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Abstract Background HIV/AIDS has emerged as a nationwide epidemic and has taken the forefront position as the primary infectious killer of adults in China. The control and prevention of the disease have been hampered by a weak link in the form of heterosexual transmission. However, conventional intervention measures have demonstrated suboptimal efficacy in reducing the incidence of new HIV infections. In light of the current epidemiological characteristics, we have developed and executed an innovative intervention model known as the Joint Prevention and Control Mechanism of the ‘CDC-Public Security Bureau-NGO’. The purpose of this research is to assess the impact of this model on the AIDS awareness, HIV infection rates, sexual behavior, and associated factors among female sex workers and elderly clients. Through the provision of robust evidence of the efficacy of this innovative model, we seek to advocate for its implementation in future interventions. Methods The research design of this study incorporates both a serial cross-sectional study and time-series analysis from 2014 to 2021, including a 4-year traditional intervention (2014–2017) and the 4-year ‘CDC-Public Security Bureau-NGO’ innovative intervention (2018–2021), was conducted to evaluate the effects of the new intervention. The GM(1, 1) model was performed to predict the proportion of HIV infection without implementing the innovative intervention in 2018–2021; P and C values were used to evaluate the performance of the model. Mann-Kendall test and descriptive methods were used to analyzed the trend of traditional and innovative interventions models on HIV positive detection rate in FSWs and elderly clients. Results The condom usage rates during the last commercial sexual encounter for FSWs and elderly clients improved from 74.9% and 9.1%, respectively, to 96.9% and 28.1%. (P

AIM: To investigate the long-term changes of corneal densitometry (CD) and its contributing elements after small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE). METHODS: Totally 31 eyes of 31 patients with mean spherical equivalent of -6.46±1.50 D and mean age 28.23±7.38y were enrolled. Full-scale examinations were conducted on all patients preoperatively and during follow-up. Visual acuity, manifest refraction, axial length, corneal thickness, corneal higher-order aberrations, and CD were evaluated. RESULTS: All surgeries were completed successfully without complications or adverse events. Ten-year safety index was 1.17±0.20 and efficacy 1.04±0.28. CD value of 0–6 mm zones in central layer was statistically significantly lower 10y postoperatively, compared with preoperative values (0–2 mmΔ=-1.62, 2–6 mmΔ=-1.24, P

The adult, pupa and larva of a new species, Gnaptorina (Gnaptorina) lhorongica Li, sp. nov., from northeastern Xizang, China are described and illustrated. The species was identified using molecular phylogenetic analyses based on three mitochondrial fragments and one nuclear gene fragment (COI, Cytb, 16S, and 28S-D2). The taxonomic status of the new species is confirmed using a combination of molecular and morphological datasets. This study provides valuable molecular and morphological data for phylogenetic studies of the tribe Blaptini.

Abstract Background N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation has become an active research area in viral infection, while little bibliometric analysis has been performed. In this study, we aim to visualize hotspots and trends using bibliometric analysis to provide a comprehensive and objective overview of the current research dynamics in this field. Methods The data related to m6A methylation in viral infection were obtained through the Web of Science Core Collection form 2000 to 2022. To reduce bias, the literature search was conducted on December 1, 2022. Bibliometric and visual analyzes were performed using CiteSpace and Bibliometrix package. After screening, 319 qualified records were retrieved. Results These publications mainly came from 28 countries led by China and the United States (the US), with the US ranking highest in terms of total link strength.The most common keywords were m6A, COVID-19, epitranscriptomics, METTL3, hepatitis B virus, innate immunity and human immunodeficiency virus 1. The thematic map showed that METTL3, plant viruses, cancer progression and type I interferon (IFN-I) reflected a good development trend and might become a research hotspot in the future, while post-transcriptional modification, as an emerging or declining theme, might not develop well. Conclusions In conclusion, m6A methylation in viral infection is an increasingly important topic in articles. METTL3, plant viruses, cancer progression and IFN-I may still be research hotspots and trends in the future.

With the deep involvement of Chinese oil enterprises in global oil production and the breaking of the integrated management mode of production, transportation and marketing for Chinese oil and gas companies, it's necessary to have a more comprehensive and systematic understanding of crude oil custody measurement. Herein, the five major standard systems of crude oil custody measurement worldwide were sorted out. Comprehensive analysis was conducted for the application of crude oil custody measurement standards in different regions of the world, their interrelationship, and the development of relevant Chinese standards in the oil and gas field. The overall management level concerning the selection of main parameters of custody measurement, the accuracy of relevant instrument and equipment, and their calibration and verification, were analyzed systematically by comparing the requirements of different standard systems in terms of the base condition, oil measurement system, oil test and the calibration of measuring equipment. In addition, four measurement design schemes were summarized by analyzing the design schemes for custody measurement of multiple in-service crude oil pipelines by classification. Further, the quality bank of crude oil was included in the design schemes to improve the measurement management level. Generally, the research results could provide a useful reference for the promotion of relevant oil and gas standards in the emerging region and the design of various custody measurement schemes.

Abstract Objective To investigate the dynamic changes during follow-up computed tomography (CT), histological subtypes, gene mutation status, and surgical prognosis for different morphological presentations of solitary lung adenocarcinomas (SLADC). Materials and methods This retrospective study compared dynamic tumor changes and volume doubling time (VDT) in 228 patients with SLADC (morphological types I–IV) who had intermittent growth during follow-ups. The correlation between the morphological classification and histological subtypes, gene mutation status, and surgical prognosis was evaluated. Results Among the 228 patients, 66 (28.9%) were classified as type I, 123 (53.9%) as type II, 16 (7%) as type III, and 23 (10.1%) as type IV. Type I had the shortest VDT (254 days), followed by types IV (381 days) and III (501 days), and then type II (993 days) (p

The inactivated COVID-19 vaccine has demonstrated high efficacy in the general population through extensive clinical and real-world studies. However, its effectiveness in immunocompromised individuals, particularly those living with HIV (PLWH), remains limited. In this study, 20 PLWH and 15 HIV-seronegative individuals were recruited to evaluate the immunogenicity of an inactivated COVID-19 vaccine in PLWH through a prospective cohort study. The median age of the 20 PLWH and 15 HIV-seronegative individuals was 42 years and 31 years, respectively. Of the PLWH, nine had been on ART for over five years. The median anti-SARS-CoV-2 S-RBD IgG antibody level on d224 was higher than that on d42 (8188.7 ng/mL vs. 3200.9 ng/mL, P < 0.05). Following COVID-19 infection, the antibody level increased to 29,872.5 ng/mL on dre+90, 12.19 times higher than that on d300. Compared with HIV-seronegative individuals, the antibody level in PLWH was lower on d210 (183.3 ng/mL vs. 509.3 ng/mL, P < 0.01), while there was no difference after d224. The symptoms of COVID-19 infection in PLWH were comparable to those in HIV-seronegative individuals. In this study, the inactivated COVID-19 vaccine demonstrated good immunogenicity in PLWH. The protective benefit of booster vaccinations for PLWH cannot be ignored. Implementing a booster vaccination policy for PLWH is an effective approach to providing better protection against the COVID-19 pandemic.

This paper presents a simplified elastic continuum method for calculating the restraint effect of isolation piles on tunneling-induced vertical ground displacement, which can consider not only the relative sliding of the pile‒soil interface but also the pile row–soil interaction. The proposed method is verified by comparisons with existing theoretical methods, including the boundary element method and the elastic foundation method. The results reveal the restraining mechanism of the isolation piles on vertical ground displacements due to tunneling, i.e. the positive and negative restraint effects exerted by the isolation piles jointly drive the ground vertical displacement along the depth direction from the original tunneling-induced nonlinear variation situation to a relatively uniform situation. The results also indicate that the stiffness of the pile‒soil interface, including the pile shaft‒surrounding soil interface and pile tip-supporting soil interface, describes the strength of the pile‒soil interaction. The pile rows can confine the vertical ground displacement caused by the tunnel excavation to the inner side of the isolation piles and effectively prevent the vertical ground displacement from expanding further toward the outer side of the isolation piles.

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a chronic joint bone disease characterized by inflammatory destruction and hyperplasia of bone. Its main clinical symptoms are joint mobility difficulties and pain, severe cases can lead to limb paralysis, which poses major pressure to the quality of life and mental health of patients, but also brings serious economic burden to society. The occurrence and development of KOA is influenced by many factors, including systemic factors and local factors. The joint biomechanical changes caused by aging, trauma and obesity, abnormal bone metabolism caused by metabolic syndrome, the effects of cytokines and related enzymes, genetic and biochemical abnormalities caused by plasma adiponectin, etc. all directly or indirectly lead to the occurrence of KOA. However, there is little literature that systematically and comprehensively integrates macro‐ and microscopic KOA pathogenesis. Therefore, it is necessary to comprehensively and systematically summarize the pathogenesis of KOA in order to provide a better theoretical basis for clinical treatment.

This research explores the potential for the evaluation and prediction of earth pressure balance shield performance based on a gray system model. The research focuses on a shield tunnel excavated for Metro Line 2 in Dalian, China. Due to the large error between the initial geological exploration data and real strata, the project construction is extremely difficult. In view of the current situation regarding the project, a quantitative method for evaluating the tunneling efficiency was proposed using cutterhead rotation (R), advance speed (S), total thrust (F) and torque (T). A total of 80 datasets with three input parameters and one output variable (F or T) were collected from this project, and a prediction framework based gray system model was established. Based on the prediction model, five prediction schemes were set up. Through error analysis, the optimal prediction scheme was obtained from the five schemes. The parametric investigation performed indicates that the relationships between F and the three input variables in the gray system model harmonize with the theoretical explanation. The case shows that the shield tunneling performance and efficiency are improved by the tunneling parameter prediction model based on the gray system model.

Introduction Dry eye (DE) is a multifactorial ocular surface disease causing considerable medical, social and financial implications. Currently, there is no recognised long-term, effective treatment to alleviate DE. Clinical evidence shows that electroacupuncture (EA) can improve DE symptoms, tear secretion and tear film stability, but it remains controversial whether it is just a placebo effect. We aim to provide solid clinical evidence for the EA treatment of DE.Methods and analysis This is a multicentre, randomised, sham-controlled trial. A total of 168 patients with DE will be enrolled and randomly assigned to EA or sham EA groups to receive 4-week consecutive treatments and follow-up for 24 weeks. The primary outcome is the change in the non-invasive tear break-up time (NIBUT) from baseline to week 4. The secondary outcomes include tear meniscus height, the Schirmer I test, corneal and conjunctival sensation, the ocular surface disease index, corneal fluorescein staining, the numerical rating scale and the Chinese DE-related quality of life scale.Ethics and dissemination The trial protocol and informed consent were approved by the Ethics Committee of Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (identifier: 2021–119), Shanghai Eye Disease Prevention and Treatment Center (identifier: 2022SQ003) and Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University (identifier: 2022014).Trial registration number NCT05552820.

Abstract Background Although elevated homocysteine levels have been shown to affect penile erection, the relationship between homocysteine and erection at the tip or base of the penis has not been extensively studied. Results We found that homocysteine levels were negatively correlated with the average event rigidity of the base (r = -0.2225, p = 0.0142). Homocysteine levels were also negatively correlated with the average maximum rigidity of the base (r = -0.2164, p = 0.0171). In particular, homocysteine levels were negatively correlated with ∆ Tumescence of the tip (r = -0.1866, p = 0.0404). Similarly, homocysteine was negatively correlated with ∆ Tumescence of the base (r = -0.2257, p = 0.0128). Conclusion Our data showed that homocysteine inhibits penile erection. At the same time, homocysteine levels were negatively correlated with the parameters of the AVSS-RigiScan test.

Keratoconus is a chronic, non-inflammatory corneal disease, characterized by thinning of the corneal stroma and local corneal dilation with cone-shaped protrusion, and it usually leads to irregular astigmatism and myopia, posing great threat to eyesight. Corneal topography is the primary diagnostic tool for confirming keratoconus, while optical coherence tomography is now playing an increasingly important role in the diagnosis and treatment of keratoconus due to its ability of corneal sublayer imaging and superiority in repeatability, resolution, and data acquisition speed. This article discusses and reviews the clinical characteristics of keratoconus, the classification and characteristics of optical coherence tomography and its novel applications in the early diagnosis of keratoconus, contact lens fitting, corneal cross-linking therapy, and corneal transplantation; furthermore, progress in derivative technologies including optical coherence elastography, optical coherence tomography angiography, and polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography associated with keratoconus is included in this article. We hope our study will help to further exploit the role of optical coherence technology in clinical keratoconus management.

Abstract Background Airway management of patients with direct airway trauma caused by penetrating neck injuries is always challenging. When a failed airway occurs and surgery access is difficult, it is crucial to find the optimal approach to save the life. We propose the concept “Cannot intubate, Cannot oxygenate, Difficult surgery access” to describe this emergency scenario. Case presentation We report a case of a 24-year-old woman who presented with partial tracheal rupture and pneumothorax caused by a knife stab injury to the neck. A "double setup" strategy, simultaneous preparation for orotracheal intubation and tracheotomy, was carried out before rapid sequence induction. A tracheotomy under local anesthesia or an awake intubation was not preferred in consideration that the patient had a high risk of being uncooperative owing to existing mental disease and potential smothering sensation during operation. During rapid sequence intubation, distal part of the tube penetrates the tear and creates a false lumen outside the trachea then a failed airway subsequently occurred. Rescue tracheotomy was successfully performed by an otolaryngology surgeon, with the help of limited ventilation using sequential bag–mask and laryngeal mask airway ventilation provided by an anesthesiologist, without severe sequelae. Conclusions The endotracheal tube have a risk of penetrating the tear outside the trachea in patient with partial tracheal rupture during orotracheal intubation, and once it occurs, proceeding directly to an emergency invasive airway access with optimizing oxygenation throughout procedure might increase the chance of success in rescuing the airway.

AIM: To investigate the one-year refractive outcomes and optical quality following PRESBYOND laser-blended vision (LBV). METHODS: This retrospective study included 20 patients who underwent PRESBYOND treatment between Jan 2019 and Aug 2020. The patients were asked to attend a follow-up outpatient visit one year after surgery. Distance and near visual acuity as well as subjective refraction were examined. Optical quality was assessed using wavefront-supported custom ablation. A questionnaire evaluating optical quality and satisfaction was completed at the last visit. RESULTS: The average patient age was 48.1±7.4y (range, 41 to 58y). The mean preoperative spherical equivalent was -7.59±2.39 D. At the one-year follow-up, two eyes (both dominant eyes) lost one line of corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), while the remaining eyes (38/40) maintained or gained lines of CDVA. The average binocular uncorrected distance visual acuity improved from 0.15±0.03 to 0.90±0.26 (decimal vision; P

Objectives A posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) avulsion fracture of the tibial attachment site is a specific type of PCL injury that is difficult and unpleasant to manage. The objective of this study is to report the preliminary results of a newly developed technique: arthroscopic endobutton‐suture fixation using a single tibial tunnel. Methods From January 2016 to January 2018, 120 patients with PCL avulsion fracture who met our criteria were recruited. Sixty cases were treated by arthroscopic direct anterior‐to‐posterior suture suspension fixation (endobutton‐suture group), and 60 cases were treated by arthroscopic screw‐suture fixation (screw‐suture group). All radiographic studies were recorded. The curative effect was evaluated by the range of motion (ROM), KT‐2000, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores, Tegner activity scale, and Lysholm scoring system. For statistical analysis the Student t‐test was used. Results The average follow‐up duration was 24 months. Findings and difficulties in surgery are the following. The lax anterior cruciate ligament is one of the diagnostic criteria. The anatomic location of PCL avulsion fractures is deep and surrounded by nerves and vessels; thus, operating through this region is difficult. After each tunnel drilling, the debris at the edge of opening needs to be cleaned to avoid obscuring the operator's vision or wearing the sutures. In endobutton‐suture group, ROM improved from 0° preoperatively to 140.0° ± 5.6° at the last follow‐up (P

AIM: To investigate the histological characteristics and ultrastructure of recurrent Chinese R124L mutated corneal dystrophy after keratoplasty. METHODS: The subjects were enrolled from a Chinese family of corneal dystrophy with R124L heterozygous gene mutation and with a history of consanguineous marriage. Normal corneal samples were used as controls. RESULTS: In this family, 2 patients (3 eyes) underwent penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) and 2 patients (4 eyes) underwent lamellar keratoplasty (LKP). They had recurrence at 33.5±3.0 (range 30-36)mo after keratoplasty. Among them, 1 patient (1 eye) underwent PKP again and 1 patient (2 eyes) underwent LKP again. In the R124L mutated recurrent corneal dystrophy, the corneal turbidity was mainly distributed from the upper corneal cortex to the anterior stroma; the corneal epithelium surface was rougher and more uneven; and, the corneal erosions were larger. Hematoxylin-eosin staining showed that the thickness of the corneal epithelium was uneven; the arrangement of the epithelial cells was disordered; and, some corneal epithelial cells were swollen. The results of Congo red staining, Masson's trichrome staining and Periodic acid-Schiff staining were positive, while that of Alcian blue staining was negative. Under a transmission electron microscope, deposition of high electron density substances between epithelial and basal cells, and, apoptosis of basal cells were observed. Many high electron density depositions were observed in the sub-epithelial and anterior corneal matrix. CONCLUSION: In the Chinese family of recurrent corneal dystrophy with R124L gene mutation, the corneal epithelia of the recurrent cases are rougher, and the corneal depositions are extracellular amyloid fibrin.

Abstract Background Only few studies have focused on differentiating focal pneumonia-like lung cancer (F-PLC) from focal pulmonary inflammatory lesion (F-PIL). This exploratory study aimed to evaluate the clinical value of a combined model incorporating computed tomography (CT)-based radiomics signatures, clinical factors, and CT morphological features for distinguishing F-PLC and F-PIL. Methods In total, 396 patients pathologically diagnosed with F-PLC and F-PIL from two medical institutions between January 2015 and May 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients from center 1 were included in the training (n = 242) and internal validation (n = 104) cohorts. Moreover, patients from center 2 were classified under the external validation cohort (n = 50). The clinical and CT morphological characteristics of both groups were compared first. And then, a clinical model incorporating clinical and CT morphological features, a radiomics model reflecting the radiomics signature of lung lesions, and a combined model were developed and validated, respectively. Results Age, gender, smoking history, respiratory symptoms, air bronchogram, necrosis, and pleural attachment differed significantly between the F-PLC and F-PIL groups (all P

Abstract Background In clinical practice, a number of delayed diagnoses of localized pneumonic-type lung adenocarcinoma (L-PLADC) mimicking pneumonia have been identified due to the lack of knowledge regarding the radiological findings associated with this condition. Here, we defined L-PLADC as a special type of lung adenocarcinoma that presents as a focal consolidation involving

The use of air vessels is an effective measure to control water hammers, and its volume selection has a certain blindness. This paper aims to reveal the surge wave characteristics and provide design guidelines for air vessels in long-distance water supply systems. First, the analytical formulas of water-level oscillations in the air vessel are derived based on the Krylov–Bogoliubov–Mitropolsky method. Then, an optimization model is constructed for selecting the optimal volume of the air vessels. Finally, the validation of the analytical formulas and the optimization of the model are conducted through two actual projects. The results show that the calculation error of the analytical formulas can be controlled within a very small range, and the process of selecting air vessel volume can be simplified with the provided model. In addition, increasing the air chamber height within its range can reduce the volume of air vessels with the same protection requirements. The optimization analysis results of the air vessel can provide guidance and reference for the design of actual projects. HIGHLIGHTS The analytical formulas for water-level oscillations considering pipe friction are derived.; The volume optimization model can preliminarily estimate the minimum volume of the air vessel.; Under the same protection requirements, the volume of air vessels decreases with the increase of air chamber height.;

Abstract Background Pneumonic-type lung adenocarcinoma (PLADC) with different ranges might exhibit different imaging and clinicopathological features. This study divided PLADC into localized PLADC (L-PLADC) and diffuse PLADC (D-PLADC) based on imaging and aimed to clarify the differences in clinical, imaging, and pathologic characteristics between the two new subtypes. Results The data of 131 patients with L-PLADC and 117 patients with D-PLADC who were pathologically confirmed and underwent chest computed tomography (CT) at our institute from December 2014 to December 2020 were retrospectively collected. Patients with L-PLADC were predominantly female, non-smokers, and without respiratory symptoms and elevated white blood cell count and C-reactive protein level, whereas those with D-PLADC were predominantly male, smokers, and had respiratory symptoms and elevated white blood cell count and C-reactive protein level (all p

Urethral Hemangioma is a rare disease in urology. In one male patient with post-ejaculatory hematuria, a series of ancillary tests performed before surgery did not reveal the cause of the hematuria. It was found to be posterior urethral cavernous hemangiomas on intraoperative microscopy and was operated on endoscopically to relieve symptoms. Therefore, Hematuria after ejaculation may be a posterior urethral cavernous hemangioma bleeding and requires the attention of a urologist.

AIM: To investigate the safety and efficacy of using a one-step viscoelastic agent technique for posterior chamber phakic implantable collamer lens with a central hole (ICL V4c) implantation for myopia correction. METHODS: The one-step viscoelastic agent technique for ICL V4c implantation was used in 100 eyes of 52 patients. Refractive outcomes, intraocular pressure (IOP), corneal endothelial cell, and corneal densitometry values were evaluated at 1d, 1wk, 1 and 3mo postoperatively. RESULTS: All the surgeries were uneventful. No corrected distance visual acuity was lost after 3mo. IOP was 16.12±3.18 mm Hg before surgery, and 14.74±3.08 mm Hg at 1d and 14.50±2.56 mm Hg at 3mo after surgery (P0.05). The corneal densitometry values of the central 2 mm and 2 to 6 mm areas showed similar regularities. After surgery, the values significantly increased at 1d, then decreased to the preoperative values at 1wk, and then continued to decrease at 3mo (P

Compared with bladder urothelial cell carcinoma, the incidence of bladder undifferentiated sarcoma and bladder sarcomatoid carcinoma is low, and the number of cases is rare. The lack of studies with larger samples has led to insufficient understanding of these diseases. It is even rarer to report that these two types of diseases occur simultaneously in the bladder of a patient. Radical cystectomy does not seem to delay the recurrence and metastasis of the tumor. Whether adjuvant chemoradiotherapy is needed in a timely manner and the timing of the corresponding treatment need to be further studied.

Abstract Background Nowadays, because of the increasing incidence, the prevention and control of myopia has become an urgent issue. In China, auricular acupressure has been commonly used in the clinical treatment of myopia in children, but the exact effectiveness remains unproven. The purpose of this trial is to observe the efficacy of auricular acupressure in myopia prevention and control, as well as its effect on the choroidal and retinal thickness. Method/design A total of 480 subjects at 8–9 years old will be randomized in a 1:1 ratio to an intervention group versus a control group. The intervention group will receive auricular acupressure for 12 months, while the control group will be taken as a blank control. The primary and secondary outcomes will be measured at baseline, and again at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after recruitment. The myopia incidence (spherical equivalent ≤ − 0.50 D) and the mean change of spherical equivalent will be taken as the primary variables; the secondary outcome measures include axial length, uncorrected visual acuity, and choroidal and retinal thickness. Discussion This trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of auricular acupressure for myopia prevention and control with objective evidence and to preliminarily explore the plausible mechanism and provide reference for adopting this approach to retard the onset and control the progression of myopia. Trial registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2000038456 . Registered on September 23, 2020.

Abstract Background Necrotic pulmonary lesions manifest as relatively low-density internally on contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT). However, using CT to differentiate malignant and benign necrotic pulmonary lesions is challenging, as these lesions have similar peripheral enhancement. With the introduction of dual-energy spectral CT (DESCT), more quantitative parameters can be obtained and the ability to differentiate material compositions has been highly promoted. This study investigated the use of kVp-switching DESCT in differentiating malignant from benign necrotic lung lesions. Methods From October 2016 to February 2019, 40 patients with necrotic lung cancer (NLC) and 31 with necrotic pulmonary mass-like inflammatory lesion (NPMIL) were enrolled and underwent DESCT. The clinical characteristics of patients, CT morphological features, and DESCT quantitative parameters of lesions were compared between the two groups. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the independent prognostic factors differentiating NPMIL from NLC. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to assess the diagnostic performance of single-parameter and multiparametric analyses. Results Significant differences in age, C-reactive protein concentration, the slope of the spectral curve from 40 to 65 keV (K40–65 keV) of necrosis in non-contrast-enhanced scanning (NCS), arterial phase (AP) and venous phase (VP), effective atomic number of necrosis in NCS, and iodine concentration (IC) of the solid component in VP were observed between groups (all p

ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate a convolution neural network algorithm for breast lesion detection with multi-center ABUS image data developed based on ABUS image and Yolo v5.MethodsA total of 741 cases with 2,538 volume data of ABUS examinations were analyzed, which were recruited from 7 hospitals between October 2016 and December 2020. A total of 452 volume data of 413 cases were used as internal validation data, and 2,086 volume data from 328 cases were used as external validation data. There were 1,178 breast lesions in 413 patients (161 malignant and 1,017 benign) and 1,936 lesions in 328 patients (57 malignant and 1,879 benign). The efficiency and accuracy of the algorithm were analyzed in detecting lesions with different allowable false positive values and lesion sizes, and the differences were compared and analyzed, which included the various indicators in internal validation and external validation data.ResultsThe study found that the algorithm had high sensitivity for all categories of lesions, even when using internal or external validation data. The overall detection rate of the algorithm was as high as 78.1 and 71.2% in the internal and external validation sets, respectively. The algorithm could detect more lesions with increasing nodule size (87.4% in ≥10 mm lesions but less than 50% in

Abstract Background The objective of the study was to validate biomechanical characteristics of a 3D-printed, novel-designated fixation plate for treating mandibular angle fracture, and compare it with two commonly used fixation plates by finite element (FE) simulations and experimental testing. Methods A 3D virtual mandible was created from a patient’s CT images as the master model. A custom-designed plate and two commonly used fixation plates were reconstructed onto the master model for FE simulations. Modeling of angle fracture, simulation of muscles of mastication, and defining of boundary conditions were integrated into the theoretical model. Strain levels during different loading conditions were analyzed using a finite element method (FEM). For mechanical test design, samples of the virtual mandible with angle fracture and the custom-designed fixation plates were printed using selective laser sintering (SLS) and selective laser melting (SLM) printing methods. Experimental data were collected from a testing platform with attached strain gauges to the mandible and the plates at different 10 locations during mechanical tests. Simulation of muscle forces and temporomandibular joint conditions were built into the physical models to improve the accuracy of clinical conditions. The experimental vs the theoretical data collected at the 10 locations were compared, and the correlation coefficient was calculated. Results The results show that use of the novel-designated fixation plate has significant mechanical advantages compared to the two commonly used fixation plates. The results of measured strains at each location show a very high correlation between the physical model and the virtual mandible of their biomechanical behaviors under simulated occlusal loading conditions when treating angle fracture of the mandible. Conclusions Based on the results from our study, we validate the accuracy of our computational model which allows us to use it for future clinical applications under more sophisticated biomechanical simulations and testing.

BACKGROUND Strategic critical metal mineral resources including rare, dispersed, rare earth and platinum group elements play an increasingly critical role in emerging industries such as new materials, new energy and information technology. With the deepening of the geological survey of key mineral resources in China, the critical metal elements present new challenges to analytical techniques due to their complex matrix, large differences in different mineral contents, and unstable chemical properties. OBJECTIVES To introduce recent analytical techniques and applications for critical metal elements in different types of geological samples. METHODS Based on different chemical composition, the main matrices of critical metal elements were classified, mainly divided into silicate, carbonate, sulfate, tungstate, phosphate, oxide, sulfide and halide. For different types of rocks and minerals, chemical digestion was largely carried out by traditional dissolution methods such as the acid dissolution method (nitric acid-hydrofluoric acid combination, aqua regia) or alkali fusion methods. RESULTS The characteristics and application of commonly used instruments including electronic probe microanalyzer, inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy, and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy were reviewed. The problems during critical metal analysis including incomplete dissolution, low recovery, oxides and isobaric interference, inconsistency between samples and standard matrices were reviewed and corresponding solutions were proposed. CONCLUSIONS In situ microanalysis with the advantages of high efficiency, low cost, and high spatial resolution, and field on-site geoanalysis with its simple, fast and close to field work features are the main trends in the development of critical metal elements analytical techniques.

AIM: To assess objective visual quality after presbyopia correction using the PresbyMAX monocular mode. METHODS: This prospective, nonrandomized study included 28 eyes from 18 patients (mean age 50.4±5.6y) who underwent presbyopia correction with the PresbyMAX monocular mode. Monocular and binocular visual acuities were evaluated preoperatively, 1d, 1wk, 1, 3mo, and 1y after surgery. Optical quality was analyzed by Hartmann-Shack wavefront aberration supported cornea ablation. Modulation transfer function (MTF) cutoff frequency, Strehl ratio, and objective scattering index (OSI) were analyzed using an optical quality analysis system. RESULTS: One year after surgery, 100% and 94.4% of patients achieved binocular uncorrected distance and near visual acuity of 20/25, respectively. At the last visit Spherical aberration and total higher aberration were higher than the corresponding preoperative levels (P

Background: The role of Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remains to be elucidated. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of EBV in the blood and intestinal mucosa of patients with IBD and evaluate the association between EBV positivity and IBD. Methods: Patients with IBD, hospitalized between January 2015 and April 2018, were enrolled. The EBV-DNA load in blood samples from each subject was analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. EBV-encoded small-RNA 1 (EBER-1) was detected by in-situ hybridization in intestinal mucosa tissue sections of patients with IBD. Result: EBV-DNA was detected in 48 out of 568 patients with IBD (8.4%), and EBER-1 positivity was detected in 27 of these patients (56.3%). Refractory IBD and severe mucosal inflammation were more common in patients with detectable levels of EBER-1 than in those without; the number of EBER-1-positive cells positively correlated with mucosal inflammation (P value < 0.05). Age (≥60 years old) and use of azathioprine were risk factors for EBV infection. There was no significant difference in clinical remission rate and surgical rate between the EBER-1 positive group and EBER-1 negative group, antiviral group and the non-antiviral group, among IBD patients who tested positive for EBV-DNA. Conclusion: Elderly patients with IBD, treated with azathioprine, are more susceptible to EBV positivity. Further, EBV mucosal detection correlated with the severity of mucosal damage and refractoriness, but not prognosis.

In this article, we study quantization of super-BMS3 algebra W. We quantize W by the Drinfel’d twist quantization technique and obtain a class of noncommutative and noncocommutative Hopf superalgebras.

Cigarette seriously affects human health, and electronic cigarette (e-cigarette), considered as cigarette substitutes, become popular as its contribution to quit smoking. But scientific evidence about the absolute safety of e-cigarette is insufficient. Previous studies also have indicated that different dosages of cigarette can lead to different biological effects. Thus, the impact of cigarette at toxicological dose such as IC50 compared with that of e-cigarette are highly needed. In this study, we investigated the effects of cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) at toxicological dose compared with e-cigarette smoke condensate (ECSC) in equivalent nicotine level. Nicotine content of CSC and ECSC were determined by UPLC. Human lung epithelial cells (BEAS-2B) were exposed to 0–32 μg/ml of CSC and ECSC for 24 h to determine IC50 of cell viability and morphological assessment. Inflammation, apoptosis, cell cycle analysis and RNA-Seq transcriptome analysis were performed to characterize the differences between CSC and ECSC. We found that acute exposure of BEAS-2B cells to CSC at IC50 leaded to morphological change, inflammatory cytokines production and cell apoptosis, while ECSC did not exert such cell effects in equivalent nicotine level. The transcriptome analysis showed that differentially expressed genes in CSC were far more than that in ECSC, and mainly enriched in the category of cell cycle, DNA repair, cancer, and metabolic related pathways. Such cell cycle arrest was further experimentally confirmed. These results suggested that toxicological dose of ECSC might be much higher than that of CSC. Based on equivalent nicotine content, an acute exposure to CSC had significant impacts on cell effects and gene expression profile compared to ECSC. Our results provided a reference for the safety studies of conventional cigarette and e-cigarette.

In this study, UiO-66 was selected as sorbent media packed in the tube to selectively enrich trace levels of benzene homologues such as benzene, toluene, and xylene (BTX) in ambient air prior to thermal desorption (TD)-GC-MS determination. A series of experiments were conducted to obtain the optimal TD conditions. The results indicated that the optimal TD parameters were as follows: desorption temperature of 180°C, desorption flow rate of 50 mL min−1, and desorption time of 30 min. Furthermore, the method based on UiO-66 enrichment integrated with TD-GC-MS for trace levels of BTX was successfully developed. It exhibited a good linearity (R2 > 0.99) in the range of 50–1000 ng, except for p, m-xylene in the range of 100–2000 ng, and achieved the recovery of 69.4–101.3%, and the relative standard deviation of 3.8–6.4%. The detection limits of BTX were 1.6–4.0 ng; according to 10 L of sampling volume, the method detection limits would be in the range of 0.16–0.40 µg m−3. Additionally, the method was successfully applied to determine BTX in indoor air and showed good selectivity and sensitivity. In summary, the findings in this work revealed that UiO-66 was an attractive adsorbent for selective enrichment trace levels of BTX compounds in ambient air, which was favorable for the subsequent detection by TD-GC-MS.

Background. Use of 0.01% atropine eye drops (0.01% A) is one of the most common treatments for myopia control for children in Asia. Auricular acupoint stimulation (AAS) was reported to enhance the effect of higher-concentration atropine (0.25%, 0.125%) on myopia control. This study was designed to compare the effect of 0.01% A combined with AAS and 0.01% A alone on myopia progression and choroidal thickness in children. Methods. A total of 104 children were stratified by age and randomly assigned at 1 : 1 to receive 0.01% A or 0.01% A + AAS treatment for 6 months. Repeated measurements of cycloplegic spherical equivalent (SE) autorefraction, axial length (AL), and choroidal thickness were performed at baseline, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. Results. The adjusted mean SE change over the 6 months was −0.38 ± 0.04 D in the 0.01% A group (n = 50) and −0.25 ± 0.04 D in the 0.01% A + AAS group (n = 50), demonstrating a significant between-group difference (P = 0.02). There was no statistically significant difference in the change of AL and choroidal thickness between the two groups (both P > 0.05). Conclusions. Adjunctive AAS compared with 0.01% A monotherapy slowed myopic progression in Chinese children by a statistically small amount, but had no effect on axial elongation and choroidal thickness during this 6-month observation. The trial is registered with ChiCTR1900021316.

BACKGROUND The accurate determination of ionic phase rare earths in ion-adsorption rare earths is of great significance for the evaluation of rare earth ore bodies. Ionic phase rare earths are adsorbed on clay minerals in the form of hydroxyl or hydrated hydroxyls and can be exchanged and desorbed with strong electrolytes (Mg2+, NH4+, etc.) into solution. The former used ammonium sulfate as the leachate to achieve the desorption and extraction of rare earth ions in the ion phase, but the solution concentration, leaching process and other aspects of choice, leaching rates (60% to 90%) are different. There is no efficient and uniform leaching method conducive to the accurate determination of ionic phase rare earth elements. OBJECTIVES To establish a high-efficiency leaching process by ammonium sulfate solution and determine the accurate contents of ionic-phase rare earth elements. METHODS The leaching parameters (solid-to-liquid ratio, ammonium sulfate concentration, best sample weight, and soaking time) of rare-earth ions by ammonium sulfate were standardized through comparative experiments, which reduced the loss of ionic phase rare earth during leaching. The leaching rates were from 88% to 98%, and ICP-MS was used to accurately determine the ion phase rare earth component. RESULTS The detection limits are 0.05-5.11 ng/g, and the relative standard deviations (RSDs) are 1.80%-10.01% for volcanic rock, 1.06%-7.27% for metamorphic rock, and 1.72%-7.58% for sedimentary rock. CONCLUSIONS The analytical results of the collaborative laboratory verify the reliability and accuracy of the method. This method is easy to operate and has high analysis efficiency. It provides the base for the establishment of relevant industry standards and national standards.

Abstract Background To investigate the safety and optical quality of small-incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) combined with monovision, and patient satisfaction with the procedure. Methods The present study assessed a non-random case series involving 60 eyes of 30 patients (mean age 45.53 ± 3.20 years [range 41 to 52 years]) treated bilaterally using the VisuMax 500 system (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Jena, Germany) between January and July 2016. The target refraction was plano for the distance eye, and between − 0.5 and − 1.75 diopters (D) for the near eye. Visual acuity, refraction errors, ocular aberrations, and satisfaction questionnaire scores were calculated 1 year after surgery. Results All surgeries were uneventful, with a mean safety index of 1.03 and 1.04 in dominant and nondominant eyes, respectively. Binocular uncorrected distance visual acuity of all patients was ≥20/32, while binocular uncorrected near visual acuity was ≥20/40 1 year postoperatively. Higher-order aberration (0.45 ± 0.14, 0.51 ± 0.15 μm), spherical (0.18 ± 0.15, 0.21 ± 0.14 μm) and coma aberration (0.31 ± 0.16, 0.27 ± 0.17 μm) were identical between dominant and nondominant eyes after surgery. The overall satisfaction rate was 86.7% (26/30), with large contributions from age (OR = 1.76 95% CI: 1.03–2.53; P = 0.036). Binocular uncorrected distance visual acuity was related to preoperative spherical diopter (r = − 0.500; P = 0.005). Conclusions Monovision appears to be a safe and effective option for myopia patients with presbyopia who are considering the SMILE procedure. Patients with younger age were more satisfied with the procedure.

B4CP/PI polyimide composite films with different powder contents and thicknesses were prepared by particle surface modification and wet mixing machinery-thermal imidization method, using high temperature polyimide as matrix and micro-sized boron carbide (B4C) as thermal neutron absorption material. The thermal neutron radiation shielding property, thermal stability and mechanical property of B4CP/PI polyimide composite films were mainly discussed in this paper. It is shown that the micro-sized B4C functional particles can be well dispersed in PMDA-ODA polyimide matrix, and the thermal stability of B4CP/PI polyimide composite films are significantly improved with the increase of B4C content. However, the mechanical properties of the composite films present the opposite trend; meanwhile, the B4CP/PI polyimide composite films exhibit excellent thermal neutron radiation shielding properties, and the neutron permeability I/I0 presents exponential relationship with the increasing thickness of composite and B4C filler particle content. Therefore,through structural design of the materials,the applications requirements in different fields for materials with high temperature resistant and thermal neutron radiation shielding properties can be met.

AIM: To investigate cap morphology after small-incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) and its effects on intraocular scattering. METHODS: Sixty-five eyes of 33 patients undergoing SMILE were enrolled. In addition to regular evaluation, Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography was used to investigate cap thickness at 1d, 1wk, 1 and 3mo postoperatively. The optical quality including modulation transfer function cutoff frequency, Strehl ratio, Optical Quality Analysis System (OQAS) values, and objective scattering index (OSI), were evaluated using OQASTM. RESULTS: Cap thickness decreased from 1d to 1wk (P

AIM: To address the microstructure and biomechanical changes of the sclera of rabbits after negative lens application by spectacle frame apparatus. METHODS: Five New Zealand rabbits of seven weeks post-natal were treated with -8 D lens monocularly over the course of two weeks. Refractive errors and axial length (AXL) were measured at the 1st, 7th and 14th days of the induction period. Ultrastructure of sclera was determined with electron microscopy. Biomechanical properties were tested by an Instron 5565 universal testing machine. RESULTS: Lens-induced (LI) eyes elongated more rapidly compared with fellow eyes with AXL values of 15.56±0.14 and 15.21±0.14 mm (P

Objective(s): This paper aims to investigate synergistic inhibition of polysaccharide from Sepia esculenta ink (SIP), a newly isolated marine polysaccharide in our laboratory, on breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells exposed to cisplatin. Materials and Methods: Cell viability of MDA-MB-231 cells was determined by CCK 8 assay. Median-effect concentration was analyzed using Chou-Talalay method that was also subjected to determine cell inhibition ratio and combined index, as well as interaction between SIP and cisplatin. Proliferation and migration abilities were detected with plate colony formation assay and cell wound scratch assay, respectively. Expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 proteins was measured with Western blot assay. Results: Data showed that SIP not only suppressed proliferation and migration of MDA-MB-231 cells, and expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 proteins, also promoted inhibition of cisplatin on proliferation, migration and MMPs expression of MDA-MB-231 cells, which indicates synergy inhibition of drug combination of SIP and cisplatin on breast cancer cells. The median-effect concentrations of cisplatin and SIP were 4.9 and 1659.6 μg/ml, respectively. Whereas the concentration of combination drug was 158.5 μg/ml. The data indicated that drug combination can decrease dosages of the two single agents, especially the usual dosage of cisplatin. Conclusion: This research demonstrated that SIP repressed proliferation and metastasis of MDA-MB-231 cells and promoted anticancer effect of cisplatin on the breast cancer cells. The data suggested that SIP is a potential natural drug that can be used as an auxiliary medicine alongside chemotherapy in treating breast cancer.

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) can induce bone loss by stimulating osteoclast formation. Colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF 1R) inhibitors have great potential for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and tumor-related bone erosion. However, its role in LPS-induced bone loss is still not clarified. In this study, we observed the effects of CSF 1R inhibitor, PLX3397, on LPS-induced bone damage in an animal model. The models were established by LPS administration in male Sprague-Dawley rats. PLX3397 (30 mg/kg body weight) was given by oral gavage. MicroCT analysis, biomechanical properties, biomarker assay, histological examination, and mRNA expression of osteoclast differentiation-related genes (Traf6, Fra1, c-fos and NFATc1) were performed on the 8th week. LPS induced bone loss was shown as the decrease in bone volume fraction and trabecular number and increase in trabecular separation (p

When tunnels are constructed under difficult geotechnical conditions in urban areas, tunnel face stability is one of the main issues to be addressed. To ensure tunnel face stability and reduce the impact of tunneling on adjacent structures, a few alternative procedures of ground reinforcement should be adopted, which includes reinforcing the soil ahead of the face using longitudinal fiberglass dowels alone or together with a steel pipe umbrella. It is of great academic value and engineering signification to reasonably determine the limit reinforcement density of these ground reinforcements. In this paper, an analytical prediction model is proposed by using the limit analysis method to analyze the tunnel face stability, and the favorable effects of longitudinal fiberglass dowels and steel pipe umbrella on tunnel face stability are investigated quantitatively. The analytical prediction model consists of a wedge ahead of the tunnel face, distributed force acting on the wedge exerted by overlying ground, and the support forces stem from the longitudinal fiberglass dowels. Moreover, sensitivity analysis is conducted to study the effect of the depth of cover, the tunnel shape, the reinforcement installation interval and the reduction factor on the required limit reinforcement density.

Most of the mineral resources of lithium and potassium are distributed in remote western China. Fast, on-site analytical techniques are urgently needed for their exploration and comprehensive utilization. In this work, a newly developed portable Li-K analyzer was introduced for its analytical performance and the application of this equipment in determining lithium in spodumene is also discussed. The analyser is a type of atomic emission spectrometer based on solution cathode atmospheric glow discharge. Sample solution was used as a graphite cathode, which atomized and excited the elements Li and K. A charge coupled device (CCD) was used to detect the characteristic lines of Li and K, which had wavelengths ranging from 345 to 1015 nm with a 3 nm resolution. Using a Li analytical line of 670.78 nm and a K analytical line of 769.90 nm under the optimized working conditions, the measurement precisions for Li and K were greater than 2%RSD with the limit of detection of 0.03 μg/mL. Results show that different types and concentrations of acids strongly affect the intensities of Li and K, and co-existent elements produce serious matrix effect. Quantification of Li in spodumene ores by use of a calibration curve without matched matrix could not produce accurate results with relative standard deviation up to 267%. Standard addition methods can eliminate the influence of the matrix effect and obtain analytical results consistent with those by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry, which thus provides a basis for on-site determination of Li in solid samples.

Objective To compare the clinical effect of the zirconia inlay and gold alloy inlay in the restoration of the second class defect of molar with vital pulp.Methods 60 teeth were randomly divided into zirconia inlay group and gold alloy inlay group, with 30 teeth in each group. Evaluate the restoration effect in 2 group at 1-year follow-.Results At 1-year follow-up, according to US Public Health Service Criteria, the success rate in anatomy zirconia group was93.53%, which was statistically higher than that of the gold alloy group (P

The exploration of a new family of flexible and high-performance electromagnetic shielding materials is of great significance to the next generation of intelligent electronic products. In this paper, we report a simple magnetic-electrospinning (MES) method for the preparation of a magnetic flexible film, γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticle-embedded polymeric nanofibers. By introducing the extra magnetic field force on γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles within composite fibers, the critical voltage for spinning has been reduced, along with decreased fiber diameters. The MES fibers showed increased strength for the magnetic field alignment of the micro magnets, and the attraction between them assisted the increase in fiber strength. The MES fibers show modifications of the magnetic properties and electrical conductivity, thus leading to better electromagnetic shielding performance.

In this work, a series of phthalonitrile/hollow glass microsphere (HGM) composite foams for applications in the high temperature and flame retardant fields were prepared and characterized. First, Blends of bisphthalonitrile (CN) and alicyclic imide compounds synthesized from tetrahydrophthalic anhydride (CC) were prepared and sieved (>100 mesh), based on the Thermal Synergistic Polymerization (TSP) effect between phthalonitrile and the alicyclic imide compounds, namely, the -C≡N of the phthalonitrile compound could be completely and rapidly consumed. Then thermogravimetric analysis and rheological behaviors of different molar ratios of CC/CN blend at different temperatures were investigated. HGM were modified using a silane coupling agent (KH550) to improve the interface interaction between HGM and the resin, thereby improving the properties of composite foam. Finally, a series of composite foams were fabricated and characterized. The performance of the foam prepared by BMC method is much better than that of the foam prepared by “RTM” method. The foam (BMC) shows a density of 0.47 g/cm3 with no obvious volume change and little voids, also exhibits good thermal stability up to 400 °C and low thermal conductivity, and provides UL94 V0-rated flame retardancy with total HR of 21.5 KJ/g.