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• Proposing re-weighted symplectic geometric node network based on complex network. • The Autocorrelation kurtosis and the Γ R are defined to eliminate the interference. • The CN theory was appiled to solve the misdiagnosis in unknown fault detection. • Using five groups of datasets to analysis the proposed method in various aspects. • Comparative analysis has been performed with the relevant advanced methods. When appears unknown fault type signal, typical classifiers would misclassify this fault to other types. And when equipment works, it will be accompanied by strong background noise, resulting in low accuracy of fault diagnosis. Therefore, a detection method based on re-weighted symplectic geometric node network (RSGNN) characteristics and structure analysis is proposed for noise reduction and unknown fault detection in this paper. First, the original signal was projected into network form to eliminate the interference components and characterize the inner topological relation. Then, the complex network (CN) theory was introduced to establish enhanced diagnosis features. Finally, the unsupervised Newman Fast (NF) community clustering algorithm was utilized to realize the unknown type signal detection. On the one hand, the proposed method defines Autocorrelation kurtosis (AK) and the Γ R to help better select the useful components and to eliminate the noise interference. On the other hand, the proposed method with the help of CN theory and community division to realize the unknown fault unsupervised detection. The experimental results on five groups bearing datasets show that the proposed method could achieve good unknown fault detection accuracy and maintain good robustness in a high-noise environment, indicating that it has advantages over other methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ta 2 O 5 -SiO 2 quasi-rugate filters with a reasonable optimization of rugate notch filter design were prepared by ion-beam sputtering. The optical properties and laser-induced damage threshold are studied. Compared with the spectrum of HL-stacks, the spectrum of quasi-rugate filters have weaker second harmonic peaks and narrower stopbands. According to the effect of functionally graded layers (FGLs), 1-on-1 and S-on-1 Laser induced damage threshold (LIDT) of quasi-rugate filters are about 22% and 50% higher than those of HL stacks, respectively. Through the analysis of the damage morphologies, laser-induced damage of films under nanosecond multi-pulse are dominated by a combination of thermal shock stress and thermomechanical instability due to nodules. Compared with catastrophic damages, the damage sits of quasi-rugate filters are developed in a moderate way. The damage growth behavior of defect-induced damage sites have been effectively restrained by the structure of FGLs. Generally, FGLs are used to reduce thermal stress by the similar thermal-expansion coefficients of neighboring layers and solve the problems such as instability and cracking raised by the interface discontinuity of nodular boundaries, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper studies the parameter estimation algorithms of multivariate equation-error autoregressive systems. By using the decomposition technique, the multivariate equation-error autoregressive system is decomposed into two subsystems, and a decomposition-based generalized stochastic gradient algorithm is deduced for estimating the parameters of these two subsystems. In order to further improve the parameter accuracy, a decomposition-based multi-innovation generalized stochastic gradient algorithm is developed by means of the multi-innovation theory. The simulation results confirm that these two algorithms are effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper studies the parameter estimation algorithms of multivariate pseudo-linear autoregressive systems. A decomposition-based recursive generalised least squares algorithm is deduced for estimating the system parameters by decomposing the multivariate pseudo-linear autoregressive system into two subsystems. In order to further improve the parameter accuracy, a decomposition based multi-innovation recursive generalised least squares algorithm is developed by means of the multi-innovation theory. The simulation results confirm that these two algorithms are effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the potential oxidative damages of Fe3O4 nanoparticles to organisms, Kunming mice were intraperitoneally administrated with Fe3O4 nanoparticles for seven days at the doses of 5, 10, 20 and 40 mg·kg−1, respectively. The contents of ROS (reactive oxygen species), GSH (glutathione) and MDA (malondialdehyde) in the lung homogenate were measured to indicate the oxidative damage. Results showed that the contents of ROS and MDA increased gradually while GSH content decreased with the increase in exposure dose, and all the studied biomarkers changed in dose-response manners. When exposure dose exceeded 10 mg·kg−1, ROS content was significantly higher than that of the control group (p < 0.05); when exposure dose was over 20 mg·kg−1, MDA content was significantly higher than that of the control group (p < 0.05); when exposure dose was higher than 40 mg·kg−1, GSH content turned out to have significant difference compared with the control group (p < 0.05). It is demonstrated that Fe3O4 nanoparticles can increase the oxidative stress and cause oxidative damage in mouse lung at relatively high dose (≥20 mg·kg−1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gravitational search algorithm (GSA), a recent meta-heuristic algorithm inspired by Newton's law of gravity and mass interactions, shows good performance in various optimization problems. In GSA, the gravitational constant attenuation factor alpha ( α ) plays a vital role in convergence and the balance between exploration and exploitation. However, in GSA and most of its variants, all agents share the same α value without considering their evolutionary states, which has inevitably caused the premature convergence and imbalance of exploration and exploitation. In order to alleviate these drawbacks, in this paper, we propose a new variant of GSA, namely stability constrained adaptive alpha for GSA (SCAA). In SCAA, each agent's evolutionary state is estimated, which is then combined with the variation of the agent's position and fitness feedback to adaptively adjust the value of α . Moreover, to preserve agents’ stable trajectories and improve convergence precision, a boundary constraint is derived from the stability conditions of GSA to restrict the value of α in each iteration. The performance of SCAA has been evaluated by comparing with the original GSA and four alpha adjusting algorithms on 13 conventional functions and 15 complex CEC2015 functions. The experimental results have demonstrated that SCAA has significantly better searching performance than its peers do. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because petroleum-based packaging films have raised increasing concerns associated with their non-degradability, there has been growing interest in developing sustainable and biodegradable films. This work addresses development of natural polysaccharide films with enhanced mechanical strength through synergistic interactions between calcium alginate and carrageenan. The maximal tensile strength was reached with a value of 19.1 MPa, which is comparable to conventional polyethylene films. At the meantime, the composite film demonstrated a matrix of properties suitable for general packaging application such as negligible solubility in water, high thermal stability and transparency. Scanning electron microscopic images revealed that the film had alginate arranged at the outside surface because the alginate is more hydrophilic than carrageenan. The overall structure of the film is a basic one-phase microstructure. IR spectra confirmed composite formation. These results demonstrate successful preparation of a sustainable and natural film as a biodegradable alternative to conventional polyethylene films for application in packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electromagnetic railgun (EMRG) is a promising candidate weapon system for the future surface-fire support mission characterized by quick response, hypersonic velocity, and high damage efficiency. Since the huge power consumption during launching, priority should be given to the precise strike. Firing accuracy of EMRG, which refers to the closeness degree of the projectiles’ impact points to the target, is an important performance metric in the EMRG exterior ballistic performance assessment. To provide a systematic solution for the measure of firing accuracy, the assessment factors are formulated in detail. Then, a general framework, including trajectory simulation, data preprocessing, parameters estimation, and hit probability calculation, is proposed to evaluate EMRG firing accuracy. Considering the trajectory simulation experiments may be time consuming, a new multicriteria optimal Latin hypercube design method is presented to maintain the balance between experiment time and sampling performance. Finally, firing accuracy assessment of 16-kg projectiles is performed using the designed framework and proposed experimental design method. The result reveals that the circular error probability is about 5 km under current defined scenarios, which means the initial disturbances may have great impact on the firing accuracy of projectiles without guidance and control units. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Exterior ballistics performance evaluation plays a critical role in the design and development of the electromagnetic railgun system. The ballistics performance evaluation can be regarded as a multicriteria decision-making problem, for the reason that various characteristics, also termed criteria, have effects on the overall performance. A sophisticated simulation model, including six-DOF mechanics, railgun configuration, environment, and aerodynamics models are established to compute the exterior ballistics profile. Then a comprehensive framework based on cloud model and analytic hierarchy process method are proposed to evaluate ballistics performance. Eight criteria including ballistics velocity, energy efficiency, flight time, flight range, overload, attack angle, and sideslip angle stability are selected to determine exterior ballistics performance. The proposed approach yields the certainty degree of each criterion and integrates multicriteria into the whole performance. Two scenarios including 32-MJ launch energy and 200-km strike range are taken to generate alternatives for assessing ballistics performance, which demonstrate the proposed approach is feasible. Results show that in the same launch energy 32 MJ, the performance levels of 12- and 16-kg projectiles are I (excellent) and III (medium), respectively. Besides, gaining the projectile’s mass can improve performance in the same strike range 200 km. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Sijunzi decoction (SJZD) is composed of four herbs, namely Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma (RG, Panax ginseng C.A.Mey.), Atractylodes Macrocephalae Rhizoma (AM, Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz.), Poria (Poria cocos (Schw.) Wolf), and Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma Praeparata Cum Melle (GRP, derived from Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch., Glycyrrhiza inflata Bat. or Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) based on the compatibility theory of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which is a classical formula for the treatment of spleen deficiency syndrome (SDS) in TCM. The polysaccharides and non-polysaccharides (NPSs) composition represented by flavonoids, saponins and terpenoids are the important pharmacodynamic material basis of SJZD. The aim of this study was to investigate the pharmacokinetic characteristics of SJZD in normal rats and SDS rats, and explore the potential interactions between NPSs and polysaccharides in SJZD, as well as the compatibility rationality of SJZD. SDS model was established by oral administration of Radix Rhei (Rheum officinale Baill.) extract, loaded swimming, and intermittent fasting. A rapid, sensitive and reliable ultrafast liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UFLC–MS/MS) method was developed for the simultaneous analysis of fifteen representative compounds in rat plasma to investigate the differences in pharmacokinetics between normal and SDS rats. The SJZD-NPS samples were prepared by removing the polysaccharides of SJZD to explore the interactions between NPSs and polysaccharides of SJZD. According to the compatibility theory of TCM, four incomplete formulae of SJZD were obtained by randomly removing an herb (also called 'que fang' in TCM), and their pharmacokinetic differences were compared to elucidate the rationality of SJZD compatibility with oral administration to SDS rats. The established UFLC–MS/MS method showed perfect performance in simultaneously analyzing fifteen compounds of SJZD in rat plasma. Compared with normal rats, the absorption efficiency of NPSs in SDS rats was lower, accompanied by the prolonged residence time (C max and AUC 0-t reduced, while MRT 0-t increased). Polysaccharides have the potential to enhance intestinal metabolism of glycosides among these components, thereby contributing to the circulating distribution of corresponding metabolites (e.g. aglycones). Furthermore, the compatibility of the four herbs in SJZD could alter their pharmacokinetic characteristics, and potentially improve the absorption of the effective components of RG and AM, which is in accordance with the principle that "monarch" and "minister" herbs play a major role in TCM. In detail, the improved absorption of ginsenosides was mainly regulated by GRP (the "guide" herb in SJZD), together with the effects of AM ("minister" herb) and Poria ("adjuvant" herb) on the pharmacokinetics of components in GRP, implying that herb-herb interactions existed in SJZD and demonstrated the compatibility rationality of SJZD potentially. This study laid a solid foundation for revealing the pharmacodynamic material basis and subsequent action mechanism of SJZD, as well as provided new insights into the compatibility of SJZD. The comprehensive pharmacokinetic approach adopted in the current research also provides a valuable strategy for TCM formulae research. [Display omitted] • A rapid, sensitive and reliable UFLC-MS/MS method for determining the major bioactive ingredients of SJZD in rat plasma, including 15 representative compounds. • The pharmacokinetic behaviors of NPSs in SJZD conducted on normal control and SDS rats were compared. • The interactions of NPSs with coadministered polysaccharides were explored. • The pharmacokinetics of incomplete formulae were also analyzed, which contributed to elucidate the mechanism of compatibility rationality in SJZD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In 2003, China implemented free antiretroviral therapy (ART) for people living with HIV (PLHIV), establishing an eligibility threshold of CD4 < 200 cells/μl. Subsequently, the entry criteria were revised in 2012 (eligibility threshold: CD4 ≤ 350 cells/μl), 2014 (CD4 ≤ 500 cells/μl), and 2016 (treat-all). However, the impact of treat-all policy on HIV care and treatment indicators in China is unknown. We aimed to elucidate the immediate and long-term impact of the implementation of treat-all policy in China. Methods: Anonymized programmatic data on ART initiation and collection in PLHIV who newly started ART were retrieved between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2019, from two provincial and municipal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and ten major infectious disease hospitals specialized in HIV care in China. We used Poisson and quasi-Poisson segmented regression models to estimate the immediate and long-term impact of treat-all on three key indicators: monthly proportion of 30-day ART initiation, mean CD4 counts (cells/μl) at ART initiation, and mean estimated time from infection to diagnosis (year). We built separate models according to gender, age, route of transmission and region. Results: Monthly data on ART initiation and collection were available for 75,516 individuals [gender: 83.8% males; age: median 39 years, interquartile range (IQR): 28–53; region: 18.5% Northern China, 10.9% Northeastern China, 17.5% Southern China, 49.2% Southwestern China]. In the first month of treat-all, compared with the contemporaneous counterfactual, there was a significant increase in proportion of 30-day ART initiation [+ 12.6%, incidence rate ratio (IRR) = 1.126, 95% CI: 1.033–1.229; P = 0.007] and mean estimated time from infection to diagnosis (+ 7.0%, IRR = 1.070, 95% CI: 1.021–1.120; P = 0.004), while there was no significant change in mean CD4 at ART initiation (IRR = 0.990, 95% CI: 0.956–1.026; P = 0.585). By December 2019, the three outcomes were not significantly different from expected levels. In the stratified analysis, compared with the contemporaneous counterfactual, mean CD4 at ART initiation showed significant increases in Northern China (+ 3.3%, IRR = 1.033, 95% CI: 1.001–1.065; P = 0.041) and Northeastern China (+ 8.0%, IRR = 1.080, 95% CI: 1.003–1.164; P = 0.042) in the first month of treat-all; mean estimated time from infection to diagnosis showed significant increases in male (+ 5.6%, IRR = 1.056, 95% CI: 1.010–1.104; P = 0.016), female (+ 14.8%, IRR = 1.148, 95% CI: 1.062–1.240; P < 0.001), aged 26–35 (+ 5.3%, IRR = 1.053, 95% CI: 1.001–1.109; P = 0.048) and > 50 (+ 7.8%, IRR = 1.078, 95% CI: 1.000–1.161; P = 0.046), heterosexual transmission (+ 12.4%, IRR = 1.124, 95% CI: 1.042–1.213; P = 0.002) and Southwestern China (+ 12.9%, IRR = 1.129, 95% CI: 1.055–1.208; P < 0.001) in the first month of treat-all. Conclusions: The implementation of treat-all policy in China was associated with a positive effect on HIV care and treatment outcomes. To advance the work of rapid ART, efforts should be made to streamline the testing and ART initiation process, provide comprehensive support services, and address the issue of uneven distribution of medical resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death with high morbidity and mortality, and chronic heart failure is the terminal phase of it. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of the low-dose rosuvastatin on isoproterenol-induced chronic heart failure and to explore the possible related mechanisms. Methods Male Sprague Dawley rats were given isoproterenol 5 mg/kg once a day for 7 days to establish heart failure model by subcutaneous injection. Simultaneously, low-dose rosuvastatin (5 mg/kg) was orally administrated from day 1 to day 14. Protective effects were evaluated by hemodynamic parameter, histopathological variables, serum asymmetric dimethylarginine ( ADMA), cardiac troponin I ( cTnI), brain natriuretic peptide ( BNP) and myocardial nitric oxide ( NO), and the levels of dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase 2 ( DDAH2), arginine methyltransferases 1 ( PRMT1) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase ( eNOS) expression were analyzed. Results Therapeutic rosuvastatin (5 mg/kg) significantly attenuated isoproterenol-induced hypertrophy, remodeling and dysfunction of ventricle, reduced the increased serum content of ADMA, cTnI, and BNP, and elevated myocardial NO in rats ( P<.05). Besides, rosuvastatin also significantly inhibited fibrosis of myocardium, normalized the increased PRMT1 and decreased DDAH2 expression. Conclusions Low-dose rosuvastatin exerted cardioprotective effects on isoproterenol-induced heart failure in rats by modulating DDAH- ADMA- NO pathway, and it may present the new therapeutic value in ameliorating chronic heart failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The noise emission and the power output from a small horizontal axis wind turbine is investigated using coarse-resolution computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations conducted with the commercial software STAR-CCM+ ® . The steady Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) and transient delayed detached-eddy simulation (DDES) methodologies were used for the prediction of the flow field around the wind turbine. It is found that the DDES method with the Spalart-Allmaras turbulence model provides predictions of the wind turbine power that are in good conformance with available field measurements. The aeroacoustic calculations were performed using both the STAR-CCM+ ® acoustic model and an in-house code. The in-house code implemented both the permeable and impermeable formulations of the Ffowcs Williams and Hawkings (FW-H) equation. The predicted A-weighted sound pressure level (SPL) spectra, as well as the apparent SPL, obtained from the permeable formulation of the FW-H equation agree well with the wind turbine acoustic field measurements. It is found that the presence of the tower slightly decreases the wind turbine power output at all simulated incident wind speeds. It is also found that the presence of the tower leads to modifications of the SPL spectra at frequencies between about 300 and 1500 Hz. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Individuals who use the nicotine patch are more likely to quit smoking than those who receive placebo or no medication. However, studies have not yet examined the association between actual daily nicotine patch wear time during the early phase of a smoking cessation attempt and later smoking abstinence. The purpose of this study was to address this gap in the literature.Methods: Participants who enrolled in a safety-net hospital smoking cessation program were followed for 13 weeks (i.e., 1 week pre-quit through 12 weeks post-quit). Participants completed in-person assessments and daily ecological momentary assessments on study provided smartphones. Multivariate logistic regressions were used to determine if daily patch wear time during the first week post-quit predicted 7-day biochemically verified point prevalence smoking abstinence 4 and 12 weeks following the scheduled quit date. Demographic characteristics and smoking behaviors were adjusted as covariates.Results: Participants (N=74) were primarily non-White (78.7%) and most (86%) had an annual household income of <$20,000. Greater average hours of daily nicotine patch wear time during the first week post-quit was associated with a greater likelihood of abstinence at the 4 and 12 week post-quit visits (aOR=2.22, 95% CI:1.17-4.23; aOR=2.24, 95% CI:1.00-5.03). Furthermore, more days of wearing the patch for ≥19h was associated with a greater likelihood of abstinence at the 4 and 12 week post-quit visits (aOR=1.81, 95% CI:1.01-3.22; aOR=2.18, 95% CI:1.03-4.63).Conclusions: Greater adherence to the nicotine patch early in a quit attempt may increase the likelihood of smoking cessation among socioeconomically disadvantaged adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bioanalysis and especially the sample preparation of nucleoside drugs in complex media, such as human plasma, has been challenging due to the high polarity and high solubility of these drugs in water. Online solid phase extraction (SPE) offers significant advantages, such as automation and timesaving. Thus, several types of SPE columns have been developed for compounds with different polarities. In this study, SPE was applied to overcome the issue of sample pretreatment of nucleoside drugs in human plasma, with the final aim of establishing a robust analytical platform for drugs with similar structures. A simple, easy-to-use, and efficient method is described for the simultaneous determination of lamivudine, zidovudine, didanosine and emtricitabine in human plasma via online SPE and high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). Following a simple centrifugation step, a 10 μL plasma sample was injected directly onto the HPLC system. The Oasis MCX cartridge was washed, and the analytes were removed by back-flushing directly onto the analytical column. The analytes were quantified using a triple-quadrupole tandem mass spectrometer in multiple-reaction monitoring mode. Similarly, with the development and application of a Bond Elut phenylboronic acid (PBA) SPE cartridge, a fully automated online SPE-HPLC-MS/MS method was established for the simultaneous determination of ribavirin and taribavirin in human plasma. Linear calibration curves were obtained over the range of 0.5–2000 ng mL −1 , and the limit of quantification ranged from 0.5 ng mL −1 to 10 ng mL −1 , which is sensitive enough for clinical drug monitoring. The intra- and inter-day precisions were in the range of 0.2–8.9%, and the trueness ranged between 88.9% and 113.1%. Excellent recoveries from plasma were achieved with a range between 86.7% and 105.1%. This procedure is easier to perform and requires less sample handling compared to methods previously described in the literature. This high-throughput method involving the direct injection of plasma samples may provide a practical solution for the analysis of multiple nucleoside drugs in clinical research. The method was tested in plasma samples from some patients and showed good performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Postpartum depression is associated with negative physical and mental health outcomes for both the mother and infant. This study examines the relationship between a mother and/or her partner's pregnancy intentions and reported post-partum depressive symptoms (PPDs). Methods Using Louisiana pregnancy risk assessment monitoring system, 2000-2003, a secondary cross-sectional analysis was conducted on 5549 mothers, stratified by race, who delivered a singleton, live birth and whose infant was still alive at the time of the survey. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regressions were conducted, taking into account the complex survey design. Results In multivariable models, unwanted pregnancies were associated with severe PPDs (aOR 1.76, 95 % CI 1.23-2.53). Furthermore, the association between husbands/partners' who did not want or care about the pregnancy and mild PPDs remained for White women (aOR 1.32, 95 % CI 1.02-1.69); while among Black women, neither parent's pregnancy intention were associated with mild or severe PPDs. Conclusions This study supports existing research demonstrating the association between pregnancy intention and PPDs. This study contributes to the limited information on the role that partner pregnancy intention plays on maternal mental health outcomes, however further discussion is needed on the impact of this role across races. Findings can be used in programs aiming to reduce adverse mental health outcomes among high-risk mothers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although research has shown that objective neighborhood characteristics are associated with health behaviors including smoking, little is known about the influence of perceived neighborhood characteristics on a smoking cessation attempt.Methods: Participants (N=139) enrolled in a Dallas safety-net hospital smoking cessation program were followed from 1 week pre-quit through 4 weeks post-quit. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to evaluate the impact of perceived neighborhood order and disorder on the likelihood of achieving biochemically verified point prevalence and continuous smoking abstinence 4 weeks following a scheduled quit attempt. Analyses were adjusted for demographic characteristics, cigarettes per day, intervention group, and pharmacological treatment.Results: Participants were primarily non-White (72.7%) and female (56.8%) with a mean age of 52.5 (SD=3.7) years. Most reported an annual household income of ≤$25,000 (86.3%). Logistic regression analyses indicated that greater neighborhood physical (p=.048) and social order (p=.039) were associated with a greater likelihood of achieving point prevalence smoking abstinence at 4 weeks post-quit. Greater perceived physical (p=.035) and social disorder (p=.039) and total neighborhood disorder (p=.014), were associated with a reduced likelihood of achieving point prevalence abstinence. Social disorder (p=.040) was associated with a reduced likelihood of achieving continuous abstinence at 4 weeks post-quit, while social order (p=.020) was associated with an increased likelihood of continuous abstinence.Conclusions: Perceptions of neighborhood order and disorder were associated with the likelihood of smoking cessation among socioeconomically disadvantaged smokers making a quit attempt. Findings highlight the need to address perceptions of the neighborhood environment among disadvantaged smokers seeking treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current parameterization and algorithm used to fit a smoothing spline analysis of variance (SSANOVA) model are computationally expensive, making a generalized additive model (GAM) the preferred method for multivariate smoothing. In this article, we propose an efficient reparameterization of the smoothing parameters in SSANOVA models, and a scalable algorithm for estimating multiple smoothing parameters in SSANOVAs. To validate our approach, we present two simulation studies comparing our reparameterization and algorithm to implementations of SSANOVAs and GAMs that are currently available in R. Our simulation results demonstrate that (a) our scalable SSANOVA algorithm outperforms the currently used SSANOVA algorithm, and (b) SSANOVAs can be a fast and reliable alternative to GAMs. We also provide an example with oceanographic data that demonstrates the practical advantage of our SSANOVA framework. Supplementary materials that are available online can be used to replicate the analyses in this article. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Glaucoma is a heterogeneous group of progressive optic neurodegenerative. Although most patients with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) are stable for many years, certain subgroups of POAG patients could progress over time even with treatment. This study is to identify aqueous humor (AH) biomarkers that may be associated with disease progression in POAG patients. Gene differential expression study of prospectively collected AH from patients with stable or progressive POAG. Metagenomic deep sequencing (MDS) was performed on the aqueous fluid of 20 patients with stable POAG and 20 patients with progressive POAG. Differential gene expression analysis was performed to identify host transcriptome signatures. A total of 21 transcripts were differentially expressed between groups. Differential transcripts identified by MDS. Twenty transcripts were up-regulated and 1 transcript was down-regulated in progressive POAG patients compared to stable patients. Of those, 11 transcripts were eye-related, and 5 transcripts were related to glaucomatous phenotypes (Fibronectin type III domain containing 3B (FNDC3B), Clusterin (CLU), Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 6 (PCSK6), Cadherin EGF LAG seven-pass G-type receptor 1 (Celsr1), and Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor 4 (ARHGEF4)). Biomarkers associated with POAG progression can be identified from aqueous fluid. Identification of the biomarkers may improve glaucoma surveillance for progressive POAG. • Identify biomarkers associated with POAG progression from aqueous samples. • Differential transcripts identified by MDS. • Improve glaucoma surveillance for progressive POAG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid advance in science and technology in the past decade brings an extraordinary amount of data, offering researchers an unprecedented opportunity to tackle complex research challenges. The opportunity, however, has not yet been fully utilized, because effective and efficient statistical tools for analyzing super-large dataset are still lacking. One major challenge is that the advance of computing resources still lags far behind the exponential growth of database. To facilitate scientific discoveries using current computing resources, one may use an emerging family of statistical methods, called leveraging. Leveraging methods are designed under a subsampling framework, in which one samples a small proportion of the data (subsample) from the full sample, and then performs intended computations for the full sample using the small subsample as a surrogate. The key of the success of the leveraging methods is to construct nonuniform sampling probabilities so that influential data points are sampled with high probabilities. These methods stand as the very unique development of their type in big data analytics and allow pervasive access to massive amounts of information without resorting to high performance computing and cloud computing. WIREs Comput Stat 2015, 7:70-76. doi: 10.1002/wics.1324 For further resources related to this article, please visit the . Conflict of interest: The authors have declared no conflicts of interest for this article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Homeless adults are more likely to smoke tobacco and are less likely to successfully quit smoking than smokers in the general population, despite comparable numbers of cessation attempts and desire to quit. To date, studies that have examined smoking cessation in homeless samples have used traditional lab/clinic-based assessment methodologies. Real-time assessment of key variables may provide new insights into the process of quitting among homeless smokers. Methods: The purpose of the current study was to identify predictors of a quit attempt using real-time assessment methodology during the 6 days prior to a scheduled quit attempt among homeless adults seeking care at a shelter-based smoking cessation clinic. Parameters for multiple variables (i.e., motivation for quitting, smoking expectancies, quit self-efficacy, smoking urges, negative affect, positive affect, restlessness, hostility, and stress) were calculated and were used as predictors of biochemically verified quit date abstinence (i.e., ≥13hr abstinent) using logistic regression analyses. Results: Participants (n = 57) were predominantly male (59.6%), non-White (68.4%), and smoked an average of 18 cigarettes per day. A total of 1,132 ecological momentary assessments (83% completion rate) were collected at random times (i.e., up to 4 assessments/day) during the 6 days prior to a scheduled quit attempt. Results indicated that declining (negative slope) negative affect, restlessness, and stress predicted quit date abstinence. Additionally, increasing positive coping expectancies across the prequit week predicted quit date abstinence. Conclusions: Study findings highlight multiple variables that may be targeted during the precessation period to increase smoking cessation attempts in this difficult to treat population of smokers. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Through designing the quantum well (QW) structure by introducing the InGaN interlayers into the GaN barriers, the compressive strain magnitude is significantly decreased. Two distinct emission peaks corresponding to In-rich localized state and quantum well ground state emissions observed from the electroluminescence (EL) spectra demonstrate that the phase separation is enhanced to form In-rich localized states in the original structure with larger strain, but no significant phase separation is observed in the designed structures with less strain. This abnormal phenomenon is contrary to the previous reports that phase separation in the InGaN layer can be suppressed by compressive strain. Therefore, it is suggested that the strain-driven kinetic phase separation should be taken into account in our case to more fully and precisely understand the role played by strain on phase separation that strain can hinder the phase separation thermodynamically but may drive phase separation kinetically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen storage properties, activation performance and thermodynamics of Ti 0.7 Zr 0.3 (Mn 1− x V x ) 2 ( x = 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5) alloys and associated microstructures and surface chemical states were investigated by hydrogenation measurements and relevant structure and surface characterization methods. The results showed that the phase composition of the alloy changed from single C14 Laves phase ( x ≤ 0.2) to coexistent Laves phase and V-based BCC solid solution phase with increasing V content ( x ≥ 0.3). The V in the alloys catalyzed hydrogen dissociation and improved resistivity to oxygen poisoning, so that the alloys could be easily and quickly activated at 293 K even after being exposed in air for a long time. The hydrogen storage capacity of the alloy increased and the plateau pressure decreased with increasing V content. The x = 0.2 and 0.3 alloys exhibited the best reversible hydrogen storage capacities of above 1.8 wt% at 1 kPa–4 MPa and 293 K. The relative partial molar enthalpy | Δ H | increased but the relative partial molar entropy | Δ S | decreased with increasing V content, and deviated from the linear relationship for x = 0.4 and 0.5 alloys due to coexisted BCC phase in the alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hydrostatic spindle is widely applied in the field of high-precision machine tools, which has some advantages such as high stiffness, high rotary precision, and the high damping shock absorption. The spindle rotation error is an important index to measure the machining accuracy of machine tools. Due to the installing eccentric error of the test bar, conventional method based on the standard test bar to measure the rotation error indirectly is applied to the precision machine tools and common machine tools whose rotation error is greater than 1 μm only. In order to eliminate the installing eccentric error of the standard test bar, it presents a self-reference approach that takes the online finish turning test bar, rather than that of the standard test bar, as the measuring datum. Using the capacitive micro-displacement sensor and the LMS data acquisition equipment as the test platform, it designs a set of spindle rotation error measurement system. Then it studies the frequency domain three-point method and has the rotation error and roundness error of high-precision hydrostatic spindle separated. Experimental study shows that the rotation error and the roundness error of the spindle are 0.9 and 0.3 μm, respectively, under the circumstance of conventional standard test bar as the measuring datum. However, if it takes the online finish turning test bar as the measuring datum, the rotation error and the roundness error of the spindle are only 0.3 and 0.1 μm, respectively. The self-reference method is able to eliminate the installing eccentric error of standard test bar directly, and the measurement system has realized the accurate measurements of the rotation error and roundness error of the high-precision hydrostatic spindle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanosecond pulse laser-induced damage is associated with nodular defects and nano-precursors in hafnium oxide (HfO 2)/silica (SiO 2) multilayer films. In this study, the dynamic evolution of material ejection and layer peeling-off in HfO 2 /SiO 2 thin-film beam splitters used for third harmonic separation were examined by time-resolved shadowgraph technique under the fundamental frequency of 1064 nm (1ω) and third harmonics 355 nm (3ω) laser beam, respectively. The initial material ejection and subsequent peeling-off of layers were studied to clarify most thin films damage events caused by 1ω and 3ω lasers. The peeling-off of films under 1ω laser was mainly caused by thermomechanical effect. In contrast, the peeling-off of films under 3ω laser was mainly affected by laser-induced mechanical damage. The different transmission forms of layers peeled off from the films revealed the influence of mechanical strength and thermal strength on damage progression. The Taylor–Sedov theoretical model was used to analyze the propagation characteristic shock waves after nanosecond laser irradiation of films. In summary, identification of propagation forms and speed of peeling-off layers provides helpful insights into the damage mechanisms during nanosecond laser-induced damage of optical thin films. • Thin-film beam splitters were deposited with HfO 2 /SiO 2 via electron beam evaporation. • Time-resolved shadowgraphy images of laser damage thin-films were captured. • The surface morphologies of HfO 2 /SiO 2 thin films after 1ω and 3ω damage were formed and analyzed. • The layers peeling-off of the films took place when the system reached suitable thermomechanical strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a commercial Chinese patent medicine, Yanning Syrup (YN) is used to treat acute upper respiratory tract infections and acute enteritis effectively in clinical practice. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. To reveal the effect of YN on gut microbiota dysbiosis, and explore the potential role of the gut microecosystem and CD4+ T cell immune homeostasis in YN-treated respiratory and intestinal diseases in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory rats. Inflammation in rat models was induced by intraperitoneal injection of LPS (8 mg/kg). Histological changes were observed by H & E staining. Changes in gut microbiota and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production were analysed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and targeted metabolomics. A Luminex cytokine microarray and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were conducted to evaluate the serum and colon cytokine profiles. The frequencies of immune cells, including Th1, Th2, Th17 and Treg cells in the mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs), bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and whole blood were phenotyped using flow cytometry. The YN-treated rats showed less colon inflammation, as evidenced by the reduction in mortality rate and histology score. Notably, YN was found to improve the immunosuppressed state induced by LPS in rats, which not only upregulated the levels of the proinflammatory cytokine IL-17A and the immunosuppressive cytokines IL-4 and IL-10 in colon tissue but also increased the levels of IL-1α, IL-5, IL-7, IL-12 (p70), GM-CSF and VEGF in serum. The numbers of Th17 cells and Treg cells in the MLNs, blood, and BALF of model rats were regulated by YN, with the restoration of the Th17/Treg balance. Additionally, the Th1/Th2 balance in MLNs and whole blood of model rats was restored after YN administration. Sequencing of 16S rRNA gene indicated that YN-treated rats exhibited greater gut microbial diversity and flora composition, specifically inhibiting some harmful bacteria such as Enterobacter and Blautia and increasing Firmicutes and Actinobacteria. Targeted metabolomics analysis demonstrated an increase of SCFA (acetic acid, butyric acid, valeric acid, and hexanoic acid) production in YN-treated rats. Most of the dominant bacterial genera regulated by YN administration were correlated with the concentrations of SCFA and inflammatory cytokines. These results demonstrated that YN could ameliorate LPS-induced inflammation in rats by modifying gut microbiota, increasing microbiota-derived SCFA production and regulating the balance of Th1/Th2 and Treg/Th17 cells. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated protein 1 ( TRAP1) is a molecular chaperone involved in multidrug resistance and antiapoptosis in some human tumors, but its regulatory mechanisms have not been revealed in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma ( ESCC). In this study, 138 specimens of ESCC were analyzed. TRAP1 was overexpressed in ESCC, particularly in poorly differentiated tumors. To further explore the molecular regulatory mechanism, we constructed specific small interfering RNA-expressing vectors targeting Trap1, and knocked down Trap1 expression in the esophageal cancer cell lines ECA109 and EC9706. Knockdown of Trap1 induced increases in reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial depolarization, which have been proposed as critical regulators of apoptosis. The cell cycle was arrested in G2/M phase, and in vitro inhibition of cell proliferation was confirmed with 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide and bromodeoxyuridine assays. Furthermore, re-expression of TRAP1 in Trap1 small interfering RNA-transfected ESCC cells restored cell proliferation and cell apoptosis. Bioluminescence of subcutaneously xenografted ESCC tumor cells demonstrated significant inhibition of in vivo tumor growth by Trap1 knockdown. This study shows that TRAP1 was overexpressed in most patients with ESCC, and caused an increase in antiapoptosis potency. TRAP1 may be regarded as a target in ESCC biotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] DINP-exposed toxicity is associated with the overproduction of ROS. [•] Oral exposure to DINP is likely to present hepatic and renal tissue injury. [•] ROS accumulation maybe further causes IL-1 and TNF-α production at increased levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multifunctional, mesoporous, silica-coated upconversion luminescent/magnetic NaGdF4:Yb/Er@NaGdF4:Yb@mSiO2PEG (referred to as UCNPS; PEG=polyethylene glycol) nanocomposites were fabricated through a phase-transfer-assisted surfactant-templating coating process, followed by hydrophilic polymer (PEG) functionalization to improve the stability and biocompatibility. The UCNP core imparts the nanomaterials with luminescence and magnetic properties for simultaneous upconversion optical and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, whereas the mesoporous shell affords the nanomaterials the ability to load the anticancer drug doxorubicin. Proof-of-principle in vitro and in vivo experiments are presented to demonstrate that the resultant composite nanomaterials can serve as nanotheranostics for synchronous upconversion luminescence/MR dual modal imaging and anticancer drug delivery; this finally realizes the integration of diagnostics and the treatment of cancers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Hypoxia stress brought about oxidative damage and decrease in root AsA content. [•] AsA partially alleviated hypoxia-induced growth inhibition and oxidative stress. [•] AsA-triggered the up-regulation of antioxidant enzymes related the AsA–GSH cycle. [•] Additional AsA enhanced hypoxia tolerance of hypoxia-sensitive apple rootstocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Chlorpyrifos (CPF) can induce hepatic and renal tissue injury of mice. [•] CPF can induce oxidative damage of hepatic and renal tissue of mice. [•] Vitamin E can protect against the tissue damage induced by CPF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of these studies was to develop a novel 2'-behenoyl-paclitaxel (C22-PX) conjugate nanoparticle (NP) formulation for the treatment of metastatic breast cancer. A lipophilic paclitaxel derivative C22-PX was synthesized and incorporated into lipid-based NPs. Free C22-PX and its NP formulation were evaluated in a series of in vitro and in vivo studies. The results demonstrated that C22-PX NPs were much better tolerated and had significantly higher plasma and tumor AUCs compared to Taxol at the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) in a subcutaneous 4T1 mouse mammary carcinoma model. These benefits resulted in significantly improved antitumor efficacy with the NP-based formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The aim of these studies was to develop a novel 2′-behenoyl-paclitaxel (C22-PX) conjugate nanoparticle (NP) formulation for the treatment of metastatic breast cancer. A lipophilic paclitaxel derivative C22-PX was synthesized and incorporated into lipid-based NPs. Free C22-PX and its NP formulation were evaluated in a series of in vitro and in vivo studies. The results demonstrated that C22-PX NPs were much better tolerated and had significantly higher plasma and tumor AUCs compared to Taxol at the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) in a subcutaneous 4T1 mouse mammary carcinoma model. These benefits resulted in significantly improved antitumor efficacy with the NP-based formulation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Several HfO 2 /SiO 2 mixture coatings were prepared via ion beam sputtering. • The UV light damage characteristics of HfO 2 /SiO 2 mixture coatings were investigated. • Laser-induced periodic surface structures were formed and analyzed. • The damage mechanism was mainly dominated by the nano-precursors in subsurface layers. Several series of HfO 2 /SiO 2 mixture coatings with different mixture ratios were prepared via ion beam sputtering. The physical properties of the coatings were measured, and the damage characteristics induced by nano-precursors in each of HfO 2 /SiO 2 mixture coatings were investigated. The number of microscale pits induced by nano-precursors decreased while passing from pure SiO 2 towards the HfO 2 /SiO 2 system, and melted regions became significant at HfO 2 concentrations above 50%. Some damage microscale pits induced by nano-precursors exhibited cracks perpendicular to the laser polarization, and laser-induced periodic surface structures were formed under higher fluences and about 75% of HfO 2. The damage morphology patterns revealed that the damage mechanisms were dominated by the nano-precursors in the subsurface layers and various thermal adsorption characteristics of the mixture coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, hierarchical spinel-type semiconductors MGa 2 O 4 (M = Ni, Co) were successfully synthesized via a facile hydrothermal method and a subsequent calcination strategy. The phase compositions, microstructures, as well as the gas sensing performances of these isostructural corn-like MGa 2 O 4 (M = Ni, Co) architectures were comparatively and systematically investigated. The experimental results showed that the hierarchical corn-like NiGa 2 O 4 spinel exhibited the optimum selective triethylamine (TEA) sensing performance with a gas response value (R g /R a) of 7.60 at 270 °C, and excellent long-term stability for at least one month. The TEA gaseous sensing properties of these materials were significantly influenced by the transition metal M(II) ions dominated at the octahedral sites of spinel, and the sensing mechanism involving the surface redox reactions between the active oxygen species and TEA gases, as well as the charge carrier hopping process and changes of conductivity were discussed. This work not only demonstrated the facile preparation of hierarchical corn-like spinel-based gas sensors with rich active sites, we also discovered that the gas sensing performances of MGa 2 O 4 (M = Ni, Co) can be decisively modulated by the transition metal M(II)-ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

First reported as a vasoactive peptide in the cardiovascular system, intermedin (IMD), also known as adrenomedullin 2 (ADM2), is a hormone with multiple potent roles, including its antioxidant action on the pulmonary, central nervous, cardiovascular and renal systems. Though IMD may play certain roles in trophoblast cell invasion, early embryonic development and cumulus cell-oocyte interaction, the role of IMD in the male reproductive system has yet to be investigated. This paper reports our findings on the gene expression of IMD, its receptor components and its protein localization in the testes. In a rat model, bacterial lippolysaccharide (LPS) induced atypical orchitis, and LPS treatment upregulated the expression of IMD and one of its receptor component proteins, i.e. receptor activity modifying protein 2 (RAMP2). IMD decreased both plasma and testicular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, attenuated the increase in the gene expression of the proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), interleukin 6 (IL6) and interleukin 1 beta (IL1β), rescued spermatogenesis, and prevented the decrease in plasma testosterone levels caused by LPS. The restorative effect of IMD on steroidogenesis was also observed in hydrogen peroxide-treated rat primary Leydig cells culture. Our results indicate IMD plays an important protective role in spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis, suggesting therapeutic potential for IMD in pathological conditions such as orchitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnic minorities living in the US have lower utilization and access to prenatal care, resulting in an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. The present study examines utilization of prenatal care, perceived pregnancy related health, and perceived risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes among Arab women living in the USA cross-sectional study was conducted, consisting of a convenience sample of 170 Arab women. A structured questionnaire was administered by a face-to-face or telephone interview. Multivariable logistic regression was used to calculate adjusted Odds Ratios and 95% Confidence Intervals, controlling for potential confounders. All study participants had received prenatal care during their most recent pregnancy, and 90% had their first prenatal care visit before the 12th gestational week. The Arab women who were older ( P = 0.02), those with 12 years of education or less ( P = 0.002), and those who had lived in the US more than five years ( P = 0.0002) were more likely to report four or more pregnancies. In addition, more than one-third of the women reported having experienced a miscarriage (35.4%), which was significantly associated with gravida status ( P < 0.001). An association between perceived susceptibility for spontaneous abortion and stillbirth was also demonstrated ( P < 0.0001). Although Arab women reported good coverage of prenatal care, they perceived themselves as susceptible for several pregnancy complications and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Clinical guidelines for prenatal care to Arab women should therefore focus on their high parity and likelihood of miscarriages, in an attempt to reduce their risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The accumulation of beta amyloid (Aβ) can cause synaptic impairments, but the characteristics and mechanisms of the synaptic impairment induced by the accumulation of Aβ in Alzheimer''s disease (AD) remain unclear. In identified single neurons in a newly developed Drosophila AD model, in which Aβ accumulates intraneuronally, we found an age-dependent reduction in the synaptic vesicle release probability that was associated with a decrease in the density of presynaptic calcium channel clusters and an increase in the presynaptic and postsynaptic contact length. Moreover, these alterations occurred in the absence of presynaptic bouton loss. In addition, we found that Aβ expression also produced an age-dependent decrease in the amount of Bruchpilot (Brp), which plays an important role in controlling Ca2+ channel clustering and synaptic vesicle release in the presynaptic active zone. Our study indicates that the chronic accumulation of intraneuronal Aβ can induce functional and structural changes in the presynaptic active zone prior to a loss of presynaptic buttons in the same neuron. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To develop a framework, using Louisiana as a case study, for estimating the potential cost savings to individual states if families were able to meet current recommendations for breastfeeding. Using cost-analyses methods, cost savings, as well as, case and death reductions of infant illnesses and deaths on four selected infant diseases (respiratory tract infections, gastroenteritis, necrotizing enterocolitis, and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) were calculated utilizing the most recent data of breastfeeding and low/very low birth weight rates in Louisiana. To estimate the incidence of a disease in exclusive breastfed infants and formula fed infants respectively, we used the following formula: x = s/br + 1 − b. Here 'x' is the incidence rate of one disease in formula fed infants, 's' is the overall incidence of the disease, 'b' is current breastfeeding rate and 'r' is the odds ratios in favor of breastfeeding. A total of $216,103,368 could be saved and 18 infant deaths prevented, by these four conditions alone, if 90% of newborns in Louisiana were exclusive breastfed for the first 6 months of life ($186,371,125 in savings and 16 infant deaths prevented with 80% compliance). Increased rates of breastfeeding to the level of Healthy People 2020 goals and beyond would yield significant cost savings to Louisiana. Other US states can use the presented framework to demonstrate cost savings associated with breastfeeding promotion and support interventions in their respective states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Positive deviance inquiry is effective in identifying advantageous health behaviors and improving health outcomes among disadvantaged resource-poor populations. The objective of this study was to apply the positive deviance concept to explore the characteristics of positive deviants for breastfeeding among WIC-enrolled first-time mothers in Louisiana. The cross sectional study included data on 2,036 WIC-enrolled first time mothers (52.6% black) from the LaPRAMs, 2000-2004. Chi-square test was used to compare groups. Multivariable logistic regression was applied to calculate adjusted OR and 95% CI by breastfeeding initiation status. The average age was 21.3 years, 31.5% had less than 12 years of education, and 44.6% of the sample reported having initiated breastfeeding. Black mothers were less likely to initiate breastfeeding than their white counterparts (OR 0.39 (95% CI: 0.31, 0.48)). Among 641 WIC-enrolled first time mothers with less than 12 years of education, 28.4% were identified as positive deviants for breastfeeding initiation. Among the black mothers 19.8% were positive deviants compared to 40.3% of the white mothers. Breastfeeding in the hospital after delivery ( P < 0.0001) and having received help on how to breastfeed in the hospital ( P < 0.0001) were significantly associated with breastfeeding initiation in white and black mothers. In addition, the black positive deviants were more likely, OR 2.80 (95% CI: 1.20, 6.56) to have initiated breastfeeding if their baby was low birth weight. Breastfeeding practices shortly after delivery including assistance and education from staff in the hospital, are related to breastfeeding initiation among less educated WIC-enrolled mothers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interplay between interaction and inhomogeneity for electrons in solids generates many interesting phenomena, including insulating and metallic behaviour, magnetism, superconductivity, quantum criticality and more exotic phases. Many of the same phenomena appear in ultracold fermionic atoms in optical lattices, which provide clean, controlled and tunable 'quantum simulators' to explore the intriguing physics of fermionic systems. Although density functional theory (DFT) is widely used to calculate material properties, it has not yet been applied to cold atomic gases in optical lattices. Here we present a new density functional for short-range interactions (as opposed to Coulomb interactions of electrons), which renders DFT suitable for atomic Fermi gases. This grants us access to an extensive toolset, previously developed for materials simulations, to calculate the static and dynamic properties of atomic Fermi gases in optical lattices and external potentials. Ultracold atom quantum simulators can in turn be used to explore limitations of DFT functionals, and to further improve hybrid functionals, thus forming a bridge between materials simulations and atomic physics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective This study aims to investigate the mortality among HIV/AIDS patients receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Fangchenggang City, Guangxi Province, and to identify associated factors with AIDS-related and non-AIDS-related deaths, providing scientific evidence for reducing AIDS mortality. Methods We collected data from the National Comprehensive AIDS Prevention and Control Information System. These data included socio-demographic and follow-up records of 2 728 HIV-1 infected individuals receiving Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) treatment in Fangchenggang City from January 1, 2005 to July 5, 2022. This dataset included socio-demographic and follow-up records during the specified period, providing a comprehensive insight into the therapeutic responses, survival rates, and potential associated complications among ART-treated HIV/AIDS patients within Fangchenggang City. Socio-demographic and follow-up data were analyzed using the cumulative incidence function (CIF) under a competing risk framework and the Fine-Gray subdistribution hazard regression model to assess the associated factors with both AIDS-related and non-AIDS-related deaths. Results With an average follow-up period of 6.7 person-years, 295 cases experienced AIDS-related death with a mortality rate of 1.06/100 person-years, while 227 cases died from non-AIDS-related causes, with a mortality rate of 1.2/100 person-years. Under consideration of competing risks, the cumulative incidence of AIDS-related death at 1 year, 5 years, and 13 years post-diagnosis was 2.5%, 8.5%, and 15.0%, respectively. The factors associated with a higher risk of AIDS-related death included: age 60 years or older (aHR = 1.5, 95% CI: 1.05~2.15), current spouse's infection status unknown/not investigated (aHR = 1.39, 95 % CI: 1.03~1.90), history of prophylactic treatment for opportunistic infections (aHR = 1.4, 95% CI: 1.06~1.84), and occurrence of opportunistic infections or tumors (aHR = 1.65, 95% CI: 1.12~2.45) . On the contrary, factors associated with a lower risk of AIDS-related death included: being female (aHR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.49~0.90), initial treatment regimen containing EFV (aHR = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.25~0.68), having changed the treatment regimen (aHR = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.12~0.29), first CD4 cell count ≥ 200 cells/µL (aHR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.20~0.45), initial viral load (VL) between 50 to 1000 copies/ml (aHR = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.18-0.54), and VL < 50 copies/ml (aHR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.44~0.84). Regarding non-AIDS related deaths, passive detection (aHR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.0~1.98), uninvestigated/unknown spouse's infection status (aHR = 1.40, 95% CI: 1.01~1.95), and first CD4 cell count ≥200 cells/ (JLL (aHR = 1.68, 95% CI: 1.27~2.22) were found to be associated with increased risk. In contrast, lower risk factors included being female (aHR = 0.55, 95 % CI: 0.37-0.81), having experienced a change in antiviral treatment regimen post-initiation (aHR = 0.33, 95%CI :0.21-0.50), initial treatment regimens containing EFV (aHR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.34-0.88), and NVP (aHR = 0.50, 95% CI: 0.3-0.83). Conclusion The mortality rate among HIV/AIDS patients receiving ART in Fangchenggang City is relatively low. This study underscores the importance of preventing and treating opportunistic infections or tumors for improving the survival of HIV/AIDS patients. HIV/AIDS care clinics should particularly focus on monitoring and following up on female patients, older patients, and those detected passively, enhancing medication adherence, expanding HIV testing among key populations, and thereby striving to reduce the mortality rate among AIDS patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Automatic medical image segmentation has shown great potential in recent years. Howerver, magnetic resonance images (MRI) usually have the characteristics of noise and artifacts, existing methods cannot accurately segment the boundaries. In addition, most existing algorithms are unable to effectively capture the global dependencies to offset the local inductive bias. In this work, we present a novel denoising diffusion model based on 3D Swin Transformer for brain tumor segmentation, called DiffSwinTr. Furthermore, a conditional encoder module is designed to extract multi‐scale features and enhance the ability of local feature perception. We extensively evaluate our model on three BraTS datasets. The proposed DiffSwinTr can achieve average Dice Scores of 79.91%, 83.07%, and 85.38%, as well as the average Hausdorff Distances (95%) of 3.361, 3.334, and 2.975mm, respectively. The experimental results illuminate that DiffSwinTr outperforms the state‐of‐the‐art segmentation methods. Besides, our proposed model is robust to segmenting images with noise and artifacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multimodal integration combines information from different sources or modalities to gain a more comprehensive understanding of a phenomenon. The challenges in multi-omics data analysis lie in the complexity, high dimensionality, and heterogeneity of the data, which demands sophisticated computational tools and visualization methods for proper interpretation and visualization of multi-omics data. In this paper, we propose a novel method, termed Orthogonal Multimodality Integration and Clustering (OMIC), for analyzing CITE-seq. Our approach enables researchers to integrate multiple sources of information while accounting for the dependence among them. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach using CITE-seq data sets for cell clustering. Our results show that our approach outperforms existing methods in terms of accuracy, computational efficiency, and interpretability. We conclude that our proposed OMIC method provides a powerful tool for multimodal data analysis that greatly improves the feasibility and reliability of integrated data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following the World Health Organization's guidelines for rapid antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation [≤7 days after human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) diagnosis], China implemented Treat-All in 2016 and has made significant efforts to provide timely ART since 2017. This study included newly diagnosed HIV adults from Tianjin, China, between 2016 and 2022. Our primary outcome was loss to follow-up (LTFU) at 12 months after enrollment. The secondary outcome was 12-month virological failure. The association between rapid ART and LTFU, as well as virological failure, was assessed via Cox regression and logistic regression. A total of 896 (19.1%) of 4688 participants received ART ≤7 days postdiagnosis. The rate of rapid ART has increased from 7.5% in 2016 to 33.3% by 2022. The rapid ART group had an LTFU rate of 3.3%, as opposed to 5.0% in the delayed group. The rapid ART group had a much reduced virological failure rate (0.6% vs. 1.8%). Rapid ART individuals had a reduced likelihood of LTFU [adjusted hazard ratio: 0.65, 95% confidence intervals (CI): 0.44–0.96] and virological failure (adjusted odds ratio: 0.35, 95% CI: 0.12–0.80). The real-world data indicated that rapid ART is practicable and beneficial for Chinese people with HIV, providing evidence for its widespread implementation and scaling up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The new analytical method for the determination of palonosetron in human plasma and urine has been developed based on liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. The method utilized tramadol as the internal standard (IS). Separation was carried out on a Zorbax Eclipse TC-C18 column using methanol–1mM ammonium formate in water (containing 0.1% formic acid, v/v, pH=2.8) as mobile phase for gradient elution. Detection is carried out by multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) on 3200Qtrap™ mass spectrometry. The method has a chromatographic run time of 5.5min and is linear within the concentration range 0.01–5.00ng/mL for plasma and 0.10–30.00ng/mL for urine both with a LOD of 0.003ng/mL. Intra- and inter-day RSD of the concentration was 3.66–6.60%, 1.29–7.71% for plasma and 2.39–5.76%, 2.06–7.13% for urine. The relative error (RE) was −4.58% to 3.26% for plasma and −1.47% to 2.53% for urine. The recovery rates of palonosetron and IS both for plasma and urine were more than 90%. Palonosetron was stable under all the conditions tested. The method was successfully used to analyze palonosetron in human plasma and urine over a period of 168h after intravenously pumping a single dose of 0.25mg to volunteers. No significant differences were found between the pharmacokinetic parameters and urine accumulated excretory rate for male and female volunteers (P >0.05). A two-compartment model was obtained after administrations. Palonosetron was eliminated at a slow rate in volunteers. The mean urine accumulated excretory rate was 25.97±12.87%. Inter-individual differences could not be neglected due to the high coefficient of variety in several pharmacokinetic parameters and the urine accumulated excretion. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this article, we develop regression models with cross-classified responses. Conditional independence structures can be explored/exploited through the selective inclusion/exclusion of terms in a certain functional ANOVA decomposition, and the estimation is done nonparametrically via the penalized likelihood method. A cohort of computational and data analytical tools are presented, which include cross-validation for smoothing parameter selection, Kullback-Leibler projection for model selection, and Bayesian confidence intervals for odds ratios. Random effects are introduced to model possible correlations such as those found in longitudinal and clustered data. Empirical performances of the methods are explored in simulation studies of limited scales, and a real data example is presented using some eyetracking data from linguistic studies. The techniques are implemented in a suite of R functions, whose usage is briefly described in the appendix. The Canadian Journal of Statistics 39: 591-609; 2011. © 2011 Statistical Society of Canada [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Impaired GABAergic inhibitory neurotransmission plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of epilepsy. GABAA receptor (GABAAR), potassium chloride cotransporter 2 (KCC2) and astrocytes are of particular importance to GABAergic transmission and thus involved in the development of increased seizure susceptibility. The tremor rat (TRM: tm/tm), a genetic mutant discovered in a Kyoto–Wistar colony, can manifest both absence-like seizures and tonic convulsions without any external stimuli. So far, there are no reports that can elucidate the effects of GABAAR (α4, γ2 subunit), KCC2 and astrocytes on TRMs. The present study was undertaken to detect the expressions of GABAAR α4, GABAAR γ2 and KCC2 in TRMs hippocampus at mRNA and protein levels. In this work, mRNA and protein expressions of GABAAR α4 were significantly elevated while GABAAR γ2 and KCC2 were both evidently decreased in TRMs hippocampus by real-time RT-PCR and western blot, respectively. Furthermore, a dramatic elevation of KCC2 protein level was found after cerebroventricular injection with K252a to TRMs than that in the DMSO-treated TRMs. Besides, our present study also demonstrated that GFAP (a major component of astrocyte) immunoreactivity was much more intense in TRMs hippocampal CA1, CA3 and DG regions than that in control group with immnohistochemistry and confocal microscopic analyses. The protein expression of GFAP was also markedly elevated in TRMs hippocampus, suggesting that astrogliosis appeared in the TRM model. These data demonstrate that altered expressions of GABAAR (α4, γ2) and KCC2 and astrogliosis observed in TRMs hippocampus may provide us good therapeutic targets for the treatment of genetic epilepsy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study was designed to investigate whether rosuvastatin could attenuate monocrotaline-induced pulmonary hypertension via regulation of Akt/eNOS signaling pathway and asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) metabolism in rats. After a single-dose injection of monocrotaline (60mg/kg), oral administration of rosuvastatin (5mg/kg) was started from day 1 to day 28 (preventive administration) or from day 15 to day 28 (therapeutic administration), or with vehicle as corresponding controls. 28days after monocrotaline, significant pulmonary hypertension characterized by pulmonary arterial medial wall thickening, right ventricular hypertrophy and right heart failure was observed. Rosuvastatin (5mg/kg, for 14days and 28days) treatment significantly attenuated monocrotaline-induced pulmonary vascular remodeling, right ventricular hypertrophy and dysfunction, and normalized the down-regulated pulmonary Akt/p-Akt and eNOS/p-eNOS expressions, while increased DDAH2 expression accompanied by decreased serum level of ADMA. However expression of PRMT1 and GSK3β/p-GSK3β did not differ among all groups (all P >0.05). We concluded that rosuvastatin inhibits monocrotaline-induced pulmonary hypertension through normalization of Akt, eNOS and DDAH2 expressions, and decreasing the level of ADMA. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]