BACKGROUND Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a chronic and debilitating inflammatory bowel disease.Cumulative evidence indicates that excess hydrogen peroxide,a potent neutrophilic chemotactic agent,produced by colonic epithel...BACKGROUND Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a chronic and debilitating inflammatory bowel disease.Cumulative evidence indicates that excess hydrogen peroxide,a potent neutrophilic chemotactic agent,produced by colonic epithelial cells has a causal role leading to infiltration of neutrophils into the colonic mucosa and subsequent development of UC.This evidence-based mechanism identifies hydrogen peroxide as a therapeutic target for reducing agents in the treatment of UC.CASE SUMMARY Presented is a 41-year-old female with a 26-year history of refractory UC.Having developed steroid dependence and never achieving complete remission on treatment by conventional and advanced therapies,she began treatment with oral R-dihydrolipoic acid(RDLA),a lipid-soluble reducing agent with intracellular site of action.Within a week,rectal bleeding ceased.She was asymptomatic for three years until a highly stressful experience,when she noticed blood in her stool.RDLA was discontinued,and she began treatment with oral sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate(STS),a reducing agent with extracellular site of action.After a week,rectal bleeding ceased,and she resumed oral RDLA and discontinued STS.To date,she remains asymptomatic with normal stool calprotectin while on RDLA.CONCLUSION STS and RDLA are reducing agents that serve as highly effective and safe therapy for the induction and maintenance of remission in UC,even in patients refractory or poorly controlled by conventional and advanced therapies.Should preliminary findings be validated by subsequent clinical trials,the use of reducing agents could potentially prevent thousands of colectomies and represent a paradigm shift in the treatment of UC.展开更多
Artificial intelligence(AI)is reshaping financial systems and services,as intelligent AI agents increasingly form the foundation of autonomous,goal-driven systems capable of reasoning,learning,and action.This review s...Artificial intelligence(AI)is reshaping financial systems and services,as intelligent AI agents increasingly form the foundation of autonomous,goal-driven systems capable of reasoning,learning,and action.This review synthesizes recent research and developments in the application of AI agents across core financial domains.Specifically,it covers the deployment of agent-based AI in algorithmic trading,fraud detection,credit risk assessment,roboadvisory,and regulatory compliance(RegTech).The review focuses on advanced agent-based methodologies,including reinforcement learning,multi-agent systems,and autonomous decision-making frameworks,particularly those leveraging large language models(LLMs),contrasting these with traditional AI or purely statistical models.Our primary goals are to consolidate current knowledge,identify significant trends and architectural approaches,review the practical efficiency and impact of current applications,and delineate key challenges and promising future research directions.The increasing sophistication of AI agents offers unprecedented opportunities for innovation in finance,yet presents complex technical,ethical,and regulatory challenges that demand careful consideration and proactive strategies.This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of this rapidly evolving landscape,highlighting the role of agent-based AI in the ongoing transformation of the financial industry,and is intended to serve financial institutions,regulators,investors,analysts,researchers,and other key stakeholders in the financial ecosystem.展开更多
Biological control(biocontrol) is a safe, sustainable approach that takes advantage of natural enemies such as predators, parasitic insects or pathogens to manage pests in agroecosystems. Parasitoid wasps, a very larg...Biological control(biocontrol) is a safe, sustainable approach that takes advantage of natural enemies such as predators, parasitic insects or pathogens to manage pests in agroecosystems. Parasitoid wasps, a very large evolutionary group of hymenopteran insects, are well-known biological control agents for arthropod pests in agricultural and forest ecosystems. Here, we summarize the recent progress on the application of parasitoid wasps in biocontrol in China for the last five years. These include species diversity of parasitoid wasps, identification of dominant parasitoid wasps associated with insect pests and biocontrol practices(three types of biological control, i.e., classical, augmentative and conservation biological control) in several Chinese agroecosystems. We then treat different mass-rearing and release technologies and the commercialization of several parasitoid wasp species. We also summarize other work that may have a potential use in biocontrol, including the effect of plant volatiles on parasitoids and recent advance in the molecular mechanisms underlying the host regulation by parasitoid wasps. Future research area and applied perspectives are also discussed, noting that advances in biocontrol technologies in Chinese agriculture informs research at the global level.展开更多
Purpose: To investigate 1) the development in the incidence of ESBL-producing bacteria in hospitals and primary health care, 2) the contribution of primary health care to the incidence of ESBL-producing bacteria, and ...Purpose: To investigate 1) the development in the incidence of ESBL-producing bacteria in hospitals and primary health care, 2) the contribution of primary health care to the incidence of ESBL-producing bacteria, and 3) the development in resistance patterns for all Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates in relation to antimicrobial consumption in hospitals and primary health care. Methods: ESBL-data were retrospectively collected from bacterial isolates from all specimens received at the Department of Clinical Microbiology from 2003 to 2011 together with the corresponding patient data. ESBL-production was detected in isolates from 1067 of 59,373 patients (1.8%) with an E. coli infection and in 263 of 8660 patients (3.0%) with a K. pneumoniae infection. Results: From 2003 to 2009, an increase in patients with an ESBL-producing isolate occurred in both hospitals and primary health care at the same time as an increased consumption of broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents was seen. Interventions to reduce prescription of cephalosporins and ciprofloxacin at the hospitals from 2010 resulted in a remarkable decrease in patients with ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae whereas a continuing increase was seen in patients with ESBL-producing E. coli both at hospitals and in primary health care. The proportion of patients with community-acquired ESBL-producing E. coli was stable with an increase of only 1.4% from 2007 to 2011. Conclusions: Reduction in prescription of broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents at the hospital level had an important impact on the incidence of ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae, but not on ESBL-producing E. coli.展开更多
Anemia in chronic kidney disease (CKD) is common, causing morbidity and mortality, and is primarily due to reduced erythropoietin (EPO) release and, to a lesser degree, shortened red cell survival. Erythropoietin Stim...Anemia in chronic kidney disease (CKD) is common, causing morbidity and mortality, and is primarily due to reduced erythropoietin (EPO) release and, to a lesser degree, shortened red cell survival. Erythropoietin Stimulating Agents like epoetin Alfa and darbepoetin alpha are used commonly to treat this form of anemia. Recent evidence suggests increased morbidity and mortality associated with higher hemoglobin in the setting of these agents use. Whether these complications are due to higher dose of erythropoietin or its resistance (i.e. inflammation), or achieving a higher hemoglobin remains unclear. Tightening restrictions on these agents has led to increase interest in the use of non-ESA adjuvants to improve erythropoiesis. This review will highlight the most promising of these agents.展开更多
BACKGROUND Direct-acting antiviral agents(DAAs)are extremely effective in eradicating hepatitis C virus(HCV)in chronically infected patients.However,the protective role of the sustained virologic response(SVR)achieved...BACKGROUND Direct-acting antiviral agents(DAAs)are extremely effective in eradicating hepatitis C virus(HCV)in chronically infected patients.However,the protective role of the sustained virologic response(SVR)achieved by second-and thirdgeneration DAAs against the onset of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)and mortality is less well established.AIM To examine the occurrence of HCC or death from any cause in a retrospectiveprospective study of patients treated with DAAs.METHODS Patients were enrolled from a tertiary academic hospital center for liver disease management that collects subject data mainly from northeastern Italy.The study was conducted in 380 patients(age:60±13 years,224 males,32%with cirrhosis)treated with DAAs with or without SVR(95/5%),with a median follow up of 58 wk(interquartile range:38-117).The baseline anthropometric features,HCV viral load,severity of liver disease,presence of extra-hepatic complications,coinfection with HIV and/or HBV,alcohol consumption,previous interferon use,alphafetoprotein levels,and renal function were considered to be confounders.RESULTS The incidence rate of HCC in patients with and without SVR was 1.3 and 59 per 100 person-years,respectively(incidence rate ratio:44,95%CI:15-136,P<0.001).Considering the combined endpoint of HCC or death from any cause,the hazard ratio(HR)for the SVR patients was 0.070(95%CI:0.025-0.194,P<0.001).Other independent predictors of HCC or death were low HCV viremia(HR:0.808,P=0.030),low platelet count(HR:0.910,P=0.041),and presence of mixed cryoglobulinemia(HR:3.460,P=0.044).Considering SVR in a multi-state model,the independent predictors of SVR achievement were absence of cirrhosis(HR:0.521,P<0.001)and high platelet count(HR:1.019,P=0.026).Mixed cryoglobulinemia predicted the combined endpoint in patients with and without SVR(HR:5.982,P=0.028 and HR:5.633,P=0.047,respectively).CONCLUSION DAA treatment is effective in inducing SVR and protecting against HCC or death.A residual risk of HCC persists in patients with advanced liver disease or with complications,such as mixed cryoglobulinemia or renal failure.展开更多
This study was conducted to explore and seek high-efficiency and safe green control techniques on sugarcane borers,promote green control of diseases and pests of sugarcane and build a resource-conserving,environmental...This study was conducted to explore and seek high-efficiency and safe green control techniques on sugarcane borers,promote green control of diseases and pests of sugarcane and build a resource-conserving,environmentally friendly and sustainable governance system of diseases and pests of sugarcane.A new sex pheromone trap of sugarcane borers,abamectin· Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) and tebufenozide were selected and applied in field trials.The use of the new sex pheromone trap of sugarcane borers (6 traps/hm 2) in combination with 0.05% abamectin·10 billion active gemmae/g B.thuringiensis (Bt) WP (1.8 kg/hm 2) or new sex pheromone trap of sugarcane borers (6 traps/hm 2) in combination with 200 g/L tebufenozide SC (1.5 L/hm 2) were the best in the sugarcane production.New sex pheromone trap of sugarcane borers should be installed in early march,and biological agents were mixed with water 900 kg per hectare and sprayed evenly sugarcane plants at the beginning of April.Their control effects of dead heart rate and bored stalk rate could be more than 69.98% and 49.09%,respectively,which were superior to that of the control pesticide 3.6% bisultap GR (90 kg/hm 2).The results showed that new sex pheromone trap of sugarcane borers in combination with abamectin· B.thuringiensis (Bt) or tebufenozide was the optimum mode of green control techniques on sugarcane borers.When it was alternately or coordinately used with other technology,it could delay the emergence and development of drug resistance,and it was worthy of widespread popularization and application in sugarcane area.展开更多
Data from World Health Organization estimates that the hepatitis C virus(HCV) prevalence is 3% and approxi-mately 71 million persons are infected worldwide. HCV infection is particularly frequent among patients affect...Data from World Health Organization estimates that the hepatitis C virus(HCV) prevalence is 3% and approxi-mately 71 million persons are infected worldwide. HCV infection is particularly frequent among patients affected by renal diseases and among those in dialysis treatment. In addition to produce a higher rate of any cause of death, HCV in renal patients and in renal transplanted patients produce a deterioration of liver disease and is a recognized cause of transplant glomerulopathy, new onset diabetes mellitus and lymphoproliferative disorders. Treatment of HCV infection with interferon alpha and/or ribavirin had a poor efficacy. The treatment was toxic, expensive and with limited efficacy. In the post-transplant period was also cause of severe humoral rejection. In this review we have highlighted the new direct antiviral agents that have revolutionized the treatment of HCV both in the general population and in the renal patients. Patients on dialysis or with low glomerular filtration rate were particularly resistant to the old therapies, while the direct antiviral agents allowed achieving a sustained viral response in 90%- 100% of patients with a short period of treatment. This fact to date allows HCV patients to enter the waiting list for transplantation easier than before. These new agents may be also used in renal transplant patients HCV -positive without relevant clinical risks and achieving a sustained viral response in almost all patients. New drug appears in the pipeline with increased profile of efficacy and safety. These drugs are now the object of several phases Ⅱ, Ⅲ clinical trials.展开更多
High performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry was developed and validated as a method for the analysis of fluorinated histone deacetylase inhibitors (F-HDACi), and then employed to study...High performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry was developed and validated as a method for the analysis of fluorinated histone deacetylase inhibitors (F-HDACi), and then employed to study their metabolism in biosystems. Four HDACi analogs labeled with the positron emission nuclide 18F constitute a group of potential positron emission tomography imaging agents, which were developed by the Institute of Nuclear Energy Research (INER) and coded as INER-1577 #1, #2, #3, and #4 during animal studies for the diagnosis of dementia. The performance of the method was found to be suitable for the determination of analog #3, and it was employed to determine the structures and fragmentation mechanisms of all four analogs and to study the biotransformations of analogs #3 and #4. The results indicated that the method used for the determination of analog #3 was suitable for determining the abundance of the analogs in chemical and biochemical tests with high precision, accuracy, reproducibility, and recovery. Weaknesses in the chemical bonding of the analogs were found to involve the fluoro, dimethylamino, and benzamide groups in a fragmentation mechanism deduced via tandem mass spectrometry. The metabolites of analogs #3 and #4 in rat liver microsomes and rat plasma were also identified to clarify their characteristic behaviors in biosystems. The major product of analogs #3 in liver microsomes was produced by hydroxylation of the benzylic carbon atom, but in rat plasma the metabolites of analog #3 were produced by hydrolysis of the benzamide group to give a diaminobiphenyl compound with the simultaneous replacement of a fluorine atom by a hydroxyl group. The metabolites of analog #4 in liver microsomes were produced by hydroxylation of the benzylic carbon atom and hydrolysis of the benzamide bond. The results of the studies characterized the chemical and biochemical behaviors of the series F-HADCi analogs.展开更多
Conventional echocardiography can sometimes pose a challenge to diagnosis due to sub-optimal images.Ultrasound contrast agents(UCAs)have been shown to drastically enhance imaging quality,particularly depicting the lef...Conventional echocardiography can sometimes pose a challenge to diagnosis due to sub-optimal images.Ultrasound contrast agents(UCAs)have been shown to drastically enhance imaging quality,particularly depicting the left ventricular endocardial borders.Their use during echocardiography has become a valuable tool in non-invasive diagnostics.UCAs provide higher-quality images that may ultimately reduce the length of hospital stays and improve patient care.The higher cost associated with UCAs in many situations has been an impediment to frequent use.However,when used as an initial diagnostic test,UCA during rest echocardiogram is more cost-effective than the traditional diagnostic approach,which frequently includes multiple tests and imaging studies to make an accurate diagnosis.They can be easily performed across multiple patient settings and provide optimal images that allow clinicians to make sound medical decisions.This consequently allows for better diagnostic accuracies and improvement in patient care.展开更多
BACKGROUND A major cause of mortality in the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic was acute respiratory distress syndrome(ARDS).Currently,moderate to severe ARDS induced by COVID-19(COVID ARDS)and other viral an...BACKGROUND A major cause of mortality in the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic was acute respiratory distress syndrome(ARDS).Currently,moderate to severe ARDS induced by COVID-19(COVID ARDS)and other viral and non-viral etiologies are treated by traditional ARDS protocols that recommend 12-16 hours of prone position ventilation(PPV)with neuromuscular blocking agents(NMBA)and a trial of inhaled vasodilators(IVd)if oxygenation does not improve.However,debate on the efficacy of adjuncts to PPV and low tidal volume ventilation persists and evidence about the benefits of IVd/NMBA in COVID ARDS is sparse.In our multi-center retrospective review,we evaluated the impact of PPV,IVd,and NMBA on outcomes and lung mechanics in COVID ARDS patients with moderate to severe ARDS.AIM To evaluate the impact of PPV used alone or in combination with pulmonary IVd and/or NMBA in mechanically ventilated patients with moderate to severe ARDS during the COVID-19 pandemic.METHODS A retrospective study at two tertiary academic medical centers compared outcomes between COVID ARDS patients receiving PPV and patients in the supine position.PPV patients were divided based on concurrent use of ARDS adjunct therapies resulting in four subgroups:(1)PPV alone;(2)PPV and IVd;(3)PPV and NMBA;and(4)PPV,IVd,and NMBA.Primary outcomes were hospital and intensive care unit(ICU)length of stay(LOS),mortality,and venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation(VV-ECMO)status.Secondary outcomes included changes in lung mechanics at 24-hour intervals for 7 days.RESULTS Total 114 patients were included in this study.Baseline respiratory parameters and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment scores were significantly worse in the PPV group.ICU LOS and LOS were significantly longer for patients who were proned,but no mortality benefit or difference in VV-ECMO status was found.Among the subgroups,no difference in primary outcomes were found.In the secondary analysis,PPV was associated with a significant improvement in arterial oxygen partial pressure(PaO_(2))/fractional inspired oxygen(FiO_(2))(P/F)ratio from day 1 to day 4(P<0.05)and higher driving pressures day 5 to day 7(P<0.05).The combination of PPV and IVd together resulted in improvements in P/F ratio from day 1 to day 7 and plateau pressure on day 4 and day 6(P<0.05).PPV with NMBA was not associated with improvements in any of the secondary outcomes.The use of all three rescue therapies together resulted in improvements in lung compliance on day 2(P<0.05)but no other improvements.CONCLUSION In mechanically ventilated patients diagnosed with moderate to severe COVID ARDS,PPV and PPV with the addition of IVd produced a significant and sustained increase in P/F ratio.The combination of PPV,IVd and NMBA improved compliance however this did not reach significance.Mortality and LOS did not improve with adjunct therapies.Further research is warranted to determine the efficacy of these therapies alone and in combination in the treatment of COVID ARDS.展开更多
The most common age-related neurodegenerative disease is Alzheimer's disease(AD) characterized by aggregated amyloid-β(Aβ) peptides in extracellular plaques and aggregated hyperphosphorylated tau protein in intr...The most common age-related neurodegenerative disease is Alzheimer's disease(AD) characterized by aggregated amyloid-β(Aβ) peptides in extracellular plaques and aggregated hyperphosphorylated tau protein in intraneuronal neurofibrillary tangles,together with loss of cholinergic neurons,synaptic alterations,and chronic inflammation within the brain.These lead to progressive impairment of cognitive function.There is evidence of innate immune activation in AD with microgliosis.Classically-activated microglia(M1 state) secrete inflammatory and neurotoxic mediators,and peripheral immune cells are recruited to inflammation sites in the brain.The few drugs approved by the US FDA for the treatment of AD improve symptoms but do not change the course of disease progression and may cause some undesirable effects.Translation of active and passive immunotherapy targeting Aβ in AD animal model trials had limited success in clinical trials.Treatment with immunomodulatory/anti-inflammatory agents early in the disease process,while not preventive,is able to inhibit the inflammatory consequences of both Aβ and tau aggregation.The studies described in this review have identified several agents with immunomodulatory properties that alleviated AD pathology and cognitive impairment in animal models of AD.The majority of the animal studies reviewed had used transgenic models of early-onset AD.More effort needs to be given to creat models of late-onset AD.The effects of a combinational therapy involving two or more of the tested pharmaceutical agents,or one of these agents given in conjunction with one of the cell-based therapies,in an aged animal model of AD would warrant investigation.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the effect of early surgical intervention on the high surgical risk elderly patients who sustained femoral neck fracture(FNF) and taking concomitant antiplatelet agents. METHODS: Between 2010 and 2...AIM: To investigate the effect of early surgical intervention on the high surgical risk elderly patients who sustained femoral neck fracture(FNF) and taking concomitant antiplatelet agents. METHODS: Between 2010 and 2012, a prospective study was conducted on 49 geriatric patients, who took antiplatelet agents, sustained FNF and underwent surgery within 72 h [early surgery(ES) group], and these were compared with a retrospective consecutive case series of patients with similar characteristics(45 cases) who had delayed surgery(DS group) after 72 h during an earlier 3-year period. Postoperative outcomeswere followed for one year and compared. RESULTS: There were non-significant differences in perioperative blood loss, blood transfusion, intensive care unit requirement and postoperative mortality(P > 0.05 all). There were 2 patients(4%) in the DS group who died after surgery(P = 0.23). However, the ES group showed a significantly better postoperative outcome in terms of postoperative complications, length of hospital stay, and functional outcome(P < 0.05 all).CONCLUSION: Early hip surgery in geriatric hip fracture patients with ongoing antiplatelet treatment was not associated with a significant increase of perioperative blood loss and postoperative mortality. Moreover, ES resulted in a better postoperative surgical outcome. In early hip surgery protocol, the antiplatelet agents are discontinued and the patient is operated on within 72 h after admission, which is safe and effective for the medically fit patients.展开更多
The conventional foaming agents have the problems of poor adaptability and high cost during the application in different types of gas fields,especially in high temperature,high salinity,high acidic gas and high conden...The conventional foaming agents have the problems of poor adaptability and high cost during the application in different types of gas fields,especially in high temperature,high salinity,high acidic gas and high condensate oil and gas fields.In this study,the Gemini foaming agent was used as the main agent to enhance foaming and foam stability of the foaming agent,the grafted nanoparticles were used as foam stabilizer to further improve the foam stability,and the characteristic auxiliaries were added to make the foaming agent suitable for different types of gas reservoirs.Two types and six subtypes of nanoparticle foaming agents have been prepared for the main gas fields of China.The experimental evaluation results show that the overall temperature resistance,salinity resistance,H2S resistance,CO2 resistance and condensate resistance of the nanoparticle foaming agents can reach 160℃,250000 mg/L,100 mg/L,100%and 40%,respectively.The new foaming agents have been used in 8685 wells in China.Compared with conventional foaming agent,the average gas flow rate per well increased by 62.48%,the pressure difference(casing-tubing)decreased by 18.9%,and the cost dropped by 45%.The effect of reducing cost and increasing efficiency is obvious.展开更多
Peripheral nerve injuries are relatively common and can be caused by a variety of traumatic events such as motor vehicle accidents.They can lead to long-term disability,pain,and financial burden,and contribute to poor...Peripheral nerve injuries are relatively common and can be caused by a variety of traumatic events such as motor vehicle accidents.They can lead to long-term disability,pain,and financial burden,and contribute to poor quality of life.In this review,we systematically analyze the contemporary literature on peripheral nerve gap management using nerve prostheses in conjunction with physical therapeutic agents.The use of nerve prostheses to assist nerve regeneration across large gaps(> 30 mm) has revolutionized neural surgery.The materials used for nerve prostheses have been greatly refined,making them suitable for repairing large nerve gaps.However,research on peripheral nerve gap management using nerve prostheses reports inconsistent functional outcomes,especially when prostheses are integrated with physical therapeutic agents,and thus warrants careful investigation.This review explores the effectiveness of nerve prostheses for bridging large nerve gaps and then addresses their use in combination with physical therapeutic agents.展开更多
During this research we spot several key issues concerning WSN design process and how to introduce intelligence in the motes. Due to the nature of these networks, debugging after deployment is unrealistic, thus an eff...During this research we spot several key issues concerning WSN design process and how to introduce intelligence in the motes. Due to the nature of these networks, debugging after deployment is unrealistic, thus an efficient testing method is required. WSN simulators perform the task, but still code implementing mote sensing and RF behaviour consists of layered and/or interacting protocols that for the sake of designing accuracy are tested working as a whole, running on specific hardware. Simulators that provide cross layer simulation and hardware emulation options may be regarded as the last milestone of the WSN design process. Especially mechanisms for introducing intelligence into the WSN decision making process but in the simulation level is an important aspect not tackled so far in the literature at all. The herein proposed multi-agent simulation architecture aims at designing a novel WSN simulation system independent of specific hardware platforms but taking into account all hardware entities and events for testing and analysing the behaviour of a realistic WSN system. Moreover, the design herein outlined involves the basic mechanisms, with regards to memory and data management, towards Prolog interpreter implementation in the simulation level.展开更多
Hepatitis C infection is universal and the most common indication of liver transplantation in the United States. The period of less effective interferon therapy with intolerable side effects has gone. Now we have step...Hepatitis C infection is universal and the most common indication of liver transplantation in the United States. The period of less effective interferon therapy with intolerable side effects has gone. Now we have stepped into the era of direct acting anti-viral agents(DAAs) against hepatitis C virus. Treatment of hepatitis C is now extremely effective, tolerable and requires a short duration of intake of oral agents. Less monitoring is required with the current therapy and drug-drug interactions are less than the previous regimen. The current treatment options of chronic hepatitis C with various DAAs are discussed in this article.展开更多
COMPUTATIONAL experiments method is an essential tool for analyzing,designing,managing,and integrating complex systems.However,a significant challenge arises in constructing agents with human-like characteristics to f...COMPUTATIONAL experiments method is an essential tool for analyzing,designing,managing,and integrating complex systems.However,a significant challenge arises in constructing agents with human-like characteristics to form an AI society.Agent modeling typically encompasses four levels:1)The autonomy features of agents,e.g.,perception,behavior,and decision-making;2)The evolutionary features of agents,e.g.,bounded rationality,heterogeneity,and learning evolution;3)The social features of agents,e.g.,interaction,cooperation,and competition;4)The emergent features of agents,e.g.,gaming with environments or regulatory strategies.Traditional modeling techniques primarily derive from ABMs(Agent-based Models)and incorporate various emerging technologies(e.g.,machine learning,big data,and social networks),which can enhance modeling capabilities,while amplifying the complexity[1].展开更多
Professor Ge Guangbo(葛广波)joined Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine(上海中医药大学,SHUTCM)as a full professor and vice dean of Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research in 2017.In...Professor Ge Guangbo(葛广波)joined Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine(上海中医药大学,SHUTCM)as a full professor and vice dean of Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research in 2017.In 2021,he served as executive vice dean of the Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research at SHUTCM.He has been awarded the National Natural Science Fund for Excellent Young Scholars,the National Young Qihuang Scholar(青年岐黄学者).展开更多
Ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles(usSPIONs)are promising alternatives to gadolinium‐based contrast agents for positive contrast enhancement in magnetic resonance imaging(MRI).Unlike larger SPIONs ...Ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles(usSPIONs)are promising alternatives to gadolinium‐based contrast agents for positive contrast enhancement in magnetic resonance imaging(MRI).Unlike larger SPIONs that primarily function as T2/T2*negative contrast agents,usSPIONs with core diameters below 5 nm can effectively shorten T1 relaxation times,producing bright signals in T1‐weighted images.This distinct behavior stems from their unique magnetic properties,including single‐domain configurations,surface spin canting,and rapid Néel relaxation dynamics,which are particularly enhanced at low magnetic field strengths.The biocompatibility of iron oxide,efficient renal clearance pathways,and versatility for surface functionalization offer potential advantages over gadolinium‐based agents,especially regarding safety concerns related to nephrogenic systemic fibrosis and gadolinium deposition.These nanoparticles show particular promise for applications in lowfield MRI,vascular imaging,targeted molecular imaging,and theranostic platforms.Although challenges remain in optimizing synthesis methods for consistent production of monodisperse usSPIONs with tailored surface chemistry,ongoing research continues to advance their potential for clinical translation.This review explores the mechanisms,synthesis approaches,applications,and future perspectives of usSPIONs as positive contrast agents in MRI.展开更多
文摘BACKGROUND Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a chronic and debilitating inflammatory bowel disease.Cumulative evidence indicates that excess hydrogen peroxide,a potent neutrophilic chemotactic agent,produced by colonic epithelial cells has a causal role leading to infiltration of neutrophils into the colonic mucosa and subsequent development of UC.This evidence-based mechanism identifies hydrogen peroxide as a therapeutic target for reducing agents in the treatment of UC.CASE SUMMARY Presented is a 41-year-old female with a 26-year history of refractory UC.Having developed steroid dependence and never achieving complete remission on treatment by conventional and advanced therapies,she began treatment with oral R-dihydrolipoic acid(RDLA),a lipid-soluble reducing agent with intracellular site of action.Within a week,rectal bleeding ceased.She was asymptomatic for three years until a highly stressful experience,when she noticed blood in her stool.RDLA was discontinued,and she began treatment with oral sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate(STS),a reducing agent with extracellular site of action.After a week,rectal bleeding ceased,and she resumed oral RDLA and discontinued STS.To date,she remains asymptomatic with normal stool calprotectin while on RDLA.CONCLUSION STS and RDLA are reducing agents that serve as highly effective and safe therapy for the induction and maintenance of remission in UC,even in patients refractory or poorly controlled by conventional and advanced therapies.Should preliminary findings be validated by subsequent clinical trials,the use of reducing agents could potentially prevent thousands of colectomies and represent a paradigm shift in the treatment of UC.
基金supported by the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of North Macedonia through the project“Utilizing AI and National Large Language Models to Advance Macedonian Language Capabilties”。
文摘Artificial intelligence(AI)is reshaping financial systems and services,as intelligent AI agents increasingly form the foundation of autonomous,goal-driven systems capable of reasoning,learning,and action.This review synthesizes recent research and developments in the application of AI agents across core financial domains.Specifically,it covers the deployment of agent-based AI in algorithmic trading,fraud detection,credit risk assessment,roboadvisory,and regulatory compliance(RegTech).The review focuses on advanced agent-based methodologies,including reinforcement learning,multi-agent systems,and autonomous decision-making frameworks,particularly those leveraging large language models(LLMs),contrasting these with traditional AI or purely statistical models.Our primary goals are to consolidate current knowledge,identify significant trends and architectural approaches,review the practical efficiency and impact of current applications,and delineate key challenges and promising future research directions.The increasing sophistication of AI agents offers unprecedented opportunities for innovation in finance,yet presents complex technical,ethical,and regulatory challenges that demand careful consideration and proactive strategies.This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of this rapidly evolving landscape,highlighting the role of agent-based AI in the ongoing transformation of the financial industry,and is intended to serve financial institutions,regulators,investors,analysts,researchers,and other key stakeholders in the financial ecosystem.
基金supported by the Key Program(31630060)Fund for Excellent Young Scholars(31230068)General Program(31672079 and 31501700) of the National Natural Science Foundation of China
文摘Biological control(biocontrol) is a safe, sustainable approach that takes advantage of natural enemies such as predators, parasitic insects or pathogens to manage pests in agroecosystems. Parasitoid wasps, a very large evolutionary group of hymenopteran insects, are well-known biological control agents for arthropod pests in agricultural and forest ecosystems. Here, we summarize the recent progress on the application of parasitoid wasps in biocontrol in China for the last five years. These include species diversity of parasitoid wasps, identification of dominant parasitoid wasps associated with insect pests and biocontrol practices(three types of biological control, i.e., classical, augmentative and conservation biological control) in several Chinese agroecosystems. We then treat different mass-rearing and release technologies and the commercialization of several parasitoid wasp species. We also summarize other work that may have a potential use in biocontrol, including the effect of plant volatiles on parasitoids and recent advance in the molecular mechanisms underlying the host regulation by parasitoid wasps. Future research area and applied perspectives are also discussed, noting that advances in biocontrol technologies in Chinese agriculture informs research at the global level.
文摘Purpose: To investigate 1) the development in the incidence of ESBL-producing bacteria in hospitals and primary health care, 2) the contribution of primary health care to the incidence of ESBL-producing bacteria, and 3) the development in resistance patterns for all Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates in relation to antimicrobial consumption in hospitals and primary health care. Methods: ESBL-data were retrospectively collected from bacterial isolates from all specimens received at the Department of Clinical Microbiology from 2003 to 2011 together with the corresponding patient data. ESBL-production was detected in isolates from 1067 of 59,373 patients (1.8%) with an E. coli infection and in 263 of 8660 patients (3.0%) with a K. pneumoniae infection. Results: From 2003 to 2009, an increase in patients with an ESBL-producing isolate occurred in both hospitals and primary health care at the same time as an increased consumption of broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents was seen. Interventions to reduce prescription of cephalosporins and ciprofloxacin at the hospitals from 2010 resulted in a remarkable decrease in patients with ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae whereas a continuing increase was seen in patients with ESBL-producing E. coli both at hospitals and in primary health care. The proportion of patients with community-acquired ESBL-producing E. coli was stable with an increase of only 1.4% from 2007 to 2011. Conclusions: Reduction in prescription of broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents at the hospital level had an important impact on the incidence of ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae, but not on ESBL-producing E. coli.
文摘Anemia in chronic kidney disease (CKD) is common, causing morbidity and mortality, and is primarily due to reduced erythropoietin (EPO) release and, to a lesser degree, shortened red cell survival. Erythropoietin Stimulating Agents like epoetin Alfa and darbepoetin alpha are used commonly to treat this form of anemia. Recent evidence suggests increased morbidity and mortality associated with higher hemoglobin in the setting of these agents use. Whether these complications are due to higher dose of erythropoietin or its resistance (i.e. inflammation), or achieving a higher hemoglobin remains unclear. Tightening restrictions on these agents has led to increase interest in the use of non-ESA adjuvants to improve erythropoiesis. This review will highlight the most promising of these agents.
文摘BACKGROUND Direct-acting antiviral agents(DAAs)are extremely effective in eradicating hepatitis C virus(HCV)in chronically infected patients.However,the protective role of the sustained virologic response(SVR)achieved by second-and thirdgeneration DAAs against the onset of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)and mortality is less well established.AIM To examine the occurrence of HCC or death from any cause in a retrospectiveprospective study of patients treated with DAAs.METHODS Patients were enrolled from a tertiary academic hospital center for liver disease management that collects subject data mainly from northeastern Italy.The study was conducted in 380 patients(age:60±13 years,224 males,32%with cirrhosis)treated with DAAs with or without SVR(95/5%),with a median follow up of 58 wk(interquartile range:38-117).The baseline anthropometric features,HCV viral load,severity of liver disease,presence of extra-hepatic complications,coinfection with HIV and/or HBV,alcohol consumption,previous interferon use,alphafetoprotein levels,and renal function were considered to be confounders.RESULTS The incidence rate of HCC in patients with and without SVR was 1.3 and 59 per 100 person-years,respectively(incidence rate ratio:44,95%CI:15-136,P<0.001).Considering the combined endpoint of HCC or death from any cause,the hazard ratio(HR)for the SVR patients was 0.070(95%CI:0.025-0.194,P<0.001).Other independent predictors of HCC or death were low HCV viremia(HR:0.808,P=0.030),low platelet count(HR:0.910,P=0.041),and presence of mixed cryoglobulinemia(HR:3.460,P=0.044).Considering SVR in a multi-state model,the independent predictors of SVR achievement were absence of cirrhosis(HR:0.521,P<0.001)and high platelet count(HR:1.019,P=0.026).Mixed cryoglobulinemia predicted the combined endpoint in patients with and without SVR(HR:5.982,P=0.028 and HR:5.633,P=0.047,respectively).CONCLUSION DAA treatment is effective in inducing SVR and protecting against HCC or death.A residual risk of HCC persists in patients with advanced liver disease or with complications,such as mixed cryoglobulinemia or renal failure.
基金Supported by Sugar Crop Research System(CARS-170303)Training Project of Yunling Industry and Technology Leading Talents“Control of Sugarcane Harmful Organisms”(2018LJRC56)Special Fund of Agricultural Industry Research System in Yunnan Province
文摘This study was conducted to explore and seek high-efficiency and safe green control techniques on sugarcane borers,promote green control of diseases and pests of sugarcane and build a resource-conserving,environmentally friendly and sustainable governance system of diseases and pests of sugarcane.A new sex pheromone trap of sugarcane borers,abamectin· Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) and tebufenozide were selected and applied in field trials.The use of the new sex pheromone trap of sugarcane borers (6 traps/hm 2) in combination with 0.05% abamectin·10 billion active gemmae/g B.thuringiensis (Bt) WP (1.8 kg/hm 2) or new sex pheromone trap of sugarcane borers (6 traps/hm 2) in combination with 200 g/L tebufenozide SC (1.5 L/hm 2) were the best in the sugarcane production.New sex pheromone trap of sugarcane borers should be installed in early march,and biological agents were mixed with water 900 kg per hectare and sprayed evenly sugarcane plants at the beginning of April.Their control effects of dead heart rate and bored stalk rate could be more than 69.98% and 49.09%,respectively,which were superior to that of the control pesticide 3.6% bisultap GR (90 kg/hm 2).The results showed that new sex pheromone trap of sugarcane borers in combination with abamectin· B.thuringiensis (Bt) or tebufenozide was the optimum mode of green control techniques on sugarcane borers.When it was alternately or coordinately used with other technology,it could delay the emergence and development of drug resistance,and it was worthy of widespread popularization and application in sugarcane area.
文摘Data from World Health Organization estimates that the hepatitis C virus(HCV) prevalence is 3% and approxi-mately 71 million persons are infected worldwide. HCV infection is particularly frequent among patients affected by renal diseases and among those in dialysis treatment. In addition to produce a higher rate of any cause of death, HCV in renal patients and in renal transplanted patients produce a deterioration of liver disease and is a recognized cause of transplant glomerulopathy, new onset diabetes mellitus and lymphoproliferative disorders. Treatment of HCV infection with interferon alpha and/or ribavirin had a poor efficacy. The treatment was toxic, expensive and with limited efficacy. In the post-transplant period was also cause of severe humoral rejection. In this review we have highlighted the new direct antiviral agents that have revolutionized the treatment of HCV both in the general population and in the renal patients. Patients on dialysis or with low glomerular filtration rate were particularly resistant to the old therapies, while the direct antiviral agents allowed achieving a sustained viral response in 90%- 100% of patients with a short period of treatment. This fact to date allows HCV patients to enter the waiting list for transplantation easier than before. These new agents may be also used in renal transplant patients HCV -positive without relevant clinical risks and achieving a sustained viral response in almost all patients. New drug appears in the pipeline with increased profile of efficacy and safety. These drugs are now the object of several phases Ⅱ, Ⅲ clinical trials.
文摘High performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry was developed and validated as a method for the analysis of fluorinated histone deacetylase inhibitors (F-HDACi), and then employed to study their metabolism in biosystems. Four HDACi analogs labeled with the positron emission nuclide 18F constitute a group of potential positron emission tomography imaging agents, which were developed by the Institute of Nuclear Energy Research (INER) and coded as INER-1577 #1, #2, #3, and #4 during animal studies for the diagnosis of dementia. The performance of the method was found to be suitable for the determination of analog #3, and it was employed to determine the structures and fragmentation mechanisms of all four analogs and to study the biotransformations of analogs #3 and #4. The results indicated that the method used for the determination of analog #3 was suitable for determining the abundance of the analogs in chemical and biochemical tests with high precision, accuracy, reproducibility, and recovery. Weaknesses in the chemical bonding of the analogs were found to involve the fluoro, dimethylamino, and benzamide groups in a fragmentation mechanism deduced via tandem mass spectrometry. The metabolites of analogs #3 and #4 in rat liver microsomes and rat plasma were also identified to clarify their characteristic behaviors in biosystems. The major product of analogs #3 in liver microsomes was produced by hydroxylation of the benzylic carbon atom, but in rat plasma the metabolites of analog #3 were produced by hydrolysis of the benzamide group to give a diaminobiphenyl compound with the simultaneous replacement of a fluorine atom by a hydroxyl group. The metabolites of analog #4 in liver microsomes were produced by hydroxylation of the benzylic carbon atom and hydrolysis of the benzamide bond. The results of the studies characterized the chemical and biochemical behaviors of the series F-HADCi analogs.
文摘Conventional echocardiography can sometimes pose a challenge to diagnosis due to sub-optimal images.Ultrasound contrast agents(UCAs)have been shown to drastically enhance imaging quality,particularly depicting the left ventricular endocardial borders.Their use during echocardiography has become a valuable tool in non-invasive diagnostics.UCAs provide higher-quality images that may ultimately reduce the length of hospital stays and improve patient care.The higher cost associated with UCAs in many situations has been an impediment to frequent use.However,when used as an initial diagnostic test,UCA during rest echocardiogram is more cost-effective than the traditional diagnostic approach,which frequently includes multiple tests and imaging studies to make an accurate diagnosis.They can be easily performed across multiple patient settings and provide optimal images that allow clinicians to make sound medical decisions.This consequently allows for better diagnostic accuracies and improvement in patient care.
文摘BACKGROUND A major cause of mortality in the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic was acute respiratory distress syndrome(ARDS).Currently,moderate to severe ARDS induced by COVID-19(COVID ARDS)and other viral and non-viral etiologies are treated by traditional ARDS protocols that recommend 12-16 hours of prone position ventilation(PPV)with neuromuscular blocking agents(NMBA)and a trial of inhaled vasodilators(IVd)if oxygenation does not improve.However,debate on the efficacy of adjuncts to PPV and low tidal volume ventilation persists and evidence about the benefits of IVd/NMBA in COVID ARDS is sparse.In our multi-center retrospective review,we evaluated the impact of PPV,IVd,and NMBA on outcomes and lung mechanics in COVID ARDS patients with moderate to severe ARDS.AIM To evaluate the impact of PPV used alone or in combination with pulmonary IVd and/or NMBA in mechanically ventilated patients with moderate to severe ARDS during the COVID-19 pandemic.METHODS A retrospective study at two tertiary academic medical centers compared outcomes between COVID ARDS patients receiving PPV and patients in the supine position.PPV patients were divided based on concurrent use of ARDS adjunct therapies resulting in four subgroups:(1)PPV alone;(2)PPV and IVd;(3)PPV and NMBA;and(4)PPV,IVd,and NMBA.Primary outcomes were hospital and intensive care unit(ICU)length of stay(LOS),mortality,and venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation(VV-ECMO)status.Secondary outcomes included changes in lung mechanics at 24-hour intervals for 7 days.RESULTS Total 114 patients were included in this study.Baseline respiratory parameters and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment scores were significantly worse in the PPV group.ICU LOS and LOS were significantly longer for patients who were proned,but no mortality benefit or difference in VV-ECMO status was found.Among the subgroups,no difference in primary outcomes were found.In the secondary analysis,PPV was associated with a significant improvement in arterial oxygen partial pressure(PaO_(2))/fractional inspired oxygen(FiO_(2))(P/F)ratio from day 1 to day 4(P<0.05)and higher driving pressures day 5 to day 7(P<0.05).The combination of PPV and IVd together resulted in improvements in P/F ratio from day 1 to day 7 and plateau pressure on day 4 and day 6(P<0.05).PPV with NMBA was not associated with improvements in any of the secondary outcomes.The use of all three rescue therapies together resulted in improvements in lung compliance on day 2(P<0.05)but no other improvements.CONCLUSION In mechanically ventilated patients diagnosed with moderate to severe COVID ARDS,PPV and PPV with the addition of IVd produced a significant and sustained increase in P/F ratio.The combination of PPV,IVd and NMBA improved compliance however this did not reach significance.Mortality and LOS did not improve with adjunct therapies.Further research is warranted to determine the efficacy of these therapies alone and in combination in the treatment of COVID ARDS.
文摘The most common age-related neurodegenerative disease is Alzheimer's disease(AD) characterized by aggregated amyloid-β(Aβ) peptides in extracellular plaques and aggregated hyperphosphorylated tau protein in intraneuronal neurofibrillary tangles,together with loss of cholinergic neurons,synaptic alterations,and chronic inflammation within the brain.These lead to progressive impairment of cognitive function.There is evidence of innate immune activation in AD with microgliosis.Classically-activated microglia(M1 state) secrete inflammatory and neurotoxic mediators,and peripheral immune cells are recruited to inflammation sites in the brain.The few drugs approved by the US FDA for the treatment of AD improve symptoms but do not change the course of disease progression and may cause some undesirable effects.Translation of active and passive immunotherapy targeting Aβ in AD animal model trials had limited success in clinical trials.Treatment with immunomodulatory/anti-inflammatory agents early in the disease process,while not preventive,is able to inhibit the inflammatory consequences of both Aβ and tau aggregation.The studies described in this review have identified several agents with immunomodulatory properties that alleviated AD pathology and cognitive impairment in animal models of AD.The majority of the animal studies reviewed had used transgenic models of early-onset AD.More effort needs to be given to creat models of late-onset AD.The effects of a combinational therapy involving two or more of the tested pharmaceutical agents,or one of these agents given in conjunction with one of the cell-based therapies,in an aged animal model of AD would warrant investigation.
文摘AIM: To investigate the effect of early surgical intervention on the high surgical risk elderly patients who sustained femoral neck fracture(FNF) and taking concomitant antiplatelet agents. METHODS: Between 2010 and 2012, a prospective study was conducted on 49 geriatric patients, who took antiplatelet agents, sustained FNF and underwent surgery within 72 h [early surgery(ES) group], and these were compared with a retrospective consecutive case series of patients with similar characteristics(45 cases) who had delayed surgery(DS group) after 72 h during an earlier 3-year period. Postoperative outcomeswere followed for one year and compared. RESULTS: There were non-significant differences in perioperative blood loss, blood transfusion, intensive care unit requirement and postoperative mortality(P > 0.05 all). There were 2 patients(4%) in the DS group who died after surgery(P = 0.23). However, the ES group showed a significantly better postoperative outcome in terms of postoperative complications, length of hospital stay, and functional outcome(P < 0.05 all).CONCLUSION: Early hip surgery in geriatric hip fracture patients with ongoing antiplatelet treatment was not associated with a significant increase of perioperative blood loss and postoperative mortality. Moreover, ES resulted in a better postoperative surgical outcome. In early hip surgery protocol, the antiplatelet agents are discontinued and the patient is operated on within 72 h after admission, which is safe and effective for the medically fit patients.
基金Supported by the PetroChina Scientifc Research and Technological Development Project(kt2017-21-14-1).
文摘The conventional foaming agents have the problems of poor adaptability and high cost during the application in different types of gas fields,especially in high temperature,high salinity,high acidic gas and high condensate oil and gas fields.In this study,the Gemini foaming agent was used as the main agent to enhance foaming and foam stability of the foaming agent,the grafted nanoparticles were used as foam stabilizer to further improve the foam stability,and the characteristic auxiliaries were added to make the foaming agent suitable for different types of gas reservoirs.Two types and six subtypes of nanoparticle foaming agents have been prepared for the main gas fields of China.The experimental evaluation results show that the overall temperature resistance,salinity resistance,H2S resistance,CO2 resistance and condensate resistance of the nanoparticle foaming agents can reach 160℃,250000 mg/L,100 mg/L,100%and 40%,respectively.The new foaming agents have been used in 8685 wells in China.Compared with conventional foaming agent,the average gas flow rate per well increased by 62.48%,the pressure difference(casing-tubing)decreased by 18.9%,and the cost dropped by 45%.The effect of reducing cost and increasing efficiency is obvious.
文摘Peripheral nerve injuries are relatively common and can be caused by a variety of traumatic events such as motor vehicle accidents.They can lead to long-term disability,pain,and financial burden,and contribute to poor quality of life.In this review,we systematically analyze the contemporary literature on peripheral nerve gap management using nerve prostheses in conjunction with physical therapeutic agents.The use of nerve prostheses to assist nerve regeneration across large gaps(> 30 mm) has revolutionized neural surgery.The materials used for nerve prostheses have been greatly refined,making them suitable for repairing large nerve gaps.However,research on peripheral nerve gap management using nerve prostheses reports inconsistent functional outcomes,especially when prostheses are integrated with physical therapeutic agents,and thus warrants careful investigation.This review explores the effectiveness of nerve prostheses for bridging large nerve gaps and then addresses their use in combination with physical therapeutic agents.
文摘During this research we spot several key issues concerning WSN design process and how to introduce intelligence in the motes. Due to the nature of these networks, debugging after deployment is unrealistic, thus an efficient testing method is required. WSN simulators perform the task, but still code implementing mote sensing and RF behaviour consists of layered and/or interacting protocols that for the sake of designing accuracy are tested working as a whole, running on specific hardware. Simulators that provide cross layer simulation and hardware emulation options may be regarded as the last milestone of the WSN design process. Especially mechanisms for introducing intelligence into the WSN decision making process but in the simulation level is an important aspect not tackled so far in the literature at all. The herein proposed multi-agent simulation architecture aims at designing a novel WSN simulation system independent of specific hardware platforms but taking into account all hardware entities and events for testing and analysing the behaviour of a realistic WSN system. Moreover, the design herein outlined involves the basic mechanisms, with regards to memory and data management, towards Prolog interpreter implementation in the simulation level.
文摘Hepatitis C infection is universal and the most common indication of liver transplantation in the United States. The period of less effective interferon therapy with intolerable side effects has gone. Now we have stepped into the era of direct acting anti-viral agents(DAAs) against hepatitis C virus. Treatment of hepatitis C is now extremely effective, tolerable and requires a short duration of intake of oral agents. Less monitoring is required with the current therapy and drug-drug interactions are less than the previous regimen. The current treatment options of chronic hepatitis C with various DAAs are discussed in this article.
基金supported in part by National Key Research and Development Program of China(2021YFF0900800)National Natural Science Foundation of China(62472306,62441221,62206116)+2 种基金Tianjin University’s 2024 Special Project on Disciplinary Development(XKJS-2024-5-9)Tianjin University Talent Innovation Reward Program for Literature&Science Graduate Student(C1-2022-010)Shanxi Province Social Science Foundation(2020F002).
文摘COMPUTATIONAL experiments method is an essential tool for analyzing,designing,managing,and integrating complex systems.However,a significant challenge arises in constructing agents with human-like characteristics to form an AI society.Agent modeling typically encompasses four levels:1)The autonomy features of agents,e.g.,perception,behavior,and decision-making;2)The evolutionary features of agents,e.g.,bounded rationality,heterogeneity,and learning evolution;3)The social features of agents,e.g.,interaction,cooperation,and competition;4)The emergent features of agents,e.g.,gaming with environments or regulatory strategies.Traditional modeling techniques primarily derive from ABMs(Agent-based Models)and incorporate various emerging technologies(e.g.,machine learning,big data,and social networks),which can enhance modeling capabilities,while amplifying the complexity[1].
文摘Professor Ge Guangbo(葛广波)joined Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine(上海中医药大学,SHUTCM)as a full professor and vice dean of Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research in 2017.In 2021,he served as executive vice dean of the Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research at SHUTCM.He has been awarded the National Natural Science Fund for Excellent Young Scholars,the National Young Qihuang Scholar(青年岐黄学者).
文摘Ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles(usSPIONs)are promising alternatives to gadolinium‐based contrast agents for positive contrast enhancement in magnetic resonance imaging(MRI).Unlike larger SPIONs that primarily function as T2/T2*negative contrast agents,usSPIONs with core diameters below 5 nm can effectively shorten T1 relaxation times,producing bright signals in T1‐weighted images.This distinct behavior stems from their unique magnetic properties,including single‐domain configurations,surface spin canting,and rapid Néel relaxation dynamics,which are particularly enhanced at low magnetic field strengths.The biocompatibility of iron oxide,efficient renal clearance pathways,and versatility for surface functionalization offer potential advantages over gadolinium‐based agents,especially regarding safety concerns related to nephrogenic systemic fibrosis and gadolinium deposition.These nanoparticles show particular promise for applications in lowfield MRI,vascular imaging,targeted molecular imaging,and theranostic platforms.Although challenges remain in optimizing synthesis methods for consistent production of monodisperse usSPIONs with tailored surface chemistry,ongoing research continues to advance their potential for clinical translation.This review explores the mechanisms,synthesis approaches,applications,and future perspectives of usSPIONs as positive contrast agents in MRI.
