vitamin D receptor (VDR) and mouse models lacking VDR develop alopecia. Mice null for the Vdr gene are born with a normal coat of hair, but fail to initiate normal hair follicle cycling. In this study, we examined the morphology of the hair follicle of the Vdr null mouse during days 13–22 when the hair follicle normally initiates and completes the first catagen. We then explored the possibility that the abnormality in hair follicle cycling was associated with abnormal expression of hairless (Hr), a putative transcriptional regulator known to regulate hair follicle cycling and recently shown to regulate VDR transcriptional activity. Our results demonstrate the progressive deterioration of the hair follicle through catagen. Comparable to VDR, Hr was found in the basal cells of the epidermis and ORS of the hair follicle. However, Hr was also found in the IRS and matrix of the follicle, regions with little or no VDR. Hr levels increased during catagen, reaching a peak by day 19. Levels of Hr were greater in the Vdr null mice compared to wildtype controls, results confirmed by quantitative RT-PCR. We conclude that lack of VDR causes disruption of hair follicle structure during the first catagen resulting in failure of subsequent hair follicle cycling. These changes are associated with increased expression of Hr, suggesting a role for VDR in regulating Hr expression. Both Hr and VDR are required for normal hair follicle cycling. J. Cell. Physiol. 207: 340–353, 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "Sugarcane stem node identification algorithm based on improved YOLOv5." The correction states that the order of the affiliations listed in the article is incorrect. The correct order of the affiliations is provided in the correction notice. The article was published in PLoS ONE and is available under the Creative Commons Attribution License. [Extracted from the article]

Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) remains the most prevalent molecular detection technology for sewage analysis but is plagued with numerous disadvantages, such as time consumption, high manpower requirements, and susceptibility to false negatives. In this study, an automated robot‐driven photoelectrochemical (PEC) biosensing platform is constructed, that utilizes the CRISPR/Cas12a system to achieve fast, ultrasensitive, high specificity detection of biological loads in sewage. The Shennong‐1 robot integrates several functional modules, involving sewage sampling and pretreatment to streamline the sewage monitoring. A screen‐printed electrode is employed with a vertical graphene‐based working electrode and enhanced with surface‐deposited Au nanoparticles (NPs). CdTe/ZnS quantum dots (QDs) are further fabricated through the double‐stranded DNA (dsDNA) anchored on Au NPs. Using the cDNA template of Omicron BA.5 spike gene as a model, the PEC biosensor demonstrates excellent analytical performance, with a lower detection limit of 2.93 × 102 zm and an outstanding selectivity at the level of single‐base mutation recognition. Furthermore, the rapid, accurate detection of BA.5 in sewage demonstrates the feasibility of the PEC platform for sewage monitoring. In conclusion, this platform allows early detection and tracking of infectious disease outbreaks, providing timely data support for public health institutions to take appropriate prevention and control measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most fascinating 2D nanomaterials (NMs) ever found is various members of MXene family. Among them, the titanium‐based MXenes, with more than 70% of publication‐related investigations, are comparatively well studied, producing fundamental foundation for the 2D MXene family members with flexible properties, familiar with a variety of advanced novel technological applications. Nonetheless, there are still more candidates among transitional metals (TMs) that can function as MXene NMs in ways that go well beyond those that are now recognized. Systematized details of the preparations, characteristics, limitations, significant discoveries, and uses of the novel M‐based MXenes (M‐MXenes), where M stands for non‐Ti TMs (M = Sc, V, Cr, Y, Zr, Nb, Mo, Hf, Ta, W, and Lu), are given. The exceptional qualities of the 2D non‐Ti MXene outperform standard Ti‐MXene in several applications. There is many advancement in top‐down as well as bottom‐up production of MXenes family members, which allows for exact control of the M‐characteristics MXene NMs to contain cutting‐edge applications. This study offers a systematic evaluation of existing research, covering everything in producing complex M‐MXenes from primary limitations to the characterization and selection of their applications in accordance with their novel features. The development of double metal combinations, extension of additional metal candidates beyond group‐(III–VI)B family, and subsequent development of the 2D TM carbide/TMs nitride/TM carbonitrides to 2D metal boride family are also included in this overview. The possibilities and further recommendations for the way of non‐Ti MXene NMs are in the synthesis of NMs will discuss in detail in this critical evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The two-dimensional nanomaterials are characterized by their ultra-thin structure, diverse chemical functional groups, and remarkable anisotropic properties. Since its discovery in 2004, graphene has attracted significant scientific interest due to its potential applications in various fields, including electronics, energy systems, and biomedicine. In medicine, graphene is used for designing smart drug delivery systems, especially for antibiotics, and biosensing. Skin trauma is a prevalent dermatological condition that increasingly contributes to morbidities and mortalities, thus representing a significant health burden. During tissue damage, rapid skin repair is crucial to prevent blood loss and infection. Therefore, drugs used for skin trauma must possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials possess remarkable physical, chemical, optical, and biological characteristics due to their uniform shape, increased surface area, and surface charge. Graphene and its derivatives, transition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), black phosphorous (BP), hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), MXene, and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are among the commonly used 2D nanomaterials. Moreover, they exhibit antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This review presents a comprehensive discussion of the clinical approaches employed for wound healing treatment and explores the applications of commonly used 2D nanomaterials to enhance wound healing outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial intelligence (AI) has recently emerged as a unique developmental influence that is playing an important role in the development of medicine. The AI medium is showing the potential in unprecedented advancements in truth and efficiency. The intersection of AI has the potential to revolutionize drug discovery. However, AI also has limitations and experts should be aware of these data access and ethical issues. The use of AI techniques for drug discovery applications has increased considerably over the past few years, including combinatorial QSAR and QSPR, virtual screening, and denovo drug design. The purpose of this survey is to give a general overview of drug discovery based on artificial intelligence, and associated applications. We also highlighted the gaps present in the traditional method for drug designing. In addition, potential strategies and approaches to overcome current challenges are discussed to address the constraints of AI within this field. We hope that this survey plays a comprehensive role in understanding the potential of AI in drug discovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-dimensional (2D) materials exhibit many interesting properties, but most 2D materials are exfoliated from layered bulk materials, limiting the development of the 2D material group. Recently, non-layered 2D materials have aroused great attention due to their excellent catalysis performance, favored compatibility with silicon substrates and high chemical activity. With high photoconductivity, high responsivity and fast response time, non-layered selenium (Se) exhibits important applications in the field of optoelectronics. In this work, we use a simple liquid phase exfoliation method to fabricate 2D Se nanoflakes from bulk Se which possesses a unique chain structure. The thickness of 2D Se nanoflakes was measured to be in the range of 5–10 nm. As-fabricated Se nanoflakes were used in a photodetector by the photoelectrochemical method, showing a high photocurrent density (1.28 μA cm−2) and photoresponsivity (10.45 μA W−1). In addition, the long-term photoelectric measurements indicate that the 2D Se-based photodetector has good time and cycle stability. Our results show that 2D Se has promising potential in liquid-based photo-detectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: A germline mutation can be identified in up to 10% of patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT). In 2017, a high frequency of the GCM2 [(NM_ 004752.4) c.1181A> C; p.Tyr394Ser; rs142287570] variant was reported in PHPT Ashkenazi Jews (AJ). Objective: To evaluate the presence of the GCM2 p.Tyr394Ser variant in Israeli patients addressed for genetic evaluation to characterize their phenotype and clinical management. Method: Patients with PHPT who underwent addressed for genetic screening for suspected familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia (FHH), a family history of isolated hyperparathyroidism (FIHP), or failed parathyroidectomy with persistent PHPT were recruited. Those with normal initial selected gene sequencing or hyperparathyroid genetic panel completed the GCM2 p.Tyr394Ser variant sequencing. The prevalence of this variant was evaluated using our local genomic database. Results: A total of 42 single individuals from unrelated kindreds were evaluated. A disease-causing mutation was found in 11 (26.1%) patients: 10 were diagnosed with FHH (eight CASR and two AP2S1 mutations), and one patient had a CKN2B mutation. In 28 of the remaining patients, the GCM2 p.Tyr394Ser variant was positive in three (10.7%), and all were AJ. Within AJ (15/28, 53.5%), the rate of the p.Tyr394Ser variant was 3/15 (20%), and of those, two had a history of familial isolated hyperparathyroidism. Multi-glandular parathyroid adenoma/hyperplasia was also observed in two of these patients. No clinical or laboratory findings could discriminate patients with the GCM2 p.Tyr394Ser variant from those with FHH. Cinacalcet normalized the calcium levels in one patient. The prevalence of the GCM2 p.Tyr394Ser variant in 15,407 tests in our local genomic database was 0.98%. Conclusion: In contrast to previous observations, the GCM2 p.Tyr394Ser variantassociated phenotype may be mild in AJ with FIHP, sometimes mimicking FHH. Because surgery may be curative, surgeons should be aware of the possibility of multiple gland diseases in these patients. The clinical spectrum and clinical utility of screening for this variant warrant further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identification of sugarcane stem nodes is generally dependent on high-performance recognition equipment in sugarcane seed pre-cutting machines and inefficient. Accordingly, this study proposes a novel lightweight architecture for the detection of sugarcane stem nodes based on the YOLOv5 framework, named G-YOLOv5s-SS. Firstly, the study removes the CBS and C3 structures at the end of the backbone network to fully utilize shallow-level feature information. This enhances the detection performance of sugarcane stem nodes. Simultaneously, it eliminates the 32 times down-sampled branches in the neck structure and the 20x20 detection heads at the prediction end, reducing model complexity. Secondly, a Ghost lightweight module is introduced to replace the conventional convolution module in the BottleNeck structure, further reducing the model's complexity. Finally, the study incorporates the SimAM attention mechanism to enhance the extraction of sugarcane stem node features without introducing additional parameters. This improvement aims to enhance recognition accuracy, compensating for any loss in precision due to lightweight modifications. The experimental results showed that the average precision of the improved network for sugarcane stem node identification reached 97.6%, which was 0.6% higher than that of the YOLOv5 baseline network. Meanwhile, a model size of 2.6MB, 1,129,340 parameters, and 7.2G FLOPs, representing respective reductions of 82%, 84%, and 54.4%. Compared with mainstream one-stage target detection algorithms such as YOLOv4-tiny, YOLOv4, YOLOv5n, YOLOv6n, YOLOv6s, YOLOv7-tiny, and YOLOv7, G-YOLOv5s-SS achieved respective average precision improvements of 12.9%, 5.07%, 3.6%, 2.1%, 1.2%, 3%, and 0.4% in sugarcane stem nodes recognition. Meanwhile, the model size was compressed by 88.9%, 98.9%, 33.3%, 72%, 92.9%, 78.8% and 96.3%, respectively. Compared with similar studies, G-YOLOv5s-SS not only enhanced recognition accuracy but also considered model size, demonstrating an overall excellent performance that aligns with the requirements of sugarcane seed pre-cutting machines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: Precise exfoliation and modification of nano-Tellurium was realized by adopting a room-temperature ionic liquid as the electrolyte. Nano-Tellurium with high-entropy morphology can offer greater solar absorption and more kinds of surface chemical groups, giving rise to superior photothermal properties. Nano-Tellurium-poly(vinyl alcohol)-based photothermal foam hydrogels, with high compressibility, excellent water transport rate and low evaporation enthalpy of water, combined with a new heat-supply model, achieve an evaporation rate of 4.11 kg m−2 h−1 with energy efficiencies up to 128% under 1 sun irradiation, which are the highest values for semiconductor-based nanocomposites reported so far. The development of tellurium (Te)-based semiconductor nanomaterials for efficient light-to-heat conversion may offer an effective means of harvesting sunlight to address global energy concerns. However, the nanosized Te (nano-Te) materials reported to date suffer from a series of drawbacks, including limited light absorption and a lack of surface structures. Herein, we report the preparation of nano-Te by electrochemical exfoliation using an electrolyzable room-temperature ionic liquid. Anions, cations, and their corresponding electrolytic products acting as chemical scissors can precisely intercalate and functionalize bulk Te. The resulting nano-Te has high morphological entropy, rich surface functional groups, and broad light absorption. We also constructed foam hydrogels based on poly (vinyl alcohol)/nano-Te, which achieved an evaporation rate and energy efficiency of 4.11 kg m−2 h−1 and 128%, respectively, under 1 sun irradiation. Furthermore, the evaporation rate was maintained in the range 2.5–3.0 kg m−2 h−1 outdoors under 0.5–1.0 sun, providing highly efficient evaporation under low light conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document is a contents list for the Journal of Materials Chemistry A, a publication that focuses on materials chemistry with an emphasis on energy and sustainability. It includes reviews, perspectives, and communications on various topics within the field. The document also provides information about the editorial staff and contact details for submitting papers. Published by the Royal Society of Chemistry, the journal is available electronically. The document is a compilation of papers published in the journal in 2023, covering topics such as battery technology, wastewater treatment, catalysis, and solar cells. Each paper presents specific research findings and analysis. Additionally, the document includes two corrections to previously published papers. [Extracted from the article]

Two-dimensional (2D) materials are amongst the most interesting scientific research materials in the twenty-first century. Recognizing that the synthesis of 2D nanomaterials (NMs) does not always require van der Waals (vdWs)-bound layered precursors has brought about the innovation of numerous novel NMs, including MXenes, 2D transition metal carbides (TMCs), and transition metal nitrides (TMNs), synthesized by the selective etching of layered solids. A decade after the first publication, the family of 2D MXene NMs now encompasses composition with three, five, seven, or nine atom layers that are solid or in order. The 2D MXene diverse surface terminations expand the class of 2D materials, having hundreds of metallic conductors. MXenes have adjustable characteristics with these terminations, suggesting a broad series of applications ranging from energy storage/producing devices (for example, fuel cell, supercapacitors (SCs), and batteries) and catalytic applications (such as oxygen/nitrogen/carbon-dioxide reduction reaction, hydrogen evaluation reaction, and water treatment), electronics (such as sensors, transistors, and antennas) to various classes of biomedical applications. Herein, we have given a recent evaluation of 2D MXene synthesis, properties, and novel applications. We will explain in detail about the limitations that must be overcome and identify research objectives that will increase the fundamental understanding of 2D MXene characteristics and make their hybridization with other 2D materials possible in a number of innovative emerging technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mpox is an infectious viral disease, and, as of January 12, 2023, about 84 560 distinct cases have been detected, involving about 110 countries since May 2022. Most clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)-based detection methods require long assay time because of the pre-amplification to target nucleic acids. Herein, we designed a new prototypal mpox biosensor that allows amplification-free nucleic acid detection by combining CRISPR/Cas12b system and ultrasensitive graphene field-effect transistor (gFET). The CRISPR/Cas12b–gFET enabled the detection of the mpox virus (MPXV) DNA targets at a sensitivity of ∼1 aM within about 20 min. We designed several sgRNAs to recognize the target genes of MPXV and then Cas12b protein cleaved the target genes to form a double-strand break. The specificity of sgRNAs of MPXV designed was verified among other homologous Orthopoxviruses, and the sgRNA could distinguish between recent 2022 MPXV and West African MPXV with the mutation site, showing its potential application in MPXV detection. Thus, the demonstrated CRISPR–gFET detection technology could serve as a sensitive and rapid diagnostic tool for MPXV and other DNA viruses in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial infections have been a major threat to human health. Especially, Gram-negative (G−) bacterial infections have been an increasing problem worldwide. The overuse of antibiotics leads to an emergence of drug resistance, and thus the development of novel antimicrobial agents is important, particularly against G− bacteria. Nanozymes use reactive oxygen species (ROS) to kill bacteria, reducing the risk of bacterial resistance and providing new opportunities to meet the challenges of strain selectivity. Here, we synthesized NiCo layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanozymes, which exhibit selective antibacterial activity based on their peroxide-like (POD-like) activity. To obtain the highest antibacterial activity, the POD-like activity of NiCo LDH nanozyme was further optimized by tuning the ratio of nickel and cobalt, and Ni4Co6 LDHs showed the highest POD activity and antibacterial activity. More importantly, Ni4Co6 LDHs can achieve selective sterilization of G− bacteria due to their electrostatic adsorption and hydrophilic interactions with the bacterial cell wall. Animal experiments further indicated that the healing of G− bacteria-infected wounds was effectively promoted without damaging their normal biological tissues. In conclusion, we provide a selective antibacterial agent through a simple strategy, which provides a new direction for the application of nanozymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSPN) is the most common chronic complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). DSPN may lead to more serious complications, such as diabetic foot ulcer, amputation, and reduced life expectancy. Observational studies have suggested that vitamin D deficiency may be associated with the development of DSPN in T2DM. However, interventional studies have found that low-dose vitamin D supplementation does not significantly improve neuropathy in DSPN. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of intramuscular injection of high-dose vitamin D (HDVD) in T2DM with DSPN combined with vitamin D insufficiency. Methods and analysis: We will conduct a multicenter, randomized, double-blinded, and placebo-controlled trial in four large hospitals. All eligible participants will be randomly assigned to either the vitamin D2 supplement or placebo control group and injected intramuscularly monthly for 3 months. Additionally, anthropometric measurements and clinical data will be collected at baseline and 3 months. Adverse events will be collected at 1, 2, and 3 months. The primary outcome measure is the change in the mean Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument (MNSI) score at baseline and 3 months postintervention. We will use the gold-standard liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method to distinguish between 25(OH)D2 and 25(OH)D3 levels. The MNSN score before the intervention will be used as a covariate to compare the changes between both groups before and after the intervention, and the analysis of covariance will be used to analyze the change in the MNSI score after HDVD supplementation. Discussion: Glycemic control alone does not prevent the progression of DSPN in T2DM. Some studies have suggested that vitamin D may improve DSPN; however, the exact dose, method, and duration of vitamin D supplementation are unknown. Additionally, neuropathy repair requires HDVD supplementation to sustain adequate vitamin D levels. This once-a-month intramuscular method avoids daily medication; therefore, compliance is high. This study will be the first randomized controlled trial in China to analyze the efficacy and safety of HDVD supplementation for patients with T2DM and DSPN and will provide new ideas for pharmacological research and clinical treatment of diabetic neuropathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the case of a 9-year-old girl who presented with symptomatic hypercalcemia from primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT). Laboratory results revealed elevated serum calcium 12.1 mg/dl (ref: 9.1-10.4), elevated ionized calcium 6.8 (ref: 4.5-5.6) mg/dl, phosphorus 3.8 (ref: 3.3-5.1) mg/dl, 25-OH vitamin D 20.1 (30-100) ng/ml, and elevated intact PTH 70 (15-65) pg/ml, consistent with the diagnosis of PHPT. She had persistent hyperparathyroidism after bilateral neck exploration, left thyroid lobectomy, and transcervical thymectomy. Neither inferior gland was identified. No parathyroid tissue was seen on histology. Repeat preoperative imaging identified a 7-mm × 5-mm adenoma on 4DCT not seen on 99Tc-sestamibi parathyroid scan. The patient then underwent a successful redo parathyroidectomy with removal of a submucosal left parathyroid adenoma at the superior aspect of the thyroid cartilage in the piriform sinus. Her biochemical work-up remains consistent with surgical cure 6 months after surgery. Herein, we also review common locations for ectopic parathyroid adenomas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the end of 2019, a highly contagious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has deprived numerous lives worldwide, called COVID-19. Up to date, omicron is the latest variant of concern, and BA.5 is replacing the BA.2 variant to become the main subtype rampaging worldwide. These subtypes harbor an L452R mutation, which increases their transmissibility among vaccinated people. Current methods for identifying SARS-CoV-2 variants are mainly based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) followed by gene sequencing, making time-consuming processes and expensive instrumentation indispensable. In this study, we developed a rapid and ultrasensitive electrochemical biosensor to achieve the goals of high sensitivity, the ability of distinguishing the variants, and the direct detection of RNAs from viruses simultaneously. We used electrodes made of MXene-AuNP (gold nanoparticle) composites for improved sensitivity and the CRISPR/Cas13a system for high specificity in detecting the single-base L452R mutation in RNAs and clinical samples. Our biosensor will be an excellent supplement to the RT-qPCR method enabling the early diagnosis and quick distinguishment of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.5 and BA.2 variants and more potential variants that might arise in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the past few decades, 2D layer materials have gradually become a central focus in materials science owing to their uniquely layered structural qualities and good optoelectronic properties. However, in the development of 2D materials, several disadvantages, such as limited types of materials and the inability to synthesize large-scale materials, severely confine their application. Therefore, further exploration of new materials and preparation methods is necessary to meet technological developmental needs. Organic molecular materials have the advantage of being customizable. Therefore, if organic molecular and 2D materials are combined, the resulting 2D organic materials would have excellent optical and electrical properties. In addition, through this combination, the free design and large-scale synthesis of 2D materials can be realized in principle. Furthermore, 2D organic materials exhibit excellent properties and unique functionalities along with great potential for developing sensors, biomedicine, and electronics. In this review, 2D organic materials are divided into five categories. The preparation methods and material properties of each class of materials are also described in detail. Notably, to comprehensively understand each material's advantages, the latest research applications for each material are presented in detail and summarized. Finally, the future development and application prospects of 2D organic materials are briefly discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study investigated the association between nerve conduction velocity (NCV) and bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods: This study retrospectively collected medical data of T2DM patients who underwent dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and nerve conduction study at the Shanghai Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, China. The primary outcome was the total hip BMD T-score. The main independent variables were motor nerve conduction velocities (MCVs), sensory nerve conduction velocities (SCVs), and composite Z-scores of MCV and SCV. T2DM patients were divided into total hip BMD T-scores < -1 and total hip BMD T-scores ≥ -1 groups. The association between the primary outcome and main independent variables was evaluated by Pearson bivariate correlation and multivariate linear regression. Results: 195 female and 415 male patients with T2DM were identified. In male patients with T2DM, bilateral ulnar, median, and tibial MCVs and bilateral sural SCVs were lower in the total hip BMD T-score < -1 group than T-score ≥ -1 group (P < 0.05). Bilateral ulnar, median, and tibial MCVs, and bilateral sural SCVs showed positive correlations with total hip BMD T-score in male patients with T2DM (P < 0.05). Bilateral ulnar and tibial MCVs, bilateral sural SCVs, and composite MCV SCV and MSCV Z-scores were independently and positively associated with total hip BMD T-score in male patients with T2DM, respectively (P < 0.05). NCV did not show significant correlation with the total hip BMD Tscore in female patients with T2DM. Conclusion: NCV showed positive association with total hip BMD in male patients with T2DM. A decline in NCV indicates an elevated risk of low BMD (osteopenia/osteoporosis) in male patients with T2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Famine exposure in early life has been found to have a long-term effect on metabolic diseases, but its effect on bone health was not clear. In this study, we found women, who suffered from famine exposure during their childhood or adolescence period, had significantly decreased BMD at several skeletal sites compared to the age-matched non-exposed groups. The risk of clinical fracture was also elevated in adolescence-exposed women. Purpose: To investigate the correlation between famine exposure at certain stages and bone mass in adulthood. Methods: We enrolled participants born in 1943–1962 from the China Osteoporosis Prevalence Study (COPS), which were classified into three famine exposure groups according to their birth year: fetal-famine exposure (1959–1962, n = 1693), childhood-famine exposure (1949–1958, n = 5557), and adolescence-famine exposure (1943–1948, n = 1530). We also selected age-balanced non-exposed participants as the control groups for men and women separately. Bone mineral density (BMD) and vertebral fractures (VFs) were measured by dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and X-ray, respectively. The associations of famine exposure in early life with BMD were assessed via multiple linear regression. Logistic regression was performed to examine the association of famine exposure in early life with fracture risk with adjustments for covariates. Results: In women, the childhood-exposed and adolescence-exposed groups had significantly decreased BMD at several skeletal sites compared to the age-matched non-exposed groups. No significant decreased BMD was found in the fetal-exposed groups compared to the non-exposed groups in both sexes. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that famine exposure during childhood and adolescence was negatively associated with BMD at the femoral neck after adjusting for covariates in women. The risk of clinical fracture was also elevated in adolescence-exposed women. Conclusion: Famine exposure during early life especially childhood and adolescence is associated with decreased bone mass in adulthood in women but did not affect bone mass in men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphene and its derivatives (graphene oxide (GO), reduced GO (rGO), doped graphene, and functionalized graphene (F-graphene) nanomaterials (NMs)) possess unique chemical and physical features, and thus huge efforts have been devoted to their study, achieving substantial advances in fuel cell (FC) applications. Herein, we provide a summary of the latest performance and progress in the synthesis, properties, and application of graphene-based NMs in membranes, bipolar plates (BPPs), and as electrocatalysts in various types of FC technological applications. Specifically, in this review, we explain in detail the effect of introducing an increased electrochemically active specific surface area (SSA) to achieve better electro-catalytic activity toward fuel oxidation and oxidant reduction processes using graphene-based NM dispersions on electrodes. Using materials based on graphene, the problem of the device stack durability and performance degradation brought by the corrosion of the BPPs is highlighted. Graphene-based NMs have demonstrated outstanding performances in different membrane devices with respect to high ionic conductivity and power density. The use of graphene in FC technology has demonstrated admirable performances, and thus has a promising future for industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has lately been identified as a promising anticancer method and gained tremendous interest due to its controllability, non-invasive nature, and negligible side effects. Nevertheless, the development of PDT is hampered by two factors. One is the insufficient tissue penetration of phototherapy laser, resulting in restricted treatment sites. Another one is the substantial dependence of reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation on oxygen concentration. Therefore, a strategy to promote ROS generation by overcoming the hypoxia microenvironment is critical to cancer therapy. Electrolysis of water is known to be a rapid and relatively secure method for producing oxygen. Thus, in this study, electrotherapy was introduced to alleviate the tumor hypoxia by producing oxygen in situ, hence boosting the PDT efficacy, namely E-PDT. Black phosphorus (BP) based nanomaterials were selected as clearable photosensitizers with outstanding PDT performance. Experiments conducted both in vitro and in vivo indicated that E-PDT performed superior therapeutic effects with the in situ generation of oxygen by electrotherapy compared with other groups. This work suggests a promising strategy for phototherapeutic anticancer efficiency enhancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a key branch of the cross-discipline biophotonics, phototherapy, including photodynamic therapy (PDT), and photothermal therapy (PTT), is promising in biomedicine and visible light-driving PDT has been applied to clinical treatment. However, extensive applications of phototherapy are limited by the hypoxic microenvironment, laser penetration depth, and potential complexity for combined PDT/PTT. Thus, NIR-responsive oxygen self-supply nanocomposites functionalized with photosensitizers for achieving simultaneous in-depth PDT/PTT are urgently required. Herein, a multifunctional platform has been fabricated by co-immobilizing monodispersed ultrasmall Pd nanoclusters and a photosensitizer 5,10,15,20-Tetrakis (4-Aminophenyl)-21H,23H Porphyrin (Thp) on the surface of Ti3C2Tx MXene nanosheets, generating the Pd-Thp-Ti3C2Tx nanocomposite. Material characterization demonstrated that Pd nanoclusters and Thp were well-distributed on the MXene surface while MXene maintained its photothermal conversion efficiency and broad absorption. In this nanoplatform, irradiated by the single 808 nm laser, Pd selectively catalyzed the decomposition of H2O2 to O2, and O2 was continuously supplied to Thp for enhanced NIR-driving PDT. The in vivo fluorescence and photothermal imaging demonstrated the pronounced accumulation of nanocomposites in the tumor site. Both in vitro and in vivo results clearly demonstrated the nanocomposite had good biocompatibility, and that the synergistic PTT and enhanced PDT made apoptosis of the tumor cell achievable. This work not only proves this Pd-Thp-Ti3C2Tx nanocomposite serves a promising solution for tumor hypoxia by inducing apoptosis of tumor cells with synergistic PTT and PDT, but also broadens the application of promising optical materials in biomedical field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the genetic causal association between osteoporosis (OP) and iron status through Mendelian randomization (MR). Methods: Publicly available genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary data were used for MR analysis with four iron status-related indicators (ferritin, iron, total iron binding capacity, and transferrin saturation) as exposures and three different types of OP (OP, OP with pathological fracture, and postmenopausal OP with pathological fracture) as outcomes. The inversevariance weighted (IVW) method was used to analyze the genetic causal association between the four indicators of iron status and OP. The heterogeneity of MR results was determined using IVW and MR-Egger methods. The pleiotropy of MR results was determined using MR-Egger regression. A leave-one-SNP-out test was performed to determine whether the MR results were affected by a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP). The weighted median method was conducted to further validate our results. Results: Based on IVW, MR-Egger and weighted median models, we found no causal association between iron status (ferritin, iron, total iron binding capacity, or transferrin saturation) and OP (Pbeta > 0.05 in all models). IVW and MR-Egger analysis of OP with pathological fracture and iron status indicators showed no potential genetic causal association (Pbeta> 0.05 in the two analyses). The results of the weighted median were consistent with those of IVW (Pbeta> 0.05 in all analyses). There was no potential genetic causal association between iron status and postmenopausal OP with pathological fracture based on serum iron (Pbeta>0.05 in all models). No heterogeneity or horizontal pleiotropy was found in any of the analyses. None of the leave-one-out tests in the analyses found any SNP that could affect the results of MR. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that there is no genetic causal association between OP and iron status, but the effects of other factors were not excluded. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]