AIM： To report our experience with computed tomography colonography （CTC） systematically performed in subjects with positive faecal occult blood test （FOBT） and an incomplete colonoscopy in the setting of a popul...AIM： To report our experience with computed tomography colonography （CTC） systematically performed in subjects with positive faecal occult blood test （FOBT） and an incomplete colonoscopy in the setting of a population-based screening for colorectal cancer （CRC）. METHODS： From April 2006 to April 2007, 43 290 individuals （age range 50-70） who adhered to the regional screening program for the prevention of CRC underwent immunochemical FOBT. FOBT was positive in 1882 subjects （4.3%）. 1463 （77.7%） of these subjects underwent colonoscopy, 903 performed in a single center. Of 903 colonoscopies 65 （7.2%） were incomplete. Forty-two of these subjects underwent CTC. CTC was performed with a 16-MDCT scanner after standard bowel prep （polyethyleneglycole） in both supine and prone position. Subjects whose CTC showed polyps or masses were referred to the endoscopist for repeat colonoscopy under sedation or underwent surgery. Perlesion and per-segment positive predictive values （PPV） were calculated. RESULTS： Twenty-one （50%） of 42 CTCs showed polyps or masses. Fifty-five of these subjects underwent a repeat colonoscopy, whereas 2 subjects underwent surgery for colonic masses of indeterminate nature. Four subjects refused further examinations. CTC correctly identified 2 colonic masses and 20 polyps. PPV for masses or polyps greater than 9 mm was of 87.5%. Per-lesion and per-segment PPV were, respectively, 83.3% and 83.3% for polyps greater or equal to 10 mm, and 77.8% and 85.7% for polyps of 6-9 mm. CONCLUSION： In the context of a screening program for CRC based on FOBT, CTC shows high per-segment and per-lesion PPV for colonic masses and polyps greater than 9 mm. Therefore, CTC has the potential to become a useful technique for evaluation of the non visualized part of the colon after incomplete colonoscopy.展开更多
The 7 ka old Qixiangzhan lava flow(QXZ,Tianchi volcano)represents the last eruptive event before the 946 CE,caldera-forming‘Millennium’eruption(ME).Petrographic,whole rock,mineral composition,Sr-Nd isotopic data on ...The 7 ka old Qixiangzhan lava flow(QXZ,Tianchi volcano)represents the last eruptive event before the 946 CE,caldera-forming‘Millennium’eruption(ME).Petrographic,whole rock,mineral composition,Sr-Nd isotopic data on QXZ show that:(a)the lava consists of two components,constituted by comenditic obsidian fragments immersed in a continuous,aphanitic component;(b)both components have the same geochemical and isotopic variations of the ME magma.The QXZ and ME comendites result from fractional crystallization and crustal assimilation processes.The temperature of the QXZ magma was about 790℃ and the depth of the magma reservoir around 7 km,the same values as estimated for ME.QXZ had a viscosity of 10^(5.5)-10^(9) Pa s and a velocity of 3-10 km/yr.The emplacement time was 0.5-1.6yr and the flow rate 0.48-1.50 m^(3)/s.These values lie within the range estimated for other rhyolitic flows worldwide.The QXZ lava originated through a mixed explosive-effusive activity with the obsidian resulting from the ascent of undercooling,degassing and the fragmentation of magma along the conduit walls,whereas the aphanitic component testifies to the less undercooled and segregated flow at the center of the conduit.The QXZ lava demonstrates the extensive history of the ME magma chamber.展开更多
In this study,naringin was encapsulated in microspheres and its simulated digestive behavior in vitro was examined.Then naringin microspheres was added in yogurt to investigate the rheology and antioxidant activities....In this study,naringin was encapsulated in microspheres and its simulated digestive behavior in vitro was examined.Then naringin microspheres was added in yogurt to investigate the rheology and antioxidant activities.The results indicated that encapsulating naringin in microspheres delayed its digestion in the stomach,allowing more release in the intestinal part.All kinds of yogurt were solid-like in nature and the addition of microspheres increased the elastic modulus and viscosity.The naringin and microspheres incorporation enhanced the total phenolic content of the yogurt to 6.7 and 8.8 mg of gallic acid equivalent/mL,respectively.All kinds of yogurt demonstrated more than 80%scavenging ability for hydroxyl radicals at 20μL whey/mL.The addition of microspheres improved the DPPH radical scavenging ability of yogurt.This study provides a new idea for the application of polyphenols in food and the development of functional yogurt.展开更多
Cenozoic trachytes are characteristic of some active volcanic fields in China.In particular,the origin and mechanisms of the evolution of trachytes from the Tianchi(Changbaishan)volcano(TV,China/North Korea)are poorly...Cenozoic trachytes are characteristic of some active volcanic fields in China.In particular,the origin and mechanisms of the evolution of trachytes from the Tianchi(Changbaishan)volcano(TV,China/North Korea)are poorly known.Here,we present new geochronological,geochemical and isotopic data on two trachytic suites outcropping on the northern and southern upper slopes of TV.Detailed zircon laser ablation-multicollector-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry(LA-MC-ICP-MS)U-Pb dating,Rb-Sr isochron dating of plagioclase and hornblende,^(40)Ar/^(39)Ar chronology with mineral chemistry,whole-rock element and Sr-Nd-Pb isotope data are used to explore their origins and evolutionary mechanisms during the late Middle Pleistocene.Our data indicate that the trachytes mainly consist of sanidine,orthoclase and plagioclase,with minor albite,quartz and hornblende.They formed at 0.353-0.346 Ma(lava flow from the northern slope)and 0.383-0.311 Ma(lava flow from the southern slope),respectively.The TV trachytes are characterized by high K_(2)O/Na_(2)O and AR values,with low A/CNK and Mg~#values.They are enriched in rare earth elements(REEs;except Eu),depleted in Sr and Ba,crystallizing at 742-858℃.The TV trachytes have high(^(87)Sr/^(86)Sr)_i values(0.70776-0.71195),positiveε_(Nd)(t)values(0.61-2.93)and radiogenic^(206)Pb/^(204)Pb values(17.515-17.806).These values are similar to those of the Pleistocene and Holocene TV trachytes.Geochemical data indicate that they were formed by fractional crystallization from a basaltic melt and assimilated upper crust material.The trace element pattern of the studied trachytes is consistent with an evolution from basaltic melts representative of an enriched mantle source.The vent from which the trachytic magma was erupted probably collapsed inside the caldera during the TV'Millennium'eruption(ME)in 946 AD.The contemporaneous emission of basaltic and trachytic magma during the Middle-Late Pleistocene suggests the coexistence of fissural basaltic volcanism and central-type trachytic volcanism,the latter of which was associated with a magma chamber in the upper crust during the TV cone-construction stage.展开更多
This study aims to examine the effect of replacing vanadium by niobium and iron on the tribological behavior of hot-isostatic-pressed titanium alloy （Ti-6Al-4V） biomaterial, using a ball-on-disk-type oscillating tri...This study aims to examine the effect of replacing vanadium by niobium and iron on the tribological behavior of hot-isostatic-pressed titanium alloy （Ti-6Al-4V） biomaterial, using a ball-on-disk-type oscillating tribometer, under wet conditions using physiological solution in accordance with the ISO7148 standards. The tests were carried out under a normal load of 6 N, with an AISI 52100 grade steel ball as a counter face. The morphological changes and structural evolution of the nanoparticle powders using different milling times （2, 6, 12 and 18 h） were studied. The morphological characterization indicated that the particle and crystallite size continuously decrease with increasing milling time to reach the lowest value of 4 nm at 18-h milling. The friction coefficient and wear rate were lower in the samples milled at 18 h （0.226, 0.297 and 0.423; and 0.66 × 10-2, 0.87 × 10-2 and 1.51 × 10-2 μm3 N-1 i, tm-1） for Ti-6Al-4Fe, Ti-6A1-7Nb and Ti-6Al-4V, respectively. This improvement in friction and wear resistance is attributed to the grain refinement at 18-h milling. The Ti-6Al-4Fe samples showed good tribological performance for all milling times.展开更多
In this article,we are concerned with analytical solutions for a model of inviscid liquid-gas two-phase flow.On the basis of Yuen’s works[25,27–29]on self-similar solutions for compressible Euler equations,we presen...In this article,we are concerned with analytical solutions for a model of inviscid liquid-gas two-phase flow.On the basis of Yuen’s works[25,27–29]on self-similar solutions for compressible Euler equations,we present some special self-similar solutions for a model of inviscid liquid-gas two-phase flow in radial symmetry with and without rotation,and in elliptic symmetry without rotation.Some blowup phenomena and the global existence of the solutions obtained are classified.展开更多
AIM. To explore the role of the matrix metalloproteinase-9 （MMP-9） polymorphism in colorectal cancer （CRC） in a northeast Chinese population.METHODS： Genotyping of MNP-9-1562C〉T and 279R〉Q polymorphisms was car...AIM. To explore the role of the matrix metalloproteinase-9 （MMP-9） polymorphism in colorectal cancer （CRC） in a northeast Chinese population.METHODS： Genotyping of MNP-9-1562C〉T and 279R〉Q polymorphisms was carried out on blood samples from 137 colorectal cancer patients and 199 controls using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism （PCR-RFLP）. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to calculate adjusted odds ratios （OR） and 95% confidence intervals （95% CI）.RESULTS： The distribution of IVllVlP-9 -2562C〉T and 279 R〉Q genotype was not significantly associated with the risk of CRC. However, the risk of Ilymph node metastasis of CRC was increased in patients with the -1562T allele （OR = 2.601; 95% CI = 1.160-5.835; P = 0.022）. The frequency of MMP-9 279RR ＋ RQ genotype was higher than the QQ genotype among CRC patients younger than sixty years old （OR = 0.102, 95% CI = 0.013-0.812; P = 0.012）.CONCLUSION： Our results indicated that the MMP-9- 1562C〉T polymorphism affects lymph node metastasis of CRC. In addition, the MMP-9 279R allele may lead to a younger age of onset of colorectal cancer.展开更多
Growing demand for natural food preservatives has stimulated increasing interest in polyphenolic compounds.However,their application in food systems is constrained by insufficient stability during processing and stora...Growing demand for natural food preservatives has stimulated increasing interest in polyphenolic compounds.However,their application in food systems is constrained by insufficient stability during processing and storage,which can lead to reduced antioxidant and antimicrobial efficacy and,consequently,compromised preservation performance.To address these limitations,green nanocarriers—including chitosan-based particles,liposomes,and nanoemulsions—have been widely explored to enhance polyphenol stability,enable controlled release,and improve compatibility within food matrices.This review systematically summarizes the bioactive properties of polyphenols,the design principles of green nanocarriers,and their applications in the preservation of meat,fruits and vegetables,and dairy products.Current evidence indicates that polysaccharide-,protein-,lipid-,and stimuli-responsive carrier systems can effectively enhance the antioxidant,antimicrobial,and anti-browning functions of polyphenols,extend food shelf life,and reduce health and environmental risks associated with synthetic preservatives.Taken together,the rational design and application of polyphenol-loaded green nanocarriers hold promise as an effective and sustainable strategy for food preservation.展开更多
Lithium-selenium(Li-Se)batteries have attracted increasing attention as one of the next-generation battery systems due to much higher electronic conductivity and comparable volumetric capacity of Se compared to the po...Lithium-selenium(Li-Se)batteries have attracted increasing attention as one of the next-generation battery systems due to much higher electronic conductivity and comparable volumetric capacity of Se compared to the popular sulfur cathode.However,its practical application still faces great challenges,especially the rapid capacity decay triggered by the loss of active Se species.A comprehensive review to uncover the in-depth failure mechanism and provide targeted solutions to promote the stable operation of Li-Se batteries is urgently needed.This review systematically summarizes the strategies in the new perspective,focusing on the optimization of Se utilization in Li-Se batteries by keeping a high Se maintenance in the cathode and accelerating the electrochemical kinetics of lithium polyselenides(LiPSe)conversion.On the basis of stru ctural design and Li_(2)Se active material introduction to accommodate volume expansion,blocking s huttle transport of LiPSe by physical/chemical adsorption,bonding Se with polymers or cathode electrolyte interphase(CEI)construction,and catalytic design to accelerate the conversion of LiPSe,different strategies for improving the utilization of Se have been evaluated and discussed.To address the inevitable loss of Se,prospects on inactive Se reactivation and Li protection are detailedly proposed and analyzed referring to the chemistry and corrosion science.Additionally,the perspectives on the future design and comprehensive parameter evaluations for the optimization of Li-Se batteries are recommended.This review comprehensively explains the causes and solutions of capacity fading and provides potential efforts for lifespan expansion of batteries,shedding light on the future development of Li-Se batteries.展开更多
Land cover change from renewable energy development in southern California is receiving increasing attention due to potential impacts on protected area conservation, endangered species, and greenhouse gas emissions. T...Land cover change from renewable energy development in southern California is receiving increasing attention due to potential impacts on protected area conservation, endangered species, and greenhouse gas emissions. This study was designed to quantify and map, for the first time, variations desert vegetation canopy density and related growth rates using 30 consecutive years of Landsat satellite image data across the Lower Colorado Desert. The time-series for mean normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) values sampled from each of the three major land cover types (shrubland, barren sand dune, and developed urban) showed no significant positive or negative trend in vegetation canopy density. Three periods of significant decrease in NDVI were detected during the drought periods of 1989-1990, 2002-2003, and 2013-2015, indicating that annual precipitation has been the main controller of shrubland canopy growth and green cover. Shrubland canopy cover has been relatively stable in renewable energy development zones since the mid-2000s. NDVI change in the period after nearly all southern California solar energy developments were initiated (post-2010) could be attributed largely to topographic water flow pathways through canyons and desert washes, both in and around all solar energy development zones.展开更多
This paper discusses the integration between GIS and hydrological models and presents a case study relating to the upper section of Moulouya River Basin (UMRB) situated in the east of Morocco. The Basin is an inland w...This paper discusses the integration between GIS and hydrological models and presents a case study relating to the upper section of Moulouya River Basin (UMRB) situated in the east of Morocco. The Basin is an inland water-shed with a total area of approximately 10,000 km2, stretching in the junction between the Middle Atlas, the High Atlas Mountain and the Middle Moulouya basin. From ArcGIS ArcHydro framework data models, different parameters of the Moulouya River and its catchment area have been defined. DEM based ArcHydro model was run on Aster-GDEM V2 data at a horizontal spatial resolution of 30 meters. Several raster and vector products of the Upper Moulouya River and its catchment area have been defined at the end of the model. Final results of the models were discussed and compared with the reality. These results can be used in baseline for advanced hydrology and geomorphology research on the catchment area. They can support for decision-making on ground and surface water resource, distribution and management.展开更多
BACKGROUND Chemotherapy and radiotherapy followed by durvalumab is currently the standard treatment for locally advanced node-positive non-small-cell lung cancer(NSCLC).We describe the case of a patient with locally a...BACKGROUND Chemotherapy and radiotherapy followed by durvalumab is currently the standard treatment for locally advanced node-positive non-small-cell lung cancer(NSCLC).We describe the case of a patient with locally advanced node-positive NSCLC(LA-NSCLC)treated in a phase II prospective protocol with chemotherapy,accelerated hypofractionated radiotherapy(AHRT)and surgery in the preimmunotherapy era.CASE SUMMARY A 69-year-old male,ex-smoker(20 PY),with a Karnofsky performance status of 90,was diagnosed with locally advanced squamous cell lung carcinoma.He was staged by total body computed tomography(CT)scanning,and integrated 18Ffluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/CT scan[cT4 cN3 cM0,stage IIIC according to TNM(tumor-node-metastasis)8th edition]and received AHRT between chemotherapy cycles,in accordance with the study protocol(EudractCT registration 2008-006525-14).At the end of the study the patient underwent surgery,which was not part of the protocol,and showed a complete pathological response.CONCLUSION This case report confirms that AHRT can be used successfully to treat primary LA-NSCLC with bilateral mediastinal lymph node involvement.Our case is of particular interest because of the pathological response after AHRT and the lack of surgical complications.We hypothesize that this radiotherapeutic approach,with its proven efficacy,could be delivered as a short course reducing treatment costs,increasing patient compliance and reducing toxicity.We are currently investigating the possibility of combining hypofractionation,chemotherapy and immunotherapy for patients with LA-NSCLC.展开更多
The medical profession is divided in its approach to treating patients with addiction issues, particularly in regards to the treatment of opioid use disorder with Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone). Here we present two...The medical profession is divided in its approach to treating patients with addiction issues, particularly in regards to the treatment of opioid use disorder with Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone). Here we present two cases of patients who have achieved over 11 years of sobriety with long-term Suboxone maintenance therapy. Their stories help to demonstrate that Suboxone is a viable long-term treatment option for severe opioid addiction. While life-long Suboxone use can lead to physical dependence on the drug, this is far from simply replacing one addiction with another. Some providers may feel that physical dependence on a medication does not represent appropriate or adequate treatment of opioid use disorder;however, when compared with the grave potential consequences of severe opioid use disorder, the potential benefits of achieving sobriety with Suboxone maintenance far outweigh the risks.展开更多
We applied the method of Thermomechanical Dynamics (TMD) to a low-temperature Stirling engine, and the dissipative equation of motion and time-evolving physical quantities are self-consistently calculated for the firs...We applied the method of Thermomechanical Dynamics (TMD) to a low-temperature Stirling engine, and the dissipative equation of motion and time-evolving physical quantities are self-consistently calculated for the first time in this field. The thermomechanical states of the heat engine are in Nonequilibrium Irreversible States (NISs), and time-dependent thermodynamic work W(t), internal energy E(t), energy dissipation or entropy Q<sub>d</sub>(t), and temperature T(t), are precisely studied and computed in TMD. We also introduced the new formalism, Q(t)-picture of thermodynamic heat-energy flows, for consistent analyses of NISs. Thermal flows in a long-time uniform heat flow and in a short-time heat flow are numerically studied as examples. In addition to the analysis of time-dependent physical quantities, the TMD analysis suggests that the concept of force and acceleration in Newtonian mechanics should be modified. The acceleration is defined as a continuously differentiable function of Class C<sup>2</sup> in Newtonian mechanics, but the thermomechanical dynamics demands piecewise continuity for acceleration and thermal force, required from physical reasons caused by frictional variations and thermal fluctuations. The acceleration has no direct physical meaning associated with force in TMD. The physical implications are fundamental for the concept of the macroscopic phenomena in NISs composed of systems in thermal and mechanical motion.展开更多
Introduction: There is evidence that malnutrition during the first 1000 days of life contributes to the development of chronic diseases in adulthood and therefore may produce a lasting impact on the health of the popu...Introduction: There is evidence that malnutrition during the first 1000 days of life contributes to the development of chronic diseases in adulthood and therefore may produce a lasting impact on the health of the population. Colombia, like other middle-income countries suffers the double burden of malnutrition in pregnant women and children under 5 years. Also, chronic diseases have positioned within the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. Objective: The aim is to estimate the burden of disease of noncommunicable chronic diseases-NCD’s (hypertension, obesity, diabetes mellitus II) in adults attributable to nutritional risk factors (no-breastfeeding and low birthweight) in the period of 1000 days in Colombia. Methods: The population attributable fraction and the number of NCD’s (hypertension, diabetes mellitus II and obesity) cases due to the risk factors (low birthweight and no-breastfeeding) were estimated. Prevalences of NCD’s and risk factors of interest were taken from national health surveys. Effect measures (odds ratios/relative risks) of the associations 1—low birthweight and hypertension, diabetes mellitus II and 2—no-breastfeeding and obesity were obtained after a systematic literature search. Results: It was estimated that not receiving breastfeeding in the 1000 days could contribute up to 29.9% of all cases of obesity, equivalent to about 4,009,779 cases across the country. Low birth weight could contribute up to 2.1% of cases of hypertension in men and to 4.0% of cases in women, equivalent to 103.769 cases across the country. In addition, low birth weight could contribute to 6.3% of diabetes mellitus II cases, which is equivalent to 23.857 cases in the country. Conclusion: In Colombia, risk factors during the first 1000 days like not receiving breastfeeding and having low birth weight could contribute up to 4,113,549 cases of obesity, hypertension and diabetes mellitus II, with important implications for the health of the population and the Colombian health system.展开更多
It is widely assumed that fetal ischemic brain injury during labor derives almost exclusively from severe, systemic hypoxemia with marked neonatal depression and acidemia. Severe asphyxia, however, is one of several c...It is widely assumed that fetal ischemic brain injury during labor derives almost exclusively from severe, systemic hypoxemia with marked neonatal depression and acidemia. Severe asphyxia, however, is one of several causes of perinatal neurological injury and may not be the most common;most neonates diagnosed with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy do not have evidence of severe asphyxia. Sepsis, direct brain trauma, and drug or toxin exposure account for some cases, while mechanical forces of labor and delivery that increase fetal intracranial pressure sufficiently to impair brain perfusion may also contribute. Because of bony compliance and mobile suture lines, the fetal skull changes shape and redistributes cerebrospinal fluid during labor according to constraints imposed by contractions, and bony and soft tissue elements of the birth canal as the head descends. These accommodations, including the increase in intracranial pressure, are adaptive and necessary for efficient descent of the head while safeguarding cerebral blood flow. Autonomic reflexes mediated through central receptors normally provide ample protection of the brain from the considerable pressure exerted on the skull. On occasion, those forces, which are transmitted intracranially, may overcome the various adaptive anatomical, cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurological mechanisms that maintain cerebral perfusion and oxygen availability, resulting in ischemic brain injury. Accepting the notion of a potentially adverse impact of fetal head compression suggests that avoidance of excessive uterine activity and of relentless pushing without steady progress in descent may offer protection for the fetal brain during parturition. Excessive head compression should be considered in the differential diagnosis of ischemic encephalopathy.展开更多
<b>Background:</span></b><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Tidal expiratory flow limitation (tEFL) is defined as absence of increase...<b>Background:</span></b><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Tidal expiratory flow limitation (tEFL) is defined as absence of increase in air flow during forced expiration compared to tidal breathing and is related to dyspnea at rest and minimal exertion in patients with chronic airflow limitation (CAL). Tidal EFL has not been expressed as a continuous variable (0% - 100%) in previous analyses. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Objective:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> To relate the magnitude of tEFL to spirometric values and Modified Medical Research Council (MMRC) score and Asthma Control Test (ACT). </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Methods:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Tidal EFL was computed as percent of the tidal volume (0% - 100%) spanned (intersected) by the forced expiratory-volume curve. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Results: </span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Of 353 patients screened, 192 (114 M, 78 F) patients (136 with COPD, 56 with asthma) had CAL. Overall characteristics: (mean ± SD) age 59 ± 11 years, BMI 28 ± 7, FVC (% pred) 85 ± 20, FEV1 (% pred) 66 ± 21, FEV1/FVC 55% ± 10%, RV (% pred) 147 ± 42. Tidal EFL in patients with tEFL was 53% ± 39%. Using univariate analysis, strongest correlations were between tEFL and FVC and between tEFL and RV in patients with BMI < 30 kg/m</span><sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. In patients with nonreversible CAL, tEFL was positively associated with increasing MMRC, negatively with spirometric measurements, and positively with RV/TLC. In asthmatics, ACT scores were higher in patients with mean BMI ≥ 28 kg/m</span><sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> (p < 0.00014) and RV/TLC values > 40% (p < 0.03). </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Conclusions:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Dyspnea is strongly associated with tEFL and lung function, particularly in patients with nonreversible CAL. Air trapping and </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">BMI contribute to tEFL.展开更多
C3 glomerulopathy is a disease including both dense deposit disease and C3 glomerulonephritis has an estimated prevalence of 2 to 3 per million. Originally, these pathologies were defined as glomerular pathology chara...C3 glomerulopathy is a disease including both dense deposit disease and C3 glomerulonephritis has an estimated prevalence of 2 to 3 per million. Originally, these pathologies were defined as glomerular pathology characterized by accumulation of C3 with absent or scanty immunoglobulin deposition. The keystone defect in both of these pathologies is the unregulated hyperactivity of alternative complement pathway. Specifically, in C3 glomerulopathy patients, there exists a prolongation of C3 cleavage which causes the uncontrolled alternative pathway activation. Many treatments have been investigated for treating C3 glomerulopathy to little or no avail, including calcineurin inhibitors, plasmapharesis, and anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies. The next logical step is exploring the efficacy of anti-C5 monoclonal antibody therapy in C3 glomerulopathies to target the specific pathophysiology of this particular disease. Eculizumab is an anti-C5 monoclonal antibody that blocks the terminal step of complement activation. This drug has proven to be an effective treatment in other nephrologic pathologies that are caused by complement dysregulation. Here in this paper we discuss and present various case studies and clinical trials available that experiment with Eculizumab in patients with either dense deposit disease or C3 glomerulonephritis. In most of these patients, treatment with Eculizumab has demonstrated clinical and biochemical improvements in kidney function. These results provide encouraging evidence that suggest Eculizumab as a promising therapy for patients with C3 glomerulopathy and warrant that more extensive clinical trials can be designed as a next step.展开更多
With the beginning of the information systems’ spreading, people started thinking about using them for making business decisions. Computer technology solutions, such as the Decision Support System, make the decision-...With the beginning of the information systems’ spreading, people started thinking about using them for making business decisions. Computer technology solutions, such as the Decision Support System, make the decision-making process less complex and simpler for problem-solving. In order to make a high-quality business decision, managers need to have a great deal of appropriate information. Nonetheless, this complicates the process of making appropriate decisions. In a situation like that, the possibility of using DSS is quite logical. The aim of this paper is to find out the intended use of DSS for medium and large business organizations in USA by applying the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Different models were developed in order to understand and predict the use of information systems, but the information systems community mostly used TAM to ensure this issue. The purpose of the research model is to determine the elements of analysis that contribute to these results. The sample for the research consisted of the target group that was supposed to have completed an online questionnaire about the manager’s use of DSS in medium and large American companies. The information obtained from the questionnaires was analyzed through the SPSS statistical software. The research has indicated that, this is primarily used due to a significant level of Perceived usefulness and For the Perceived ease of use.展开更多
Introduction: Uniportal Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (U-VATS) has appeared as a promising, minimally invasive approach for thoracic oncology, offering benefits such as reduced trauma, shorter recovery times, and lo...Introduction: Uniportal Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (U-VATS) has appeared as a promising, minimally invasive approach for thoracic oncology, offering benefits such as reduced trauma, shorter recovery times, and lower complication rates. However, its adoption in resource-limited settings faces challenges, primarily due to limited access to specialized equipment, training, and infrastructure. Methods: This retrospective study evaluated the outcomes of 138 oncologic patients who underwent U-VATS between 2020 and 2024 at two centers in the Dominican Republic. Patients included those with primary lung cancer, pulmonary metastases, or masses requiring diagnostic biopsy. Data was extracted from patient records including epidemiological variables and clinical variables, treatments, and complications. A descriptive analysis was performed to summarize the data. Frequencies and percentages were calculated to report demographic and clinical characteristics, types of procedures, and postoperative outcomes. Results: The study population was predominantly middle-aged, with a near-equal gender distribution. Most patients underwent lung biopsies (63%), followed by lobectomies (22.5%) and metastasectomies (14.5%). The overall complication rate was low, with only 2.1% experiencing wound infections or atelectasis. The majority (87%) were discharged within 24 hours. These findings underscore U-VATS as a safe and effective choice for thoracic oncology in this setting. Conclusions: U-VATS shows promising outcomes in oncologic patients in the Dominican Republic, proving its feasibility and safety in a resource-limited environment. However, widespread adoption requires investment in infrastructure, training, and insurance coverage. Phased implementation, public-private partnerships, and cost-benefit analyses could support broader accessibility and integration of U-VATS, potentially improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs in similar settings.展开更多
文摘AIM： To report our experience with computed tomography colonography （CTC） systematically performed in subjects with positive faecal occult blood test （FOBT） and an incomplete colonoscopy in the setting of a population-based screening for colorectal cancer （CRC）. METHODS： From April 2006 to April 2007, 43 290 individuals （age range 50-70） who adhered to the regional screening program for the prevention of CRC underwent immunochemical FOBT. FOBT was positive in 1882 subjects （4.3%）. 1463 （77.7%） of these subjects underwent colonoscopy, 903 performed in a single center. Of 903 colonoscopies 65 （7.2%） were incomplete. Forty-two of these subjects underwent CTC. CTC was performed with a 16-MDCT scanner after standard bowel prep （polyethyleneglycole） in both supine and prone position. Subjects whose CTC showed polyps or masses were referred to the endoscopist for repeat colonoscopy under sedation or underwent surgery. Perlesion and per-segment positive predictive values （PPV） were calculated. RESULTS： Twenty-one （50%） of 42 CTCs showed polyps or masses. Fifty-five of these subjects underwent a repeat colonoscopy, whereas 2 subjects underwent surgery for colonic masses of indeterminate nature. Four subjects refused further examinations. CTC correctly identified 2 colonic masses and 20 polyps. PPV for masses or polyps greater than 9 mm was of 87.5%. Per-lesion and per-segment PPV were, respectively, 83.3% and 83.3% for polyps greater or equal to 10 mm, and 77.8% and 85.7% for polyps of 6-9 mm. CONCLUSION： In the context of a screening program for CRC based on FOBT, CTC shows high per-segment and per-lesion PPV for colonic masses and polyps greater than 9 mm. Therefore, CTC has the potential to become a useful technique for evaluation of the non visualized part of the colon after incomplete colonoscopy.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.41972313 and 41790453)the Engineering Research Center of Geothermal Resources Development Technology and Equipment,Ministry of Education,Jilin University。
文摘The 7 ka old Qixiangzhan lava flow(QXZ,Tianchi volcano)represents the last eruptive event before the 946 CE,caldera-forming‘Millennium’eruption(ME).Petrographic,whole rock,mineral composition,Sr-Nd isotopic data on QXZ show that:(a)the lava consists of two components,constituted by comenditic obsidian fragments immersed in a continuous,aphanitic component;(b)both components have the same geochemical and isotopic variations of the ME magma.The QXZ and ME comendites result from fractional crystallization and crustal assimilation processes.The temperature of the QXZ magma was about 790℃ and the depth of the magma reservoir around 7 km,the same values as estimated for ME.QXZ had a viscosity of 10^(5.5)-10^(9) Pa s and a velocity of 3-10 km/yr.The emplacement time was 0.5-1.6yr and the flow rate 0.48-1.50 m^(3)/s.These values lie within the range estimated for other rhyolitic flows worldwide.The QXZ lava originated through a mixed explosive-effusive activity with the obsidian resulting from the ascent of undercooling,degassing and the fragmentation of magma along the conduit walls,whereas the aphanitic component testifies to the less undercooled and segregated flow at the center of the conduit.The QXZ lava demonstrates the extensive history of the ME magma chamber.
基金funded by the People’s Livelihood Plan Project of Department of Science and Technology of Liaoning Province(2021JH2/10300069,2019-ZD-0845)the Department of Education of Liaoning Province(Natural Science,Strategic Industrialization Project,LJ212410163061)the Liaoning Province College Students Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program(S202410163077).
文摘In this study,naringin was encapsulated in microspheres and its simulated digestive behavior in vitro was examined.Then naringin microspheres was added in yogurt to investigate the rheology and antioxidant activities.The results indicated that encapsulating naringin in microspheres delayed its digestion in the stomach,allowing more release in the intestinal part.All kinds of yogurt were solid-like in nature and the addition of microspheres increased the elastic modulus and viscosity.The naringin and microspheres incorporation enhanced the total phenolic content of the yogurt to 6.7 and 8.8 mg of gallic acid equivalent/mL,respectively.All kinds of yogurt demonstrated more than 80%scavenging ability for hydroxyl radicals at 20μL whey/mL.The addition of microspheres improved the DPPH radical scavenging ability of yogurt.This study provides a new idea for the application of polyphenols in food and the development of functional yogurt.
基金financially supported by the project of the National Observation and Research Station of the Institute of Geology,China Earthquake Administration(Grant No.NORSCBS22-06)the Youth Science and Technology Development Project of the Jilin Earthquake Agency(Grant No.JZQ-202402)+1 种基金the Earthquake Science and Technology Spark Project(Grant No.XH23013B)the China Scholarship Council(Grant No.202104190014)。
文摘Cenozoic trachytes are characteristic of some active volcanic fields in China.In particular,the origin and mechanisms of the evolution of trachytes from the Tianchi(Changbaishan)volcano(TV,China/North Korea)are poorly known.Here,we present new geochronological,geochemical and isotopic data on two trachytic suites outcropping on the northern and southern upper slopes of TV.Detailed zircon laser ablation-multicollector-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry(LA-MC-ICP-MS)U-Pb dating,Rb-Sr isochron dating of plagioclase and hornblende,^(40)Ar/^(39)Ar chronology with mineral chemistry,whole-rock element and Sr-Nd-Pb isotope data are used to explore their origins and evolutionary mechanisms during the late Middle Pleistocene.Our data indicate that the trachytes mainly consist of sanidine,orthoclase and plagioclase,with minor albite,quartz and hornblende.They formed at 0.353-0.346 Ma(lava flow from the northern slope)and 0.383-0.311 Ma(lava flow from the southern slope),respectively.The TV trachytes are characterized by high K_(2)O/Na_(2)O and AR values,with low A/CNK and Mg~#values.They are enriched in rare earth elements(REEs;except Eu),depleted in Sr and Ba,crystallizing at 742-858℃.The TV trachytes have high(^(87)Sr/^(86)Sr)_i values(0.70776-0.71195),positiveε_(Nd)(t)values(0.61-2.93)and radiogenic^(206)Pb/^(204)Pb values(17.515-17.806).These values are similar to those of the Pleistocene and Holocene TV trachytes.Geochemical data indicate that they were formed by fractional crystallization from a basaltic melt and assimilated upper crust material.The trace element pattern of the studied trachytes is consistent with an evolution from basaltic melts representative of an enriched mantle source.The vent from which the trachytic magma was erupted probably collapsed inside the caldera during the TV'Millennium'eruption(ME)in 946 AD.The contemporaneous emission of basaltic and trachytic magma during the Middle-Late Pleistocene suggests the coexistence of fissural basaltic volcanism and central-type trachytic volcanism,the latter of which was associated with a magma chamber in the upper crust during the TV cone-construction stage.
文摘This study aims to examine the effect of replacing vanadium by niobium and iron on the tribological behavior of hot-isostatic-pressed titanium alloy （Ti-6Al-4V） biomaterial, using a ball-on-disk-type oscillating tribometer, under wet conditions using physiological solution in accordance with the ISO7148 standards. The tests were carried out under a normal load of 6 N, with an AISI 52100 grade steel ball as a counter face. The morphological changes and structural evolution of the nanoparticle powders using different milling times （2, 6, 12 and 18 h） were studied. The morphological characterization indicated that the particle and crystallite size continuously decrease with increasing milling time to reach the lowest value of 4 nm at 18-h milling. The friction coefficient and wear rate were lower in the samples milled at 18 h （0.226, 0.297 and 0.423; and 0.66 × 10-2, 0.87 × 10-2 and 1.51 × 10-2 μm3 N-1 i, tm-1） for Ti-6Al-4Fe, Ti-6A1-7Nb and Ti-6Al-4V, respectively. This improvement in friction and wear resistance is attributed to the grain refinement at 18-h milling. The Ti-6Al-4Fe samples showed good tribological performance for all milling times.
基金supported by the Project of Youth Backbone Teachers of Colleges and Universities in Henan Province(2019GGJS176)the Natural Science Foundation of Henan Province Science and Technology Department(162300410077)+3 种基金the Outstanding Youth Foundation of Science and Technology Innovation of Henan Province(2018JQ0004)the Aeronautical Science Foundation of China(2017ZD55014)the Basic Research Projects of Key Scientific Research Projects Plan in Henan Higher Education Institutions(20zx003)the Internal Research Grant from the Education University of Hong Kong(RG 15/2018-2019R)。
文摘In this article,we are concerned with analytical solutions for a model of inviscid liquid-gas two-phase flow.On the basis of Yuen’s works[25,27–29]on self-similar solutions for compressible Euler equations,we present some special self-similar solutions for a model of inviscid liquid-gas two-phase flow in radial symmetry with and without rotation,and in elliptic symmetry without rotation.Some blowup phenomena and the global existence of the solutions obtained are classified.
基金Program for New Century Excellent Talents in University, NCET-06-0296
文摘AIM. To explore the role of the matrix metalloproteinase-9 （MMP-9） polymorphism in colorectal cancer （CRC） in a northeast Chinese population.METHODS： Genotyping of MNP-9-1562C〉T and 279R〉Q polymorphisms was carried out on blood samples from 137 colorectal cancer patients and 199 controls using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism （PCR-RFLP）. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to calculate adjusted odds ratios （OR） and 95% confidence intervals （95% CI）.RESULTS： The distribution of IVllVlP-9 -2562C〉T and 279 R〉Q genotype was not significantly associated with the risk of CRC. However, the risk of Ilymph node metastasis of CRC was increased in patients with the -1562T allele （OR = 2.601; 95% CI = 1.160-5.835; P = 0.022）. The frequency of MMP-9 279RR ＋ RQ genotype was higher than the QQ genotype among CRC patients younger than sixty years old （OR = 0.102, 95% CI = 0.013-0.812; P = 0.012）.CONCLUSION： Our results indicated that the MMP-9- 1562C〉T polymorphism affects lymph node metastasis of CRC. In addition, the MMP-9 279R allele may lead to a younger age of onset of colorectal cancer.
基金supported by Doctoral research start-up fund project of Liaoning Provincial Department of Science and Technology(2025-BS-0757).
文摘Growing demand for natural food preservatives has stimulated increasing interest in polyphenolic compounds.However,their application in food systems is constrained by insufficient stability during processing and storage,which can lead to reduced antioxidant and antimicrobial efficacy and,consequently,compromised preservation performance.To address these limitations,green nanocarriers—including chitosan-based particles,liposomes,and nanoemulsions—have been widely explored to enhance polyphenol stability,enable controlled release,and improve compatibility within food matrices.This review systematically summarizes the bioactive properties of polyphenols,the design principles of green nanocarriers,and their applications in the preservation of meat,fruits and vegetables,and dairy products.Current evidence indicates that polysaccharide-,protein-,lipid-,and stimuli-responsive carrier systems can effectively enhance the antioxidant,antimicrobial,and anti-browning functions of polyphenols,extend food shelf life,and reduce health and environmental risks associated with synthetic preservatives.Taken together,the rational design and application of polyphenol-loaded green nanocarriers hold promise as an effective and sustainable strategy for food preservation.
基金supported by the China Scholarship Council(No.201809370046)a scholarship from the Laboratory of Inorganic Materials Chemistry,Universitéde Namur+5 种基金the National Key R&D Program of China(2016YFA0202602)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.U1663225,22293020,22293022 and 52103342)the Program of Introducing Talents of Discipline to Universities-Plan 111(Grant No.B20002)from the Ministry of Science and Technologythe Program for Changjiang Scholars and Innovative Research Team in University(IRT_15R52)of the Chinese Ministry of EducationBelgium-China Governmental Key Cooperation Program WBI-MOST(SUB/2021/IND493971/524448)the“Plan of relance”Wallonia Government(2310153-Bat Factory)。
文摘Lithium-selenium(Li-Se)batteries have attracted increasing attention as one of the next-generation battery systems due to much higher electronic conductivity and comparable volumetric capacity of Se compared to the popular sulfur cathode.However,its practical application still faces great challenges,especially the rapid capacity decay triggered by the loss of active Se species.A comprehensive review to uncover the in-depth failure mechanism and provide targeted solutions to promote the stable operation of Li-Se batteries is urgently needed.This review systematically summarizes the strategies in the new perspective,focusing on the optimization of Se utilization in Li-Se batteries by keeping a high Se maintenance in the cathode and accelerating the electrochemical kinetics of lithium polyselenides(LiPSe)conversion.On the basis of stru ctural design and Li_(2)Se active material introduction to accommodate volume expansion,blocking s huttle transport of LiPSe by physical/chemical adsorption,bonding Se with polymers or cathode electrolyte interphase(CEI)construction,and catalytic design to accelerate the conversion of LiPSe,different strategies for improving the utilization of Se have been evaluated and discussed.To address the inevitable loss of Se,prospects on inactive Se reactivation and Li protection are detailedly proposed and analyzed referring to the chemistry and corrosion science.Additionally,the perspectives on the future design and comprehensive parameter evaluations for the optimization of Li-Se batteries are recommended.This review comprehensively explains the causes and solutions of capacity fading and provides potential efforts for lifespan expansion of batteries,shedding light on the future development of Li-Se batteries.
文摘Land cover change from renewable energy development in southern California is receiving increasing attention due to potential impacts on protected area conservation, endangered species, and greenhouse gas emissions. This study was designed to quantify and map, for the first time, variations desert vegetation canopy density and related growth rates using 30 consecutive years of Landsat satellite image data across the Lower Colorado Desert. The time-series for mean normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) values sampled from each of the three major land cover types (shrubland, barren sand dune, and developed urban) showed no significant positive or negative trend in vegetation canopy density. Three periods of significant decrease in NDVI were detected during the drought periods of 1989-1990, 2002-2003, and 2013-2015, indicating that annual precipitation has been the main controller of shrubland canopy growth and green cover. Shrubland canopy cover has been relatively stable in renewable energy development zones since the mid-2000s. NDVI change in the period after nearly all southern California solar energy developments were initiated (post-2010) could be attributed largely to topographic water flow pathways through canyons and desert washes, both in and around all solar energy development zones.
文摘This paper discusses the integration between GIS and hydrological models and presents a case study relating to the upper section of Moulouya River Basin (UMRB) situated in the east of Morocco. The Basin is an inland water-shed with a total area of approximately 10,000 km2, stretching in the junction between the Middle Atlas, the High Atlas Mountain and the Middle Moulouya basin. From ArcGIS ArcHydro framework data models, different parameters of the Moulouya River and its catchment area have been defined. DEM based ArcHydro model was run on Aster-GDEM V2 data at a horizontal spatial resolution of 30 meters. Several raster and vector products of the Upper Moulouya River and its catchment area have been defined at the end of the model. Final results of the models were discussed and compared with the reality. These results can be used in baseline for advanced hydrology and geomorphology research on the catchment area. They can support for decision-making on ground and surface water resource, distribution and management.
文摘BACKGROUND Chemotherapy and radiotherapy followed by durvalumab is currently the standard treatment for locally advanced node-positive non-small-cell lung cancer(NSCLC).We describe the case of a patient with locally advanced node-positive NSCLC(LA-NSCLC)treated in a phase II prospective protocol with chemotherapy,accelerated hypofractionated radiotherapy(AHRT)and surgery in the preimmunotherapy era.CASE SUMMARY A 69-year-old male,ex-smoker(20 PY),with a Karnofsky performance status of 90,was diagnosed with locally advanced squamous cell lung carcinoma.He was staged by total body computed tomography(CT)scanning,and integrated 18Ffluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/CT scan[cT4 cN3 cM0,stage IIIC according to TNM(tumor-node-metastasis)8th edition]and received AHRT between chemotherapy cycles,in accordance with the study protocol(EudractCT registration 2008-006525-14).At the end of the study the patient underwent surgery,which was not part of the protocol,and showed a complete pathological response.CONCLUSION This case report confirms that AHRT can be used successfully to treat primary LA-NSCLC with bilateral mediastinal lymph node involvement.Our case is of particular interest because of the pathological response after AHRT and the lack of surgical complications.We hypothesize that this radiotherapeutic approach,with its proven efficacy,could be delivered as a short course reducing treatment costs,increasing patient compliance and reducing toxicity.We are currently investigating the possibility of combining hypofractionation,chemotherapy and immunotherapy for patients with LA-NSCLC.
文摘The medical profession is divided in its approach to treating patients with addiction issues, particularly in regards to the treatment of opioid use disorder with Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone). Here we present two cases of patients who have achieved over 11 years of sobriety with long-term Suboxone maintenance therapy. Their stories help to demonstrate that Suboxone is a viable long-term treatment option for severe opioid addiction. While life-long Suboxone use can lead to physical dependence on the drug, this is far from simply replacing one addiction with another. Some providers may feel that physical dependence on a medication does not represent appropriate or adequate treatment of opioid use disorder;however, when compared with the grave potential consequences of severe opioid use disorder, the potential benefits of achieving sobriety with Suboxone maintenance far outweigh the risks.
文摘We applied the method of Thermomechanical Dynamics (TMD) to a low-temperature Stirling engine, and the dissipative equation of motion and time-evolving physical quantities are self-consistently calculated for the first time in this field. The thermomechanical states of the heat engine are in Nonequilibrium Irreversible States (NISs), and time-dependent thermodynamic work W(t), internal energy E(t), energy dissipation or entropy Q<sub>d</sub>(t), and temperature T(t), are precisely studied and computed in TMD. We also introduced the new formalism, Q(t)-picture of thermodynamic heat-energy flows, for consistent analyses of NISs. Thermal flows in a long-time uniform heat flow and in a short-time heat flow are numerically studied as examples. In addition to the analysis of time-dependent physical quantities, the TMD analysis suggests that the concept of force and acceleration in Newtonian mechanics should be modified. The acceleration is defined as a continuously differentiable function of Class C<sup>2</sup> in Newtonian mechanics, but the thermomechanical dynamics demands piecewise continuity for acceleration and thermal force, required from physical reasons caused by frictional variations and thermal fluctuations. The acceleration has no direct physical meaning associated with force in TMD. The physical implications are fundamental for the concept of the macroscopic phenomena in NISs composed of systems in thermal and mechanical motion.
文摘Introduction: There is evidence that malnutrition during the first 1000 days of life contributes to the development of chronic diseases in adulthood and therefore may produce a lasting impact on the health of the population. Colombia, like other middle-income countries suffers the double burden of malnutrition in pregnant women and children under 5 years. Also, chronic diseases have positioned within the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. Objective: The aim is to estimate the burden of disease of noncommunicable chronic diseases-NCD’s (hypertension, obesity, diabetes mellitus II) in adults attributable to nutritional risk factors (no-breastfeeding and low birthweight) in the period of 1000 days in Colombia. Methods: The population attributable fraction and the number of NCD’s (hypertension, diabetes mellitus II and obesity) cases due to the risk factors (low birthweight and no-breastfeeding) were estimated. Prevalences of NCD’s and risk factors of interest were taken from national health surveys. Effect measures (odds ratios/relative risks) of the associations 1—low birthweight and hypertension, diabetes mellitus II and 2—no-breastfeeding and obesity were obtained after a systematic literature search. Results: It was estimated that not receiving breastfeeding in the 1000 days could contribute up to 29.9% of all cases of obesity, equivalent to about 4,009,779 cases across the country. Low birth weight could contribute up to 2.1% of cases of hypertension in men and to 4.0% of cases in women, equivalent to 103.769 cases across the country. In addition, low birth weight could contribute to 6.3% of diabetes mellitus II cases, which is equivalent to 23.857 cases in the country. Conclusion: In Colombia, risk factors during the first 1000 days like not receiving breastfeeding and having low birth weight could contribute up to 4,113,549 cases of obesity, hypertension and diabetes mellitus II, with important implications for the health of the population and the Colombian health system.
文摘It is widely assumed that fetal ischemic brain injury during labor derives almost exclusively from severe, systemic hypoxemia with marked neonatal depression and acidemia. Severe asphyxia, however, is one of several causes of perinatal neurological injury and may not be the most common;most neonates diagnosed with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy do not have evidence of severe asphyxia. Sepsis, direct brain trauma, and drug or toxin exposure account for some cases, while mechanical forces of labor and delivery that increase fetal intracranial pressure sufficiently to impair brain perfusion may also contribute. Because of bony compliance and mobile suture lines, the fetal skull changes shape and redistributes cerebrospinal fluid during labor according to constraints imposed by contractions, and bony and soft tissue elements of the birth canal as the head descends. These accommodations, including the increase in intracranial pressure, are adaptive and necessary for efficient descent of the head while safeguarding cerebral blood flow. Autonomic reflexes mediated through central receptors normally provide ample protection of the brain from the considerable pressure exerted on the skull. On occasion, those forces, which are transmitted intracranially, may overcome the various adaptive anatomical, cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurological mechanisms that maintain cerebral perfusion and oxygen availability, resulting in ischemic brain injury. Accepting the notion of a potentially adverse impact of fetal head compression suggests that avoidance of excessive uterine activity and of relentless pushing without steady progress in descent may offer protection for the fetal brain during parturition. Excessive head compression should be considered in the differential diagnosis of ischemic encephalopathy.
文摘<b>Background:</span></b><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Tidal expiratory flow limitation (tEFL) is defined as absence of increase in air flow during forced expiration compared to tidal breathing and is related to dyspnea at rest and minimal exertion in patients with chronic airflow limitation (CAL). Tidal EFL has not been expressed as a continuous variable (0% - 100%) in previous analyses. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Objective:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> To relate the magnitude of tEFL to spirometric values and Modified Medical Research Council (MMRC) score and Asthma Control Test (ACT). </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Methods:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Tidal EFL was computed as percent of the tidal volume (0% - 100%) spanned (intersected) by the forced expiratory-volume curve. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Results: </span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Of 353 patients screened, 192 (114 M, 78 F) patients (136 with COPD, 56 with asthma) had CAL. Overall characteristics: (mean ± SD) age 59 ± 11 years, BMI 28 ± 7, FVC (% pred) 85 ± 20, FEV1 (% pred) 66 ± 21, FEV1/FVC 55% ± 10%, RV (% pred) 147 ± 42. Tidal EFL in patients with tEFL was 53% ± 39%. Using univariate analysis, strongest correlations were between tEFL and FVC and between tEFL and RV in patients with BMI < 30 kg/m</span><sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. In patients with nonreversible CAL, tEFL was positively associated with increasing MMRC, negatively with spirometric measurements, and positively with RV/TLC. In asthmatics, ACT scores were higher in patients with mean BMI ≥ 28 kg/m</span><sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> (p < 0.00014) and RV/TLC values > 40% (p < 0.03). </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Conclusions:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Dyspnea is strongly associated with tEFL and lung function, particularly in patients with nonreversible CAL. Air trapping and </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">BMI contribute to tEFL.
文摘C3 glomerulopathy is a disease including both dense deposit disease and C3 glomerulonephritis has an estimated prevalence of 2 to 3 per million. Originally, these pathologies were defined as glomerular pathology characterized by accumulation of C3 with absent or scanty immunoglobulin deposition. The keystone defect in both of these pathologies is the unregulated hyperactivity of alternative complement pathway. Specifically, in C3 glomerulopathy patients, there exists a prolongation of C3 cleavage which causes the uncontrolled alternative pathway activation. Many treatments have been investigated for treating C3 glomerulopathy to little or no avail, including calcineurin inhibitors, plasmapharesis, and anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies. The next logical step is exploring the efficacy of anti-C5 monoclonal antibody therapy in C3 glomerulopathies to target the specific pathophysiology of this particular disease. Eculizumab is an anti-C5 monoclonal antibody that blocks the terminal step of complement activation. This drug has proven to be an effective treatment in other nephrologic pathologies that are caused by complement dysregulation. Here in this paper we discuss and present various case studies and clinical trials available that experiment with Eculizumab in patients with either dense deposit disease or C3 glomerulonephritis. In most of these patients, treatment with Eculizumab has demonstrated clinical and biochemical improvements in kidney function. These results provide encouraging evidence that suggest Eculizumab as a promising therapy for patients with C3 glomerulopathy and warrant that more extensive clinical trials can be designed as a next step.
文摘With the beginning of the information systems’ spreading, people started thinking about using them for making business decisions. Computer technology solutions, such as the Decision Support System, make the decision-making process less complex and simpler for problem-solving. In order to make a high-quality business decision, managers need to have a great deal of appropriate information. Nonetheless, this complicates the process of making appropriate decisions. In a situation like that, the possibility of using DSS is quite logical. The aim of this paper is to find out the intended use of DSS for medium and large business organizations in USA by applying the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Different models were developed in order to understand and predict the use of information systems, but the information systems community mostly used TAM to ensure this issue. The purpose of the research model is to determine the elements of analysis that contribute to these results. The sample for the research consisted of the target group that was supposed to have completed an online questionnaire about the manager’s use of DSS in medium and large American companies. The information obtained from the questionnaires was analyzed through the SPSS statistical software. The research has indicated that, this is primarily used due to a significant level of Perceived usefulness and For the Perceived ease of use.
文摘Introduction: Uniportal Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (U-VATS) has appeared as a promising, minimally invasive approach for thoracic oncology, offering benefits such as reduced trauma, shorter recovery times, and lower complication rates. However, its adoption in resource-limited settings faces challenges, primarily due to limited access to specialized equipment, training, and infrastructure. Methods: This retrospective study evaluated the outcomes of 138 oncologic patients who underwent U-VATS between 2020 and 2024 at two centers in the Dominican Republic. Patients included those with primary lung cancer, pulmonary metastases, or masses requiring diagnostic biopsy. Data was extracted from patient records including epidemiological variables and clinical variables, treatments, and complications. A descriptive analysis was performed to summarize the data. Frequencies and percentages were calculated to report demographic and clinical characteristics, types of procedures, and postoperative outcomes. Results: The study population was predominantly middle-aged, with a near-equal gender distribution. Most patients underwent lung biopsies (63%), followed by lobectomies (22.5%) and metastasectomies (14.5%). The overall complication rate was low, with only 2.1% experiencing wound infections or atelectasis. The majority (87%) were discharged within 24 hours. These findings underscore U-VATS as a safe and effective choice for thoracic oncology in this setting. Conclusions: U-VATS shows promising outcomes in oncologic patients in the Dominican Republic, proving its feasibility and safety in a resource-limited environment. However, widespread adoption requires investment in infrastructure, training, and insurance coverage. Phased implementation, public-private partnerships, and cost-benefit analyses could support broader accessibility and integration of U-VATS, potentially improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs in similar settings.
