Search

Objective: Although non-suicidal self-injury (i.e., NSSI) has been suggested as a robust risk factor of suicide, NSSI related information that is most related to suicide risk remains unclear. Commonly studied NSSI characteristics are its frequency and the number of methods endorsed. However, it may not be merely how frequent or how many different methods that matters, but "why," which alludes to the importance of NSSI functions (or why individuals engage in NSSI). Thus, this study examined how the interactions between NSSI characteristics and functions are associated with suicide risk. Methods: Undergraduate students (n = 820) with a lifetime history of NSSI, filled out self-report measures on NSSI and suicide risk. A hierarchical regression analysis was conducted to examine the moderation effects between four 2-way interactions (i.e., method X intrapersonal; method X interpersonal; frequency X intrapersonal; frequency X interpersonal) on suicide risk. Results: Main effects of all four independent variables were statistically significant. In terms of interactions, the intrapersonal function moderated both the effects of NSSI frequency and methods on suicide risk, whereas the interpersonal function moderated the effects of NSSI frequency on suicide risk. Conclusion: Our results highlight that some NSSI related information than others are more indicative of suicide risk. In particular, the combination of NSSI functions, along with its frequency and number of methods, holds promise when assessing for current and lifetime suicidal thoughts and behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper mainly studies the retrieval and location of violence in long time sequence video. Aiming at the low accuracy of violence detection in long time sequence video, a two-stage violence time sequence location method based on DC3D network model is proposed in this paper. In the video preprocessing stage, this paper adopts the method of generating video at multiple scales. In the first stage, we first use a large number of labeled datasets for pre-training to obtain a C3D network model for generating candidate videos and finally filter out meaningless background videos. In the second stage, we use the deconvolution method to identify the candidate video accurately to the frame level, so as to determine the specific time of violence. In the first stage, this method can improve the overall accuracy by generating candidate videos. DC3D network model can accurately locate the time of violence to the level of frame. The experimental results show that the proposed method can quickly retrieve and locate the violent fighting behavior in the surveillance video under the long time sequence video. The research results of this paper can provide convenience for the surveillance personnel to quickly retrieve and locate the target segment in a large amount of video data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of "near-form words" has existed since the ancient English period (about 450 years ago), yet few mathematical identification algorithms have been applied to these. With the widespread use of English and an increasing number of English words, near-form words have also increased. However, the traditional way of identifying near-form words cannot keep up with this ever-growing language. A mathematical algorithm is therefore needed which can calculate the degree of similarity between words, so that near-form words can then be identified, collected and classified according to appearance similarity, and a specific value can be assigned to these levels of similarity. In related fields, there have been many studies of English synonyms, phonetic words, English sentences and texts. Some algorithms have been used with the aim of studying similarities in word appearance, but these were for hieroglyphics, such as Chinese words, and not for English words. Many similar words can be found in dictionaries or networks which are incomplete due to the outcomes of subjective collection. More importantly, subjective collection methods cannot determine the value of similarities, which highlights the uniqueness and innovation of this research. Among existing research methods, the one used most often involves fuzzy neural networks, which are unstable and inaccurate. A stable and unique mathematical calculation method is therefore needed. In this study, coding methods were used to design an algorithm that could calculate different letter position coefficients and letter appearance coefficients in order to obtain corresponding values. In terms of application, this algorithm can help generate big data on near-form words in English teaching. In terms of English input software, this algorithm can also provide more words to prompt the input method. In the case of text-editing software (such as Microsoft Word), the algorithm can improve error-detection accuracy and suggest suitable alternatives. In the field of artificial intelligence, it can also be used to monitor counterfeit trademark registration in the commodity registration system. Thus, the authors firmly believe that this application will have a wide range of applications in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research was designed to detect the function of low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR)-related protein 8 (LRP8) in breast cancer (BC). Our results revealed that LRP8 was highly expressed in BC tissues and cell lines compared with human normal breast tissues. The poor prognosis of patients with BC was associated with the up-regulation of LRP8 while inversely connected with overexpression of miR-1262. Functionally, LRP8 depletion in BC cells impaired the proliferative, clonogenic, invasive, and migratory capabilities, which was consistent with the effects of upregulated miR-1262. Bioinformatics prediction and luciferase reporter assay confirmed that miR-1262 was an upstream factor for LRP8 and negatively regulated the expression of LRP8. Further experiments illustrated that the co-transfection of miR-1262 antamir and si-LRP8 could significantly suppress the promoting impacts caused by the transfection of miR-1262 antamir alone. These findings highlighted that LRP8 accelerated the BC development by contributing cellular aggressiveness, which was modulated by miR-1262. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the wide spread of image information, it is an urgent problem to protect image property rights and crack down on piracy. Watermarking algorithm is an effective means to solve the problem of copyright protection. In this paper, we propose an optimized image watermarking algorithm based on singular value decomposition (SVD) and integer wavelet transform (IWT). First, the carrier images are divided into blocks. Then, the block-based integer wavelet transform is performed, and the singular value decomposition is performed in the low frequency part. Finally, the first singular value is used to extract energy effectively, so as to improve the robustness of digital watermarking. At the same time, genetic algorithm is used to optimize the robustness and imperceptibility of image watermarking. Four classic gray images, including Lena, baboon, peppers, and Goldhill, are used as carrier images to test, the test results show that the watermarking algorithm has good imperceptibility, and robustness. Compared with other methods, the experimental results show that the algorithm has good PSNR(peak signal-to-noise ratio) and NC(normalized correlation coefficient) values. In the attacks including Gaussian noise, low-pass filtering, changing the size, straight square error equalization, image blur, image contrast, JPEG compression, and gamma correction, the proposed method shows good performance. The NC value of this method is better than that of the contrast method, especially in Gaussian noise attack. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In social and behavioral sciences, data are typically not normally distributed, which can invalidate hypothesis testing and lead to unreliable results when being analyzed by methods developed for normal data. The existing methods of generating multivariate non-normal data typically create data according to specific univariate marginal measures such as the univariate skewness and kurtosis, but not multivariate measures such as Mardia's skewness and kurtosis. In this study, we propose a new method of generating multivariate non-normal data with given multivariate skewness and kurtosis. Our approach allows researchers to better control their simulation designs in evaluating the influence of multivariate non-normality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In this study we investigated whether burst-modulated wide-pulse neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) can improve the H-reflex and activation efficiency of sensory fibers.Methods: NMES-induced electromyography (EMG) was recorded from hindpaw plantar muscles in 11 anesthetized rats. A burst-modulated wide pulse (mWP) with three carrier frequencies (2 kHz, 5 kHz, and 10 kHz) and a continuous wide-pulse (WP) were delivered to the tibial nerve of each rat. The evoked Hoffman (H)-reflexes were measured to evaluate nerve activation efficiency using the H-reflex recruitment curve (HRC).Results: Relative to WP simulation, mWP stimulation required less electrical charge to excite sensory fibers and improved the H-reflex recruitment. Greater electrical charge and smaller recruitment gains were obtained with increased carrier frequency of mWP.Discussion: mWP NMES can improve stimulation efficiency and improve recruitment of sensory fibers on tibial nerve stimulation, which may help to optimize NMES stimulus parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acoustic metasurfaces are widely used for noise attenuation due to their outstanding acoustic performance and subwavelength characteristics. The paper introduces a topology-optimized inverse design approach for broadband sound-absorbing metasurfaces, aiming to achieve efficient sound absorption performance across a wide frequency spectrum. By integrating genetic algorithms with the finite element method and driven by objectives such as the absorption frequency range and absorption coefficient, we can transcend the limitations of manual design and fully exploit the design potential of structures. Furthermore, the study investigates the sound absorption mechanism and thermal-viscous dissipation through finite element simulations and experimental validations. The research findings reveal that the proposed broadband sound-absorbing metasurfaces demonstrate excellent sound absorption capabilities across the designated frequency range, boasting an average sound absorption coefficient exceeding 85%. These findings offer fresh perspectives and methodologies for advancing the research and practical application of broadband sound-absorbing metasurfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to explore the impact of traffic environmental microvibration on buildings, this paper studies indoor vibration isolation, a method applicable to existing buildings. The vibration isolation scheme is designed based on the residential buildings adjacent to metro lines in Shanghai. By using the dynamic theory, the effective range of vibration isolation stiffness is analyzed. The effectiveness of the indoor vibration isolation method is verified through theoretical calculations and comparison of field measurements before and after isolation. A detailed numerical model is established to analyze the indoor isolation and the effect after parameter optimization from the slab thickness, filling material, and isolator stiffness. The results show that the isolation effect is proportional to the thickness of the total slab thickness of the isolation system and inversely proportional to the stiffness of the isolator. And when concrete is used as the filling material, the isolation effect is best. The isolation effect of the midspan position is better than that of the wall-floor junction. The vibration isolation effect is more obvious after the parameters are optimized. With its convenient construction technology, short cycle, and low cost, this method is worth promoting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A material that can simultaneously detect and remove toxic heavy metal Hg2+ ions are still needed in urgent. Herein, we report that an efficient, simple and water‐soluble phenazine hydrochloride (DAPH) chemosensor for colorimetric and fluorogenic detection of Hg2+ in pure water. The fluorescent and UV‐vis detection limits for Hg2+ are low. Meanwhile, the chemosensor is able to effectively remove Hg2+ in pure water through inductively coupled plasma (ICP) analysis. A series of experimental results showed that the chemosensor successfully used to real‐time detect and remove toxic heavy metal Hg2+ ions from water via a simple deprotonation and destroyed phenazine‐based hydrochloride π−π stacking interactions. In addition, the fabricated silica gel plates are also demonstrated excellent selectivity towards Hg2+ ion without interfering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Original nebkhas were changed by artificial sand addition in fields. • Expansion of nebkhas volume does not increase or reduce soil water storage. • Hydrology connection between upper and lower soil layers was weakened after sand addition. • Shallower hydrology and reversed infiltration in surface soil were found after sand addition. Nebkhas play a key role in the regulation of soil moisture in arid regions. In this study, we monitored the responses of soil hydrological processes to the developed nebkhas by adding sand to the origin dune in a degraded artificial Caragana shrubland from 2012 to 2016. No physical properties but infiltration rate were affected by sand addition in surface soils (0–10 cm soil layer). More specifically, soils in the 0–5 cm layer exhibited a greater cumulative infiltration and higher water holding capacity in response to sand addition. Compared to CK (nebkhas without sand addition), water stored in the 0–100 cm soil layer was greater in Sb (nebkhas with sand addition) at the end of each growing season in four out of the five years. However, greater local infiltration rates did not give rise to an increase in the depth of water recharge, but actually weakened the hydrological connections between the upper and lower soil layers. The changes in hydrological processes induced by sand addition indicated that there remains the question whether sand addition should be useful in the management of degraded Caragana forests, emphasizing the urgent need for further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our previous studies demonstrated that prenatal caffeine exposure (PCE) caused thymopoiesis inhibition, immune disorders, and airway remodeling in offspring, which raises the question of whether PCE is a risk factor for postnatal asthma. Meanwhile, the mechanism of PCE-induced thymopoiesis inhibition is not clear yet. Considering caffeine's pro-autophagy effects (lacking evidence in thymus) and the important role of autophagy in maintaining thymopoiesis, this study aimed to investigate whether PCE contributes to asthma susceptibility, and further explore the molecular mechanisms of thymopoiesis inhibition from the perspective of pro-autophagy effects of caffeine both in vivo and in vitro. The PCE mouse model was established by 96 mg/kg/day caffeine administration from gestational day (GD) 9–GD 18, and an asthma model was established on the offspring by ovalbumin sensitization and challenge. The results confirmed our hypothesis that PCE could suppress pulmonary CD4+T development and aggravate allergen-induced asthma symptoms in the offspring. In fetuses, PCE significantly suppressed A2AR–PKA signaling, upregulated Beclin1–LC3II autophagy, promoted Bcl10 degradation, reduced A20 expression, and inhibited CD4+T thymopoiesis. Similar results were also observed in 4 µM caffeine-treated thymocytes in vitro. Moreover, inhibiting A2AR by antagonist (SCH 58261) performed the same downstream biological effects as caffeine treatment, and autophagy inhibitor (BafilomycinA1) clearly abolished the caffeine-induced Bcl10 degradation and A20 suppression. In conclusion, our findings, for the first time, showed that PCE could attenuate CD4+T thymopoiesis and suppress pulmonary CD4+T development by directly enhancing autophagy in thymocytes, and provided a firm experimental evidence that PCE is a risk factor for postnatal asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • PNE induced persistent thymic hypoplasia in mice male offspring. • PNE induced transient thymic hypoplasia in mice female offspring. • PNE induced a decreased of CD4SP T cells proportion in thymocyte of both sexes. • PNE male offspring showed a more serious thymus atrophy in the OVA-sensitized model. • PNE induced excessive autophagy in fetal thymocytes. Abstract Clinical study showed that smoking during pregnancy deceased the thymus size in newborns. However, the long-term effect remains unclear. This study was aimed to observe the effects of prenatal nicotine exposure (PNE) on the development of thymus and the T-lymphocyte subpopulation in mice offspring from the neonatal to adulthood. Both the thymus weight and cytometry data indicated that PNE caused persistent thymic hypoplasia in male offspring from neonatal to adult period and transient changes in female offspring from neonatal to prepuberal period. Flow cytometry analysis disclosed a permanent decreased proportion and number of mature CD4 single-positive (SP) T cells in thymus of both sex. In addition, the PNE male offspring showed a more serious thymus atrophy in the ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized model. Moreover, increased autophagic vacuole and elevated mRNA expression of Beclin 1 were noted in PNE fetal thymus. In conclusion, PNE offspring showed thymus atrophy and CD 4 SP T cell reduction at different life stages. Mechanically, PNE induced excessive autophagy in fetal thymocytes might be involved in these changes. All the results provided evidence for elucidating the PNE-induced programmed immune diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, reducing the fire hazard and improving the mechanical strength of rigid polyurethane foams (RPUFs) at the same time are important research direction in the fields of safety materials. Expandable graphite (EG) is an effective flame retardant for RPUF, but would destroy the compatibility of the matrix. In this article, EG is capsuled by melamine cyanurate (MCA) and then microencapsulated expandable graphite (MCEG) is obtained, which is added into RPUF. The mechanical properties of composites were evaluated by compressive strength test, torsion strength test and shear stress test. The fire characteristics including smoke and heat production of RPUF composites were studied using cone calorimeter test. And the thermal decomposition and flammable properties were further evaluated using thermogravimetric analysis and limiting oxygen index. The results show that the mechanical properties of RPUF containing MCEG are similar with RPUF and better than RPUF containing EG. Furthermore, MCA cover would impede expanding of EG, which weakens the protective and insulation effects of expanding layer. Therefore, the composites containing MCEG decompose faster and produce more smoke than the composites containing EG. However, MCA and EG have the synergistic enhancing effect on the flame retardant property of composite. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:E1006–E1014, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Brachial plexus root avulsion causes severe sequelae Treatments and prognosis face many problems, including inflammatory reaction, oxidative damage, and myelin related inhibitory effect. l -Theanine has anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and neuroprotective effects. NEP1-40 competitively inhibits Nogo-66 receptor (NgR1) promotes axonal regeneration. Forty-eight Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned into four groups to establish an animal model of brachial plexus root avulsion. Inflammation and oxidative damage were evaluated by spectrophotometry and motor function of the upper limbs was assessed via Terzis grooming test after modeling. Immunofluorescence and hematoxylin and eosin staining were utilized to determine the content of reactive oxygen species, activation of microglial cells, neuroprotection, and nerve regeneration. Compared with the control group, the L-Theanine + NEP1-40 group had significantly decreased myeloperoxidase, malondialdehyde, interleukin-6, reactive oxygen species, and microglial cells, significantly increased score on the Terzis grooming test, increased motor neuron content, and thickened muscle fibers, increased area, and appearance of large and clear motor endplate structures. The results of this study suggest that l -Theanine combined with NEP1-40significantly promoted nerve regeneration after brachial plexus root avulsion, and may be a potential treatment for promoting nerve regeneration. Possible mechanisms underlying these results are alleviation of oxidative damage and inflammatory responses in the injured area and antagonism of myelin inhibition. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Theanine is a bioactive substance without quantitative limitation from a food source. • LT can cross the blood-brain barrier, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. • Theanine can increase neuronal survival in the early stages of nerve injury. • NEP1-40 can promote nerve regeneration after brachial plexus nerve injury. • Theanine combined with NEP1-40 can promote functional recovery after nerve injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The challenge of wound infections post-surgery and open trauma caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria poses a constant threat to clinical treatment. As a promising antimicrobial treatment, photothermal therapy can effectively resolve the problem of drug resistance in conventional antibiotic antimicrobial therapy. Here, we report a deep-penetration functionalized cuttlefish ink nanoparticle (CINP) for photothermal and immunological therapy of wound infections. CINP is decorated with zwitterionic polymer (ZP, namely sulfobetaine methacrylate-methacrylate copolymer) to form CINP@ZP nanoparticles. Natural CINP is found to not only exhibit photothermal destruction of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Escherichia coli (E. coli), but also trigger macrophages-related innate immunity and enhance their antibacterial functions. The ZP coating on the surface of CINP enables nanoparticles to penetrate into deeply infected wound environment. In addition, CINP@ZP is further integrated into the thermosensitive Pluronic F127 gel (CINP@ZP-F127). After in situ spraying gel, CINP@ZP-F127 is also documented notable antibacterial effects in mice wound models infected with MRSA and E. coli. Collectively, this approach combining of photothermal therapy with immunotherapy can promote delivery efficiency of nanoparticles to the deep foci of infective wounds, and effectively eliminate wound infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One main source of cyanide (CN−) exposure for mammals is through the plant consumption; thus, the sensitive and selective cyanide detection in plant tissue is a significant and urgent work. Here, a simple sensor N′‐(2,4‐dihydroxybenzylidene)naphtha[2,1‐b]furan‐2‐carbohydrazide (Q1‐3) was designed and synthesized for selective and sensitive dual‐channel detection of cyanide in aqueous medium (DMSO/H2O, 1:9, v/v). Acylhydrazone and phenolic hydroxyl groups on Q1‐3 are the recognition sites, and naphthofuran group is the signal report group. The intramolecular charge transfer between the benzene group and naphthofuran group was impeded because of the electron‐withdrawing groups (hydroxyl) on sensor Q1‐3. Interestingly, the sensor Q1‐3 exhibited an intramolecular charge transfer absorption band at 400 nm and emission band at 500 nm, respectively, directly realizing an “OFF–ON” response after the deprotonation process induced by cyanide anions in aqueous medium (DMSO/H2O, 1:9, v/v). Notably, this sensor was successfully applied to detect cyanide anions in food samples, which proves a very simple and selective platform for on‐site monitoring of cyanide in agriculture samples. In addition, the test strips and silica gel plates based on Q1‐3 were also fabricated, which could act as test kits and silica gel plates for convenient and efficient detection of cyanide anions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to observe the effects of maternal food restriction (MFR) on the development of fetal thymus in different gestation periods. Timed pregnant rats were randomized into 3 groups: CN (free access to standard chow throughout gestation), MFR 0-21 (50% MFR throughout gestation), MFR 0-14 (50% MFR from gestational day (GD) 0 to GD14, early-mid gestation). Results showed that MFR during early-mid period had few impact on the fetal thymus and T cell subpopulations. However, MFR throughout gestation resulted in thymic atrophy, deceased frequency of both CD4 + and CD8 + single positive (SP) T cells and enhanced thymocyte apoptosis in fetus. Our results suggest the fetal thymus is more vulnerable to the adverse intrauterine environments in the late gestation period, and the decreased number of SP T cells could result from the enhanced thymocyte apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose a method for encoding scale invariant 3D point features. We extract a set of boundary points from a point cloud. Next, we apply the scale-space concept on the boundary points to detect the scale invariant point border. We confirm three orthometric axes as the local reference frames. Three distribution matrices are generated by implementing the strategy of SPIN image method, and one-row-vector of descriptors are finally calculated. Experimental results on simulated and real scene point clouds demonstrate that the scale-invariant features of 3D point clouds can be effectively encoded by our method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic molecular sensors have the advantage of being used through easy, fast, economical and reliable optical methods for detecting toxic metal ions in the environment. In the present work, a simple but specific organic ligand N , N -(3,3′-dimethyl biphenyl)-bis(4-diethylaminosalicyladimine) ( Q2 ) was designed and synthesized according to the excited state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT). Q2 can be regarded as a colorimetric and fluorescent sensor for relay recognition of Cu 2+ and H 2 PO 4 − in DMSO/H 2 O (8:2, v/v) HEPES buffer solutions. Moreover, sensor Q2 showed a highly sensitive and selective response towards Cu 2+ and H 2 PO 4 − over other metal ions and anions. Particularly, the fluorescence “ON–OFF–ON” responding circle could be repeated over 4 times by the sequential addition of Cu 2+ and H 2 PO 4 − . Notably, the actual usage of sensor Q2 was further demonstrated by test kits and silica gel plates. The fluorescence changes of Q2 upon the addition of Cu 2+ and H 2 PO 4 − were utilized as an INHIBIT logic gate at the molecular level, using Cu 2+ and H 2 PO 4 − as chemical inputs and the fluorescence intensity signal as the output. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Paleoproterozoic Dhala structure with an estimated diameter of ~11 km is a confirmed complex impact structure located in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh in predominantly granitic basement (2.65 Ga), in the northwestern part of the Archean Bundelkhand craton. The target lithology is granitic in composition but includes a variety of meta-supracrustal rock types. The impactites and target rocks are overlain by ~1.7 Ga sediments of the Dhala Group and the Vindhyan Supergroup. The area was cored in more than 70 locations and the subsurface lithology shows pseudotachylitic breccia, impact melt breccia, suevite, lithic breccias, and postimpact sediments. Despite extensive erosion, the Dhala structure is well preserved and displays nearly all the diagnostic microscopic shock metamorphic features. This study is aimed at identifying the presence of an impactor component in impact melt rock by analyzing the siderophile element concentrations and rhenium-osmium isotopic compositions of four samples of impactites (three melt breccias and one lithic breccia) and two samples of target rock (a biotite granite and a mafic intrusive rock). The impact melt breccias are of granitic composition. In some samples, the siderophile elements and HREE enrichment observed are comparable to the target rock abundances. The Cr versus Ir concentrations indicate the probable admixture of approximately 0.3 wt.% of an extraterrestrial component to the impact melt breccia. The Re and Os abundances and the 187Os/188Os ratio of 0.133 of one melt breccia specimen confirm the presence of an extraterrestrial component, although the impactor type characterization still remains inconclusive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A fluorescent and colorimetric sensor based on naphtho[2,1 -b ]furan-2-carbohydrazide and 2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde ( Q1-1 ) was developed via straightforward reaction from inexpensive reagents. It exhibited rapid response, superb selectivity, and swift sensitivity toward CN based on its promising photo-induced electron transfer (PET) feature. Q1-1 not only can sense CN through sharp colorimetric and selective turn-on fluorescence dual-channel responses in EtOH/H 2 O (7:3, v/v) HEPES solution, but also have strong anti-interference toward other common anions, especially the basic anions such as F − , AcO − , H 2 PO 4 − and SCN − . Notably, this sensor was successfully applied to detect CN − in food samples, which proves a very simple and selective platform for on-site monitoring of CN − in agriculture samples. In addition, the test strips based on Q1-1 were fabricated, which could act as convenient and efficient CN − test kits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a novel Schiff-Base ( Q1 ) which based on 5-(4-nitrophenyl)-2-furan and naphtho[2,1 -b ]furan-2-carbohydrazide was designed to act efficiently in a chemodosimeter approach for the selective detection of cyanide in aqueous medium. The recognition progress occurred via deprotonating between the hydrazide moiety of Q1 and cyanide. When exposed Q1 to the low concentration solution of cyanide anion, there was a significant color change from yellow to orange in visible light and accompanied with a strong and broad red shift (from λ max-ab = 400 nm to λ max-ab = 468 nm) in the UV–vis absorption spectrum. Meanwhile, a dramatically decrease almost 4 times of the emission maximum of Q1 took place from 775 (a.u.) to 204 (a.u.), and the color of the solution changed from bright orange to dim red, which can be saw by naked-eyes under the UV lamp (365 nm). However, without any signal changes after the addition of other common anions, especially the basic anions such as F − , AcO − , H 2 PO 4 − and SCN − . Notably, this probe can serve as a recyclable component in sensing materials. The corresponding experiment proved that this probe can be repeated use above 10 times. (Scheme 1) On the basis of these observations and supporting mechanistic analyses, it is concluded that the recyclable probe Q1 must be a promising cyanide anion indicator that is attractive in terms of its selectivity, ease-of-use, rapid response (<3 s), and the low, naked-eye discernible cyanide detection limit it, also it will be regarded as an environmental friendly material which can sensing cyanide anion in aqueous medium and making great contribution to the development of cyanide anion sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous reports have suggested that epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is involved in microglia activation characterized by cell morphology changes, cytokine production and cell migration; and the biochemical regulation of the microglia migration is a potential therapeutic target following CNS inflammatory damages. However, the role of EGFR in microglia motility after inflammatory stimulation remains unknown. In the present study, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was found to trigger rapid EGFR phosphorylation within 10 min, which was sustained during long-term stimulation in both primary microglial cells and the cultured BV2 microglial cells, furthermore, blocking EGFR phosphorylation by AG1478 significantly attenuated the LPS-induced chemotactic and chemokinetic migration of microglia. In addition, LPS could initiate calcium oscillation in microglia during live-cell recording, however, an intracellular calcium chelator and a selective inhibitor of calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II, but not an extracellular calcium chelator, remarkably suppressed the LPS-induced EGFR phosphorylation in BV2 microglia cells. As EGFR is not a traditional receptor for LPS, these findings suggest that the rapid phosphorylation of EGFR is attributed to the LPS-triggered intracellular calcium mobilization. By examining the downstream signals of EGFR, we further proved that extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) is essential for EGFR-mediated microglia migration, because ERK inhibition attenuated the chemotactic and chemokinetic migration of microglia that had been induced by either LPS or EGF. Collectively, these results suggest that LPS could trigger the rapid phosphorylation of EGFR and subsequent ERK activation through mobilizing calcium activity, which underlies the microglia migration in an inflammatory condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chilling is a cost-effective and safe method of immobilising flies inDrosophilaexperiments. However, should condensation form on the plate, it would be fatal to the flies. Here we describe a modified cooling method using reusable commercial ice pack(s) (ca. 400 ml, 2–3 cm tall) rather than crushed ice. The ice pack is covered with a piece of filter paper which absorbs the condensed water formed on the cold surface, and the moistened filter paper does not wet the wings of flies inverted onto it. An ice pack (ca. 400 ml) takes effect in at least 1 h, and its height is shorter than the maximum specimen height of a dissecting microscope, so that flies can be checked while they remain on the cold surface. This method overcomes the disadvantages of the indigenous cooling anaesthetising approach and makes it practically feasible. We also describe an easy-to-make fly-transferring toolkit which will greatly facilitate fly transferral when it is combined with our chilling method. In our design, the flies were directed out of a vial by a blue pipette tip, which is inserted in a foam stopper and channelled down into another vial by a glass funnel inserted in another foam stopper which is escape-proof. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this report, corncob residue, the main by-product in the furfural industry, is used as a precursor to prepare porous carbon by a simple and direct thermal treatment: one-step activation without pre-carbonization. As a consequence, the corncob residue derived porous carbon achieves a high surface area of 1210 m 2 g −1 after ash-removal. The carbon material has the advantages of low cost and low environmental impact, with a superior electrochemical performance compared to those polymer-based synthetic carbons as electrode material for a supercapacitor. The carbon electrode exhibits a high capacitance of 314 F g −1 in 6 M KOH electrolyte. The corresponding sample also shows a superb cycling stability. Almost no capacitance decay was observed after 100,000 cycles. The excellent electrochemical performance is due to the combination of a high specific surface area with a fraction of mesopores and highly stable structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two kinds of fluorescent sensors (G 1 and G 2 ) for Fe 3+ bearing 1H -imidazo [4,5-b] phenazine derivatives have been designed and synthesized. G 1 can display ON-OFF-type fluorescence charged with high selectivity and sensitivity toward Fe 3+ in DMSO solutions. And other cations, including Hg 2+ , Ag + , Ca 2+ , Co 2+ , Ni 2+ , Cd 2+ , Pb 2+ , Zn 2+ , Cr 3+ , and Mg 2+ had no influence on the probing behavior. The detection limit of the sensor G 1 towards Fe 3+ is 2.860 × 10 −7 M. Once combined with Fe 3+ , G 1 displayed high specificity for H 2 PO 4 − . Furthermore, in the situ generated G 1 –Fe 3+ ensemble could recover the enhanced fluorescence upon the addition of H 2 PO 4 − resulting in an ON-OFF-ON sensing with a detection limit of 1.866 × 10 −7 M in the same medium. Notably, this sensor serves as a recyclable component in sensing materials. The reversibility and selectivity of G 1 /G 1 + Fe 3+ toward Fe 3+ /H 2 PO 4 − ions as a sequence dependent molecular keypad lock using the G 1 , Fe 3+ and H 2 PO 4 − as three different chemical inputs. In addition, the test strip based on G 1 was fabricated, which could act as a convenient and efficient Fe 3+ test kit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a highly sensitive and selective mercury fluorescent sensor (E)-1-((5-(4-nitrophenyl)furan-2-yl)methylene) semicarbazone (BI) based on the 5-(4-nitrophenyl)-2-furan and semicarbazide groups was designed, prepared and utilized to monitor mercury ions in aqueous solution. Upon addition of mercury to BI in DMSO/H 2 O (8:2, v/v) HEPES buffer (pH = 7.2) solution, an observable decrease of fluorescent to dim red change occurs that can be monitored by using fluorescence spectroscopy at room temperature. Concomitantly, a remarkably reducing in the emission maximum of BI takes place from 580 (a.u.) to 300 (a.u.). The observations indicate that association of the chemosensor with mercury ions leads to the supramolecular self-assembly breaking and the cooperation reaction occurrence, intra molecular charge density decreased in the chemosensor, the phenomenon likely responsible for the large decrease observed in emission spectra. And the detection limit of BI for the determination of mercury was estimated to be 2.084 × 10 −9 M. Notably, this sensor serves as a recyclable component in sensing materials. The experiment proved that this sensor can be repeated use above 10 times. Therefore, the chemosensor has good application prospect for recognizing and detecting Hg 2+ in the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we developed a novel chemosensor (ATS) that contains the 5-(4-nitrophenyl)-2-furan group and α-naphthylamine for the dual-channel sensing of mercury ions. Under attack from mercury ions, the probe undergoes a blocked process; moreover, it broke the intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) state of the chemosensor, which can be confirmed by 1H NMR, IR and MS studies. We designed this probe to produce a significant change in the color and fluorescence intensity that can achieve naked eye recognition. The experimental results proved that the 5-(4-nitrophenyl)-2-furan group is a very good chromophore. In addition, the ICT state inhibited the fluorescence of naphthylamine. The fluorescent intensity changed significantly when naphthylamine was released. Moreover, high selectivity experiments revealed that the fluorescent sensor is specific to mercury ions even with interference by high concentrations of other metal ions. The test strips based on ATS were fabricated, which could act as a convenient and efficient mercury ion test kit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rutin is one of the most common flavonoids present in nature that has a wide range of biological properties. A Tin(II)-rutin complex was synthesized from the raw material rutin and SnCl in an alkaline solution. The complex was characterized by UV-vis, IR, H NMR, and C NMR spectroscopy. We evaluated the free radical scavenging activity using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method, and the results showed that pure rutin was more effective than the Tin(II)-rutin complex in terms of antioxidant activity. Supplementing diet by foods rich in rutin and other flavonoids, such as vegetables and fruits, may contribute to removing free radicals and heavy metal ions in our body. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] We synthesized a novel sensor was never reported and explored the interaction of the sensor and Fe3+ by MS, XRD and IR. [•] The fluorescence revealed that receptor S is an excellent sensor in the recognition to Fe3+ (very few reported) selectively. [•] The test strips were containing S were fabricated, which also shows a highly sensitively to Fe3+. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A facile and simple catalyst-free protocol has been developed for the condensation of 1,2-diketones with aromatic 1,2-diamines in polyethylene glycol (PEG), providing quinoxaline derivatives in good yields. The important features of the methodology are broad substrates scope, simple workup, catalyst free, environmentally benign, and no requirement for metal catalysts. It is noteworthy that the cyclization reaction of 1,2-diketones with aliphatic 1,2-diamines is also conducted smoothly to afford pyrazines in good yields under the standard conditions. In addition, PEG could be recovered easily and was reused without evident loss in activity [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reaction of N-methyl-N′-nitroguanidine with 3-methyl-4-nitroimino-tetrahydro-1,3,5-oxadiazine is a Mannich-type reaction. The reaction was catalyzed by several organic and inorganic bases at different reaction times and temperatures. Three inorganic base catalysts [potassium carbonate (K2CO3), sodium hydrogen carbonate (NaHCO3), and sodium hydroxide (NaOH)] and several organic bases (methylamine, ethamine, iso-propylamine, and n-butylamine) have been studied. The results showed that both the inorganic and organic base catalysts can be used as catalysts, with the organic bases performing better. N-Methyl-N′-nitroguanidine reacts to give the title compound 2 and is catalyzed by both acids and bases. The intensity of inorganic base catalysts, reaction temperature, and reaction time had significant effects on the products. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Galectin-1, an endogenous mammalian lectin, has been implicated in a variety of CNS disorders. However, its role in cerebral ischemia is still elusive. In the present study, we investigated the effect of recombinant galectin-1 on production of astrocytic brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and functional recovery following ischemia. Endogenous galectin-1 was found to be markedly upregulated, paralleled with increased astrocytic BDNF production under ischemic conditions both in vitro and in vivo. Administration of galectin-1significantly enhanced the expression and secretion of astrocytic BDNF in dose dependent manner. Moreover, rats subjected to photochemical cerebral ischemia showed reduced neuronal apoptosis in ischemic boundary zone and improved functional recovery after brain infusion of galectin-1 (1 μg/days, 7 days). These results suggest that induction of BDNF in astrocytes by galectin-1 may be a promising intervention to attenuate brain damage after stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The frequency distributions and some statistical features of background aerosol concentrations were investigated at two remote China Atmosphere Watch Network (CAWNET) stations. The estimated elemental carbon (EC) background at Akdala (AKD) in the mid-latitudes of northwestern China (~0.15 μg m−3) was only half of that at Zhuzhang (ZUZ) in low-latitude southwestern China (~0.30 μg m−3). The contributions of EC to the aerosol mass also differed between sites: EC contributed 3.5% of the PM10 mass at AKD versus 5.1% at ZUZ. Large percentages of the total organic carbon (OC) apparently were secondary organic carbon (SOC); SOC/OC averaged 81% at ZUZ and 68% at AKD. The OC/EC ratios in PM10 (ZUZ: 11.9, AKD: 12.2) were comparable with other global background sites, and the OC/EC ratios were used to distinguish polluted periods from background conditions. The SO4 2 −, NH4 + and soil dust loadings at AKD were higher and more variable than at ZUZ, probably due to impacts of pollution from Russia and soil dust from the Gobi and adjacent deserts. In contrast to ZUZ, where the influences from pollution were weaker, the real-time PM10 mass concentrations at AKD were strongly skew right and the arithmetic mean concentrations of the aerosol populations were higher than their medians. Differences in the aerosol backgrounds between the sites need to be considered when evaluating the aerosol''s regional climate effects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Concentrations of organic carbon (OC), elemental carbon (EC), selected trace elements and water-soluble (WS) ions were determined for samples collected from August 2004 to February 2005 to assess the aerosol background at two remote sites in China. The OC and EC concentrations in PM10 from near the Tibetan Plateau at Zhuzhang (ZUZ) were comparable with other background sites, averaging 3.1 and 0.34 μg m−3, respectively, with no pronounced seasonality. At Akdala (AKD) on northern margin of the Zhungaer Basin, the average concentrations were similar (mean OC = 2.9 μg m−3 and EC = 0.35 μg m−3), but the concentrations were higher in winter. The aerosol mass at both sites was dominated by OC and SO42−, but a stronger contribution from soil dust was observed at AKD. At ZUZ, NO3− showed a unique weather-related fluctuation in PM10 with a periodicity of ∼1 week. Anthropogenic sources in the Sichuan Basin and southeastern Yunnan Province evidently influence ZUZ in summer and autumn while pollutants from Russia and the China–Mongolia border affect AKD nearly all year. The identification of these upwind sources demonstrates that transboundary transport needs to be taken into account when assessing air quality in remote parts of China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decade or more, illiteracy elimination work in China has made great progress and the illiteracy rate has declined substantially, but the task of eliminating illiteracy has not been fully completed. Most of China's adult women illiterates are in the rural areas, where the rate of illiteracy among adult women reaches 31 percent, almost three times higher than the rate among men. Thus, the work of eliminating illiteracy among adults should not only he focused on rural women in the impoverished regions, but must he closely linked with changes in their present vocational situation and in their impoverished state of existence. The state of poverty among these rural women has to do not only with regional and natural environments, but also with the social environment in which they live and their own attributes.

Conditional process models, including moderated mediation models and mediated moderation models, are widely used in behavioral science research. However, few studies have examined approaches to conduct statistical power analysis for such models and there is also a lack of software packages that provide such power analysis functionalities. In this paper, we introduce new simulation-based methods for power analysis of conditional process models with a focus on moderated mediation models. These simulation-based methods provide intuitive ways for sample-size planning based on regression coefficients in a moderated mediation model as well as selected variance and covariance components. We demonstrate how the methods can be applied to five commonly used moderated mediation models using a simulation study, and we also assess the performance of the methods through the five models. We implement our approaches in the WebPower R package and also in Web apps to ease their application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Analysis the original different compounds of fresh ginseng of four to seven years. • UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS combine with multivariate statistical method to identify the potential marker ions. • 6-year-old NRG has high level of rare ginsenosides and strong anti-inflammatory activity than that by 4-year-old NRG. • Illustrate the components transformation of NRG and the six years old ginseng was more suitable for clinical application. Ginseng has been widely applied in clinical practice, but the cultivation age cannot be ignored as it influences the quality of ginseng and its products. In this work, different cultivation ages of fresh ginseng (FG) from four to seven years were analysed by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. Principal component analysis and supervised orthogonal partial least squared discrimination analysis, which belong to the normal method of multivariate statistical analysis, were applied to discover the characteristic components of FG at different cultivation ages. The components of new type of red ginseng (NRG) derived from FG at different cultivation ages were compared by HPLC analysis. The pharmacological anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated by ELISA and qPCR. The result showed that the characteristic components of both 6- and 7-year-old ginseng were ginsenoside Rb1, mal-ginsenoside Rb1, ginsenoside Rc, mal-ginsenoside Rc, mal-ginsenoside Rb1 isomer, and mal-ginsenoside Rb2. Moreover, the characteristic components of both 4- and 5-year-old ginseng were ADP-glucose and 3-hydroxyhexanoyl CoA. In addition, 6-year-old NRG has higher rare ginsenosides than 4-year-old NRG, which possesses great anti-inflammatory activity in vitro. The results reveal the ginsenoside transformation law of NRG processing and suggest that the cultivation age of FG influences the content of ginsenosides in NRG. Therefore, 6-year-old ginseng is more suitable for red ginseng processing and clinical use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stimuli-response supramolecular fluorescent materials have received significant attention in recent years since they endow specific and unique properties to materials. Herein, a bi-acylhydrazone supramolecular gelator HT was successfully prepared by simple Schiff base reaction. Interestingly, the gelator HT could self-assemble into supramolecular gel HT-G in DMSO-H 2 O binary solutions via π-π stacking interactions. Simultaneously, gel HT-G showed specially selective and ultrasensitive sensing property for CN−. The limit of lowest detection of the gel for CN− is 0.50 nM. In addition, the thin films based on the HT-G and HT-G + CN− were also prepared, which could not only act as supramolecular fluorescent material but a convenient and efficient tool for detection CN−. A novel bis-acylhydrazone supramolecular gel (HT-G) was constructed, which could ultrasensitively detect CN− in aqueous medium. Image 1 • A novel bis-acylhydrazone supramolecular gel HT-G was designed and synthesized via π-π stacking interactions. • The supramolecular gel HT-G presented excellent single selectivity towards CN−. • The supramolecular gel HT-G shown ultrasensitive sensing ability for CN−. • The test thin film could serve as practical detection application of CN− in aqueous medium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the growing importance of phenazine derivatives, the efficient synthetic strategies for the preparation of phenazine derivatives have attracted great attention from organic methodology. Herein, we comprehensively review and summarize a series of sustainable and facile synthetic strategies of phenazine derivatives. Moreover, we further discuss the approach of preparation and the superiority of each strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here we report sensitive and selective detection of TNT based on plasmonic resonance energy transfer from a gold nanoplasmonic probe to conjugated target TNT molecules, leading to quenching on the Rayleigh scattering spectrum of the probe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we designed and synthesized a phenazine derivative (PS) based fluorescent sensor which could detect mercury ion and silver ion in DMSO/H 2 O (1:9, v/v) solution. The ensemble based non-fluorescent PS-Ag+ complex could be used as a turn-off and on emission system for selective detection of Hg2+ through competitive coordination in aqueous solution. • PS self-assembled into a supramolecular sensor via π-π stacking. • A novel supramolecular sensor for highly sensitive detection • New chemosensor for selective fluorescent turn-on detection of Hg2+. • PS could be used for detection of Ag+ and Hg2+ in the wide pH range. In this work, we designed and synthesized a chromene-functionalized imidazophenazine-based fluorescent sensor (PS) which can detect mercury ions and silver ion in aqueous solution by different fluorescence behavior. When Hg2+ was added to the solution of PS , the fluorescent color of PS changed from yellow to green, and the emission peak was shifted from 543 nm to 511 nm. Upon the addition of Ag+, the fluorescence of PS was quenched. The detection limits of the PS for Hg2+ and Ag+ were calculated as 1.2 × 10−7 M and 3.6 × 10−8 M, respectively. In addition, the Ag+-coordinated non-fluorescent complex (PS-Ag+) could be used as new chemosensor for selective fluorescent turn-on detection of Hg2+ through competitive coordination in aqueous solution with a detection limit of 1.5 × 10−8 M. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we constructed a supramolecular gel (PN-G) by phenazine derivative, which can ultrasensitive detect cyanide (detection limit equals to 4.18 × 10−10 M). The decrease of fluorescent intensity displayed a linear relationship in the range of 0–0.4 equivalents of cyanide. And no significant fluorescence quenching was observed for all used interfering ions. The cyanide recognition mechanism of PN-G was verified by XRD, NMR, MS and SEM. With addition of cyanide to the supramolecular gel (PN-G), cyanide broken π-π stacking of PN-G , and then PN-G undergoes a nucleophilic addition reaction with CN−, resulting in fluorescence quenched. A supramolecular gel (PN-G) was constructed, which could ultrasensitively detect cyanide. Image 1 • Constructed a supramolecular gel by self-assembly. • A novel supramolecular gel for highly selective and sensitive detection of cyanide. • Taking advantage of a simple mechanism of nucleophilic addition reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to apply a newly developed semi-automatic phantom-less QCT (PL-QCT) to measure proximal humerus trabecular bone density based on chest CT and verify its accuracy and precision. Methods: Subcutaneous fat of the shoulder joint and trapezius muscle were used as calibration references for PL-QCT BMD measurement. A self-developed algorithm based on a convolution map was utilized in PL-QCT for semi-automatic BMD measurements. CT values of ROIs used in PL-QCT measurements were directly used for phantom-based quantitative computed tomography (PB-QCT) BMD assessment. The study included 376 proximal humerus for comparison between PB-QCT and PL-QCT. Two sports medicine doctors measured the proximal humerus with PB-QCT and PL-QCT without knowing each other's results. Among them, 100 proximal humerus were included in the inter-operative and intra-operative BMD measurements for evaluating the repeatability and reproducibility of PL-QCT and PB-QCT. Results: A total of 188 patients with 376 shoulders were involved in this study. The consistency analysis indicated that the average bias between proximal humerus BMDs measured by PB-QCT and PL-QCT was 1.0 mg/cc (agreement range – 9.4 to 11.4; P > 0.05, no significant difference). Regression analysis between PB-QCT and PL-QCT indicated a good correlation (R-square is 0.9723). Short-term repeatability and reproducibility of proximal humerus BMDs measured by PB-QCT (CV: 5.10% and 3.41%) were slightly better than those of PL-QCT (CV: 6.17% and 5.64%). Conclusions: We evaluated the bone quality of the proximal humeral using chest CT through the semi-automatic PL-QCT system for the first time. Comparison between it and PB-QCT indicated that it could be a reliable shoulder BMD assessment tool with acceptable accuracy and precision. Summary: This study developed and verify a semi-automatic PL-QCT for assessment of proximal humeral bone density based on CT to assist in the assessment of proximal humeral osteoporosis and development of individualized treatment plans for shoulders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selective monitoring and targeted identification of various noxious ions have received significant attention in biology, industry and environments. Herein, we developed an easily available colorimetric and fluorescence sensor (PZ) based on phenazine derivative, successfully achieving the discriminative detection of Hg2+ and CN− ions. Compared with other interfering ions, PZ had high sensitivity and specificity towards Hg2+ and CN−. The lowest limits of Hg2+ and CN- by PZ were 1.52 × 10−8 M and 7.05 × 10−7 M, respectively. Significantly, this chemosensor PZ allowed visual monitoring of toxic Hg2+ and CN− ions in a few seconds, presenting a great potential in the practical application (skin-whitening cosmetic, water samples, and nutlet). Such an effective strategy is expected to offer some guidance for distinguishing the identification of toxic ions in optical sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Popular media has aroused concern that Chinese only children are growing up lonely owing to their lack of sibling interaction Mu et al. (2007). However, little research has been directed at determining whether Chinese adults believe in the only-child-as-lonely stereotype and whether Chinese only children actually suffer more loneliness than their peers with siblings. Three studies were conducted to examine belief in the only-child-as-lonely stereotype and determine whether only children report greater loneliness than children with siblings. With the first study, the prevalence of the only-child-as-lonely stereotype among young adults from six cities (Study 1, N = 588) was examined. The results showed that belief in this stereotypical perception was common among young Chinese adults, particularly those who had siblings. We then examined the validity of this stereotype by analyzing data from three samples, consisting of Chinese emerging adults (Study 2, N = 699) and late adolescents (Studies 3.1 and 3.2, N = 345 and 210, respectively). Results from Studies 2 and 3 consistently showed that, contrary to the stereotype, Chinese only children reported lower levels of loneliness than their counterparts with siblings. Additionally, open-ended responses from the adolescent participants in Study 3 provided hints about the situations that provoke their loneliness. The results are explained in terms of the two theoretical approaches to loneliness. In sum, our research suggests that belief in the loneliness of only children is widespread in Chinese society, but the evidence indicates that reports of loneliness are greater for those who grew up with siblings. Public Policy Relevance Statement: Popular concern about only children in China focuses on their loneliness, not just in childhood, but also continuing throughout adolescence and young adulthood. This research examines the stereotypes and realities about loneliness for Chinese only children with three studies, demonstrating that while belief in the loneliness of only children is widespread in China, the evidence supports the opposite difference, that only children in China are less lonely than peers with siblings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mitochondrial fission regulator 2 (MTFR2) was involved in the progression and development of various cancers. However, the relationship between MTFR2 with lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) had not been reported. Herein, this study analyzed the clinical significance and potential mechanisms of MTFR2 in LUAD via bioinformatics tools.Results: We found that the level of MTFR2 was increased, and correlated with sex, age, smoking history, neoplasm staging, histological subtype and TP53 mutation status in LUAD patients. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed LUAD patients with increased MTFR2 had a poor prognosis. In addition, univariate COX regression analysis showed neoplasm staging, T stage, distant metastasis and MTFR2 level were risk factors for the prognosis of LUAD. A total of 1127 genes were coexpressed with MTFR2, including 840 positive and 208 negative related genes. KEGG and GSEA found that MTFR2 participated in the progression of LUAD by affecting cell cycle, DNA replication, homologous recombination, p53 signaling pathway and other mechanisms. The top 10 coexpressed genes, namely CDK1, CDC20, CCNB1, PLK1, CCNA2, AURKB, CCNB2, BUB1B, MAD2L1 and BUB1 were highly expressed, and were associated with poor prognosis in LUAD.Conclusions: Consequently, we elucidated MTFR2 was a biomarker for diagnosis and poor prognosis in LUAD, and might participate in the progression of LUAD via affecting cell cycle, DNA replication, homologous recombination and p53 signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]