Self-assembled soft alloy with Frank-Kasper phases beyond metals

Soft building blocks, such as micelles, cells or soap bubbles, tend to adopt near-spherical geometry when densely packed together. As a result, their packing structures do not extend beyond those discovered in metallic glasses, quasicrystals and crystals. Here we report the emergence of two Frank-Kasper phases from the self-assembly of five-fold symmetric molecular pentagons. The μ phase, an important intermediate in superalloys, is indexed in soft matter, whereas the ϕ phase exhibits a structure distinct from known Frank-Kasper phases in metallic systems. We find a broad size and shape distribution of self-assembled mesoatoms formed by molecular pentagons while approaching equilibrium that contribute to the unique packing structures. This work provides insight into the manipulation of soft building blocks that deviate from the typical spherical geometry and opens avenues for the fabrication of 'soft alloy' structures that were previously unattainable in metal alloys.

A Thiol-Michael Approach Towards Versatile Functionalized Cyclic Titanium-Oxo Clusters

In expanding our research activities of superlattice engineering, designing new giant molecules is the necessary first step. One attempt is to use inorganic transition metal clusters as building blocks. Efficient functionalization of chemically precise transition metal clusters, however, remains a great challenge to material scientists. Herein, we report an efficient thiol-Michael addition approach for the modifications of cyclic titanium-oxo cluster (CTOC). Several advantages, including high efficiency, mild reaction condition, capability of complete addition, high atom economy, as well as high functional group tolerance were demonstrated. This approach can afford high yields of fully functionalized CTOCs, which provides a powerful platform for achieving versatile functionalization of precise transition metal clusters and further applications.

Endowing Polythioester Vitrimer with Intrinsic Crystallinity and Chemical Recyclability

Technologically important thermosets face a long-standing end-of-life (EoL) problem of non-reprocessability, a more sustainable solution of which has resolved to nascent vitrimers that can merge the robust material properties of thermosets and the reprocessability of thermoplastics. However, the lifecycle of vitrimers is still finite, as they often suffer from significant deterioration of mechanical performance following multiple reprocessing cycles, analogous to mechanical recycling, and they often show undesired creep under working conditions. To address these two key limitations, we have developed a cross-linked semi-crystalline polythioester with both dynamic covalent bonds and intrinsic crystallinity and chemical recyclability, affording a vitrimeric system that exhibits not only reprocessability and crystallinity-restricted creep but also complete chemical recyclability to initial monomer by catalyzed depolymerization in solution or bulk. Therefore, reported herein is an "infinite" vitrimer system that is empowered with a facile closed-loop EoL option once serial reprocessing deteriorates performance and the material can no longer meet the application requirements. Specifically, the polythioester vitrimer was constructed by copolymerization of a bicyclic thioester with a bis-dithiolane, producing dynamically cross-linked polythioesters with excellent property tunability, from amorphous to semi-crystalline states and melting transition temperatures from 91 to 178 °C.

Correlations between serum laminin level and severity of heart failure in patients with chronic heart failure

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the correlation between serum laminin (LN) levels and clinical stages of heart failure in patients with chronic heart failure.

Methods

A total of 277 patients with chronic heart failure were selected from September 2019 to June 2020 in the Department of Cardiology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University. Based on stages of heart failure, the patients were divided into four groups: stage A, stage B, stage C, and stage D, with 55, 54, 77, and 91 cases, respectively. At the same time, 70 healthy people in this period were selected as the control group. Baseline data were recorded and serum Laminin (LN) levels were measured. The research compared, the differences in baseline data among the four groups of HF and normal controls, and analyzed the correlation between N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the predictive value of LN in the C-D stage of heart failure. Logistic multivariate ordered analysis was applied to screen the independent related factors of clinical stages of heart failure.

Results

Serum LN levels in patients with chronic heart failure were significantly higher than those in healthy people, which were 33.2 (21.38, 101.9) ng/ml and 20.45 (15.53, 23.04) ng/ml, respectively. With the progression of clinical stages of HF, serum LN and NT-proBNP levels increased, while LVEF gradually decreased (P < 0.05). Correlation analysis showed that LN was positively correlated with NT-proBNP (r = 0.744, P = 0.000) and negatively correlated with LVEF (r = -0.568, P = 0.000). The area under the ROC curve of LN for predicting C and D stages of heart failure was 0.913, 95% confidence interval was 0.882-0.945, P = 0.000, specificity 94.97%, and sensitivity 77.38%. Multivariate Logistic analysis showed that LN, Total bilirubin, NT-proBNP and HA were all independent correlates of heart failure staging.

Conclusion

Serum LN levels in patients with chronic heart failure are significantly increased and are independently correlated with the clinical stages of heart failure. It could potentially be an early warning index of the progression and severity of heart failure.

[Preliminary study on the effect of fecal microbiota transplantation on neurobehavior and gut microbiota of offspring rats exposed to arsenic]

Objective: To explore the effects of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) on neurobehavior and gut microbiota of arsenic-exposed offspring rats. Methods: In April 2021, Thirty-six SPF SD rats aged 8 weeks were seleted, rats were ranked by weight and divided into four groups according to randomized block design, namely control group, arsenic exposure group (As group) , arsenic+normal saline group (As+NaCl group) and As+FMT group, 6 females and 3 males in each group. Fecal microbiota fluid were provided by feces of rats in control group. Rats drank tap water containing 75 mg/L sodium arsenite for one week and then were caged together. The arsenic exposure was terminated until the pups were born. Female rats with vaginal plug were treated with fecal microbiota fluid via gavage during neurodevelopmental teratogenic window period. The volume of gavage was 1 ml/100 g with once every two days, for a total of three times. Weight alterations of offspring rats were recorded every week after weaning, and when offspring rats grew up for 6 weeks, Morris test and open field experiment was used to observe learning and memory abilities, as well as neurobehavioral performance of autonomous exploration and tension, respectively. 16S rDNA sequencing technology was used to detect microbiota diversities in fecal samples of rats in As group and As+FMT group. Results: Compared with the control group, the ratio of swimming distance and staying time in the target quadrant and the times of crossing the platform of rats in As group decreased significantly, and the motor distance, times entering central zone and the number of grid crossing of rats decreased significantly (P<0.05) . Compared with As group, the ratio of swimming distance in target quadrant, the motor distance in central zone and times entering central zone of rats in As+FMT group were evidently increased (P<0.05) . The analysis of fecal microbiota diversities showed that, at the phyla level, the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes in feces of rats in As+FMT group was higher than that in As group (68.34% vs 60.55%) , while the relative abundance of Firmicutes was lower than that in As group (28.02% vs 33.48%) . At the genus level, the relative abundance of Prevotella in As+FMT group was significantly higher than that in As group, becoming the dominant genus (42.08% vs 21.78%) . Additionally, compared with As group, a total of 22 genus were increased with 21 decreased genus in As+FMT group (P<0.05) . LEfSe analysis showed that dominant genuses in As+FMT group were Prevotella and UCG_005, and their relative abundance was significantly higher than that of As group (P<0.05) . Conclusion: FMT may alleviate the impaired learning and memory ability and anxiety like behavior of the offspring rats exposed to arsenic, and improve the disrupted gut microbiota.

Species diversity, phylogeny, endemism and geography of the truffle genus Tuber in China based on morphological and molecular data

The genus Tuber (Tuberaceae, Pezizales) is an important fungal group of Ascomycota both economically and ecologically. However, the species diversity, phylogenetic relationships, and geographic distribution of Tuber species in China remains poorly understood, primarily because descriptions of many new species relied heavily on morphological features with molecular data either not sought or ignored. The misapplication of European and North American names further added to confusion regarding the taxonomy of Chinese Tuber species. In this study, we examined more than 1 000 specimens from China, and performed a comprehensive phylogenetic analysis for Chinese Tuber species using ITS sequences and multilocus sequence data. To infer the phylogeny of Chinese Tuber spp., 11 molecular datasets were assembled, including a concatenated internal transcribed spacers of the nuc rDNA (ITS), nuc rDNA 28S subunit (LSU), translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1-α), and RNA polymerase II subunit (rpb2) dataset as well as 10 ITS datasets (totally including 1 435 sequences from 828 collections with 597 newly generated sequences, and 168 sequences from the types of 63 species). Our phylogenetic tree based on a concatenated multilocus dataset revealed that all Chinese Tuber species nested in nine phylogenetic clades (phylogroups), including Aestivum, Excavatum, Latisporum, Macrosporum, Maculatum, Melanosporum, Puberulum, Rufum and Turmericum. Of these, five phylogroups (Macrosporum, Maculatum, Melanosporum, Puberulum and Rufum) are shared across the continents of Asia, Europe and North America; two phylogroups (Aestivum and Excavatum) are shared by Europe and Asia; and the phylogroups Turmericum and Latisporum are endemic only to Asia. Phylogenetic trees based on 10 ITS datasets confirmed the presence of at least 82 phylogenetic species in China. Of these, 53 are identified as known species, including three new records for China, and 25 species are identified as new to science. Of the new species, nine are described and illustrated in this paper, and the others remain unnamed due to the paucity or absence of ascomatal materials. Accordingly, the confirmed, excluded and doubtful Tuber species in China are discussed. Tuber species showed high endemism. Of the 82 phylogenetic species found in China, 68 species occur only in China, six species are also found in other regions in Asia, and only eight species (T. anniae, T. excelsum-reticulatum, T. formosanum, T. maculatum, T. wenchuanense, Tuber sp. CHN-3, Tuber sp. CHN-10 and Tuber sp. CHN-11) are shared with other continents. Most Tuber species have a small and limited distribution in China, but a few, such as T. formosanum and T. parvomurphium, are widely distributed across China. Some phylogenetically closely related species, such as T. liaotongense and T. subglobosum, as well as T. xuanhuaense and T. lijiangense, show a pattern of allopatric distribution.

[Multicenter retrospective study of 38 cases with fumarate hydratase deficiency uterine leiomyoma]

Objective: To investigate the clinicopathological features of fumarate hydratase (FH) deficiency uterine leiomyoma. Methods: The data of 38 patients with FH deficiency uterine leiomyoma were screened and analyzed. The expressions of FH, S-(2-succino)-cysteine (2SC), desmin, p16, p53, CD₁₀ and cell proliferation associated nuclear antigen (Ki-67) proteins were detected by immunohistochemistry, and their clinicopathological features were analyzed retrospectively. Results: (1) Clinical features: the median age of the patients was (42.5±7.4) years old. Twenty-one cases (55%) of them were myomas found in physical examination, and the median maximum diameter of the tumor was 6.0 cm (range: 5.0-7.5 cm); myomectomy was performed in 23 cases (61%), total hysterectomy with or without bilateral appendages in 15 cases (39%); laparoscopic surgery in 27 cases (71%), open surgery in 11 cases (29%); none of the patients had renal cell carcinoma. (2) Histological features: atypical nuclear cells were distributed locally or diffusely, eosinophilic nucleoli and intranuclear inclusion bodies could be seen, glass like globules could be seen in the cytoplasm, nuclear division was 0-4/10 high power field (HPF), and antler like blood vessels and pulmonary edema-like changes could be seen in the stroma. Among 38 patients with FH deficiency uterine leiomyoma, FH was negative in 37 cases (97%), and positive in 1 case (3%); 2SC, desmin, p16, p53, CD₁₀ and Ki-67 showed focal positive expression in 38 cases (100%), including 35 cases (92%) with Ki-67 index<10% and 3 cases (8%) with Ki-67 index ≥10%. (3) Follow-up: 4 cases (11%) recurred, and there was no death. There were significant differences in age, family history, distribution of atypical nuclei and mitosis number between recurrent group and non-recurrent group (all P<0.05). Conclusions: FH deficiency uterine leiomyoma is a rare tumor, which needs pathological examination,immunohistochemical examination and clinical history. Patients younger than 43 years old, with family history, histologically atypical diffuse nuclear distribution and mitotic number ≥3/10 HPF should be alert to the risk of recurrence.

[Personalized therapy for Helicobacter pylori on initial treatment: the initial treatment is the decisive battle]

As widespread eradication treatment continues, the rate of (Helicobacter pylori, H. pylori) antibiotic resistance is increasing. Together with host CYP2C19 gene polymorphisms, H. pylori coccoid transformation, patient compliance, irregular treatment regimens or empirical repeated eradication therapy by physician, H. pylori eradication rates have gradually decreased. Personalized treatment is an effective measure to achieve successful eradication of H. pylori in the initial treatment. With the first approval of molecular diagnostic kit for H. pylori clarithromycin resistance in China and the updated definition of refractory H. pylori infection by the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA), the personalized treatment of H. pylori guided by antibiotic resistance genotype detection in initial treatment, that follows the latest international consensus and guidelines, conforms to the national situation and surpasses the international standards, has come to the forefront.

Expanding quasiperiodicity in soft matter: Supramolecular decagonal quasicrystals by binary giant molecule blends

The quasiperiodic structures in metal alloys have been known to depend on the existence of icosahedral order in the melt. Among different phases observed in intermetallics, decagonal quasicrystal (DQC) structures have been identified in many glass-forming alloys yet remain inaccessible in bulk-state condensed soft matters. Via annealing the mixture of two giant molecules, the binary system assemblies into an axial DQC superlattice, which is identified comprehensively with meso-atomic accuracy. Analysis indicates that the DQC superlattice is composed of mesoatoms with an unusually broad volume distribution. The interplays of submesoatomic (molecular) and mesoatomic (supramolecular) local packings are found to play a crucial role in not only the formation of the metastable DQC superlattice but also its transition to dodecagonal quasicrystal and Frank-Kasper σ superlattices.

A robust platform to construct molecular patchy particles with a pentiptycene skeleton toward controlled mesoscale structures

A new pentiptycene skeleton with orthogonally reactive sites and inherent D2h-symmetry to construct molecular pathy particles toward mesoscale structures.

Superlattice Engineering with Chemically Precise Molecular Building Blocks

Correlating nanoscale building blocks with mesoscale superlattices, mimicking metal alloys, a rational engineering strategy becomes critical to generate designed periodicity with emergent properties. For molecule-based superlattices, nevertheless, nonrigid molecular features and multistep self-assembly make the molecule-to-superlattice correlation less straightforward. In addition, single component systems possess intrinsically limited volume asymmetry of self-assembled spherical motifs (also known as "mesoatoms"), further hampering novel superlattices' emergence. In the current work, we demonstrate that properly designed molecular systems could generate a spectrum of unconventional superlattices. Four categories of giant molecules are presented. We systematically explore the lattice-forming principles in unary and binary systems, unveiling how molecular stoichiometry, topology, and size differences impact the mesoatoms and further toward their superlattices. The presence of novel superlattices helps to correlate with Frank-Kasper phases previously discovered in soft matter. We envision the present work offers new insights about how complex superlattices could be rationally fabricated by scalable-preparation and easy-to-process materials.

Screw dislocation-induced pyramidal crystallization of dendron-like macromolecules featuring asymmetric geometry

We report herein that dendron-shaped macromolecules AB n crystallize into well-ordered pyramid-like structures from mixed solvents, instead of spherical motifs with curved structures, as found in the bulk. The design of the asymmetric molecular architecture and the choice of mixed solvents are applied as strategies to manipulate the crystallization process. In mixed solvents, the solvent selection for the Janus macromolecule and the existence of dominant crystalline clusters contribute to the formation of flat nanosheets. Whereas during solvent evaporation, the bulkiness of the asymmetric macromolecules easily creates defects within 2D nanosheets which lead to their spiral growth through screw dislocation. The size of the nanosheets and the growth into 2D nanosheets or 3D pyramidal structures can be regulated by the solvent ratio and solvent compositions. Moreover, macromolecules of higher asymmetry generate polycrystals of lower orderliness, probably due to higher localized stress.

Ordered Mesoporous Silica Pyrolyzed from Single-Source Self-Assembled Organic-Inorganic Giant Surfactants

We report the preparation of hexagonal mesoporous silica from single-source giant surfactants constructed via dihydroxyl-functionlized polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (DPOSS) heads and a polystyrene (PS) tail. After thermal annealing, the obtained well-ordered hexagonal hybrid was pyrolyzed to afford well-ordered mesoporous silica. A high porosity (e.g., 581 m²/g) and a uniform and narrow pore size distribution (e.g., 3.3 nm) were achieved. Mesoporous silica in diverse shapes and morphologies were achieved by processing the precursor. When the PS tail length was increased, the pore size expanded accordingly. Moreover, such pyrolyzed, ordered mesoporous silica can help to increase both efficiency and stability of nanocatalysts.

Crystallization Induced Self-Assembly: A Strategy to Achieve Ultra-Small Domain Sizes

Achieving self-assembled nanostructures with ultra-small feature sizes (e. g., below 5 nm) is an important prerequisite for the development of block copolymer lithography. In this work, the preparation and self-assembly of a series of giant molecules composed of vinyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (VPOSS) tethered with monodispersed oligo(L-lactide) chains are presented. Small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results demonstrate that ultra-small domain sizes (down to 3 nm) of phase separated lamellar morphology are achieved in bulk, driven by the strong tendency and fast kinetics for crystallization of VPOSS moieties. Moreover, upon gamma ray radiation, VPOSS cages in the lamellar structure can be crosslinked via polymerization of the vinyl groups. After pyrolysis at high temperature, ultra-thin two-dimensional nano-silica sheets can be obtained.

Spherical Supramolecular Structures Constructed via Chemically Symmetric Perylene Bisimides: Beyond Columnar Assembly

Like other discotic molecules, self-assembled supramolecular structures of perylene bisimides (PBIs) are commonly limited to columnar or lamellar structures due to their distinct π-conjugated scaffolds and unique rectangular shape of perylene cores. The discovery of PBIs with supramolecular structures beyond layers and columns may expand the scope of PBI-based materials. A series of unconventional spherical packing phases in PBIs, including A15 phase, σ phase, dodecagonal quasicrystalline (DQC) phase, and body-centered cubic (BCC) phase, is reported. A strategy involving functionalization of perylene core with several polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) cages achieved spherical assemblies of PBIs, instead of columnar assemblies, due to the significantly increased steric hindrance at the periphery. This strategy may also be employed for the discovery of unconventional spherical assemblies in other related discotic molecules by the introduction of similar bulky functional groups at their periphery. An unusual inverse phase transition sequence from a BCC phase to a σ phase was observed by increasing annealing temperature.

[Research progress on current situation and preventive measures for the narcotic and psychotropic drugs abuse in the elderly]

Both narcotic and psychotropic drugs are more often used to alleviate related multiple physical or mental health problems, but these drugs are very easily addicted to. With the aging of population, abuse of narcotic drugs and psychotropic drugs among the elderly are called for more attention. In this paper, harms caused by the abuse of anesthetic and psychotropic drugs, current situation and causes related to the abuse of anesthetic and psychotropic drugs as well as risk factors and preventive measures regarding the abuse of anesthetic and psychotropic drugs, among the elderly, are reviewed.

Author Correction: Unveiling how intramolecular stacking modes of covalently linked dimers dictate photoswitching properties

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.

Magnifying the Structural Components of Biomembranes: A Prototype for the Study of the Self-Assembly of Giant Lipids

How biomembranes are self-organized to perform their functions remains a pivotal issue in biological and chemical science. Understanding the self-assembly principles of lipid-like molecules hence becomes crucial. Herein, we report the mesostructural evolution of amphiphilic sphere-rod conjugates (giant lipids), and study the roles of geometric parameters (head-tail ratio and cross-sectional area) during this course. As a prototype system, giant lipids resemble natural lipidic molecules by capturing their essential features. The self-assembly behavior of two categories of giant lipids (I-shape and T-shape, a total of 8 molecules) is demonstrated. A rich variety of mesostructures is constructed in solution state and their molecular packing models are rationally understood. Giant lipids recast the phase behavior of natural lipids to a certain degree and the abundant self-assembled morphologies reveal distinct physiochemical behaviors when geometric parameters deviate from natural analogues.

[The prevalence of snoring and its related family factors of children from 3 to 14 years old in Beijing]

Objective: To investigate the snoring status and related family factors of children from 3 to 14 years old in Beijing. Methods: From May to July, 2015, data of children from 3 to 14 years old were obtained from a status survey from 7 districts(Xicheng, Chaoyang, Changping, Shunyi, Fangshan, Huairou and Mentougou) in Beijing. A total of 11 420 children from 25 primary and middle schools were randomly selected. Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ) and a self-administered questionnaire were carried out for the adopted children. Self-administered questionnaire included the snoring related family factors. Logistic regression was used to estimate the odd ratio(OR) with 95% confidence intervals for variables. Results: A total of 9 198 children meet the inclusion criteria and are analyzed in the study, of whom 901 (9.80%) were found with snoring behavior. The incidence of boys is higher than girls. Obese children take higher risk of snoring. Compared with younger children (≤6 years old), older children (≥12 years old) have a significantly lower risk of snoring (OR=0.464, 95%CI 0.368-0.585). There is no statistical association between full-term infants, infant feeding pattern, parental cigarette smoking and child snoring.The children with family history of snoring have a significantly higher risk of snoring occurrence. The educational background of mother is statistically related to children snoring (OR=1.241, 95%CI 1.058-1.457). Conclusions: The incidence of children snoring in Beijing is 9.80%, male gender, obesity, and young age are all risk factors for children snoring. There is a significantly statistical relationship between snoring and related family factors, such as family snoring history and education experience.

Unveiling how intramolecular stacking modes of covalently linked dimers dictate photoswitching properties

Covalently linked π-stacked dimers represent the most significant platform for elucidating the relationship between molecular alignments and their properties. Here, we present the one-pot synthesis of two intramolecularly π-stacked dimers and disclose how intramolecular stacking modes dictate photoswitching properties. The dimer, which features cofacially stacked chromophores and geometrically favours intramolecular photochemical [2 + 2] cycloadditions, displays a nearly irreversible photoswitching behaviour. By contrast, the dimer, bearing crosswise stacked chromophores, is geometrically unfavourable for the cycloaddition and exhibits a highly reversible photoswitching process, in which the homolysis and reformation of carbon−carbon single bonds are involved. Moreover, the chiral carbon centres of both dimers endow these photoswitches with chirality and the separated enantiomers exhibit tuneable chiroptical properties by photoswitching. This work reveals that intramolecular stacking modes significantly influence the photochemical properties of π-stacked dimers and offers a design strategy toward chiral photoswitchable materials.

Covalently bridged π-stacked dimers are excellent molecular platforms for understanding the relationship between stacking orientation and properties. Here, the authors synthesize a pair of π-stacked dimers that are aligned either cofacially or crosswise, allowing them to compare how the intramolecular stacking mode affects each dimer’s photoswitching properties.

P573Effects of mobile text messaging on glycemic control in patients with coronary heart disease and diabetes mellitus: a randomized controlled trial

Background

Mobile health interventions hold the prospect to support risk factor and lifestyle modification and are readily scalable in healthcare systems.

Purpose

We aim to assess whether text messaging program can improve glycemic control in high-risk patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) and diabetes mellitus (DM).

Methods

The study was a multi-centre randomised clinical trial conducted at 34 clinics in China. 502 individuals with both CHD and DM were recruited and randomly assigned to either the text messaging intervention (n=251) or control group (n=251). The control group received 2 thank-you messages per month in addition to usual care. The intervention group received 6 messages per week for 6 months. Messages provided educational and motivational information related to glucose monitoring, BP control, physical activity and lifestyle recommendations. The primary outcome was change in glycemic hemoglobin (HbA1C) from baseline to 6 months.

Results

Follow-up rate was 99%. At 6 months, HbA1C was significantly lower in intervention group compared to control group (mean HbA1C 6.7% vs. 7.2%, P<0.001), with a mean change of −0.2% and 0.1% from baseline, respectively (mean absolute change −0.3% [95% CI −0.5 to 0.1]; P=0.003). Significantly more participants in intervention group achieved a HbA1c<7% (69.3% vs. 52.6%; P=0.004), and change in FBG was larger in intervention group (−0.5 vs. 0.1 mmol/L; P=0.011). No differences in SBP, LDL-C, BMI and physical activity were observed. Almost all patients reported messages to be easy to understand (97.1%) and useful (94.1%).

Table 1. Primary and Secondary Outcomes Analyses at 6 Month Follow-up Parameter Intervention (N=251) Control (N=251) Mean Difference in Change P value for Baseline 6 Months Mean Change Baseline 6 Months Mean Change (95% CI) Difference in Change Primary Outcome HbA1C level, %, mean (SD) 6.9 (1.4) 6.7 (1.3) −0.2 (1.0) 7.1 (1.4) 7.2 (1.5) 0.1 (1.1) −0.3 (−0.5, −0.1) 0.003 Secondary Outcomes HbA1C level<7%, No. (%) 155 (62.0%) 174 (69.3%) – 139 (56.1%) 132 (52.6%) – 1.2 (1.1, 1.3)a 0.004   FBG, mmol/L, mean (SD) 8.1 (2.7) 7.5 (2.7) −0.5 (2.5) 8.5 (3.0) 8.6 (3.3) 0.1 (3.1) −0.6 (−1.1, −0.2) 0.011   SBP, mmHg, mean (SD) 135.9 (18.4) 134.7 (18.7) −1.4 (17.1) 135.9 (18.1) 132.2 (17.7) −3.5 (17.8) 2.4 (−0.8,5.5) 0.144   LDL-C, mmol/L, mean (SD) 2.6 (0.8) 2.5 (0.7) −0.1 (0.7) 2.6 (0.8) 2.5 (0.8) −0.1 (0.7) 0 (−0.1, 0.1) 0.828   BMI, mean (SD) 26.4 (3.2) 26.3 (3.5) −0.1 (2.1) 26.3 (3.2) 26.0 (3.4) −0.4 (2.5) 0.3 (−0.1, 0.7) 0.213   Physical activity (MET min/wk), 1386 1386 177 1386 1386 322 −70.7 0.784     median (IQR) (693–3066) (918–3612) (2840) (693–3066) (693–3002) (2635) (−574.9, 433.5)

Conclusion

Use of a simple, culturally sensitive mobile text-messaging program could be an effective and scalable way to improve disease self-management among patients with CHD and DM.

Acknowledgement/Funding

Research Special Fund for Public Welfare Industry of Health (201502009) from the National Health and Family Planning Commission of China

[Analysis of sleep quality and related factors among children in Beijing]

Objective: To investigate the sleep quality of children in Beijing and to analyze the related factors. Methods: The data were collected from the survey of 3-14 years old children in 7 urban districts of Beijing in 2015. By using multi-stage stratified cluster random sampling method, 26 kindergartens and primary and secondary schools in 7 districts and counties, including Xicheng, Chaoyang, Changping, Shunyi, Fangshan, Huairou and Mentougou, were randomly selected, with a total of 11 420 children. Children's sleep status was investigated with Children's Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ), and the proportion of children with sleep quality problems when the PSQ score was greater than 7. Various sleep related factors were investigated with self-made questionnaire. A multilevel model was used to analyze the relationship between PSQ score and related factors. Results: The average PSQ score of the children was 3.60±2.69. The proportion of children with sleep quality problems was 8.87%(816/9 198). Multilevel model analysis showed that the younger the children, the higher the PSQ score (<6 years old vs. 6~12 years old vs. >12 years old: 3.94±2.58 vs. 3.58±2.66 vs. 3.30±2.84, F=33.015, P<0.001); male PSQ score higher than female (3.89±2.75 vs. 3.30±2.60, t=10.560, P<0.001); and snoring, obesity, father/mother snoring, playing games before bed, surfing the internet, eating and other factors were statistically related to PSQ. Conclusions: Sleep quality of children in Beijing should not be neglected, especially preschool children with high PSQ scores. Parents should pay attention to children's snoring problems and try to reduce some pre-sleep behaviors that may affect sleep quality.

[Analysis of food water sources of college students from Hebei Province in spring]

Objective: To investigate the food source of water of college students from Hebei Province in spring. Methods: In March 2017, the subjects were recruited in a college in Baoding, Hebei Province. 156 students completed the investigation. All foods were collected for 3 consecutive days using duplicate portion study combined with weighing method to test the water content of various foods. To analyze the water content of the food and calculate the proportion to the total amount of food water intake, the edible parts of each meal were divided into staple food, dishes, porridge, soup and snacks. Body mass index (BMI) was grouped according to quartiles, and the differences in food intake and food water sources among subjects of different genders and BMI were compared. Results: The age of subjects was (19.8±1.1) years old, including 80 male students. The median intake of staple food, dishes, porridge, soup and snacks per day was 562 g, 743 g, 111 g, 102 g and 0 g, respectively. The median intake of water from staple food, dishes, porridge, soup and snacks per day was 301 ml/d, 620 ml/d, 97 ml/d, 93 ml/d and 0 ml/d, respectively. The median ratio of water intake to total food water intake of staple food, dishes, porridge, soup and snacks was 27%, 53%, 8%, 8% and 0%, respectively. The median intake of water from staple food and dishes in male students was significantly higher than that of female students (P<0.05). The amount of water intake from porridge of female students was significantly higher than that of male students (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the water intake from soup and snacks between different genders. There was no significant difference in food intake and food water sources among college students with different BMI (P>0.05). Conclusion: The food source of water of college students from Hebei Province in spring is mainly based on dishes and staple foods. The food source of water for boys and girls is different.

[The total fluids intake among young adults from Hebei Province in spring]

Objectives: To investigate the total fluids intake among college students in spring from Hebei. Methods: In March 2017, the subjects were recruited in a college in Baoding, Hebei Province. 156 students completed the investigation. Total drinking fluids was assessed by 7-day 24-hour fluid intake questionnaire, with a quantitative tool. The water from food was assessed by duplicate portion method. The sources of total fluids intake among subjects were analysed. Results: The age of subjects was (19.8±1.1) years old, including 80 male students. The median amounts of total fluids intake, total drinking fluids and water from food were 2 324, 1 135 and 1 174 ml, respectively. The proportions of total drinking fluids and water from food in total fluids intake were 51%±9% and 49%±10%. Only 19.9% (n=31) and 18.6% (n=29) of college students had adequate total fluids intake and total drinking fluids, according to the recommendation of China. The median amounts of total fluids intake, total drinking fluids and water from food were 3 210, 1 860 and 1 093 ml/d, respectively. The proportion of total drinking fluids in total fluids intake was 61%±7%, which were all higher than those who did not reach the recommended intake (2 158, 1 000, 1 149 ml/d; drinking fluids accounting for 46%±8% of total fluids intake) (P<0.05). Conclusion: The amounts of total fluids intake and total drinking fluids of college students in Hebei Province are lower than the recommended intake in China. The contributions of total drinking fluids and water from food to total fluids intake were nearly same.

[The prevalence of snoring and its association with academic performance among school-aged children in Beijing]

Objective: To investigate the snoring status of school-aged children in Beijing and explore the association of snoring and academic performance. Methods: A total of 7 925 children aged from 6 to 14 were selected from 15 primary and middle schools at 7 districts (Xicheng, Chaoyang, Changping, Shunyi, Fangshan, Huairou and Mentougou) in Beijing in 2015, using multi-stage stratified cluster random sampling method. The recruited children were asked to complete the Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ) and a questionnaire related to sleep behavior. The multiplelogistic regression was used to analyze the association of snoring and academic performance. Results: A total of 794 (12.44%) children showed a decline in academic performance among 6 383 eligible respondentsfor data analysis. 580 (9.08%) children with snoring was identified, of which 333 and 247 were in frequency of 1-2 times per week and frequency of ≥3 times per week, respectively; 357, 170 and 53 were in snoring grade Ⅰ, grade Ⅱ and grade Ⅲ, respectively. Compared with the children without snoring, the OR (95%CI) for children with 1-2 times per week and ≥3 times per week was 1.363 (1.000-1.857) and 1.605 (1.135-2.269), respectively; and the OR (95%CI) for children with grade Ⅰ, grade Ⅱ and grade Ⅲ of snoring was 1.226 (0.893-1.683), 1.595 (1.062-2.397) and 2.31 (1.17-4.565), respectively. Conclusion: There is a statistical relationship between snoring and the decline of academic performance. The decline of academic performance positively associated with increased frequency and grade of snoring.

Reactivity of patients with maintenance hemodialysis to erythropoietin in the treatment of renal anemia

To explore the reactivity of patients with renal anemia (MHD) to erythropoietin (EPO) in maintenance hemodialysis (HD), 31 patients were enrolled in this study. According to the level of serum ferritin (SF), they were divided into two groups; one group received treatment using recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) and the other group was given iron sucrose. Taking terminal EPO dosage, terminal erythropoietin resistance index (ERI) and rate of change of ERI (ΔERII) as target indexes, the influence of SF level on dosage of EPO was evaluated after usage conditions of relevant substances in a 3-month period. The results revealed that differences of dialysis age, albumin (ALB), blood calcium, initial and terminal SF, variable quantity of hemoglobin (Hb), terminal EPO and ERI between two groups had statistical significance. Furthermore, SF level and terminal EPO (r = -0.37, P < 0. 05) as well as SF level and terminal ERI (r = - 0.39, P <0.05) were negatively correlated. Difference of terminal ERI between the two groups had statistical significance. It can therefore be summarized that supplementing an iron agent intravenously to maintain SF level between 500 ng/ml and 1200 ng/ml may improve reactivity of patients with MHD to EPO. In addition, rHuEPO therapy in treating anemia of patients with MHD has the same effect with intravenous drug delivery, less side effects and is easy to administer.

Complete mitochondrial genome of the Cyclemys dentata and phylogenetic analysis of the major family Geoemydidae

In the present study, the complete mitochondrial (mt) genome of Cyclemys dentata was determined using PCR reactions. The structural organization and gene order of C. dentata were equivalent to those of most other vertebrates. The mt genome was 16,489 bp in length, has rich A+T content, consisting of 13 protein-coding genes, 2 ribosomal RNA genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, and a control region (D-loop). All protein-coding genes started with ATG, many genes have complete stop codons, except ND2, COX3, ND3, and cyt-b genes had incomplete stop codons of T. The light-strand replication origin (OL) of C. dentata might fold into a stable stem-loop secondary structure, and its loop had 2 nt less than that of the Cyclemys atripons OL sequence. The D-Loop of C. dentata contained a central domain (CD), 2 extended termination associated sequences (ETAS1, ETAS2) and 3 conserved sequence blocks (CSB1, CSB2, CSB3). The average length of 20 turtles' mt genomes was 16,692.5 bp, including 34.1% A, 27.0% T, 26.0% C and 12.9% G. The C. dentata mitochondrial genome could provide useful data for further studies on phylogenetics and conservation genetics of this species. The phylogenetic relationships of the family Geoemydidae were analyzed by maximum-likelihood (ML) and neighbor-joining (NJ) based on concatenated sequences of 13 protein-coding genes from 20 turtle species. The ML and NJ trees had homologous topologies. The results support the existing classification of the genera of Geoemydidae, that C. dentata was a sister species of C. atripons, Pyxidea nested in Cuora, and Chinemys was synonymous with Mauremys.

Thiophene-fused bowl-shaped polycyclic aromatics with a dibenzo[a,g]corannulene core for organic field-effect transistors

Electron-rich thiophene units were fused into the skeleton of corannulene to extend π-surfaces and tune arrangement in a single crystal.

Corannulene derivatives with low LUMO levels and dense convex–concave packing for n-channel organic field-effect transistors

N-channel OFETs in air based on corannulenes through lowering their LUMO levels and packing the molecules densely in single crystals were achieved.

Influence on intestinal mucous permeation of paclitaxel of absorption enhancers and dosage forms based on electron spin resonance spectroscopy

The aim of this paper is to investigate the permeation mechanism of the hydrophobic drug, paclitaxel in intestinal membranes of mice in relation to enhancers and preparation factors. The alteration fluidity of lipid and protein in mucous membrane were determined using electron spin resonance (ESR) when the membrane was treated with several enhancers including Pluronic F68, polyethylene glycol (PEG), Brij78 and lecithin. At the same time, the enhanced permeation of paclitaxel across the intestinal intercellular membrane of stratum corneum was studied for three formulations: inclusion complex, microemulsion and injection. The results showed that use of paclitaxel-hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin inclusion complexation and of paclitaxel microemulsion as vehicle and PEG 1500 as enhancer could significantly increase the permeation kinetics of paclitaxel in a fluid diffusion study. The effect on absorption characteristics of enhancing permeation of this hydrophobic drug in the intestinal mucosa was considered in the light of the change in membrane fluid.

Human catalytic antibodies with glutathione peroxidase activity

In order to generate catalytic antibodies with glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity, we prepared GSH-S-DNP butyl ester and GSH-S-DNP benzyl ester as the haptens. Two ScFvs that bound specifically to the haptens were selected from the human phage-displayed antibody library. The two ScFv genes were highly homologous, consisting of 786 bps and belonging to the same VH family-DP25. In the premise of maintaining the amino acid sequence, mutated plasmids were constructed by use of the mutated primers in PCR, and they were over-expressed in E. coli. After the active site serine was converted into selenocysteine with the chemical modifying method, we obtained two human catalytic antibodies with GPx activity of 72.2U/micromol and 28.8U/micromol, respectively. With the aid of computer mimicking, it can be assumed that the antibodies can form dimers and the mutated selenocysteine residue is located in the binding site. Furthermore, the same Ping-Pong mechanism as the natural GPx was observed when the kinetic behavior of the antibody with the higher activity was studied.

[A three-domain antibody fragment VH/L specific to tumor blood vessels]

AA98 is a specificaally anti-angiogenic antibody generated in our lab. The heavy chain variable region (VH) attached with mutagenized 36 nucleotides sequence derived from the heavy chain constant region1 (CH1) was amplified VH and light chain (L) were inserted into high-level expression vector pET21a successively, thus pET21a-VH/L was constructed. VH/L was expressed in E. coli BL21 (DE3) after induction with IPTG. The expression of VH/L was 20% of the total bacterial proteins. The refolding of VH/L was conducted by dilution and gel filtration chromatography. The refolded VH/L could bind to HUVEC specifically. Its affinity to the antigen is similar to that of recombinant AA98Fab, but lower than that of the parent antibody AA98.

Thrombopoietin and chemokine mRNA expression in patient post-chemotherapy and in vitro cytokine-treated marrow stromal cell layers

CD34(+) cells and megakaryocyte progenitors were lower in marrow from patients after hematological recovery from the first cycle of 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin, adriamycin, cyclophosphamide (FLAC) chemotherapy plus PIXY321 (GM-CSF/interleukin 3; IL-3 hybrid) than in FLAC + GM-CSF or pre-FLAC marrows. Marrow stromal layers, an in vitro model of the marrow microenvironment, express a combination of stimulatory and inhibitory factors that modulate hematopoietic progenitor cell proliferation and differentiation. The TaqMan assay and quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction were used to measure monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), melanoma stimulatory growth activity, and monokine inducible by interferon-gamma (Mig) (inhibitory chemokines for primitive or megakaryocyte progenitors) mRNA levels in in vitro PIXY and GM-CSF-treated and patient post-FLAC marrow stromal layers. Chemokine mRNA was increased after in vitro GM-CSF and to a lesser extent after PIXY treatment. MCP-1 mRNA levels were fivefold higher in FLAC + PIXY than in FLAC + GM-CSF layers, and Mig mRNA was elevated in FLAC + GM-CSF layers. Thrombopoietin (TPO), insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), and IGF-II (stimulatory factors for primitive and megakaryocyte progenitors) mRNA were also measured. TPO mRNA levels were 30% lower in GM-CSF and PIXY-pretreated than in control layers with no decrease in IGF mRNA. TPO mRNA in stromal layers of patients who developed grade 3 thrombocytopenia (platelets < 20 x 10(9)/l) during the third cycle of FLAC was only 24% of levels in stromal layers of marrow from other post-FLAC patients. Results demonstrate that patient and in vitro treatment had modulatory effects on TPO and chemokine mRNA expression in marrow stromal layers.

[High-level expression of human vascular endothelial growth factor in Pichia pastoris]

The gene of VEGF165 was subcloned into the P. pastoris secretive expression vector pHIL-S1 and the recombinant expression plasmid pHIL-S1-VEGF165 was constructed. After transformation into yeast GS115, the positive transformants were obtained through phenotype selection and DNA Dot blotting. After induction by methanol, soluble dimer VEGF165 were expressed and secreted into the culture supernatant with its expression occupying 47% of the total protein in the supernatant. Dot blot analysis showed that the expressed human VEGF165 could bind to its receptors flt-1 and KDR.

[Study on Chinese herb incense to disinfect wards' air]

The purpose of this study was to find out a proper way to do the air sterilization in the wards. In this study, Chinese herb-burn-incense was used to different wards. Its effect was compared with routine air sterilization methods such as ultraviolet radiator, formaldehyde, and lactiacid method. The bacterial culture of the air was done. The result indicated that Chinese herb-burn-incense not only had the same effect as routine methods in air sterilization but also had no irritation to the patients.