"All in One" Strategy for Achieving Superprotonic Conductivity by Incorporating Strong Acids into a Robust Imidazole-Linked Covalent Organic Framework

The fabrication of solid-state proton-conducting electrolytes possessing both high performance and long-life reusability is significant but challenging. An "all-in-one" composite, H3PO4@PyTFB-1-SO3H, including imidazole, sulfonic acid, and phosphoric acid, which are essential for proton conduction, was successfully prepared by chemical post-modification and physical loading in the rationally pre-synthesized imidazole-based nanoporous covalent organic framework (COF), PyTFB-1. The resultant H3PO4@PyTFB-1-SO3H exhibits superhigh proton conductivity with its value even highly up to 1.15 × 10-1 S cm-1 at 353 K and 98% relative humidity (RH), making it one of the highest COF-based composites reported so far under the same conditions. Experimental studies and theoretical calculations further confirmed that the imidazole and sulfonic acid groups have strong interactions with the H3PO4 molecules and the synergistic effect of these three groups dramatically improves the proton conductivity properties of H3PO4@PyTFB-1-SO3H. This work demonstrated that by aggregating multiple proton carriers into one composite, effective proton-conducting electrolyte can be feasibly achieved.

Strong Second-Harmonic Generation Induced by a Triphenylamine-Based Bismuth-Organic Framework for Photocatalytic Activity Enhancement

Taking advantage of the well-defined geometry of metal centers and highly directional metal-ligand coordination bonds, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as promising candidates for nonlinear optical (NLO) materials. In this work, taking a photoresponsive carboxylate triphenylamine derivative as an organic ligand, a bismuth-based MOF, Bi-NBC, NBC = 4',4‴,4‴″-nitrilotris(([1,1'-biphenyl]-4-carboxylic acid)) is obtained. Structure determination reveals that it is a potential NLO material derived from its noncentrosymmetric structure, which is finally confirmed by its rarely strong second harmonic generation (SHG) effect. Theoretical calculations reveal that the potential difference around Bi atoms is large; therefore, it leads to a strong local built-in electric field, which greatly facilitates the charge separation and transfer and finally improves the photocatalytic performance. Our results provide a reference for the exploration of MOFs with NLO properties.

Robust links in photoactive covalent organic frameworks enable effective photocatalytic reactions under harsh conditions

Developing heterogeneous photocatalysts for the applications in harsh conditions is of high importance but challenging. Herein, by converting the imine linkages into quinoline groups of triphenylamine incorporated covalent organic frameworks (COFs), two photosensitive COFs, namely TFPA-TAPT-COF-Q and TFPA-TPB-COF-Q, are successfully constructed. The obtained quinoline-linked COFs display improved stability and photocatalytic activity, making them suitable photocatalysts for photocatalytic reactions under harsh conditions, as verified by the recyclable photocatalytic reactions of organic acid involving oxidative decarboxylation and organic base involving benzylamine coupling. Under strong oxidative condition, the quinoline-linked COFs show a high efficiency up to 11831.6 μmol·g-1·h-1 and a long-term recyclable usability for photocatalytic production of H2O2, while the pristine imine-linked COFs are less catalytically active and easily decomposed in these harsh conditions. The results demonstrate that enhancing the linkage robustness of photoactive COFs is a promising strategy to construct heterogeneous catalysts for photocatalytic reactions under harsh conditions.

Highly Enhancing CO2 Photoreduction by Metallization of an Imidazole-linked Robust Covalent Organic Framework

Converting CO2 into value-added chemicals to solve the issues caused by carbon emission is promising but challenging. Herein, by embedding metal ions (Co2+ , Ni2+ , Cu2+ , and Zn2+ ) into an imidazole-linked robust photosensitive covalent organic framework (PyPor-COF), effective photocatalysts for CO2 conversion are rationally designed and constructed. Characterizations display that all of the metallized PyPor-COFs (M-PyPor-COFs) display remarkably high enhancement in their photochemical properties. Photocatalysis reactions reveal that the Co-metallized PyPor-COF (Co-PyPor-COF) achieves a CO production rate as high as up to 9645 µmol g-1 h-1 with a selectivity of 96.7% under light irradiation, which is more than 45 times higher than that of the metal-free PyPor-COF, while Ni-metallized PyPor-COF (Ni-PyPor-COF) can further tandem catalyze the generated CO to CH4 with a production rate of 463.2 µmol g-1 h-1 . Experimental analyses and theory calculations reveal that their remarkable performance enhancement on CO2 photoreduction should be attributed to the incorporated metal sites in the COF skeleton, which promotes the adsorption and activation of CO2 and the desorption of generated CO and even reduces the reaction energy barrier for the formation of different intermediates. This work demonstrates that by metallizing photoactive COFs, effective photocatalysts for CO2 conversion can be achieved.

Reference values for six-minute walk distance and six-minute walk work in Caucasian adults

RATIONALE

The six-minute walk test (6MWT) is a practical and simple field-based test to assess physical capacity. Several reference equations for six-minute walking distance (6MWD, m) exist, but have a number of limitations that decrease their clinical utility. In addition, no reference equations exist for the 6MWT-derived outcome six-minute walk work (6MWORK, kg.m).

OBJECTIVES

To establish new reference equations for 6MWD and 6MWORK on a 20 m course using data from the population-based Canadian Cohort Obstructive Lung Disease study.

METHODS AND MEASUREMENTS

A total of 335 participants without obstructive or restrictive pulmonary function, with normal self-reported health status, normal exercise capacity, and <30 pack years cigarette smoking history were selected to create a representative sample of Canadian adults aged ≥40 years. All participants performed two 6MWTs. Reference equations were derived using multiple regression analyses.

MAIN RESULTS

On average, 6MWD and 6MWORK were 541±98 m and 41.3 ± 11.2 kg.m, respectively. All outcomes were significantly greater in males than females. Sex-specific reference equations were derived from the results of 6MWD and 6MWORK with an explained variance of 24 to 35%.

CONCLUSIONS

This study established reference equations for 6MWD and 6MWORK on a 20 m course in Caucasian males and females aged ≥40 years with normal pulmonary function, self-reported health status and exercise capacity. These newly derived reference equations add value to the assessment of functional capacity in clinical practice.

From Supramolecular Organic Cages to Porous Covalent Organic Frameworks for Enhancing Iodine Adsorption Capability by Fully Exposed Nitrogen-Rich Sites

In order to overcome the limitations of supramolecular organic cages for their incomplete accessibility of active sites in the solid state and uneasy recyclability in liquid solution, herein a nitrogen-rich organic cage is rationally linked into framework systems and four isoreticular covalent organic frameworks (COFs), that is, Cage-TFB-COF, Cage-NTBA-COF, Cage-TFPB-COF, and Cage-TFPT-COF, are successfully synthesized. Structure determination reveals that they are all high-quality crystalline materials derived from the eclipsed packing of related isoreticular two-dimensional frameworks. Since the nitrogen-rich sites usually have a high affinity toward iodine species, iodine adsorption investigations are carried out and the results show that all of them display an enhancement in iodine adsorption capacities. Especially, Cage-NTBA-COF exhibits an iodine adsorption capacity of 304 wt%, 14-fold higher than the solid sample packed from the cage itself. The strong interactions between the nitrogen-rich sites and the adsorbed iodine species are revealed by spectral analyses. This work demonstrates that, utilizing the reticular chemistry strategy to extend the close-packed supramolecular organic cages into crystalline porous framework solids, their inherent properties can be greatly exploited for targeted applications.

Highly Effective Generation of Singlet Oxygen by an Imidazole-Linked Robust Photosensitizing Covalent Organic Framework

Developing effective photosensitizers to initiate the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) is of great significance in both chemistry and physiology. Herein, linking the photoactive porphyrin moieties by in situ-formed robust imidazole groups, a covalent organic framework (COF), PyPor-COF, was successfully designed and synthesized. Detailed characterizations reveal that it not only possesses high crystallinity, permanent porosity, and robust stability but also shows a semiconductive photoresponse activity. As demonstrated by electron paramagnetic resonance experiments, the COF can initiate the generation of ¹O₂ efficiently under visible-light irradiation, the efficiency of which is higher than that of the pristine porphyrin-based reactant and even higher than some commonly used commercially available photosensitizing agents. Anticancer experiments prove that it can efficiently trigger the production of ¹O₂ in a physiological environment. This work demonstrates that the imidazole-linked porphyrin-incorporated COF is a highly promising photosensitizer that can even be applied in photodynamic therapy.

Highly Effective Proton-Conductive Matrix-Mixed Membrane Based on a -SO3H-Functionalized Polyphosphazene

A polyphosphazene with in-built -SO₃H moieties (PP-PhSO₃H) was facilely synthesized by the polymeric combination of hexachlorocyclotriphosphazene (HCCP) and sulfonate p-phenylenediamine. Characterization reveals that it is a highly stable amorphous polymer. Proton conductivity investigations showed that the synthesized PP-PhSO₃H exhibits a proton conductivity of up to 6.64 × 10^-2 S cm^-1 at 353 K and 98% relative humidity (RH). This value is almost 2 orders of magnitude higher than the corresponding value for its -SO₃H-free analogue, PP-Ph, which is 1.72 × 10^-4 S cm^-1 when measured under the same condition. Consequently, matrix-mixed membranes (labeled PP-PhSO₃H-PAN) were further prepared by mixing PP-PhSO₃H with polyacrylonitrile (PAN) in different ratios to test its potential application in the proton-exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell. The analysis results indicate that when the weight ratio of PP-PhSO₃H/PAN is 3:1 [named PP-PhSO₃H-PAN (3:1)], its proton conductivity can reach up to 5.05 × 10^-2 S cm^-1 at 353 K and 98% RH, which is even comparable with those of proton-conductive electrolytes currently used in PEM fuel cells. Furthermore, the continuous test demonstrates that the PP-PhSO₃H-PAN (3:1) has long-life reusability. This research reveals that by using phosphazene and sulfonated multiple-amine modules as precursors, organic polymers with excellent proton conductivity for the assembly of matrix-mixed membranes in PEM fuel cells can be easily synthesized by a simple polymeric process.

Facile construction of a highly proton-conductive matrix-mixed membrane based on a -SO3H functionalized polyamide

Developing a facile strategy to construct low-cost and efficient proton-conductive electrolytes is pivotal in the practical application of proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells. Herein, a polyamide with in-built -SO₃H moieties, PA(PhSO3H)2, was synthesized via a simple one-pot polymeric acylation process. Investigations via electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements revealed that the fabricated PA(PhSO3H)2 displays a proton conductivity of up to 5.54 × 10^-2 S cm^-1 at 353 K under 98% relative humidity (RH), which is more than 2 orders of magnitude higher than that of its -SO₃H-free analogue PA(Ph)2 (2.38 × 10^-4 S cm^-1) under the same conditions. Therefore, after mixing with polyacrylonitrile (PAN) at different ratios, PA(PhSO3H)2-based matrix-mixed membranes were subsequently made and the analysis results revealed that the proton conductivity can reach up to 5.82 × 10^-2 S cm^-1 at 353 K and 98% RH when the weight ratio of PA(PhSO3H)2 : PAN is in 3 : 1 (labeled as PA(PhSO3H)2-PAN(3 : 1)), the value of which is comparable even to those of commercially available electrolytes that are used in PEM fuel cells. In addition, continuous testing shows that PA(PhSO3H)2-PAN(3 : 1) possesses long-life reusability. This work demonstrates that, utilizing the simple reaction of polymeric acylation with a sulfonated module as a precursor, highly effective proton-conductive membranes for PEM fuel cells can be achieved in a facile manner.

Highly Effective Proton-Conduction Matrix-Mixed Membrane Derived from an -SO3H Functionalized Polyamide

Developing a low-cost and effective proton-conductive electrolyte to meet the requirements of the large-scale manufacturing of proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells is of great significance in progressing towards the upcoming “hydrogen economy” society. Herein, utilizing the one-pot acylation polymeric combination of acyl chloride and amine precursors, a polyamide with in-built -SO₃H moieties (PA-PhSO₃H) was facilely synthesized. Characterization shows that it possesses a porous feature and a high stability at the practical operating conditions of PEM fuel cells. Investigations of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements revealed that the fabricated PA-PhSO₃H displays a proton conductivity of up to 8.85 × 10⁻² S·cm⁻¹ at 353 K under 98% relative humidity (RH), which is more than two orders of magnitude higher than that of its -SO₃H-free analogue, PA-Ph (6.30 × 10⁻⁴ S·cm⁻¹), under the same conditions. Therefore, matrix-mixed membranes were fabricated by mixing with polyacrylonitrile (PAN) in different ratios, and the EIS analyses revealed that its proton conductivity can reach up to 4.90 × 10⁻² S·cm⁻¹ at 353 K and a 98% relative humidity (RH) when the weight ratio of PA-PhSO₃H:PAN is 3:1 (labeled as PA-PhSO₃H-PAN (3:1)), the value of which is even comparable with those of commercial-available electrolytes being used in PEM fuel cells. Additionally, continuous tests showed that PA-PhSO₃H-PAN (3:1) possesses a long-life reusability. This work demonstrates, using the simple acylation reaction with the sulfonated module as precursor, that low-cost and highly effective proton-conductive electrolytes for PEM fuel cells can be facilely achieved.

[Meta-analysis on efficacy of PCI treatment or conservative treatment among patients with chronic total occlusions]

Objective: To compare the efficacy between percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and conservative medication treatment in chronic total occlusions (CTO) patients. Methods: It was a meta-analysis.Articles on drug therapy and PCI for complete coronary artery occlusion were retrieved from Pubmed, Embase and Web of Science databases. The search time was from the database construction to May 10, 2020, and the following search criteria were used for the search "chronic total occlusion" "percutaneous coronary intervention" and "medical therapy". References from searched literatures were also searched to identify more eligible studies. Randomized controlled trials (RCT) and cohort studies comparing efficacy of PCI versus oral medication as well as medication as initial therapy option for CTO patients with single or multiple lesions were included. The primary endpoints included all-cause death, cardiac death, recurrent myocardial infarction, re-revascularization, major adverse cardiac events (MACE) and stroke. Data were analyzed with ReviewManager5.3.0 software. Pooled effect size RR and 95%CI were calculated by randomization effect model. Heterogeneity was evaluated by I². Bege test was used to evaluate publication bias. Subgroup analyses were performed for RCT and cohort studies. Results: A total of 1 079 articles were retrieved and 16 studies (RCT=4, cohort study=12) were included with 12 223 patients. Fourteen publications (RCT=4, cohort study=10) reported all-cause death post PCI and/or drug therapy. Results showed that risk of all-cause death was significantly lower in PCI group than in drug therapy group (RR=0.45,95%CI 0.39-0.53,P<0.001);subgroup analysis showed that risk of all-cause death was significantly lower in PCI group than in drug therapy group from cohort studies (RR=0.44,95%CI 0.38-0.52,P<0.001),but comparable in RCT (P=0.27). Thirteen studies (RCT=3, cohort study=10) reported cardiac death post PCI and/or drug therapy. Results showed that risk of cardiac death was significantly lower in PCI group than in drug therapy group (RR=0.44,95%CI 0.35-0.55,P<0.001);subgroup analysis showed that risk of cardiac death was significantly lower in PCI group than in drug therapy group in cohort studies (RR=0.43,95%CI 0.34-0.54,P<0.001),but not in RCT (P=0.25). Fourteen publications (RCT=4, cohort study=10) reported recurrent myocardial infarction post PCI and/or drug therapy. Results showed that risk of recurrent myocardial infarction was significantly lower in PCI group than in drug therapy group (RR=0.62,95%CI 0.44-0.88,P=0.007);subgroup analysis showed that risk of recurrent myocardial infarction was significantly lower in PCI group than in drug therapy group from cohort studies (RR=0.56,95%CI 0.40-0.78,P=0.000 5),but comparable in RCT (P=0.17). Fourteen publications (RCT=4, cohort study=10) reported re-revascularization post PCI and/or drug therapy. Results showed that risk of re-revascularization was comparable between PCI group and drug therapy group (P=0.91);subgroup analysis showed that risk of re-revascularization was comparable between PCI group and drug therapy group both in cohort study and RCT (P=0.60 and 0.41, respectively). Eleven publications (RCT=3, cohort study=8) reported MACE post PCI and/or drug therapy. Results showed that risk of MACE was significantly lower in PCI group than in drug therapy group (RR=0.74,95%CI 0.59-0.93,P=0.03);subgroup analysis showed that risk of MACE was significantly lower in PCI group than in drug therapy group in cohort studies (RR=0.72,95%CI 0.56-0.93,P=0.01), but not in RCT (P=0.8). Six publications (RCT=2, cohort study=4) reported stroke post PCI and/or drug therapy. Results showed that risk of stroke was comparable between PCI and drug therapy groups (RR=0.62,95%CI 0.32-1.20, P=0.15);subgroup analysis showed that risk of stroke was comparable between PCI and drug therapy groups both in cohort studies and RCT (P=0.48 and 0.32, respectively). Conclusion: Compared with oral drug therapy, PCI may have better efficacy for CTO patients based on results from this cohort study.

Highly Effective Photocatalytic Radical Reactions Triggered by a Photoactive Metal-Organic Framework

On account of their inherent reactive properties, radical reactions play an important role in organic syntheses. The booming photochemistry provides a feasible approach to trigger the generation of radical intermediates in organic reaction processes. Thus, developing effective photocatalysts becomes the key step in radical reactions. In this work, the triphenylamine moiety with photoactivity is successfully embedded in a highly porous and stable metal-organic framework (MOF), and the obtained MOF, namely, Zr-TCA, naturally displays a photoactive property derived from the triphenylamine-based ligand. In photocatalytic studies, the triphenylamine-based Zr-TCA not only exhibits a high catalytic activity on the aerobic oxidation of sulfides via the generation of the superoxide radical anion (O2•-) under light irradiation but also shows good efficiency in the trifluoromethylation of arenes and heteroarenes by the formation of the trifluoromethyl radical (CF3•) as an intermediate. Moreover, the high performance of Zr-TCA can be well maintained over a wide range of substrates in these radical reactions, and the recycled Zr-TCA still retains its excellent photocatalytic activity. The high recyclability and catalytic efficiency to various substrates make the constructed triphenylamine-based Zr-TCA a promising photocatalyst in diverse radical reactions.

High Enhancement in Proton Conductivity by Incorporating Sulfonic Acids into a Zirconium-Based Metal-Organic Framework via "Click" Reaction

Taking a robust zirconium-based metal-organic framework, UiO-66, as a prototype, functional postmodification via the versatile Cu(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne "click" reaction was carried out, and sulfonic acid groups were successfully grafted into its skeleton. Characterizations revealed that the MOF network was still well maintained after being treated by "clicked" modification. Investigations by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements revealed that its proton conductivity increases exponentially up to 8.8 × 10^-3 S cm^-1 at 80 °C and 98% RH, while those of the UiO-66 and UiO-66-NH₂ are only 6.3 × 10^-6 and 3.5 × 10^-6 S cm^-1, respectively, at the same condition. Additionally, the continuous test shows it possesses long-life reusability. Such a remarkable enhancement on the proton conductivities and high performance in long-life reusability of the resultant MOF demonstrated that the "click" reaction is a facile reaction in postmodification of robust porous materials toward targeted applications, with which highly promising candidates of proton-conductive electrolytes for applying in proton-exchange-membrane (PEM) fuel cell can be achieved.

Incorporating Photochromic Triphenylamine into a Zirconium-Organic Framework for Highly Effective Photocatalytic Aerobic Oxidation of Sulfides

A zirconium-based metal-organic framework (MOF) was successfully constructed via solvothermal assembly of a triphenylamine-based tricarboxylate ligand and Zr(IV) salt, the structure simulation of which revealed that it possesses a two-dimensional layered framework with a relatively rare dodecnuclear Zr₁₂ cluster as the inorganic building unit. The inherent photo-responsive property derived from the incorporated photochromic triphenylamine groups combined with its high stability makes the constructed MOF an efficient heterogeneous photocatalyst for the oxidation of sulfides, which is a fundamentally important reaction type in both environmental and pharmaceutical industries. The photocatalytic activity of the constructed MOF was first investigated under various conditions with thioanisole as a representative sulfide substrate. The MOF exhibited both high efficiency and selectivity on aerobic oxidation of thioanisole in methanol utilizing molecular oxygen in air as the oxidant under blue light irradiation for 10 h. Its high photocatalytic performance was also observed when extending the sulfide substrate to diverse thioanisole derivatives and even a sulfur-containing nerve agent simulant (2-chloroethyl ethyl sulfide). The high photocatalytic efficiency and selectivity to a broad set of sulfide substrates make the triphenylamine-incorporating zirconium-based MOF a highly promising heterogeneous photocatalyst.

[Radioanatomic study on the role of Hadad-Bassagasteguy flap in skull base reconstruction in endoscopic endonasal approach]

Objective: To evaluate the value of Hadad-Bassagasteguy flap (HBF) in endoscopic endonasal approaches (EEA) skull base reconstruction by radioanatomic measurements on CT of the skull base of Chinese adults. The following data in terms of anterior skull base defect and reconstruction, sphenoid platform area and middle skull base defect and reconstruction including sphenoid platform and sella area, clivus area defect and reconstruction, and HBF were collected and assessed. Methods: CT image data of 42 Chinese adults were selected to obtain radioanatomic measurement data related to HBF, anterior skull base defect and reconstruction, middle skull base defect and reconstruction, and defect and reconstruction of clivus area. SPSS 26.0 software was used to analyze the data. Results: The radioanatomic measurement data about HBF and skull base of 42 Chinese adults were obtained. The width of the leading edge of HBF [(37.49±2.86) mm] was 6 mm more than the anterior skull base width at the level of the anterior ethmoidal artery [(30.87±8.61) mm], and the width of the trailing edge of HBF [(42.61±3.95) mm] was also 6 mm more than the anterior skull base width at the level of the sphenoethmoidal junction [(26.79±2.79) mm]. The total length of HBF including the pedicle [(79.68±4.96) mm] was 6 mm more than the length of the anterior skull base reconstruction [(54.06±8.67) mm], and the length of HBF without pedicle [(46.27±3.14)] mm was 6 mm more than the length of anterior skull base defect [(30.87±8.61) mm]. The trailing edge width was 6 mm more than the planum sphenoidal width at the level of the optic strut [(30.87±8.61) mm]. The total length of HBF including the pedicle was 6 mm more than the length of the planum sphenoidal, and the sella reconstruction [(64.44±10.25) mm], also was 6 mm more than the length of the planum sphenoidal reconstruction [(73.61±8.28) mm]. The length of HBF without pedicle was 6 mm more than the length of the planum sphenoidal, and the sella defect [(27.88±3.74) mm], also was 6 mm more than the length of the planum sphenoidal defect [(15.50±3.38) mm]. The width of the leading edge of HBF and the width of the trailing edge were both 6 mm more than the width of clivus reconstruction at the level of the foramen lacerum [(21.68±2.30) mm]. The total length of HBF including pedicles was 6 mm more than the clivus reconstruction length [(67.09±5.44) mm], while the length of HBF without pedicles was also 6 mm more than the clivus defect length [(37.19±3.80) mm]. Conclusions: In this study, the radiosanatomic measurements ensured that HBF could provide sufficient tissue flap for the reconstruction of the anterior skull base and sphenoid plateau and extend the reconstruction area to sella and clivus. Preoperative radiosanatomic measurement can be used to predict the size of HBF required for skull base reconstruction, which provides important guidance for flap harvest.

[Correlation analysis of eosinophils in peripheral blood and polyp tissues of patients with chronicrhinosinusitis with nasal polyps]

Objective:To explore the correlation between peripheral blood eosinophils and tissue eosinophils in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps(CRSwNP) in different periods.Method:This trial was a prospective study involved 342 patients with CRSwNP who were treated by endoscopic sinus surgery in the Huai'an First People's Hospital, Nanjing Medical University in 2008, 2012 and 2016. Nasal polyp resection specimens were stained by HE.Tissue eosinophils were counted per high-power field, and peripheral blood eosinophils were collected from blood routine examination before operation.The relationship between peripheral blood eosinophils and tissue eosinophils were evaluated.Result:The correlation between peripheral blood eosinophils and tissue eosinophils was positive in nasal polyps in 2008,2012 and 2016(r= 0.275,0.435,0.505, respectively). AUC values were all greater than 0.7. Conclusion:There is a positive correlation between peripheral blood eosinophils and tissue eosinophils infiltration in patients with CRSwNP. Although the cutoff value is changing, peripheral blood eosinophils can be used as an indicator for predicting eosinophilic CRSwNP.

Understanding the Pathway of Gas Hydrate Formation with Porous Materials for Enhanced Gas Separation

The reason that the stoichiometry of gas to water in artificial gas hydrates formed on porous materials is much higher than that in nature is still ambiguous. Fortunately, based on our experimental thermodynamic and kinetic study on the gas hydrate formation behavior with classic ordered mesoporous carbon CMK-3 and irregular porous activated carbon combined with density functional theory calculations, we discover a microscopic pathway of the gas hydrate formation on porous materials. Two interesting processes including (I) the replacement of water adsorbed on the carbon surface by gas and (II) further replacement of water in the pore by gas accompanied with the gas condensation in the pore and growth of gas hydrate crystals out of the pore were deduced. As a result, a great enhancement of the selectivity and regeneration for gas separation was achieved by controlling the gas hydrate formation behavior accurately.

[Effects of sleep body posture on subjective sleepiness in patients with OSAHS]

Objective:To observe the effects of sleep body posture on subjective sleepiness in patients with OSAHS.Method: We assessed the sleeping body position, the sleep structure, position specific AHI and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) in a total of 90 patients with OSAHS. The patients were grouped according to AHI: mild OSAHS (5≤AHI<15), moderate (15≤AHI<30) and severe (AHI≥30). The polysomnography data and clinical characteristics were compared between each group.Result: There was statistically significant difference in arousal index，MinSpO2，REM% and NREM% among three groups (F value was 12.10,43.67,15.81,13.17，respectively，P<0.05). Compared with supine，the severe OSAHS group had significantly bigger changes in MinSpO2， REM% and NREM%（t value was 3.02,2.41,2.90，respectively，P<0.05）. For mild-to-moderate groups，there was no correlation between the ESS and the AHI at any position（P>0.05）. For severe group，the ESS was significantly correlated with L-AHI（r=0.454，P<0.01)；the REM L-AHI and NREM L-AHI was also significantly correlated with ESS of severe group (r=0.522 and 0.425，P<0.01). Conclusion:The sleep body posture had significant effects on sleep structure and respiratory events in severe OSAHS group. The L-AHI was found to have a closer association with daytime sleepiness in severe OSAHS than other groups.

Water-Binding-Mediated Gelation/Crystallization and Thermosensitive Superchirality

Determination of molecular structural parameters of hydrophobic cholesterol-naphthalimide conjugates for water binding capabilities as well as their moisture-sensitive supramolecular self-assembly were revealed. Water binding was a key factor in leading trace water-induced crystallization against gelation in apolar solvent. Ordered water molecules entrapped in self-assembly arrays revealed by crystal structures behave as hydrogen-bonding linkers to facilitate three-dimensional growth into crystals rather than one-dimensional gel nanofibers. Water binding was also reflected on the supramolecular chirality inversion of vesicle self-assembly in aqueous media via heating-induced dehydration. Structural parameters that favor water binding were evaluated in detail, which could help rationally design organic building units for advancing soft materials, crystal engineering, and chiral recognition.

Helicity Inversion of Supramolecular Hydrogels Induced by Achiral Substituents

Probing the supramolecular chirality of assemblies and controlling their handedness are closely related to the origin of chirality at the supramolecular level and the development of smart materials with desired handedness. However, it remains unclear how achiral residues covalently bonded to chiral amino acids can function in the chirality inversion of supramolecular assemblies. Herein, we report macroscopic chirality and dynamic manipulation of chiroptical activity of hydrogels self-assembled from phenylalanine derivatives, together with the inversion of their handedness achieved solely by exchanging achiral substituents between oligo(ethylene glycol) and carboxylic acid groups. This helicity inversion is mainly induced by distinct stacking mode of the self-assembled building blocks, as collectively confirmed by scanning electron microscopy, circular dichroism, crystallography, and molecular dynamics calculations. Through this straightforward approach, we were able to invert the handedness of helical assemblies by merely exchanging achiral substituents at the terminal of chiral gelators. This work not only presents a feasible strategy to achieve the handedness inversion of helical nanostructures for better understanding of chiral self-assembly process in supramolecular chemistry but also facilities the development of smart materials with controllable handedness in materials science.

Scalable Synthesis of Honeycomblike V2O5/Carbon Nanotube Networks as Enhanced Cathodes for Lithium-Ion Batteries

A green and scalable route to form a honeycomblike macroporous network by homogeneously weaving V₂O₅ nanowires and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) was developed. The intertwinement between V₂O₅ nanowires and CNTs not only integrates nanopores into the macroporous system but also elevates the collection and transfer of charges through the conductive network. The unique combination of V₂O₅ nanowires and CNTs renders the composite monolith with synergic properties for substantially enhancing electrochemical kinetics of lithiation/delithiation when used as a lithium-ion battery (LIB) cathode. This work presents a useful approach for a large-scale production of cellular monoliths as high-performance LIB cathodes.

[The clinical study of olfactory dysfunction in IgG4-related disease]

Objective:IgG4-related disease is a newly recognized systemic disease, and its elucidation is progressing. However, little is known about its sinonasal manifestations.The aim of this study was to assess the olfaction of patients with IgG4-related disease.Method:Twenty-two patients with IgG4-related disease underwent the odor stick identification test to measure olfactory function.We analyzed the clinical features, including serum IgG4 levels, involved organs, and sinonasal computed tomography scores to explore the etiology of olfactory dysfunction.Result:Eleven patients with IgG4-related disease were found to have olfactory dysfunction. There were no differences in the clinical features between the olfactory dysfunction group and the normal group.Conclusion:There were no correlation between olfactory function and serum IgG4 level, involved organs or sinonasal computed tomography scores.We found that the prevalence of olfactory dysfunction was high in patients with IgG4-related disease and that it could be reversed.Olfactory dysfunction appears to be a novel important manifestation of IgG4-related disease.

[The application of tragal cartilage-perichondrium in open method tympanoplasty]

Objective:To investigate the efficacy of the application of tragus cartilage-perichondrium in open method tympanoplasty.Method:Thirty patients with middle ear cholesteatoma were treated with open method tympanoplasty and titanium ossicular prosthesis replacement surgery utilized the tragus cartilage-perichondrium, the air-bone gap and the recovery of tympanic membrane were observed before and after operation.Result:Thirty ears achieved primary healing. After a follow-up of 12 months, no prosthesis extrusion and atticus lateral wall collapse were observed. The average air-bone gaps reduced by 13 dB in average.Conclusion:The tragus cartilage-perichondrium is an appropriate material in open method tympanoplasty.

Outcomes and predictors of failure of non-invasive ventilation in patients with community acquired pneumonia in the ED

OBJECTIVE

We set out to describe the use and analyze the predictors of non-invasive ventilation failure in patients with community-acquired pneumonia who receive non-invasive ventilation as first line ventilatory therapy in the emergency department.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted among consecutive patients with community acquired pneumonia requiring ventilator support presenting to two tertiary care university-affiliated emergency departments. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to determine predictors of non-invasive ventilation failure at initiation of non-invasive ventilation and at two hours of non-invasive ventilation use; RESULT: After excluding patients with a do not resuscitate order status, 163 (74.8%) patients with community acquired pneumonia were initially treated with non-invasive ventilation on initial presentation to the emergency department. Non-invasive ventilation failure occurred in 50% of patients and was found to be associated with the absence of chronic obstructive airway disease, APACHE II score, the need for hemodynamic support and the number of CXR quadrants involved. Two-hour physiological parameters associated with non-invasive ventilation failure included higher respiratory rate, lower serum pH and the ongoing need of hemodynamic support.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the use of non-invasive ventilation to support patients presenting to the emergency department with respiratory failure and community acquired pneumonia is common and is associated with a significant failure rate. Hemodynamic support is a strong predictor of failure. The selection of the appropriate patient and monitoring of physiological parameters while on NIV is crucial to ensure successful treatment.

[Clinical effects assessment of nasal cellulose powder on allergic rhinitis]

Objective:To evaluate the role of nasal cellulose powder locally applied in allergic rhinitis patients.Method:Fifty patients with allergic rhinitis were divided randomly into two groups: the study group and the control group. The study group were treated with nasal cellulose powder while the control group were treated with physiological sea water.Objective and subjective examinations (nasal airway resistance, nasal syndrome score, rhinoconjunctivitis qualityof life questionnaire and olfactory function,nasal mucus cilia clearance ) were performed before and 3 months after treatment.Result:After treatment, partial parameters in nasal syndrome store ( nasal itching, nasal discharge,sneezing and total store) and rhinoconjunctivitis qualityof life questionnaire (sleep, nasal symptom, non-hay-fever symptom, emotional function and total score) in the study group were significantly improved than those in the control group (P< 0.05). However, no significant difference was found in olfactory function, Nasal airway resistance, nasal mucus cilia clearance and the eye symptom in rhinoconjunctivitis qualityof life questionnaire between the two groups after treatment (P> 0.05). No adverse reaction was found in both groups.Conclusion:Nasal cellulose powder can help alleviate clinical symptoms and improve the quality of life in allergic rhinitis patients with no significant side effect.

[Comparison of PedsQL™4.0 and RQLQ scales in the assessment of the quality of life in children with allergic rhinitis]

Objective:To explore the value of PedsQL™4.0 and RQLQ scales in assessment of quality of life(QOL) in children with allergic rhinitis(AR). Method:A prospective trial was conducted to survey the QOL status of 71 AR clinical patients, 68 chronic pharyngitis(CP) clinical patients and 62 healthy individuals by generic questionnaire PedsQL™4.0 and disease specific questionnaire rhinoconjunetivitis quality of life questionnaire(RQLQ) respectively. The correlation between PedsQL™4.0 and RQLQ were analyzed．All the results were analyzed statistically. Result:①By the assessment of PedsQL™4.0 the scores of Social functioning and School functioning domains in AR clinical patients(the same as follow. the scores were 82.8±19.7，64.0±24.6 respectively) were less than those(86.2±18.58, 4.9±18.7) in healthy individuals(P<0.05);while the scores of Physical health and Emotional functioning domains in AR clinical patients(88.3±20.3，75.4±22.4 respectively) were similar with those(89.1±17.7，75.9±22.0) in CP clinical patients(P>0.05)．②By the assessment of RQLQ in AR patients, the nasal symptom and practical problem domains got the highest scores(2.54±1.37,2.70±1.29 respectively).③According to the assessment of the correlation between PedsQL™4.0 and RQLQ, the correlation was weak(r=-0.199--0.468，P<0.05)． Conclusion:Both PedsQL™4.0 and RQLQ were suitable for assessing the health status of AR clinical patients.PedsQL™4.0 and RQLQ each covers different aspects of the QOL of AR clinical patients, and the combination of the two questionnaires could improve the QOL assessment．.

Two metal–organic frameworks sharing the same basic framework show distinct interpenetration degrees and different performances in CO2 catalytic conversion

Two metal–organic frameworks having the same basic framework but different interpenetration degrees show different catalytic activities in CO₂ cycloaddition reactions.

A highly porous metal–organic framework for large organic molecule capture and chromatographic separation

A highly porous metal–organic framework with large pores presents large molecule based applications probed by organic dye molecules.

Karyotype analysis and ribosomal gene localization of spotted knifejaw Oplegnathus punctatus

The spotted knifejaw, Oplegnathus punctatus, is an important aquaculture fish species in China. To better understand the chromosomal microstructure and the karyotypic origin of this species, cytogenetic analysis was performed using Giemsa staining to identify metaphase chromosomes, C-banding to detect C-positive heterochromatin, silver staining to identify the nucleolus organizer regions (Ag-NORs), and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) for physical mapping of the major (18S rDNA) and minor (5S rDNA) ribosomal genes. The species showed a karyotype of 2n = 48 for females, composed of 2 submetacentric and 46 telocentric chromosomes, with a fundamental number (FN) = 50, while the karyotype of males was 2n = 47, composed of 1 exclusive large metacentric, 2 submetacentric, and 44 telocentric chromosomes, with FN = 50. These karyotype results suggest that O. punctatus might have an X₁X₁X₂X₂/X₁X₂Y multiple sex chromosome system. C-positive heterochromatin was distributed in the centromeres of all chromosomal pairs and in the terminal portions of some chromosomes. A single pair of Ag-positive NORs was found to be localized at the terminal regions of the short arms of the subtelocentric chromosome pair, which was supported by FISH of 18S rDNA. After FISH, 5S rDNA were located on the interstitial regions of the smallest telocentric chromosome pair. This study was the first to identify the karyotype of this species and will facilitate further research on karyotype evolution in the order Perciformes.

[Tryptase and ECP are related to olfactory dysfunction in allergic rhinitis]

Objective:Olfactory dysfunction is one of the common symptoms in patients with allergic rhinitis(AR),but the underlying mechanisms are not yet known.The purpose of this study was to explore the underlying mechanisms which tryptase and eosinophilic cationic protein(ECP) lead to olfactory dysfunction in patients with AR.Method:We have compared the results between tryptase,ECP,nasal airway resistance and olfactory function of the patients with AR and analyzed the correlations between them.Result:Patients with AR showed impaired olfactory functions compaired to the control group,but there was no differences in the nasal airway resistance between the two groups.Nasal secretion analysis in the patients with AR showed that the level of tryptase and ECP was increased in comparison with the controls.Conclusion:The increase of tryptase and ECP in the olfactory cleft can lead to olfactory dysfunction in patients with AR.

Occupational and environmental risk factors for chronic rhinosinusitis in China: a multicentre cross-sectional study

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is defined as a condition of inflammation in the paranasal sinus mucosa persisting for more than 12 weeks. We previously reported that the prevalence of CRS was about 8 % in China. Here, we aim to investigate the occupational and environmental risk factors associated with CRS.

Methods

Data were collected from seven Chinese cities: Urumqi, Changchun, Beijing, Wuhan, Chengdu, Huaian and Guangzhou. CRS was diagnosed according to the European Position Paper on Rhinosinusitis and Nasal Polyps (EP³OS) document. Participants were asked to complete a standardized questionnaire, which was developed by the Global Allergy and Asthma European Network (GA²LEN) project and covered sociodemographic characteristics, CRS-related symptoms and occupational and environmental exposures. We evaluated the association between CRS and various occupational and environmental factors using odds ratios (ORs) and 95 % confidence intervals (95 % CIs).

Results

The total study population consisted of 10,633 subjects, 850 (7.99 %) of whom were defined as having CRS according to the EP³OS criteria. We found that there were significant associations between occupational and environmental factors and CRS. Specifically, having a clearance-related job, occupational exposure to dust, occupational exposure to poisonous gas, a pet at home or carpet at home or at the workplace were risk factors for CRS. Additionally, the method used to keep warm in winter, the duration of time spent using air conditioning in summer and the frequency of exposure to mouldy or damp environments were significantly different in subjects with and without CRS.

Conclusions

Our data showed that some occupational and environmental exposures are strongly associated with CRS, which aids in understanding the epidemiology of CRS.

Bimetallic Metal-Organic Frameworks: Probing the Lewis Acid Site for CO2 Conversion

A highly porous metal-organic framework (MOF) incorporating two kinds of second building units (SBUs), i.e., dimeric paddlewheel (Zn2 (COO)4 ) and tetrameric (Zn4 (O)(CO2 )6 ), is successfully assembled by the reaction of a tricarboxylate ligand with Zn(II) ion. Subsequently, single-crystal-to-single-crystal metal cation exchange using the constructed MOF is investigated, and the results show that Cu(II) and Co(II) ions can selectively be introduced into the MOF without compromising the crystallinity of the pristine framework. This metal cation-exchangeable MOF provides a useful platform for studying the metal effect on both gas adsorption and catalytic activity of the resulted MOFs. While the gas adsorption experiments reveal that Cu(II) and Co(II) exchanged samples exhibit comparable CO2 adsorption capability to the pristine Zn(II) -based MOF under the same conditions, catalytic investigations for the cycloaddition reaction of CO2 with epoxides into related carbonates demonstrate that Zn(II) -based MOF affords the highest catalytic activity as compared with Cu(II) and Co(II) exchanged ones. Molecular dynamic simulations are carried out to further confirm the catalytic performance of these constructed MOFs on chemical fixation of CO2 to carbonates. This research sheds light on how metal exchange can influence intrinsic properties of MOFs.

A Cd(ii)-based metal–organic framework as a luminance sensor to nitrobenzene and Tb(iii) ion

A highly stable Cd(ii)-based metal–organic framework was successfully obtained. It shows a highly selective sensing effect not only towards organic pollution molecule, nitrobenzene, via a strong quenching effect, but also to an inorganic Tb(iii) ion by a strong green emission effect.

In Situ Integration of Anisotropic SnO₂ Heterostructures inside Three-Dimensional Graphene Aerogel for Enhanced Lithium Storage

Three-dimensional (3D) graphene aerogel (GA) has emerged as an outstanding support for metal oxides to enhance the overall energy-storage performance of the resulting hybrid materials. In the current stage of the studies, metals/metal oxides inside GA are in uncrafted geometries. Introducing structure-controlled metal oxides into GA may further push electrochemical properties of metal oxide-GA hybrids. Using rutile SnO2 as an example, we demonstrated here a facile hydrothermal strategy combined with a preconditioning technique named vacuum-assisted impregnation for in situ construction of controlled anisotropic SnO2 heterostructures inside GA. The obtained hybrid material was fully characterized in detail, and its formation mechanism was investigated by monitoring the phase-transformation process. Rational integration of the two advanced structures, anisotropic SnO2 and 3D GA, synergistically led to enhanced lithium-storage properties (1176 mAh/g for the first cycle and 872 mAh/g for the 50th cycle at 100 mA/g) as compared with its two counterparts, namely, rough nanoparticles@3D GA and anisotropic SnO2@2D graphene sheets (618 and 751 mAh/g for the 50th cycle at 100 mA/g, respectively). It was also well-demonstrated that this hybrid material was capable of delivering high specific capacity at rapid charge/discharge cycles (1044 mAh/g at 100 mA/g, 847 mAh/g at 200 mA/g, 698 mAh/g at 500 mA/g, and 584 mAh/g at 1000 mA/g). The in situ integration strategy along with vacuum-assisted impregnation technique presented here shows great potential as a versatile tool for accessing a variety of sophisticated smart structures in the form of anisotropic metals/metal oxides within 3D GA toward useful applications.

Identification of transgenic cloned dairy goats harboring human lactoferrin and methylation status of the imprinted gene IGF2R in their lungs

Dairy goat is a good model for production of transgenic proteins in milk using somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). However, animals produced from SCNT are often associated with lung deficiencies. We recently produced six transgenic cloned dairy goats harboring the human lactoferrin gene, including three live transgenic clones and three deceased transgenic clones that died from respiratory failure during the perinatal period. Imprinted genes are important regulators of lung growth, and may be subjected to faulty reprogramming. In the present study, first, microsatellite analysis, PCR, and DNA sequence identification were conducted to confirm that these three dead kids were genetically identical to the transgenic donor cells. Second, the CpG island methylation profile of the imprinted insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF2R) gene was assessed in the lungs of the three dead transgenic kids and the normally produced kids using bisulfite sequencing PCR. In addition, the relative mRNA level of IGF2R was also determined by real-time PCR. Results showed that the IGF2R gene in the lungs of the dead cloned kids showed abnormal hypermethylation and higher mRNA expression levels than the control, indicating that aberrant DNA methylation reprogramming is one of the important factors in the death of transgenic cloned animals.