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Hydroxyapatite (HAP) commonly undergoes doping with various dopants, leading to the emergence of new properties. In this study, HAP is co-doped by terbium (Tb) and europium (Eu) to impart HAP with photoluminescent properties. By controlling the Tb3+ amount to 7.5 × 10−5 mol unchanged, it is observed that when the doping amount of Eu3+ reaches 4.0 × 10−5 mol, the band gap measures 3.919 eV, with maximum fluorescence intensity. Notably, a dipole-dipole energy transfer type from Tb3+ to Eu3 was identified during this process. Concentration quenching occurs when the Eu3+ amount exceeds 4.0 × 10−5 mol. In addition, the Tb3+ and Eu3+ co-doped HAP demonstrates excellent thermal stability and a more comprehensive emission wavelength range than Tb3+-doped HAP or Eu3+-doped HAP. Considering these properties, Tb3+ and Eu3+ co-doped HAP phosphor and aramid/polyphenylene sulfide (ACFs/PPS) fiber paper are organically compounded, resulting in functional fabrics with excellent low-temperature stability. These available fabrics are made of luminescent crystals and fibers can be applied in fields such as high-performance textile testing. Notably, when a specific laser irradiates the damaged area of the textile, fluorescence is not detected by the detector. Moreover, Tb3+ and Eu3+ co-doped HAP has also been shown to be used in the light-emitting diode (LED) to produce the HAP-LED that emits warm white light without commercial phosphors. That expands the application of HAP in anti-counterfeiting, flexible wearables, high-performance textile testing, and semiconductor devices. The color-tunable Tb3+ and Eu3+ co-doped HAP is prepared by hydrothermal synthesis co-precipitation. The energy transfer process between Tb3+ and Eu3+ is proved and the application possibility of Tb3+ and Eu3+ co-doped HAP in fluorescence anti-counterfeiting and LED is discovered. [Display omitted] • The energy transfer mechanism of Tb3+ and Eu3+ in HAP was studied. • By controlling the doping amount of Eu3+, the fluorescence color of Tb3+ and Eu3+ co-doped HAP was tunable. • It expands the application of hydroxyapatite in fluorescent anti-counterfeiting and LED. • HAP exhibited excellent stability when combined with fibers for anti-counterfeiting applications. • The LED emitting bright white light was prepared by using Tb3+ and Eu3+ co-doped HAP without commercial phosphor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Osteoarthritis is a prevalent degenerative joint condition typically found in individuals who are aged 50 years or older. In this study, the focus is on PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA), which belongs to a category of small non-coding RNAs. These piRNAs play a role in the regulation of gene expression and the preservation of genomic stability. The main objective of this research is to examine the expression of a specific piRNA called hsa_piR_019949 in individuals with osteoarthritis, to understand its impact on chondrocyte metabolism within this condition. Methods: We analyzed piRNA expression in osteoarthritis cartilage using the GEO database. To understand the impact of inflammatory factors on piRNA expression in chondrocytes, we conducted RT-qPCR experiments. We also investigated the effect of piRNA hsa_piR_019949 on chondrocyte proliferation using CCK-8 and clone formation assays. Furthermore, we assessed the influence of piRNA hsa_piR_019949 on chondrocyte apoptosis by conducting flow cytometry analysis. Additionally, we examined the differences in cartilage matrix composition through safranine O staining and explored the downstream regulatory mechanisms of piRNA using transcriptome sequencing. Lentiviral transfection of NEAT1 and NLRP3 was performed to regulate the metabolism of chondrocytes. Results: Using RNA sequencing technology, we compared the gene expression profiles of 5 patients with osteoarthritis to 3 normal controls. We found a gene called hsa_piR_019949 that showed differential expression between the two groups. Specifically, hsa_piR_019949 was downregulated in chondrocytes when stimulated by IL-1β, an inflammatory molecule. In further investigations, we discovered that overexpression of hsa_piR_019949 in vitro led to increased proliferation and synthesis of the extracellular matrix in chondrocytes, which are cells responsible for cartilage formation. Conversely, suppressing hsa_piR_019949 expression resulted in increased apoptosis (cell death) and degradation of the extracellular matrix in chondrocytes. Additionally, we found that the NOD-like receptor signaling pathway is linked to the low expression of hsa_piR_019949 in a specific chondrocyte cell line called C28/I2. Furthermore, we observed that hsa_piR_019949 can inhibit the expression of a long non-coding RNA called NEAT1 in chondrocytes. We hypothesize that NEAT1 may serve as a downstream target gene regulated by hsa_piR_019949, potentially influencing chondrocyte metabolism and function in the context of osteoarthritis. Conclusions: PiRNA hsa_piR_019949 has shown potential in promoting the proliferation of chondrocytes and facilitating the synthesis of extracellular matrix in individuals with osteoarthritis. This is achieved by inhibiting the expression of a long non-coding RNA called NEAT1. The implication is that by using hsa_piR_019949 mimics, which are synthetic versions of the piRNA, as a therapeutic approach, it may be possible to effectively treat osteoarthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aramid III fiber is a typical high-performance fiber with the advantages of high strength and high modulus, as well as excellent thermal stability, which has been extensively applied in both civil and military fields. However, microbial proliferation and UV irradiation can reduce its mechanical properties and the subsequent service life. Herein, a novel antimicrobial and UV-resistant aramid III fiber was prepared by constructing a PHMG-grafted polydopamine (PDA) on its surface, and the resultant aramid III fiber exhibited excellent bacterial ability against common bacteria and fungi with >99 % sterilization rate, which is stable after washing, high and low temperature treatment, acid and alkaline treatment. In addition, the results of UV irradiation test showed that the coating could enhance the UV resistance of aramid fiber, and after 14 days of UV irradiation, compared to the modified fiber, the original fiber underwent 2.2 times strength loss rate. This research provides a simple method for preparing antimicrobial and UV-resistant aramid III fiber, which is conducive to prolonged its service life. [Display omitted] • The PHMG-polydopamine (PDA) coated aramid III fiber was fabricated. • The modified fibers exhibit >99.99 % antimicrobial rate against bacteria and fungi. • The antimicrobial property is independent of temperature and pH value. • The coating endows the fiber with good UV resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To determine the serum bile acid (BA) response to 75‐g oral glucose in individuals without diabetes, and whether this is attenuated in patients with 'early' type 2 diabetes (T2D) and related to the glycaemic response at 2 hours in either group. Methods: Forty newly diagnosed, treatment‐naïve Han Chinese T2D subjects and 40 age‐, gender‐, and body mass index‐matched controls without T2D ingested a 75‐g glucose drink after an overnight fast. Plasma glucose and serum concentrations of total and individual BAs, fibroblast growth factor‐19 (FGF‐19), total glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1), and insulin, were measured before and 2 hours after oral glucose. Results: Fasting total BA levels were higher in T2D than control subjects (P <.05). At 2 hours, the BA profile exhibited a shift from baseline in both groups, with increases in conjugated BAs and/or decreases in unconjugated BAs. There were increases in total BA and FGF‐19 levels in control (both P <.05), but not T2D, subjects. Plasma glucose concentrations at 2 hours related inversely to serum total BA levels in control subjects (r = −0.42, P =.006). Total GLP‐1 and the insulin/glucose ratio were increased at 2 hours in both groups, and the magnitude of the increase was greater in control subjects. Conclusions: The serum BA response to a 75‐g oral glucose load is attenuated in patients with 'early' T2D, as is the secretion of FGF‐19 and GLP‐1, while in individuals without T2D it correlates with 2‐hour plasma glucose levels. These observations support a role for BAs in the regulation of postprandial glucose metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concrete continuous rigid-frame bridges are the most commonly used to cross exciting highway and railway. Before the bridge closure, the closure jacking force (CJF) needs to be determined firstly, which plays an important role in mid-span deflection controlling and the whole bridge stress state. This study proposed a closure jacking force calculation algorithm for curved prestressed concrete continuous rigid-frame bridges with asymmetric cantilevers and piers. Firstly, the mechanics method was used to analyze the relationship between the CJF and normal stress of main-girder and the pier. In addition, an actual bridge was taken as a numerical simulation case to determine the influence of the deformation and the stress induced by concrete shrinkage and creep of the main-girder and the jacking force. Finally, in order to obtain the optimal stress state of bridge piers, the multi-objective linear programming method was proposed to calculate the CJF. The results show that curved prestressed concrete continuous rigid-frame bridges usually suffered longitudinal and transverse bending and torsion under the concrete shrinkage and creep of the main-girder and the CJF, and the CJF significantly affected the normal stress of the pier with a low anti-push rigidity. The normal stress of piers was obviously linear with the CJF during whole construction and operation state of bridges at the following three states: the jacking process, bridge completion, and ten years of bridge operation. The multi-objective linear programming algorithm was an effective way to determine the optimal CJF and can fully reflect both longitudinal and transverse bending of piers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Color-tunable manganese/europium/tellurium-doped halide perovskites are synthesized and can be used to post processing fibers for LEDs and anti-counterfeiting and detection materials. [Display omitted] • Color-tunable manganese/europium/tellurium-doped halide perovskites are synthesized. • Perovskites are composited with flexible fibers to prepare luminescent fibers. • The perovskite crystals can be used to fabricate light-emitting diode lamps. • Expanding the application of compound flexible fiber and perovskite. All-inorganic metal halide perovskites exhibit excellent optoelectronic properties, and cesium lead halide perovskites have been the most extensively studied perovskites. Despite their excellent performance, the toxicity of CsPbX 3 (X = halide) perovskites is a significant hurdle in the path of their widespread commercialization, posing challenges for large-scale applications. The lead-free characteristic and inherent air stability of Cs 2 NaBiX 6 render them promising alternatives to CsPbX 3 perovskites. Herein, we report the lead-free double perovskite crystals (PCs) derived from Cs 2 NaBiCl 6 incorporating doping with three distinct elements. This doping strategy effectively regulates the emission wavelength of Cs 2 NaBiCl 6 , with particular emphasis on Eu-doped and Te-doped Cs 2 NaBiCl 6 , which have been scarcely reported in previous studies. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) have been fabricated by these perovskite crystals. The white LED was prepared by Mn-doped Cs 2 NaBiCl 6 with a high color rendering index (CRI) of 95.5. In addition, fiber paper, composed of aramid chopped fibers (ACFs) and polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), exhibits sustained fluorescence characteristics in different environments under an ultraviolet lamp when post-processed with perovskite. The photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of flexible luminescent fibers prepared from Cs 2 (NaBi) 0.95 Mn 0.10 Cl 6 PCs and ACFs/PPS fibers can reach 18.27 %. This fluorescent fiber paper holds potential applications in fields such as fluorescent anti-counterfeiting and intelligent wearable devices. By irradiating with a specific wavelength of the laser, the damaged area of fiber textiles can be quickly detected based on changes in fluorescence intensity. The integration of luminescent crystals and fibers into functional fabrics opens avenues for utilization in high-performance textile testing and other domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotic resistome could be loaded by bioaerosols and escape from wastewater or sludge to atmosphere environments. However, until recently, their profile, mobility, bacterial hosts, and risks in submicron bioaerosols (PM 1.0) remain unclear. Here, metagenomic sequencing and assembly were employed to conduct an investigation of antibiotic resistome associated with PM 1.0 within and around a full-scale wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). More subtypes of antibiotic resistant genes (ARGs) with higher total abundance were found along the upwind-downwind-WWTP transect. ARGs in WWTP-PM 1.0 were mainly mediated by plasmids and transposases were the most prevalent mobile genetic elements (MGEs) co-occurring with ARGs. A contig-based analysis indicated that very small proportions (15.32%–19.74%) of ARGs in WWTP-PM 1.0 were flanked by MGEs. Proteobacteria was the most dominant host of ARGs. A total of 28 kinds of potential pathogens, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli , carried multiple ARG types. Compared to upwind, WWTP and corresponding downwind were characterized by higher PM 1.0 resistome risk. This study emphasizes the vital role of WWTPs in discharging PM 1.0 -loaded ARGs and antibiotic resistant pathogens to air, and indicates the need for active safeguard procedures, such as that employees wear masks and work clothes, covering the main emission sites, and collecting and destroying of bioaerosols. [Display omitted] • High enrichment of antibiotic resistome was detected in submicron bioaerosols. • Transposase was the most dominant mobile genetic element in submicron bioaerosols. • Submicron bioaerosols harbored 28 kinds of multi-antibiotic resistant pathogens. • Noticeable resistome risks were found in submicron bioaerosols from wastewater. • Highest resistome risks of submicron bioaerosols were found in sludge dewatering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waterborne polyurethanes (WPUs) are known for their eco-friendliness and adaptability in various industries. However, the quest for multifunctional materials has created a demand for WPUs with self-healing, recyclable, and antimicrobial properties. In this study, we introduce a universal approach to doping FeCl 3 and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) into carboxyl group containing WPUs that promotes dynamic coordination bonding between Fe3+ and -COO- groups of PAA and WPUs. WPU/Fe/PAA-5.5 with 5.5 wt % PAA stands out with excellent mechanical properties, strong self-healing capabilities and an impressive >90% antimicrobial rate. Importantly, these supramolecular films proved to be highly recyclable by facile hot-pressing, which can maintain good antimicrobial properties after multiple cycles. This research will shed light on the multifunctionalization of WPU. [Display omitted] • PAA and FeCl 3 was added into carboxyl group containing WPU to form supramolecular films. • The films obtained excellent self-healing, antibacterial and recyclable functions. • This is a facile and economical strategy to endow WPU with multifunctions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neobavaisoflavone (NBIF) is a flavonoid, which has a variety of pharmacological activities. However, the mechanism of NBIF in the treatment of osteoporosis still needs further exploration. The differentiation of osteoblast MC‐3T3‐E1 cells after treatment was observed by Alizarin red staining. Cell counting kit‐8 and flow cytometry were used to detect viability, apoptosis, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels of treated MC‐3T3‐E1 cells, respectively. Malondialdehyde (MDA), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) were tested by ELISA kits. The expressions of lncRNA MALAT1, MEG3, CRNDE, Runx2, osteocalcin (OCN), osteopontin (OPN), collagen I (col‐I), nuclear Nrf2, cytoplasm Nrf2, heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) and quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) in treated MC‐3T3‐E1 cells were examined by Quantitative real‐time PCR or Western blot. Dexamethasone (Dex) inhibited the viability of MC‐3T3‐E1 cells, while the appropriate amount of NBIF had no significantly effect on cell viability. Dex downregulated CRNDE expression, whereas NBIF upregulated CRNDE. Overexpressed CRNDE and NBIF reversed the inhibitory effects of Dex on cell viability, differentiation and levels of SOD, GSH‐Px, Runx2, OCN, OPN, col‐I, nuclear Nrf2, HO‐1 and NQO1 while reversing the promoting effect of Dex on apoptosis and the levels of ROS, MDA, LDH and cytoplasm Nrf2 in MC‐3T3‐E1 cells, respectively, but shCRNDE further reversed the effects of NBIF in MC‐3T3‐E1 cells. NBIF protected osteoblasts from Dex‐induced oxidative stress by upregulating the CRNDE‐mediated Nrf2/HO‐1 signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper straws with environmental friendliness have been widely used to replace plastic straws, but their poor mechanical properties and uncontrollable deformation bring an unsatisfactory experience for users. Herein, we developed a polylactic acid/cellulose fiber (PLA/CF) ultrafine-fiber paper with a sandwich‐like structure via wet papermaking and laminated hot pressing, employing PLA ultrafine fiber and CF as raw materials. The PLA/CF ultrafine fiber paper has remarkable mechanical properties due to the tangling of the fibers and the strong hydrogen bonding that occurs between the PLA and CF during hot pressing. The test results demonstrate that the tensile strength of PLA/CFs ultrafine fiber paper can reach 60.32 N/cm, and it still retains great wet strength (27 N/cm) and stiffness (117.7 mN·cm) after long-time service in various clod and hot liquids. Besides, PLA/CF ultrafine fiber paper also displays high biodegradability, with a degradation rate of 70% after being buried in soil for 120 days. We believe that PLA/CF ultra-fine fiber paper with excellent comprehensive performance can be expected to completely replace plastic straws. [Display omitted] • The method of using environment-friendly degradable materials as raw materials. • Adopt self-assembly melt-blowing machine to raw material PLA superfine fiber. • A design combining PLA microfiber with cellulose was proposed and studied. • The straw has superior mechanical properties and thermal stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors discuss the report "Situational judgement test (SJT) validity for selection: a systematic review and meta-analysis," by E.S. Webster, L.W. Paton, P.E.S. Crampton, and P.A. Tiffin, which was published within the issue. Topics mentioned include the validity of SJT for postgraduate medical education, and the assessment techniques used including interviews and objective structured clinical examinations.

Aim: To evaluate the effects of the dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP‐4) inhibitor vildagliptin on glycaemic and energy expenditure responses during intraduodenal fat infusion, as well as the contribution of endogenous glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) signalling, in people with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Methods: A total of 15 people with T2DM managed by diet and/or metformin (glycated haemoglobin 49.3 ± 2.1 mmol/mol) were studied on three occasions (two with vildagliptin and one with placebo) in a double‐blind, randomized, crossover fashion. On each day, vildagliptin 50 mg or placebo was given orally, followed by intravenous exendin (9–39) 600 pmol/kg/min, on one of the two vildagliptin treatment days, or 0.9% saline over 180 minutes. At between 0 and 120 minutes, a fat emulsion was infused intraduodenally at 2 kcal/min. Energy expenditure, plasma glucose and glucose‐regulatory hormones were evaluated. Results: Intraduodenal fat increased plasma GLP‐1 and glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), insulin and glucagon, and energy expenditure, and decreased plasma glucose (all P < 0.05). On the two intravenous saline days, plasma glucose and glucagon were lower, plasma intact GLP‐1 was higher (all P < 0.05), and energy expenditure tended to be lower after vildagliptin (P = 0.08) than placebo. On the two vildagliptin days, plasma glucose, glucagon and GLP‐1 (both total and intact), and energy expenditure were higher during intravenous exendin (9–39) than saline (all P < 0.05). Conclusions: In well‐controlled T2DM during intraduodenal fat infusion, vildagliptin lowered plasma glucose and glucagon, and tended to decrease energy expenditure, effects that were mediated by endogenous GLP‐1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A para-aramid fiber whose main chain contained heterocyclic units was prepared by low temperature copolycondensation, wet-spinning, and high temperature thermal treatment. The prepared fibers (named F-368) and two commercial aramid fibers, K49 (Kevlar 49, Dupont de Nemours Co., USA) and APMOC (Kamenskvolokno and Tver'khimvolokno, Russia), were characterized and analyzed in detail. Infrared spectroscopy (IR) and wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD) were employed to characterize their chemical and aggregation structures, respectively. The results showed the introduction of heterocyclic units into the wholly para-aromatic polyamide backbone of K49 in the F-368 and APMOC reduced the crystallinity significantly. The tenacity of F-368 and APMOC were 32.2 and 30.5cN/dtex, which were about 68% and 59% higher than that of K49, respectively. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) were used to investigate their thermal properties; the results indicated that these aramid fibers showed exceptional thermal properties with glass transition temperatures of 240–260 °C, and decomposition temperatures at 510–560 °C, both in nitrogen and air. The TGA results also showed the decomposition mechanism of K49 and the heterocyclic aramid fibers in nitrogen and air were different. The decomposition temperature of K49 was higher than that of the heterocyclic copolyaramid fibers both in nitrogen and air. On the contrary, the char yields of the heterocyclic copolyaramid fibers at 800 °C were higher than that of K49 in both nitrogen and air. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Goals of care (GoC) discussions occur amongst patients, family members and clinicians in order to establish plans of care and are invaluable aspects of end‐of‐life care. In previous research, medical learners have reported insufficient training and emotional distress about end‐of‐life decision making, but most studies have focused on postgraduate trainees and have been quantitative or have evaluated specific educational interventions. None have qualitatively explored medical students' experiences with GoC discussions, their perceptions of associated hidden curricula, and the impacts of these on professional identity formation (PIF), the individualised developmental processes by which laypersons evolve to think, act and feel like, and ultimately become, medical professionals. Methods: Using purposive sampling at one Canadian medical school, individual semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 18 medical students to explore their experiences with GoC discussions during their core internal medicine clerkship. Interviews were audiorecorded, transcribed and anonymised. Concurrently with data collection, transcripts were analysed iteratively and inductively using interpretative phenomenological analysis, a qualitative research approach that allows the rich exploration of subjective experiences. Results: Participants reported minimal support and supervision in conducting GoC discussions, which were experienced as ethically challenging, emotionally powerful encounters exemplifying tensions between formal and hidden curricula. Role modelling and institutional culture were key mechanisms through which hidden curricula were transmitted, subverting formal curricula in doing so and contributing to participants' emotional distress. Participants' coping responses were generally negative and included symptoms of burnout, the pursuit of standardisation, rationalisation, compartmentalisation and the adaptation of previously held, more idealised professional identities. Conclusions: GoC discussions in this study were often led by inexperienced medical students and impacted negatively on their PIF. Through complex emotional processes, they struggled to reconcile earlier concepts of physician identities with newly developing ones and often reluctantly adopted suboptimal professional behaviours and attitudes. Improved education about GoC discussions is necessary for patient care and may represent concrete and specific opportunities to influence students' PIF positively. The research described in this paper illustrates how leading goals‐of‐care discussions as a very junior learner can lead to emotional distress and have negative impacts on professional identity development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Antibiotic resistance of PM 2.5 from wastewater to atmosphere was investigated. • High enrichment of ARGs, mobile ARGs, and ARB were identified in WWTP-PM 2.5. • 9 of the 44 PARB were affiliated to ESKAPE and other WHO priority pathogens. • Wastewater was the major source for ARGs and ARB in WWTP-PM 2.5. • Highest resistome risk of PM 2.5 was found from sludge dewatering room. Antibiotic resistome can be carried by the bioaerosols and propagate from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) to the atmosphere, but questions remain regarding their mobility, bacterial hosts, source, and resistome risk. Here, fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) was collected within and around a large WWTP and analyzed by the metagenomic assembly and binning. PM 2.5 was discovered with increasing enrichment of total antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), potentially mobile ARGs, and antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) along the WWTP-downwind-upwind gradient. Some ARGs were found to be flanked by certain mobile genetic elements and generally mediated by plasmids in WWTP-PM 2.5. Totally, 198 metagenome assembled genomes assigning to seven phyla were identified as the ARB, and a contig-based analysis indicated that 32 pathogens were revealed harboring at least two ARGs. Despite disparate aerosolization potentials of ARGs or ARB at different WWTP units, high resistome risks were found, along with the dominant contribution of wastewater for airborne ARGs (44.79–62.82%) and ARB (35.03–40.10%). Among the detected WWTP matrices, the sludge dewatering room was characterized by the highest resistome risk associated with PM 2.5. This study underscores the dispersion of ARGs and ARB from WWTPs to the atmosphere and provides a reference for managing risks of antibiotic resistance. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hierarchically porous structures play crucial roles on the biological and artificial materials, hence, the development of readily method to prepare microparticles with hierarchical pores and tunable morphologies is of great significance. Here, a facile electrospray technique combining breath figure (BF) or nonsolvent induced phase separation (NIPS) was developed to prepare hierarchically porous microparticles with various morphologies based on polymers of intrinsic microporosity (PIM-1). The relationship between the ternary system composition of the electrospraying (PIM-1 and cosolvent) and the microparticle architectures (morphology and pore structure) was carefully investigated. The as-prepared PIM-1 microparticles possess predominant micropores and abundant macropores with high surface areas in range from 548 m2 g−1 to 747 m2 g−1. Their adsorption capacities for CO 2 and organic dye were facilitated by the generation of macropores, owing to the increased accessibility of isolated micro-mesopores. More importantly, they perform enhanced selective adsorption abilities towards malachite green (MG) for the methyl orange/MG mixture pairs. • Hierarchically porous microparticles were prepared by electrospraying based on PIM-1. • Detail investigation between electrospraying conditions and microparticle architectures. • Electrosprayed microparticles perform enhanced adsorption capacities for dyes and CO 2. • Electrosprayed microparticles show the selective adsorption towards MG for MO/MG pairs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A portable fluorescent probe with quick response for sensing metal ions is of great demand. Here, for the first time, a novel fluorene-based polymer of intrinsic microporosity (PIM), PFLTB, was synthesized through Tröger's base reaction, which exhibits a fluorescent response for Fe3+ with high selectivity, sensitivity and rapidity. The PFLTB possesses M n of 12,050 g mol−1, specific surface area of 453 m2 g−1, and high intrinsic fluorescence at 470 nm excited by 310 nm. It is found that the fluorescent quenching of PFLTB against Fe3+ is particularly notable as compared to other metal ions. The selectivity of PFLTB for Fe3+ was also determined by the interference experiment, and the limit of detection of PFLTB towards Fe3+ was measured to be 5.04 μmol L−1. PFLTB-based indicator film was fabricated by coating onto polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) porous non-woven, which showed the fast fluorescence quenching against Fe3+ with a response time of only 10 s. Our work offers a novel and feasible approach to fabricate efficient polymer-based sensors for metal ions, which is of great importance for diverse industrial and engineering processes. [Display omitted] • A novel fluorene-based polymer of intrinsic microporosity (PFLTB) was prepared for the first time. • The PFLTB possesses moderate specific surface area and high intrinsic fluorescence. • The PFLTB shows a fluorescent response for Fe3+ with high selectivity, sensitivity and rapidity. • PFLTB-based indicator film shows the fast fluorescence quenching towards Fe3+. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of breast cancer cases has increased in the last a few decades and this is believed to be associated with the increased prevalence of obesity worldwide. The risk of breast cancer increases with age beyond menopause and the relationship between obesity and the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women is well established. The majority of postmenopausal breast cancers are estrogen receptor (ER) positive and estrogens produced in the adipose tissue promotes tumor formation. Obesity results in the secretion of inflammatory factors that stimulate the expression of the aromatase enzyme, which converts androgens into estrogens in the adipose tissue. Evidence demonstrating a link between obesity and breast cancer has led to the investigation of metabolic pathways as novel regulators of estrogen production, including pathways that can be targeted to inhibit aromatase specifically within the breast. This review aims to present some of the key findings in this regard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Previous neuroimaging studies have documented changes in the brain of heroin addicts. However, few researches have detailed whether such changes can be amended after short-term abstinence. Methods: We used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to investigate gray matter volume in 20 heroin-dependent patients at 3 days and at 1 month after heroin abstinence; 20 normal subjects were also included as controls. Results: Decreased gray matter density in frontal cortex, cingulate and the occipital regions were found in heroin users after three days of abstinence. In contrast, after 1-month abstinence, no significant difference was found in superior frontal gyrus between heroin addicts and controls, but changes in other brain regions, including right middle frontal gyrus, left cingulate gyrus and left inferior occipital gyrus, still remained. Conclusion: Our findings illustrate that abnormal gray matter in some brain regions of heroin addicts can return to normal after one-month abstinence. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Dopamine partial agonists have been suggested to be potential therapeutic candidates for pharmacological intervention in drug addiction. These drugs bind to dopamine receptors with high affinity and low intrinsic activity and are hypothesized to behave as functional antagonists in conditions of high dopaminergic tone. The aim of the present study was to characterize the effects of terguride, a partial dopamine agonist at the dopamine D2 receptor, on intravenous heroin self-administration on fixed- and progressive-ratio schedules of reinforcement. The effects of terguride on oral sweet solution (4% sucrose) self-administration on a fixed-ratio schedule were also tested. Terguride dose-dependently decreased heroin self-administration on the fixed-ratio schedule and decreased the maximum number of responses for heroin self-administration on a progressive-ratio schedule. In contrast, terguride did not significantly affect oral sucrose self-administration. These data suggest that terguride may represent a novel pharmacological strategy for the treatment of opiate addiction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A photonic crystal-based early fire warning sensor (EFWS) was fabricated. • The EFWS gives warnings for 0.9 s at 260 °C. • Color change of the EFWS is based on the chain motion of polymers. • A good candidate for non-open flame warnings in the precombustion stage. Fire detection plays a crucial role in maintaining the safety of people's lives and property. However, most early fire detectors are designed to monitor the current or voltage changes of the sensing materials, which require external power supplies. It is still a challenge to make rapid and accurate noncontact early fire detection in precombustion due to the lack of reliable alarm signals. Herein, inspired by the discoloration of chameleon skin, we developed an early fire warning sensor (EFWS) by coating photonic crystals (PCs) on a plastic sheet with thermal expansion properties. Monodispersed zinc sulfide (ZnS) was coated on the plastic sheet as abnormal detection component for EFWS. Combined with the intelligent image recognition algorithm, the EFWS was designed and gave warnings for 0.9 s at 260 °C. For the first time, a photonic crystal-based non-contact real-time monitoring EFWS in precombustion is developed. The sensing material can be directly pasted on the surface of the detected equipment, and combined with existing surveillance cameras in the detection area, early warning of fires can be achieved. The EFWS system can be used in non-open fire alarms for aircraft, buildings, electrical appliances, substations, and other places in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Previous neuroimaging studies have documented the structural damage in heroin addicts. However, little research has detailed the white matter microstructural changes in the human brain as a result of chronic heroin use and importantly, whether such changes can be recovered after short-term abstinence. Decreased fractional anisotropy values in frontal cortex were found in heroin users after 3 days of abstinence in comparison with controls. However, no significant difference was found between these heroin addicts and controls after 1-month abstinence. These results might better our understanding of the biological basis of drug addiction and provide insight into addiction treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Gastric emptying is a major determinant of postprandial glycaemia in both health and type 2 diabetes (T2DM); the potential impact of ethnicity on gastric emptying is unclear. We compared the rate of gastric emptying of a standardised meal and the associated glycaemic response in Han Chinese and Caucasian patients with T2DM.Methods: 14 Han Chinese and 14 Caucasian T2DM patients, managed by diet and/or metformin monotherapy, underwent concurrent measurements of gastric emptying and blood glucose for 240 min after a 99mTc-calcium phytate-labelled mashed potato meal.Results: Han Chinese patients were slightly younger (P < 0.05), and had a lower BMI (P < 0.05), than Caucasians. There were no differences in either HbA1c or fasting blood glucose between them. Gastric half-emptying time (T50) was shorter (P < 0.05) and the postprandial blood glucose increment greater (P < 0.05) in Han Chinese than Caucasian patients. Both the increment in blood glucose from baseline at 60 min and peak blood glucose were related inversely to T50 (P < 0.05 each).Conclusions: Han Chinese with relatively well-controlled T2DM have more rapid gastric emptying compared to Caucasians, which is associated with a greater postprandial glycaemic excursion. These differences may inform the choice of management, e.g. Han Chinese may particularly benefit from therapies that slow gastric emptying. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bernese periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) has been shown to be applicable as a hip-preserving technique for the treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). The approach could be designed preoperatively using various types of reverse-engineering software and finite element analysis, but how to implement it in the actual PAO remains a challenge. This study examines and evaluates a solution to achieve higher accuracy when performing a PAO. Methods: A patient-specific cutting and rotating template was predesigned through computer-aided design (CAD) with three-dimensional (3D) modeling programs. The templates were then reproduced with rapid prototyping (RP) technology and used in the actual PAO. Finally, the clinical and radiographic effects were assessed and compared between the newly developed PAO and conventional PAO groups. Results: The customized cutting template fit well with the bone surface and served as a guide for surgeons as they slid the osteotome to the precise location that had been determined prior to surgery. A very similar acetabular fragment was reproduced, and no major complications occurred when performing the osteotomy along the edge of the cutting template. The acetabular fragment was then corrected to the predetermined position through one-off manipulation with the customized rotating template. The final position of the acetabular fragment in the new developed PAO group was highly consistent with the planned position, and the postoperative morphological parameters were consistent with the preoperative planned data compared to the conventional PAO group. The duration of the operation and the number of irradiation decreased significantly. The Harris hip score (HHS) and visual analogue scale (VAS) score improved significantly with the use of the new developed PAO. Conclusions: We demonstrate that our system, which was based on CAD-RP technology, is feasible and could realize the predicted results accurately during the actual PAO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A charring behavior was found during the combustion of para-aramid chopped fibers/polyphenylene sulfide (ACFs/PPS) composite paper, which formed a highly graphitized carbon layer structure with specific mechanical properties. This sturdy structure is composed of a dense carbon layer mixed evenly between the inner and outer layers, the outer layer can effectively block the spread of oxygen and degradation products, as well as external heat radiation, while safeguarding the inner layer's structural integrity. Herein, we systematically researched the flame retardancy and thermal degradation properties of ACFs/PPS composite paper. In combustion testing, the char of ACFs/PPS composite paper could support a weight of 50 g, while the neat aramid paper was burned through by fire, which indicates the Charcoal-forming property of ACFs/PPS composite paper is better than that of neat aramid paper, and ACFs/PPS composite paper has better fire resistance because of its good char formation. Meanwhile, we further showcase the application in electrically insulating and firefighting clothing interlayers. This study has revealed a distinct charring behavior during the combustion of ACFs/PPS composite paper. The combustion, thermal degradation, fireproofing, and flame retardancy of ACFs/PPS were all thoroughly researched. The PPS has a considerable impact on the production of a more compact char layer in a condensed phase on the aramid surface during combustion. This structure maximum extent to ensure the structural integrity of ACFs and form residual carbon with certain mechanical properties. At the same time, the carbon structure has good flame and fire resistance. In addition, ACFs/PPS composite paper has the advantages of being lightweight and flexible, which indicates that it has great flexibility in demand. This kind of aramid composite paper with good flame retardant, fireproofing, and heat insulation properties provides a feasible way to be used as the interlayer of firefighting clothing and electrically insulating materials. [Display omitted] • Adding PPS greatly improve the flame retardancy and char yield of aramid paper. • Highly graphitization char layer was formed during the combustion of ACFs/PPS composite paper. • ACFs/PPS composite paper showcase the application in electrically insulating and firefighting clothing interlayer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Future research directions include geriatric collaborative care models in the ICU, implementation of geriatric principles in the post-ICU period, and the use of peri-ICU frailty assessments to create and monitor individualized treatment plans that address patients' overall health trajectories (see Box 2). 2017;46:234-8. 65 Simons KS, Laheij RJF, van den Boogaard M. Dynamic light application therapy to reduce the incidence and duration of delirium in intensive-care patients: a randomized controlled trial. Post-intensive care syndrome includes new or worsening cognitive, physical or mental health deficits, which can persist after ICU discharge. Antipsychotic use for the prevention of delirium is not recommended, [57] given a Cochrane meta-analysis[50] and large subsequent RCT of more than 1700 patients that showed no benefit over placebo.[69] Dexmedetomidine may be preferentially considered for sedation in patients at high risk for delirium who require sedation for other indications. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: The purpose of the study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of buprenorphine/naloxone sublingual tablets for the treatment of opioid dependence in Chinese adults. Methods: This multicenter, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study included four periods: induction (3‐5 days), stabilization (7‐21 days), randomization/treatment (6 weeks), and postmedication follow‐up (1 week). A total of 442 participants with opioid dependence were enrolled; 260 were randomized to buprenorphine/naloxone or placebo. The primary outcome was retention in treatment, defined as the time from randomization to treatment completion or treatment failure. Secondary outcomes included maximum consecutive days of abstinence from opioids, self‐reported craving and opioid withdrawal symptoms, and urine drug screen results. Safety assessments included adverse event reporting, electrocardiograms, clinical laboratory tests, vital signs, and prior/concomitant medications. Results: The median treatment retention time (95% confidence internal) with buprenorphine/naloxone was 32 days (26‐38) versus 6 days (5‐8) for placebo, with a Cox hazard ratio of 0.28 (95% confidence interval, 0.21‐0.38; P < 0.0001). The median maximum consecutive days of abstinence (95% confidence interval) was: buprenorphine/naloxone, 21 days (26‐38); placebo, 5 days (5‐8) with a Cox hazard ratio of 0.38 (95% confidence interval, 0.25‐0.60; P < 0.0001). Withdrawal and craving symptoms were significantly milder with buprenorphine/naloxone versus placebo (P < 0.001). Urine drug screen results indicated significantly lower opioid usage in the buprenorphine/naloxone group compared with placebo (P < 0.001). The most commonly reported adverse events in the buprenorphine/naloxone group during treatment were aspartate aminotransferase increased and nasopharyngitis. Discussion: Efficacy and safety results from this clinical trial support a positive benefit‐risk ratio for buprenorphine/naloxone sublingual tablet use in the treatment of an opioid‐dependent Chinese population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aramid chopped fibers/polyphenylene sulfide (ACFs/PPS) composite paper exhibits great potential for application in several cutting‐edge areas because of their excellent comprehensive properties. However, the mechanism underlying thermal aging and the role it plays in the performance of ACF/PPS composite paper remain poorly characterized. Herein, we studied the change in the chemical structure of ACFs/PPS composite paper during thermal oxidative aging and investigated the correlation between the evolution of chromophore/auxochrome groups and the development of color appearance in the ACFs/PPS composite paper. Using the color space theory, we established a correlation model among the degrees of thermal aging, the evolution of color appearance, and the changes in the mechanical properties of ACFs/PPS composite paper. On the basis of this model, the degree of aging and the corresponding mechanical strength of ACFs/PPS composite paper under different conditions could be rapidly received by estimating the change in color factor only. This study sheds new light on elucidates and provides a method for the study of polymer thermal oxidative aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the mechanical behaviors of failure and rockburst proneness of fractured rock mass during excavation unloading under high in-situ stress. Triaxial loading and unloading tests of fractured rock samples with different dip angles under different stress paths were conducted, and mechanisms inducing catastrophic effects of deeply buried fractured granite were discussed from the perspectives of mechanical characteristics of failure and energy evolution. The results imply that failure modes of fractured granite under triaxial loading and unloading are mainly dominated by shear failure. Coplanar cracks produced by granite under unloading generally often are composite tensile-shear cracks, which show more significant brittle failure. Under loading and unloading, the energy storage limit Uem of rock first decreases, then increases with the increase of the dip angle of fractures. When the dip angle of prefabricated fractures is closer to the fracture angle of the intact rock mass, the energy storage limit is smaller and shows an increasing linear relationship with the unloading ratio. The rate of change of elastic strain energy in fractured rock under triaxial loading suddenly increases more frequently. The elastic energy release rate δ was defined to evaluate the rockburst proneness of deeply buried fractured granite under loading and unloading. Under unloading, the elastic energy release rate δ of rock is slightly affected by changes of the dip angle; the elastic strain energy in the rock is rapidly released, greatly increasing the rockburst proneness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective:To understand the attitudes among medical students in China toward different medical specialties and to find the factors that influenced their choice of career in psychiatry. Methods:A questionnaire was developed and administered to 287 medical students at the Xiangya Medical College, Central South University in Changsha, China. All the students were asked to rate the importance of five possible factors in choosing a specialty as a vocation: the ability to help patients, interesting and challenging work, lifestyle factors, financial reward, and prestige. Results:Students reported negative perceptions of psychiatry in regard to all five possible factors that were important in choosing a specialty as a vocation, especially in financial reward and prestige. Conclusions:Medical students in China have negative attitudes toward psychiatry as a career. Some negative beliefs about psychiatry seem to be due to erroneous or insufficient knowledge that could be corrected during the course of medical education. Some negative attitudes were unlikely to be completely changed until the mental health system in China improves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Major depressive disorder (MDD) with comorbid anxiety is very common and is associated with worse clinical outcomes. MDD patients at different ages of onset may have different clinical features and associated factors. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of anxiety and related factors in MDD patients at different ages of onset. A total of 1718 first-episode and drug-naïve (FEDN) MDD patients were recruited. The cutoff point for early-adulthood onset (EAO) and mid-adulthood onset (MAO) was the first depressive episode before or after age 45 years. Clinical features (depressive, anxiety and psychiatric symptoms) and some metabolic parameters were collected. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of anxiety between EAO patients (50.7 %) and MAO patients (55.7 %). For EAO patients, regression analysis showed that TSH levels, TgAb levels, and TC levels were significantly associated with anxiety. For MAO patients, regression analysis showed that anxiety was associated with HDL-c levels and impaired glucose metabolism. Furthermore, suicide attempts, psychotic symptoms, and depression severity were correlated with anxiety in both groups. Our cross-sectional study cannot explain the causal relationship between anxiety and related factors in MDD patients at different ages of onset. This study revealed that the clinical characteristics and factors associated with anxiety in MDD patients differed according to age of onset, and therefore age of onset needs to be considered while treating anxiety. • Anxiety was common in major depressive disorder patients of different ages of onset. • Anxiety was associated with TSH levels in early-adulthood onset patients. • Anxiety was associated with glucose metabolism in mid-adulthood onset patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both major depressive disorder (MDD) and impaired fasting glucose (IFG) are associated with metabolic abnormalities and anxiety, but few studies have investigated the relationship between abnormal metabolism and anxiety in first-episode and drug-naïve (FEDN) MDD patients with IFG. This study investigated the psychological status, metabolic properties, the prevalence and influencing factors of anxiety symptoms in the FEDN MDD patients with IFG. A total of 1718 FEDN MDD outpatients were recruited. Sociodemographic and suicide data were collected for each participant. The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD), and Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA) were used to assess patients' clinical symptoms. Fasting blood glucose, lipids, body mass index (BMI), and thyroid function-related indicators were also measured. FEDN MDD patients with IFG (IFG group) had higher psychotic symptoms, suicide attempts, HAMD score, and HAMA score than FEDN MDD patients without IFG (NIFG group). There were also significant differences in blood lipids, BMI, and thyroid function indicators between the two groups. The prevalence of anxiety symptoms in the IFG group was 20.9 %, which was significantly higher than that in the NIFG group (10.4 %). Furthermore, anxiety symptoms were significantly associated with female, marital status, psychotic symptoms, suicide attempts, and low high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C). FEDN MDD patients with anxiety who have IFG are more likely to have problems with thyroid function, lipid metabolism, psychotic symptoms and suicide attempts, especially in female patients. Prevention of these problems should be enhanced when treating such patients. • Depressive patients with impaired fasting glucose are more likely to have anxiety symptoms. • Focus on psychotic symptoms and suicide attempts to prevent anxiety is crucial. • Low high-density lipoprotein can predict the occurrence of anxiety. • First-episode and drug-naïve depressive patients provide more reliable results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cholecystectomy has been reported to be associated with increased risk of diabetes in cross‐sectional studies. In the current study, we performed both cross‐sectional and prospective analyses to examine the association between cholecystectomy and dysglycaemia in Chinese community‐dwelling adults. A total of 1612 participants (n = 1564 without cholecystectomy and n = 48 with cholecystectomy) were evaluated for glycaemic status (according to the World Health Organization (WHO) 1999 criteria) and then followed up over ~3.2 years. Percent changes (Δ) in fasting blood glucose and HbA1c from baseline at the follow‐up visit were calculated to define glycaemic control as stable (−10% ≤ Δ < 10%), improved (Δ < −10%), or worsened (Δ ≥ 10%). The baseline cross‐sectional analyses indicated that cholecystectomy was associated with an increased risk of both prediabetes and diabetes, while the prospective analysis indicated that cholecystectomy was also associated with a greater risk of deterioration in glycaemic control (ΔFPG ≥10% and ΔHbA1c ≥10%) (P < 0.05 for each, both before and after adjusting for potential confounding covariates). These observations suggest that individuals in the Chinese community‐dwelling population who have undergone cholecystectomy are at increased risk of dysglycaemia. Further studies are warranted to both delineate the underlying mechanisms and to clarify whether more intense surveillance for future development of diabetes is needed in this group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methamphetamine (MA) could induce functional and structural brain alterations in dependent subjects. However, few studies have investigated resting-state activity in methamphetamine-dependent subjects (MADs). We aimed to investigate alterations of brain activity during resting-state in MADs using fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (fALFF) and regional homogeneity (ReHo). We analyzed fALFF and ReHo between MADs (n = 70) and healthy controls (HCs) (n = 84) and performed regression analysis using MA use variables. Compared to HCs, abstinent MADs showed increased fALFF and ReHo values in the bilateral striatum, decreased fALFF in the left inferior frontal gyrus, and decreased ReHo in the bilateral anterior cingulate cortex, sensorimotor cortex, and left precuneus. We also observed the fALFF values of bilateral striatum were positively correlated with the age of first MA use, and negatively correlated with the duration of MA use. The fALFF value of right striatum was also positively correlated with the duration of abstinence. The alterations of spontaneous cerebral activity in abstinent MADs may help us probe into the neurological pathophysiology underlying MA-related dysfunction and recovery. Since MADs with higher fALFF in the right striatum had shorter MA use and longer abstinence, the increased fALFF in the right striatum might implicate early recovery during abstinence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Gastric emptying is a major determinant of the glycaemic response to carbohydrate and is frequently abnormal in type 2 diabetes (T2DM). There is little information about how chronic glycaemic control affects gastric emptying in T2DM. We evaluated gastric emptying of a 75 g glucose drink in community-based patients with T2DM of short duration with good or poor glycaemic control, and compared this to young and older controls.Methods: T2DM patients managed by diet and/or metformin, either well-controlled or poorly-controlled, together with young and age-matched older controls without diabetes, consumed a 75 g oral glucose drink containing 150 mg 13C-acetate for evaluation of gastric emptying (breath test) and blood glucose over 180 min.Results: The gastric half-emptying time (T50) was longer in the older than the young non-diabetic subjects (P = 0.041), but shorter in well-controlled T2DM patients than age-matched older controls (P = 0.043). The T50 in poorly-controlled T2DM patients was shorter than in older controls (P = 0.006), but similar to young non-diabetic subjects.Conclusions: Gastric emptying of a glucose drink is delayed with ageing, but more rapid in patients with T2DM of relatively short duration, regardless of their glycaemic status. These observations support interventions that slow gastric emptying to improve postprandial glycaemia in these patients with T2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mustard clubroot, caused by Plasmodiophora brassicae, is a serious disease that affects Brassica juncea var. tumida Tsen, a mustard plant that is the raw material for a traditional fermented food manufactured in Chongqing, China. In our laboratory, we screened the antagonistic bacteria Zhihengliuella aestuarii against P. brassicae. To better understand the biocontrol mechanism, three transcriptome analyses of B. juncea var. tumida Tsen were conducted using Illumina HiSeq 4000, one from B. juncea only inoculated with P. brassicae (P), one inoculated with P. brassica and the biocontrol agent Z. aestuarii at the same time (P + B), and the other was the control (H), in which P. brassicae was replaced by sterile water. A total of 19.94 Gb was generated by Illumina HiSeq sequencing. The sequence data were de novo assembled, and 107,617 unigenes were obtained. In total, 5629 differentially expressed genes between biocontrol-treated (P + B) and infected (P) samples were assigned to 126 KEGG pathways. Using multiple testing corrections, 20 pathways were significantly enriched with Qvalue ≤ 0.05. The resistance-related genes, involved in the production of pathogenesis-related proteins, pathogen-associated molecular pattern-triggered immunity, and effector-triggered immunity signaling pathways, calcium influx, salicylic acid pathway, reactive oxygen intermediates, and mitogen-activated protein kinase cascades, and cell wall modification, were obtained. The various defense responses induced by the biocontrol strain combatted the P. brassicae infection. The genes and pathways involved in plant resistance were induced by a biocontrol strain. The transcriptome data explained the molecular mechanism of the potential biocontrol strain against P. brassicae. The data will also serve as an important public information platform to study B. juncea var. tumida Tsen and will be useful for breeding mustard plants resistant to P. brassicae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disintegration in thalamocortical integration suggests its role in the mechanistic ‘switch’ from recreational to dysregulated drug seeking/addiction. In this study, we aimed to address whether thalamic nuclear groups show altered functional connectivity within the cerebral cortex in chronic ketamine users. One hundred and thirty subjects (41 ketamine users and 89 control subjects) underwent rsfMRI (resting-state functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging). Based on partial correlation functional connectivity analysis we partitioned the thalamus into six nuclear groups that correspond well with human histology. Then, in the area of each nuclear group, the functional connectivity differences between the chronic ketamine user group and normal control group were investigated. We found that the ketamine user group showed significantly less connectivity between the thalamic nuclear groups and the cortical regions-of-interest, including the prefrontal cortex, the motor cortex /supplementary motor area, and the posterior parietal cortex. However, no increased thalamic connectivity was observed for these regions as compared with controls. This study provides the first evidence of abnormal thalamocortical connectivity of resting state brain activity in chronic ketamine users. Further understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms of the thalamus in addiction (ketamine addiction) may facilitate the evaluation of much-needed novel pharmacological agents for improved therapy of this complex disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Drug abuse remains a serious problem in China, and has become a major threat to public health and social security. Since the issuance and enforcement of the new Anti-Drug law in 2008, the community has become the primary site for drug rehabilitation. However, the attitudes of members in community toward the people with drug use disorders are unclear. Methods: A random sample of household respondents was studied in two communities in Hunan province in China. A total of 848 individuals participated (response rate 83.7%). Respondents initially were asked a set of questions about their knowledge about dug dependence, and then were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 vignette conditions. Three vignettes described different type of drug dependence meeting diagnostic criteria, and the fourth depicted a “normal person.” Results: Poor knowledge of drug dependence was common. Negative attitudes towards drug dependent people were widespread. Most respondents believed that drug dependence was caused by the person's own weak will (82.0%) and own hedonistic lifestyle (81.3%), and should be punished as illegal behavior (80.4%). The vast majority labeled the person with drug dependence as an addict, rated them as having undesirable characteristics, and expressed a strong desire for social distance. There were few socio-demographic predictors of both poor knowledge and negative attitudes. Conclusions: A community-based rehabilitation program in China should take into account the widespread stigmatization of people with drug dependence. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ketamine is a non-competitive anatognist of the N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor commonly used as an anesthetic and analgesic. In sub-anesthetic doses, it can induce temporary psychotic symptoms and has served as a pharmacological model for schizophrenia. While its acute effects on brain and behavior have been studied, the effects of long-term exposure to ketamine on brain activity have been largely unexplored. In this study, we aimed to examine such effects on spontaneous brain dynamics measure using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Forty-one patients with ketamine dependence and forty-four healthy control subjects were imaged with BOLD fMRI using a 3.0-Tesla Siemens scanner at the Magnetic Resonance Center of Hunan Provincial People''s Hospital, analyzed with the regional homogeneity (ReHo) method. Compared with healthy controls, decreased ReHo was found in ketamine users in the right anterior cingulate cortex and increased ReHo was found in left precentral frontal gyrus (p <0.05, cluster-level corrected). We also observed negative correlations between increased ReHo in precentral frontal gyrus and estimated total lifetime ketamine consumption and ketamine craving levels. To our knowledge, this is the first study the long-term effects of ketamine exposure on brain functional activity. Our findings indicate that ketamine dependence is associated with alterations in the functional connectivity of medial and lateral prefrontal cortices. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Use of ketamine as a recreational drug is spreading rapidly among young people all over the world. Epidemiological studies have linked chronic ketamine use with a number of problems, including cognitive impairments, bladder dysfunction, and ketamine-related death. However, little is known about the long-term effects of ketamine use on brain structure and function. Methods: We used voxel based morphometry in conjunction with statistical parametric mapping on the structural magnetic resonance images of ketamine-dependent (n = 41) and drug-naive control individuals (n = 44) to assess differences in gray matter volume between the two groups. Results: We observed significant decreases in gray matter volume in bilateral frontal cortex (left superior frontal gyrus and right middle frontal gyrus) of ketamine users in comparison with control subjects (p < .05 corrected for multiple comparisons at cluster-level). Duration of ketamine use was negatively correlated with gray matter volume in bilateral frontal cortex, whereas the estimated total lifetime ketamine consumption was negatively correlated with gray matter volume in left superior frontal gyrus. Conclusions: We have demonstrated a reduction in frontal gray matter volume in patients after chronic ketamine use. The link between frontal gray matter attenuation and the duration of ketamine use and cumulative doses of ketamine perhaps suggests a dose-dependent effect of long-term use of the drug. Our results have important connotations for the clinical picture that is likely to emerge with the growing recreational use of ketamine and is also relevant to the status of the drug as a model for schizophrenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A phosphaphenanthrene/benzimidazolone-containing flame retardant (POBDBI) was synthesized successfully. • POBDBI imparted excellent flame retardancy and smoke suppression to EP. • POBDBI exerted flame-retardant effect both in condensed phase and gaseous phase. A novel flame retardant POBDBI was generated by the reaction of p-dibenzaldehyde, 5-amino-2-benzimidazolinone and 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide (DOPO), and employed to epoxy resin. The structure of POBDBI was measured by FT-IR and NMR tests. Then flame-retardant EP was fabricated by using POBDBI as a flame-retardant. The thermal stability, flame-retardant performance and fire behavior were investigated by a serious of comprehensive instruments. Combustion tests show the flame-retardant performance of composite materials has been significantly improved. For example, the EP/POBDBI-1.0 with the phosphorus content of 1.0% accorded a V-0 rating and its limiting oxygen index (LOI) value increased to 36.5%. Besides, total smoke production (TSP), peak heat release rate (PHRR) and total heat release (THR) of EP/POBDBI-1.0 dropped significantly, and the corresponding values were decreased by 48.4%, 48.9% and 8.7%, respectively. At the same time, the composition, morphology of chars and gaseous products of POBDBI were studied by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), FT-IR, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Py-GC/MS. These results presented that POBDBI could not only exerted free radical capture effect, but also enhanced the density of char residue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite the large number of individuals who use substances of abuse and the stigma of such behaviors in China, scales have not been developed and validated for assessing substance-use stigma. Given its importance for targeting interventions, the aim of the present study was to validate a Chinese substance-use stigma measure including three dimensions of substance-use-disorder-related stigma (personal stigma, perceived stigma and social distance) by modifying a pre-existing scale measuring mental illness-related stigma and social distance.Methods: A convenience sample of eight-hundred-and-twelve individuals with substance abuse (aged 18-68 years) from different drug rehabilitation centers completed a self-reported survey including their demographics and drug use, and the stigma and social distance scales. The adapted, translated from English to Chinese, and back-translated scales were an 18-items stigma scale including personal stigma and perceived stigma subscales and a 5-items one domain social distance scale. Confirmatory factor analysis and multigroup confirmatory factor analysis tested factorial validity and measurement invariance of the scales, respectively.Results: For the stigma scale, by deleting one low correlation dimension (named "weak-not-sick"), personal stigma and perceived stigma showed acceptable fit indices and internal consistency with two dimensions (named "dangerous/unpredictable" and "social discrimination"), separately. The social distance scale showed good fit indices and internal consistency as a separate facet of stigma-related substance-use problems. Invariance of the model across drug-rehabilitation centers was found.Conclusions: The Chinese substance-use stigma scale may serve as a valuable tool for better understanding substance-use stigma among adults in China who abuse substances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Considering the extreme shortage of smoking cessation services in China, and the acceptability, feasibility and efficacy of mobile phone-based text message interventions for quitting smoking in other countries, here we propose a study of "the efficacy of mobile phone-based text message interventions ('Happy Quit') for smoking cessation in China". The primary objective of this proposed project is to assess whether a program of widely accessed mobile phone-based text message interventions ('Happy Quit') will be effective at helping people in China who smoke, to quit. Based on the efficacy of previous studies in smoking cessation, we hypothesize that 'Happy Quit' will be an effective, feasible and affordable smoking cessation program in China.Methods/design: In this single-blind, randomized trial, undertaken in China, about 2000 smokers willing to make a quit attempt will be randomly allocated, using an independent telephone randomization system that includes a minimization algorithm balancing for sex (male, female), age (19-34 or >34 years), educational level (≤ or >12 years), and Fagerstrom score for nicotine addiction (≤5, >5), to 'Happy Quit', comprising motivational messages and behavioral-change support, or to a control group that receives text messages unrelated to quitting. Messages will be developed to be suitable for Chinese. A pilot study will be conducted before the intervention to modify the library of messages and interventions. The primary outcome will be self-reported continuous smoking abstinence. A secondary outcome will be point prevalence of abstinence. Abstinence will be assessed at six time points (4, 8, 12, 16, 20 and 24 weeks post-intervention). A third outcome will be reductions in number of cigarettes smoked per day.Discussion/implications: The results will provide valuable insights into bridging the gap between need and services received for smoking cessation interventions and tobacco use prevention in China. It will also serve as mHealth model for extending the public health significance of other interventions, such as mental health interventions.Trial Registration: NCT02693626 (Registration data April 11, 2016). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]