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For a multi-dimensional measure of positive youth development (PYD), its factor structure should be invariant across groups and over time. This study examined the factorial validity of the 44-item short form of the "Chinese Positive Youth Development Scale" (CPYDS-SF) that assesses 15 dimensions of PYD attributes. Using two waves of longitudinal data with a one-year interval in between, this study examined the factor structure of the scale and whether the structure is invariant between gender groups and across time. The data were collected from 3,328 adolescents at Wave 1 and 3,638 adolescents at Wave 2, with a matched sample of 2,905 adolescents (mean age = 12.57 ± 0.72 at Wave 1; 49.54% girls). Confirmatory factor analysis revealed that the 15-factor structure fitted the data well. The findings of invariance tests further supported this structure's invariance across gender and time, indicating a stable factor structure of CPYDS-SF among Chinese adolescents. These findings suggest that CPYDS-SF can be used to examine gender differences and the longitudinal development of PYD qualities among Chinese adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of graphite carbon nanolayers on the phase change performance and microstructure of Zn15Sb85 film was systematically studied. After the addition of graphite carbon nanolayers, superlattice-like films exhibit better thermal stability and data retention, especially [C(4 nm)/Zn15Sb85(10 nm)]5 superlattice-like film. The phase change memory based on [C(4 nm)/Zn15Sb85(10 nm)]5 has fast operating speed and ultralow power consumption. During the aging process, the electronic structure of [C(4 nm)/Zn15Sb85(10 nm)]5 superlattice-like film remains almost unchanged. The results of x-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy indicate that the addition of graphite carbon nanolayers reduces the grain size. The formation of new C–Sb and C–Zn bonds was speculated through energy dispersion spectroscopy and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results indicate that graphite carbon nanolayers play an important role in improving the thermal stability, operating speed, reducing power consumption, and resistance drift of Zn15Sb85 films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • [C(3 nm)/Sb 7 Se 3 (3 nm)] 5 Superlattice-like film exhibits high comprehensive performance in phase change memory. • C3/SS3 SLL film has a high crystallization temperature (∼240 ℃) and a ten-year data retention temperature (∼170 ℃). • The PCM based on C3/SS3 SLL film has ultrafast operating speed (∼6 ns) and low power consumption (∼2.18 × 10-11 J). • The addition of carbon nanolayers has formed C-Sb and C-Se bonds, which have been verified by experiments and simulations. The C/Sb 7 Se 3 superlattice-like film was prepared by magnetron sputtering technology, and the effects of carbon nanolayers on the film and device properties were studied. The C/Sb 7 Se 3 superlattice-like films show excellent thermal stability and data retention, especially the [C(3 nm)/Sb 7 Se 3 (3 nm)] 5 film. The analysis of transmission electron microscopy and x-ray diffraction reveal that the high-quality multilayer structure of [C(3 nm)/Sb 7 Se 3 (3 nm)] 5 is maintained. The segmentation of phase change material by amorphous carbon layer reduces the size of crystalline region, thus accelerates the crystallization rate. Element mapping indicates that C atoms and Se atoms in the annealed [C(3 nm)/Sb 7 Se 3 (3 nm)] 5 films show obvious interlayer diffusion. The results of x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and density functional theory manifest that atomic diffusion results in the formation of strong C-Sb and C-Se bonds in the phase transition layer and C atom prefers to occupying interstitial site in the center of the periodic structural unit of Sb 2 Se 3 phase. Carbon atoms can effectively suppress grain growth and gradually move to the boundary of the grain, refining grain size, thus improving the stability of the amorphous phase. This study indicates that carbon nanolayers play an important role in improving the thermal stability and operation speed, reducing power consumption and resistance drift in Sb 7 Se 3 films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the associations of four dyads (mother-child, father-child, teacher-student, and student-student) of social relationships with adolescent Internet addiction (IA) and explore the seldom concurrently examined roles of life satisfaction and life meaning (indicators of hedonic and eudaimonic well-being respectively) as potential mediators and moderators in these associations. Based on data collected from 1,974 adolescents in China, the results showed that 1) father-child relationship (but not other relationships) was negatively associated with IA; 2) the mediation effects of life satisfaction and life meaning were significant on the links between father-child and student-student relationships and IA, and the suppression effect of life satisfaction (but not life meaning) was significant on the association between mother-child relationship and IA, while the mediation effects were not significant regarding teacher-child relationship; 3) life satisfaction and life meaning significantly moderated the association between father-child relationship and IA in opposite directions: life satisfaction reinforced the negative association, while life meaning mitigated the relation. The findings delineate the association between social relationships in different contexts and adolescent IA as well as the unique roles played by life satisfaction and life meaning in underlying the association. • Father-child relationship plays a prominent role in adolescent Internet addiction. • The indirect effects of well-being vary across different social relationships-Internet addiction links. • Hedonic well-being exerts a suppression effect on the link between mother-child relationship and Internet addiction. • Hedonic well-being enhances the negative relation between father-child relationship and Internet addiction. • Eudaimonic well-being mitigates the negative relation between father-child relationship and Internet addiction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Research findings on the factor structure and invariance of the Center for the Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) are inconclusive. Besides, very few studies have examined factorial invariance of the scale over time. Related studies based on Chinese adolescents are also sparse. This study attempted to examine the factor structure of the CES-D and its invariance across gender and time over a one-year period among adolescents in mainland China.Method: A total of 3,010 adolescents (mean age = 13.16 years, 1,730 boys) completed a questionnaire including the CES-D at Wave 1 and 2,648 of them completed the same survey one year later. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were performed to examine the factor structure of the CES-D. Factorial invariance of the resultant factor structure was tested using cross-sectional multi-group CFA (girls vs. boys) at Wave 1 and Wave 2 and longitudinal CFA (Wave 1 vs. Wave 2).Results: EFA and CFA revealed a three-factor model of the CES-D, including "somatic complaints," "depressed affect," and "positive affect." Additionally, findings supported the factorial invariance across gender and over time for the three-factor model.Limitations: Limitations of the present study included a lack of adolescents from different areas in mainland China (particularly rural areas) and only a one-year follow-up.Conclusions: This pioneering study suggests that there are three stable dimensions of the CES-D in Chinese adolescents in mainland China which are invariant across gender and over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Qingjie Fuzheng granule (QFG) is a traditional Chinese medicinal formula used extensively as an alternative medicine for cancer treatment, including colorectal cancer (CRC). But its pathological mechanism in CRC is unclear. To study antitumor treatment effects and mechanisms of QFG, we established a CRC HCT-116 xenograft mouse model and assessed QFG on EMT and autophagy progression in vivo. The mice were randomly divided into 2 groups (n = 10 each group) and treated with intragastric administration of 1 g/kg of QFG or saline 6 days a week for 28 days (4 weeks). Body weight was measured every other day with electronic balance. At the end of the treatment, the tumor weight was measured. Immunohistochemical (IHC) and western blot (WB) assay were used to detect the expression level of E-cadherin, N-cadherin, vimentin, and TWIST1 to evaluate the effect of QFG on tumor cell EMT progression. IHC and WB assay were also used to detect the expression level of beclin-1, LC3-II, and p62 to evaluate the effect of QFG on tumor cell autophagy progression. Furthermore, the expression level of relative proteins in mTOR pathway was detected by WB assay to investigate the mechanism of QFG effect on CRC. We discovered that QFG inhibited the rise of tumor weight while it had no effect on mice body weight, which proved that QFG could inhibit CRC growth progression without significant side effects in vivo. In addition, QFG treatment inhibited EMT and induced autophagy progression in CRC tumor cells, including that QFG upregulated the expression of E-cadherin, beclin-1, and LC3-II, but downregulated the expression of N-cadherin, vimentin, TWIST1, and p62. And, QFG decreased the ratio of p-PI3K/PI3K, p-AKT/AKT, and p-mTOR/mTOR, but increased the ratio of p-AMPK/AMPK. All findings from this research proved that QFG can induce autophagy and inhibit EMT progression in CRC via regulating the mTOR signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study tested the reciprocal relationships between problem behavior (PB) and life satisfaction (LS) as well as the relationships between their trajectories of change. Using a three-wave dataset collected from 3,328 Chinese junior secondary school students in Hong Kong, this study identified bidirectional associations between PB and LS. For PB, while externalizing behavior was indexed by ″delinquent behavior″ and ″problem behavioral intention″, internalizing behavior was indexed by ″deliberate self-harm″ and ″suicidal behavior″. As expected, both types of PB negatively predicted future LS. Besides, changes in PB also negatively predicted changes in LS. While the predictions of externalizing behavior on LS were similar among boys and girls and declined over time, the prediction of internalizing behavior appeared to be stronger and more persistent for boys than for girls. A novel finding was that while earlier LS positively predicted later PB, changes in LS negatively predicted changes in PB over time. The present findings underscore the dynamic relationships between problem behavior and life satisfaction over time and across genders in early adolescent years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the influence of MTHFR C677T/A1298C polymorphisms on the survival of pediatric NHL. We enrolled 374 patients including 283 males and 91 females between 2014 and 2020. The median age was 9 years. The tumor types included Burkitt lymphoma (n = 180), lymphoblastic lymphoma (n = 95), anaplastic large cell lymphoma (n = 64), and diffuse large B cell lymphoma (n = 35). A subgroup of 158 patients were genotyped concerning C677T/A1298C polymorphisms. Neither C677T nor A1298C polymorphism was a significant factor in multivariate analysis. However, Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that patients carrying 677 T allele had a significantly higher 5-year EFS rate in the whole group (n = 158), and higher 5-year EFS/OS rates in the subgroup of BL/DLBCL than those with wild type. In conclusion, the C677T polymorphism could be used for survival prediction and potential risk stratification for further treatment protocols for Chinese pediatric NHL, especially for BL/DLBCL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study validated a 36-item Subjective Outcome Evaluation Scale (SOES) and examined the effectiveness of a positive youth development (PYD) program entitled "Tin Ka Ping Positive Adolescent Training through Holistic Social Programs" (TKP P.A.T.H.S. Project) and implemented in mainland China in the 2016–2017 and 2017–2018 academic years. Methods: We collected data from 20,480 students from 30 secondary schools in mainland China on their views toward program quality, implementer quality, and program benefits based on the SOES. Results: The SOES possessed good factorial, convergent, discriminant, and concurrent validities as well as internal consistency. Besides, the student respondents were generally satisfied with the program quality, implementer quality, and program benefits. Consistent with our hypothesis, junior grade students had more positive perceptions than did senior grade students. Conclusion: Utilizing the client satisfaction approach, this study validated the SOES and highlighted the value of PYD programs exemplified by the TKP P.A.T.H.S. Program in a non-Western context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study evaluated the longitudinal effect of a positive youth development (PYD) program entitled "Positive Adolescent Training through Holistic Social Programmes" (Project P.A.T.H.S.) on perceived thriving among Chinese adolescents in Hong Kong. Method: Individual growth curve modeling analyses were performed using eight waves of data collected over 5 years from 23 experimental schools (N = 3,607) and 24 control schools (N = 3,574). Results: Adolescent thriving declined faster among control school students relative to experimental school students. While the two groups did not differ at Wave 1 and Wave 2 on the mean thriving levels, experimental school students showed higher thriving levels at Wave 3 to Wave 7 than did the control group students. Such differences between the two groups were more salient among girls than among boys, suggesting a stronger intervention effect for girls. Conclusion: The present findings suggest that PYD programs can promote thriving in Chinese adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study examined the concurrent and longitudinal influences of paternal and maternal factors on the levels of and changes in substance use among early adolescents. Based on three waves of data collected from 2,669 junior high school Chinese students in Hong Kong, we found that fathers' and mothers' behavioral control and the quality of parent-adolescent relationship were negative predictors of the initial levels of substance use. Higher levels of maternal behavioral control and quality of mother-adolescent relationship predicted a slower rate of increase in adolescent substance use. Parental psychological control was not a significant predictor of the growth rate of adolescent substance use. While fathers' behavioral control and mother-adolescent relationship were stable concurrent predictors, the mother-adolescent relationship was a robust longitudinal predictor of adolescent substance use. The findings underline the critical roles of parents in influencing adolescent substance use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Disruption of the DNA methylation pathway involving 5‐hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) has been implicated in hepatic tumour development. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of 5hmC in malignant and benign hepatic mass lesions and evaluate the diagnostic utility of deficient 5hmC expression in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods: Our study consisted of 48 fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytological cases (30 cases positive for HCC, 18 cases negative for malignancy) and 39 liver resection specimens (30 HCCs and nine hepatic adenomas [HAs]). A 5hmC immunohistochemistry score (range 0‐9) was calculated by multiplying the percentage (0 = no staining; 1 = 1%‐10%; 2 = 11%‐50%; 3 = 51%‐100%) and intensity scores (0‐3+). A score of ≤2 was considered deficient for 5hmC. Results: In resection specimens, 5hmC expression was deficient in 90% of HCC cases. Surrounding cirrhotic nodules and 78% of HA cases exhibited intact 5hmC expression. In FNA cytological specimens, expression of 5hmC was deficient in nearly all cases of HCC (96.7%, 29/30 cases). Admixed benign hepatocytes exhibited predominantly intact expression of 5hmC with moderate to strong nuclear staining in the majority of the benign hepatocytes. 5hmC was strongly expressed by endothelial cells, lymphocytes and neutrophils in the background. Many 5hmC‐negative HCC clusters were highlighted by characteristic endothelial wrapping with strong 5hmC expression in the endothelial cells. Conclusions: 5hmC can serve as an important diagnostic tool for the diagnosis of HCC by aiding in the distinction of HCC from HA or cirrhotic nodules in both liver resection and FNA specimens. Loss of 5hmC is a marker of epigenetic dysregulation observed in many tumor types, including hepatocellular carcinoma. Deficient 5hmC staining by immunohistochemistry can serve as a reliable diagnostic marker for HCC in limited FNA specimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The crystalline–amorphous–crystalline transition process of an oxygen-tuned Sb phase-change material has been obtained by employing ab initio molecular dynamic calculations. By analyzing the local atomic arrangement and the electron structure of the SbO system, the intrinsic mechanism is explored to comprehend the material function: (1) ultrafast crystallization and difficulty in creating a glassy state of a pure Sb material might be caused by the resonance bonding of linear arrangement Sb atoms in the rhombohedral phase; (2) the impurity oxygen atoms break the medium and long-range linear arrangement of the Sb network by steric effects and change the electronic structure of these Sb atoms bonded to oxygen atoms, i.e., the obvious increase in electron localization and the great decrease in state distribution around the Fermi surface due to the high electronegativity of oxygen. These factors set an effective barrier for crystallization and improve the amorphous stability and, thus, data retention. The present research and scheme provide important insights into the engineering and manipulation of a phase-change material through first-principles calculations toward non-volatile phase change memory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Psychoeducational Profile 3rd Edition (PEP-3) is a comprehensive assessment tool designed for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Although its original English version has been validated, few validation studies have been conducted on translated versions including Chinese ones. Based on 554 Chinese children with ASD and 311 typically developing Chinese children as the control group, this study investigated the psychometric properties of a simplified Chinese PEP-3 (sCPEP-3) in China mainland. Psychometric evaluation of the sCPEP-3 showed satisfactory internal consistency, test–retest reliability, inter-rater reliability, convergent validity, construct validity, and factorial validity. The findings have several implications such as utilizing the sCPEP-3 in mainland China for customized educational program planning, early identification, and evaluating the treatment effects for children with ASD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of imaging technique to visualize and quantify the structural alteration of the spinal cord injury (SCI) may lead to better understanding and treatments of the injuries. In this work, multiphoton microscopy (MPM) based on two-photon excited fluorescence (TPEF) and second-harmonic generation (SHG) was tentatively applied to quantitatively visualize the cellular microstructures of SCI to demonstrate the feasibility and superiority of MPM in SCI imaging. High-contrast MPM images of normal and injured spinal cord tissue were obtained for comparison. Moreover, the changes of injured spinal cord were characterized by the quantitative analysis of the MPM images. These results showed that MPM combined with quantitative method has the ability to identify the characteristics of spinal cord injury including the changes in the contents of nerve fibers and extracellular matrix. With the advancement of MPM, we believe that this technique has great potential to provide the histological diagnosis for the monitoring and evaluation of SCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present study is to decode the underlying mechanism of Herba Sarcandrae that indicated antipurpuric effect and to unveil one of its primary components, flavonoids, which play an important role. An immune mediated bone marrow failure (BMF) model in mouse was established by infusion thymus suspension cells after radiation in vivo. Platelets isolated in vitro were prepared from normal mice and BMF mice, respectively. The expressions of PS, P-selectin, PAC-1, Bax, Bad, Bid, and caspase-9 were examined by flow cytometry, and alteration of morphology of platelets under different conditions was observed. Our results indicated that the number of platelets was increased by addition of total flavonoids, and some of apoptotic markers such as Bax, Bad, Bid, and Caspase-9 were downregulated. In addition, the phosphatidylserine (PS) exposure on platelets was inhibited by total flavonoids, and the expressions of PAC-1 and P-selectin were decreased. In conclusion, it is suggested that the total flavonoids of Herba Sarcandrae may inhibit the excessive platelet apoptosis through mitochondrial pathway. In addition, activation of platelets may be also involved in mediating apoptosis of platelets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A SCERTS model-based intervention with different durations (5-month vs. 10-month) was provided to 122 children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) (age = 53.43 ± 9.05 months) in Hong Kong. Before and after the intervention, the children were assessed with the Chinese Psychoeducational Profile-Third Edition (CPEP-3) and the Developmental Assessment Chart (DAC). Educators and parents expressed their views toward the intervention in focus groups. Results showed that participating children improved significantly in their social communication and emotional behavior after the intervention, as measured by DAC and CPEP-3. Likewise, educators and parents had positive views toward the intervention and noted the children’s improvement. The results suggest that a SCERTS model-based intervention can improve social communication, emotional regulation, and other skills in children with ASD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multilevel storage and resistance drift are two challenges in phase-change memories. Here, we report that [C(5 nm)/Sb 2 Te 3 (12 nm)] 5 phase-change heterostructure film has multilevel phase change properties and low resistance drift. The addition of carbon broke the Sb 2 Te 3 bond and formed new C-Sb and C-Te bonds. The reliability of phase-change heterostructure was demonstrated by transmission electron microscopy. The amorphous resistance drift index of C/Sb 2 Te 3 film was reduced effectively which may be caused by the structure relaxation. In addition, PCM devices based on C/Sb 2 Te 3 phase-change heterostructure films also confirmed the potential of multilevel storage. This research provided a new method to realize multilevel phase-change memories with low resistance drift. • [C(5 nm)/Sb 2 Te 3 (12 nm)] 5 (C/ST) phase-change heterostructure (PCH) films were prepared by magnetron sputtering. • C/ST film has two resistance changes and low resistance drift index. • The clear multilayer structure confirms the good reliability of superlattice structure. • The PCM devices based on C/ST PCH film exhibit three stable storage states and has low power consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bisphenol A (BPA), one of the most frequently detected emerging pollutants in the environment, has been implicated in adverse effects in male and female reproduction at extremely low concentrations. This study aimed to investigate the effects and potential mechanism of BPA on mouse ovarian follicular development and female germline stem cells (FGSCs). Female CD-1 adult mice were administered gradient concentrations of BPA (12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg/day) by intraperitoneal injection. We found that the number of atretic ovarian follicles was significantly increased at high BPA concentrations. Additionally, the numbers of primordial follicles, primary follicles, and corpus luteum (CL) were significantly reduced at high BPA concentrations. Interestingly, the number of FGSCs was remarkably reduced in BPA-treated ovaries. Furthermore, the increased apoptotic rate of FGSCs in vitro was triggered by BPA accompanied by increased BPA concentrations. To investigate the mechanism of BPA in ovarian follicular development, 193 differentially expressed proteins were identified in BPA-treated ovaries by the isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification-coupled 2D liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry technique. A total of 106 proteins were downregulated and 85 proteins were upregulated. Among these proteins, the apoptosis-related protein SAFB-like transcriptional modulator (SLTM) was remarkably upregulated, and this result was consistent with western blotting. Taken together, our results suggest that an ovarian follicular development, especially, the development of primordial follicles, primary follicles, and the CL, is inhibited by high BPA concentrations, and the ovarian follicle atresia is initiated by BPA through upregulated expression of SLTM. Furthermore, BPA induces apoptosis of cultured FGSCs. The effect of BPA on ovarian follicular development and FGSCs, especially the effect on FGSCs, suggests a novel mechanism of how BPA causes female infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SiO 2 -doped Sb material is proved to be a promising candidate for phase change memory (PCM) use because of its high crystallization temperature (∼239 °C), large crystallization activation energy (4.05 eV), and good data retention ability (162 °C for 10 years). The band gap is broadened and the grain size is refined by SiO 2 doping. The reversible resistance transition can be achieved by an electric pulse as short as 5 ns for the PCM cell based on SiO 2 -doped Sb material. A lower operation power consumption (the energy for RESET operation 1.1 × 10 −11 J) is obtained. In addition, SiO 2 -doped Sb material shows a good endurance of 2.5 × 10 5 cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The O-doped Sb materials were proved to have higher crystallization temperature (∼205 °C), larger crystallization activation energy (3.95 eV) and better data retention ability (143 °C for 10 years). The band gap was broadened by O-doping and the grain size was refined. The formation of Sb oxide increased the binding energy. The fast phase change speed was obtained for O-doped Sb materials by picosecond laser technology. After O-doping, the phase change film had a smaller surface roughness (1.05 nm). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition process of a pure Sb thin film from amorphous to crystalline is ultrafast but thermally unstable. We fabricated Er doped Sb thin films by magnetron sputtering for the first time. By measuring the in situ film resistance vs. temperature, it was found that the crystallization temperature increased from 105 °C to 208 °C with increasing Er content, resulting in a significant improvement in the thermal stability. The phase transition speed was investigated using picosecond laser pulses, showing an ultrafast speed of ∼2 ns. SEM, EDS and XRD analyses also demonstrated the existence of Er and the improvement in the thermal stability by increasing Er-doping. The enhanced thermal stability through Er doping onto Sb thin films was attributed to the formation of Sb–Er bonds in doped films measured by XPS. The main outcomes of this work enable a prediction that the Er doped Sb thin films are well suited for data storage applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After compositing with Si, the superlattice-like (SLL) Si/Sb thin film had higher crystallization temperature (~ 231 °C), larger crystallization activation energy (2.95 eV), and better data retention ability (126 °C for 10 years). The crystallization of Sb in SLL Si/Sb thin films was restrained by the multilayer interfaces. The reversible resistance transition could be achieved by an electric pulse as short as 10 ns for [Si(22 nm)/Sb(2 nm)] 2 -based PCM cell. A lower operation power consumption of 0.02 mW and a good endurance of 1.0 × 10 5 cycles were achieved. In addition, SLL [Si(22 nm)/Sb(2 nm)] 2 thin film showed a low thermal conductivity of 0.11 W/(m·K). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rabbits are often preferred to be experimental animals during the skin research. The visualizing and understanding the full-thickness structure of rabbit skin has significance in biology, medicine, and animal husbandry. In this study, multiphoton microscopy (MPM) was employed to examine the rabbit skin on the back, which was based on second harmonic generation and two-photon excited fluorescence. High-resolution images were achieved from the fresh, unfixed, and unstained tissues, showing detailed microstructure of the skin without the administration of exogenous contrast agents. The morphology and distribution of the main components of epidermis and dermis, such as keratin, collagen fibers, elastic fibers, and hair follicles, can be distinctly identified in MPM images. Since the changes in these components are tightly related to skin diseases and wound healing, the noninvasive nature of MPM enables it become a valuable tool in skin research for detecting and monitoring. SCANNING 37:95-100, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiphoton microscopy (MPM) was applied for imaging and quantifying the elastic cartilage regeneration tissue in a rabbit ear model without using labeling agents. Morphology of cells and collagen matrix were analysis, showing significant difference between regenerated and intact cartilage in cellular size and collagen distribution. The results demonstrate that high resolution images provide by MPM are consistent with the histological results, and show additional biological behavior which is not visible in standard histology. Advantages in instrumentation may lead to the application of MPM for intravital detection and treatment. SCANNING 36:540-546, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The correct identification of rock types is critical for understanding the origins and history of any particular rock body. Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) has developed into an excellent analytical tool for geological materials research because of its numerous technical advantages compared with traditional methods. The coupling of LIBS with advanced multivariate analysis has received increasing attention because it facilitates the rapid processing of spectral information to differentiate and classify samples. In this study, we collected LIBS datasets for 16 sedimentary rocks from Triassic strata in Sichuan Basin. We compared the performance of two types of spectrometers (Czerny–Turner and Echelle) for classification of rocks using two advanced multivariate statistical techniques, i.e., partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and support vector machines (SVMs). Comparable levels of performance were achievable when using the two systems in the best signal reception conditions. Our results also suggest that SVM outperformed PLS-DA in classification performance. Then, we compared the results obtained when using pre-selected wavelength variables and broadband LIBS spectra as variable inputs. They provided approximately equivalent levels of performance. In addition, the rock slab samples were also analyzed directly after being polished. This minimized the analysis time greatly and showed improvement of classification performance compared with the pressed pellets. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Raman-based techniques have developed into excellent analytical tools in various research fields, primarily due to their noninvasive sampling capability, minimal sample preparation, and short analysis time. Major improvements in lasers, spectrometers, detectors, and holographic optical components have made Raman spectroscopy an effective tool for analyzing natural and synthetic materials. This article presents a short introduction to Raman spectroscopy and several recently related advances, including, Fourier transform (FT) Raman spectroscopy, micro-Raman spectroscopy, Raman sensing, and stand-off Raman spectroscopy techniques. Other topics discussed in this article are the importance of its combination with laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) and laser-induced fluorescence (LIF). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new type of terahertz switchable metamaterial is proposed with dual functions. By introducing vanadium dioxide possessing insulator-to-metal transition, the designed metamaterial can be switched from a dual-band absorber to an analog of electromagnetically induced transparency. When vanadium dioxide is in the conducting state, the designed structure works as a dual-band absorber with 100% absorptance at 1.02 THz and 1.71 THz. When vanadium dioxide is in the insulating state, the designed structure works as an analog of electromagnetically induced transparency. The performances of bifunctionality are omnidirectional and efficient in the incident angle range of 60° or 30° in two modes. The proposed design may enable advanced applications in the fields of modulator and filter. • A switchable metamaterial is proposed with dual functions. • It can be switched between dual-band absorption and electromagnetically induced transparency. • The design works well for different polarizations and incident angles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Collagen change is a major feature in the photoaged human skin. Here, we present the use of intrinsic second harmonic generation (SHG) signal as a novel means to quantify collagen change with photoaging. We obtain the SHG images of the superficial dermis from ex vivo the cheek skin and the abdomen skin of eight patients aged 55-60 years. The results show that SHG signal can quantitatively reveal collagen change between normal and photoaged human skin in three dimensions. By comparing normal with photoaged dermis, there are significant differences in the collagen content and fine structure, providing substantial potential to be applied in vivo for the clinical diagnosis of human skin photoaging. SCANNING 35: 273-276, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiphoton microscopy (MPM), based on two-photon excited fluorescence and second harmonic generation, enables direct noninvasive visualization of tissue architecture and cell morphology in live tissues without the administration of exogenous contrast agents. In this paper, we used MPM to image the microstructures of the mucosa in fresh, unfixed, and unstained intestinal tissue of mouse. The morphology and distribution of the main components in mucosa layer such as columnar cells, goblet cells, intestinal glands, and a little collagen fibers were clearly observed in MPM images, and then compared with standard H&E images from paired specimens. Our results indicate that MPM combined with endoscopy and miniaturization probes has the potential application in the clinical diagnosis and in vivo monitoring of early intestinal cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Papulonodular mucinosis ( PM) is a cutaneous clue to the presence and activity of silent lupus erythematosus ( LE), but the exact pathogenesis is still under secret. Moreover, the currently available treatments for PM are not satisfactory. To demonstrate the possibility of multiphoton microscopy ( MPM) to trace the pathological state of PM and evaluate the treatment efficacy, epidermal and dermal alteration in skin lesion with PM before and after treatment was examined using MPM. Microstructure of epidermis as well as content and distribution of collagen and elastin in dermis were quantified to characterize the pathological states of PM. The results showed significant morphological difference between skin lesion before and after treatment, indicating the possibility of MPM to assess the therapeutic efficacy. With the advancement on MPM miniaturization and enhancement of contrast and depth of imaging, the MPM technique can be applied in in vivo tracking PM formation and progression, and leading the better understanding the PM pathogenesis and mechanism of response to any treatment, helping to establish novel effective therapies for PM. SCANNING 35:22-27, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scar margins dynamic with time were quantitatively characterized using multiphoton microscopy (MPM). 2D large-area and 3D focused images of elastin and collagen at scar margins were obtained to extract quantitative parameters. An obvious boundary was observed at the scar margin, showing altered morphological patterns of elastin and collagen on both sides. Content alteration of elastin and collagen between the two sides of boundary were defined to characterize scar margins from different individuals. The statistical results from 15 normal scar samples strongly demonstrated that content alteration degree of elastin and collagen had decreasing tendency with the increase of patient age or scar duration, consistent with the fact of normal scars regressing spontaneously over time. It indicated that alteration degree can potentially serve as quantitative indicators to examine wound healing and scar progression over time. With the advent of clinical portable multiphoton endoscopes, the MPM technique can be applied in tracking scar formation and progression in vivo by examination of scar margin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Associations between changes of parental factors and child well-being were examined. • Trajectory of positive parenting positively predicted life satisfaction trajectory. • Trajectory of positive parenting negatively predicted hopelessness trajectory. • Opposite associations were found for psychological control as negative parenting. • The effect of psychological control was slightly stronger for girls than for boys. This study examined the associations between developmental trajectories of parenting and adolescent well-being. The moderating effect of child gender was also explored. The participants were 3,328 Hong Kong Chinese adolescents (52.1% boys, mean age = 12.59 years at baseline) who responded to questionnaires measuring their perceptions of parenting and well-being every year during the six-year high school period. Latent growth curve modeling revealed that trajectories of positive parental factors (behavioral control and parent–child relationship) positively predicted trajectory of life satisfaction, but negatively predicted hopelessness trajectory, indexed by intercept–intercept and slope–slope associations. Reverse associations were found for psychological control. Child gender mainly moderated the influence of psychological control, with the associations appearing to be slightly stronger for girls than for boys. These findings add evidence that there may be long-term parental impacts on children's well-being and highlight the importance of looking at related developmental trajectories involved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A modified CRAZED sequence with selective inversion before excitation was designed to investigate the longitudinal relaxation under the effects of slow chemical exchange and distant dipolar interactions in highly polarized spin systems. Analytical expressions for the apparent longitudinal relaxation time of such systems were derived from a combination of the dipolar field theory and product operator formalism. The result shows that the signal intensity follows a multi-exponential function of the inversion recovery time. Experimental results support the theoretical predictions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A three-pulse sequence was designed to simultaneously acquire intermolecular multiple-quantum coherence (iMQC) signals of coherence order n =2,1,0,−1,−2. Analytical expressions were derived from modified Bloch equations. Signal of a specific order was obtained by optimal combinations of data from different acquisition steps. This allows a time saving of 5/7 compared to the phase cycling designs targeted for individual coherence orders. The method also results in pure iMQC signal of all the above five orders which are insensitive to radio-frequency flip angle errors, in contrast to some previous methods. Theoretical predictions are supported by the experimental observations and numerically simulated results. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Based on the double-quantum-filtered technique, a three-pulse sequence was designed to effectively eliminate contamination of residual conventional single-quantum coherences (SQC) from intermolecular SQC signals in single-resonance spin-1/2 samples such as water. Analytical expressions were derived from the modified Bloch equations with dipolar fields. All experimental observations and numerical simulation results are in excellent agreement with the theoretical predictions. Compared to the CRAZED sequence, the sequence can effectively suppress residual conventional SQC signals even with great imperfection of radio-frequency pulse flip angles. For the first time, signals from pure intermolecular SQCs were selectively observed in forms of spectrum or image. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The optimal exergy-based ecological performance of a generalized irreversible Carnot-engine with losses due to heat-resistance, heat leakage and internal irreversibility, in which the heat-transfer between the working fluid and the heat reservoirs obeys a linear phenomenological heat-transfer law, is derived by taking an exergy-based ecological optimization criterion as the objective. This consists of maximizing a function representing the best compromise between the power output and entropy-production rate of the heat engine. A numerical example is given to show the effects of heat leakage and internal irreversibility on the optimal performance of the generalized irreversible heat-engine. The results provide theoretical guidance for the design of practical engines. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The finite-time thermodynamic performance of a generalized Carnot-cycle, under the condition of mixed heat-resistances, is studied. The optimal configuration and the fundamental optimal relation between power and efficiency of the cycle are derived. The results provide some guidance for the design of practical engines. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A new pulse sequence with three radio-frequency pulses was designed to detect NMR signals originating from pure intermolecular zero-quantum coherence (iZQC) in isolated spin-1/2 samples such as water. Analytical expressions were derived from the modified Bloch equations with dipolar fields. All the experimental observations and simulated results demonstrate that the iZQC signals can be selectively detected, mostly free of contamination of other coherences and conventional signals. Compared to the two-pulse CRAZED sequence, the new sequence is insensitive to the imperfection of flip angles. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Residual intermolecular dipolar interactions may result in undesired spectral features on highly concentrated samples in liquid NMR. Although homonuclear decoupling can be employed to suppress the interactions, it may cause a strong irradiation peak, which obscures the nearby peaks. In order to overcome this shortcoming, a modified CRAZED sequence with three radio-frequency pulses was proposed. The analytical expression derived from the dipolar field treatment was employed to select proper flip angles and phase cycling. Theoretical predictions, experimental observations, and computer simulations demonstrated that the new method effectively suppresses the undesired peaks due to residual dipolar effects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In highly polarized scalar-coupled liquid systems, nuclear magnetic resonance signals from multiple-quantum coherences (MQCs) may be formed by inter-molecular dipolar and/or intra-molecular scalar couplings. Selection of specific signals can simplify the spectra, which may help us understand the underlying physical mechanisms in complex coupled spin systems. In this paper, a pulse sequence with three selective radio-frequency (RF) pulses and phase cycling was designed for this purpose. For an IpSq (p, ) spin system, there are three kinds of MQC signals, which originate from intra-molecular I–S, inter-molecular I–S, and inter-molecular S–S (or I–I) coherences. These three kinds of signals can be detected separately by proper phase cycling of RF pulses, which is independent of coupling constants. The intra- and inter-molecular MQC signals can also be detected separately with specific preparation periods, but this method is sensitive to coupling constants. Our theoretical predictions are in good agreement with experimental observations. The method proposed herein can be extended to heteronuclear cases. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The finite-time thermodynamic performance of a generalized Carnot cycle, in which the heat transfer between the working fluid and the heat reservoirs obeys a generalized law Q∝(ΔT)m, is studied. The optimal configuration and the fundamental optimal relation between power output and efficiency of the cycle are derived. Some special examples are discussed. The results can provide some theoretical guidance for the design of practical engines. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• An overview of allelopathy was provided from the history to the applicable modes. • Allelopathic plants and their derived allelochemicals were summarized. • Antialgal capacities of allelochemicals were compared. • Mechanisms of allelopathic effects on microalgal cells were elaborated. • Species-selective properties of allelochemicals were presented. Harmful algal blooms (HABs) have several negative impacts on aquatic ecosystem, and even harm to humans. Utilization of allelochemicals to inhibit microalgal overgrowth is an environment-friendly approach for controlling HABs. This paper demonstrated the development of allelochemicals with algicidal effects, including the development history of allelopathy, the application methods, the reported allelopathic plants and their derived allelochemicals. Allelopathy is a promising strategy to control HABs as the effectiveness of allelochemicals on inhibiting microalgae cells has been discovered and confirmed for many years. The proposed allelopathic mechanisms and species-selective properties were expounded as well. Moreover, this paper further proposed suggestions for the further research and development of allelopathy strategy for HABs control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ambient humidity has an important impact on the performance of flexible electronic devices, and wearable electronic devices will inevitably involve a high humidity environment. To investigate the impact of humidification on flexible phase-change memory, we prepared Sb phase-change film and memory device unit with polyether ether ketone as substrate, and studied the effect of humidification on the properties of the film and device. The results show that the effective transition from an amorphous to a crystalline state can still be achieved by the film after soaking in water for 55 min, and the phase transition temperature increases with the increase of soaking time. Water molecules refine the film grains, resulting in increased crystalline resistance. Sb is a hydrophilic material, and its hydrophilicity decreases after crystallization. The reversible conversion of SET-RESET can be realized under different pulse widths even after the phase change memory device is soaked in water and bent many times. This study shows that antimony-based flexible phase change memory has certain deformation self-healing ability and moisture resistance, which provides a way to expand its application environment. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A quasi-experimental study was conducted to evaluate a youth program in China. • Students in the experimental group perceived more improvement in PYD attributes. • The experimental group perceived less decrease in life satisfaction than control group. • The experimental group perceived less increase in depression than control group. • The experimental group perceived more decrease in delinquency than control group. Using a quasi-experimental design, this pioneer study examined the impacts of a positive youth development (PYD) program ("Tin Ka Ping P.A.T.H.S. Project") implemented in a junior secondary school by comparing student changes between the experimental (n = 539) and control (n = 505) groups. Both groups completed questionnaires assessing perceived PYD attributes, life satisfaction, depression, and delinquency prior to and after project implementation. Experimental group students showed greater improvement in perceived PYD attributes than did control group students. While the control group showed significant decrease in self-report life satisfaction and increase in self-report depression, the experimental group did not. Furthermore, the experimental group showed significant decline in perceived delinquency whereas the control group did not. The present findings provide support for the positive impacts of a culturally adapted curriculum-based PYD program on different developmental outcomes among junior high school students in mainland China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article Effectiveness of a SCERTS Model-Based Intervention for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Hong Kong: A Pilot Study, written by Lu Yu and Xiaoqin Zhu was originally published electronically on the publisher's internet portal (currently SpringerLink) on June 15, 2018 without open access. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder worldwide. Hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) has been found to have anti-seizure effects. However, its mechanism remains to be explored. In the present study, we showed that a novel H 2 S donor attenuated neuroinflammation by up-regulating ATP-sensitive potassium channel (K ATP) expression to reduce seizures. The novel H 2 S donor significantly reduced the expression of TNF-α and increased the expression of IL-10 in LPS-treated BV2 cells and the hippocampus of pilocarpine-induced epileptic mice. The modulatory effects of the H 2 S donor on inflammatory cytokines were prevented by glibenclamide, a common K ATP channels blocker. The H 2 S donor promoted the expression of K ATP channel subunits SUR2 and Kir6.1 in LPS-treated BV2 cells and the hippocampus of pilocarpine-induced epileptic mice. In addition, the H 2 S donor reduced the electroencephalography amplitude of hippocampal epileptic waves and reduced seizures in pilocarpine-induced epileptic mice, which were also attenuated by glibenclamide. These results indicated that the novel H 2 S donor reduced seizures and regulated microglial inflammatory cytokines by activating K ATP channels, which may provide a prospective therapeutic strategy for the anti-seizure effects of H 2 S donor. • We synthesized a novel H 2 S donor, which can attenuate neuroinflammation and seizure. • The novel H 2 S donor can up-regulate the expression of K ATP subunit SUR2 and Kir6.1. • The H 2 S donor attenuate neuroinflammation depending on microglia K ATP channel. • The H 2 S donor may be an ideal drug for epilepsy by activating K ATP channels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The objective of this survey was to explore the association between pregnancy complications and perinatal outcome from regionally total birth population.Methods: In this prospectively collected data of complete birth registries from all level I-III hospitals in Huai'an in 2015, perinatal morbidity and mortality in relation to pregnancy complications and perinatal outcome were analyzed using international definitions. The results were compared with that of 2010 survey in the same region.Results: Of 59,424 total births in the hospitals of level I (n = 85), II (16) and III (6), delivery rate was 30.4, 40.1 and 29.5%, and rates of pregnancy complications were 12.9, 9.8 and 21.1% (average 14.1%), with antenatal corticosteroids rate in < 37 gestational weeks being 17.3, 31.0 and 39.9% (mean 36.6%), respectively. The preterm birth rate was 0.6, 2.7 and 9.5% (mean 4.06%), and the composite rate of fetal death, stillbirth, and death immediately after delivery was 0.1, 0.4 and 0.6%, respectively. By multivariable logistic regression analysis, congenital anomalies, low Apgar scores, multi-pregnancy and amniotic fluid contamination were risk factors of adverse perinatal outcomes. Despite a higher rate of pregnancy complications than in 2010 survey, perinatal and neonatal mortality continued to fall, in particular in very preterm births. The high cesarean delivery rate in non-medically indicated cases remained a challenge.Conclusions: Our regional birth-population data in 2015 revealed a robust and persistent improvement in the perinatal care and management of high risk pregnancies and deliveries, which should enable more studies using similar concept and protocol for vital statistics to verify the reliability and feasibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sb-rich Sn20Sb80 thin layers with different titanium components were comprehensively investigated in terms of the crystallization properties and structural characterization. The phase transition behaviors induced by heating and irradiating were obtained from in situ resistance and reflectivity measurement. After doping the titanium element, the phase transformation temperature and resistance enhance remarkably, meaning the better thermal stability and lower energy consumption of the Sn20Sb80 material. The structural analyses were characterized by x-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy, respectively, proving that the foreign titanium atoms can block the crystallization process and reduce the grain size. All the results illustrate that doping suitable titanium will be a desirable technique to regulate the crystallization properties of the Sn20Sb80 material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]