A metropolitan city such as Los Angeles (LA) is an ideal study site with a very high population density, and it houses at least 3 treatment plants where sewage is treated preliminarily and then progressing to tertiary...A metropolitan city such as Los Angeles (LA) is an ideal study site with a very high population density, and it houses at least 3 treatment plants where sewage is treated preliminarily and then progressing to tertiary treatment before discharging into the LA River. We will gain a better understanding of the water quality in the LA River and the nitrate load in the watershed system by examining the influence of waste water treatment plants (WWTPs). The goal of this study is to pinpoint the exact source of nitrate in the LA River using the isotope signatures. We have selected sampling locations both upstream and downstream of the WWTP. This serves to monitor nitrate levels, aiding in the assessment of treatment plant effectiveness, pinpointing nitrate pollution sources, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. The research explores the isotopic composition of NO3 in relation to atmospheric nitrogen and Vienna Standard Mean Ocean Water, shedding light on the contributions from various sources such as manure, sewage, soil organic nitrogen, and nitrogen fertilizers. Specifically, there is a change in the δ15NAir value between the dry and wet seasons. The isotope values in the Tillman WWTP sample changed between dry and wet seasons. Notably, the presence of nitrate originating from manure and sewage is consistent across seasons, emphasizing the significant impact of anthropogenic and agricultural activities on water quality. This investigation contributes to the broader understanding of nitrogen cycling in urban water bodies, particularly in the context of wastewater effluent discharge. The findings hold implications for water quality management and highlight the need for targeted interventions to mitigate the impact of nitrogen-containing compounds on aquatic ecosystems. Overall, the study provides a valuable framework for future research and environmental stewardship efforts aimed at preserving the health and sustainability of urban water resources. This data informs decisions regarding additional treatment or mitigation actions to safeguard downstream water quality and ecosystem health.展开更多
Chronic diseases, such as diabetes and obesity, are more prevalent in low-income and minority communities. One promising method to understand and address these chronic conditions is through Community Based Participato...Chronic diseases, such as diabetes and obesity, are more prevalent in low-income and minority communities. One promising method to understand and address these chronic conditions is through Community Based Participatory Research (CBPR). CBPR engages and empowers community members to identify risk factors and work toward solutions as equal partners with researchers. One positive and lasting outcome may be an increase in the community capacity which includes individual and community leadership development, policy making, creating connections and utilizing existing community resources. Evaluating community capacity created as a result of a CBPR project is one way to measure its effectiveness. This paper is a retrospective analysis of the capacity built during a CBPR study of diabetes and obesity in East and South Los Angeles which are two low-income and minority neighborhoods. Four people, who were heavily involved in the project, completed a retrospective analysis of the capacity built utilizing a validated instrument. There was consensus about the capacity built, which included: excellent participation by community members, inclusion of members’ ideas to leverage additional funding, and pride of community members in their participation in the project. One area that could have been strengthened was increased access for leadership and research experience among community members, especially since the project ended prematurely. There were differences among the two community groups with East Los Angeles members focusing more on tangible interventions and grant writing, while South Los Angeles members had a greater policy focus. Communities and researchers who are embarking on a CBPR project can learn from those who have implemented the strategy. Measuring capacity built during and after the project, can be one way to understanding the contributions of a project in a community. CBPR is an empowering research methodology which, done correctly, can build community capacity and have long-term impacts on individuals and communities.展开更多
This paper provides commentary on some of the factors leading to a dramatic fall in heart disease death rates and the 42-year period (1968-2010) documented on the accompanying table.
The coastal wetland, Ballona Lagoon in Southern California has experienced degradation and size reduction due to urbanization. This study analyzes nitrate concentrations in the lagoon to identify contamination sources...The coastal wetland, Ballona Lagoon in Southern California has experienced degradation and size reduction due to urbanization. This study analyzes nitrate concentrations in the lagoon to identify contamination sources and assess its impact. The study includes determining nitrate levels during high and low tides during wet and dry seasons, establishing concentration gradients, and examining the relationship between salinity and nitrate concentrations. The nitrate concentrations were found to be higher in locations closer to the head of the lagoon, particularly in urbanized areas, suggesting land-based sources during the dry season’s high tide (S2: 2.37 mg/l;S3: 3.85 mg/l;S4: 3.91 mg/l). Findings highlight the importance of managing nitrate contamination near urban areas. Monitoring nitrate levels over time are crucial for sustainability efforts. This research emphasizes the need for long-term monitoring and conservation strategies to mitigate nitrate contamination in Ballona Lagoon.展开更多
The Los Angeles metropolitan area,home to over 18 million residents,has been surrounded by multiple fast-growing fires since January 7,2025.As of January 23,these fires are estimated to have burned over 50,000 acres o...The Los Angeles metropolitan area,home to over 18 million residents,has been surrounded by multiple fast-growing fires since January 7,2025.As of January 23,these fires are estimated to have burned over 50,000 acres of land and destroyed at least 16,000 structures.Over 180,000 people have been ordered to evacuate,and at least 27 people are reported to have died in these fires.Preliminary estimates suggest that the economic loss of the Los Angeles 2025 fires could exceed 250 billion US dollars.Figure 1 shows the main areas affected by the current wildfires,a comparison with previous major wildfires,and their impacts on air quality.展开更多
Earth observation(EO) technologies,such as very high-resolution optical satellite data available from Maxar,can enhance economic consequence modeling of disasters by capturing the fine-grained and real-time behavioral...Earth observation(EO) technologies,such as very high-resolution optical satellite data available from Maxar,can enhance economic consequence modeling of disasters by capturing the fine-grained and real-time behavioral responses of businesses and the public.We investigated this unique approach to economic consequence modeling to determine whether crowd-sourced interpretations of EO data can be used to illuminate key economic behavioral responses that could be used for computable general equilibrium modeling of supply chain repercussions and resilience effects.We applied our methodology to the COVID-19 pandemic experience in Los Angeles County,California as a case study.We also proposed a dynamic adjustment approach to account for the changing character of EO through longer-term disasters in the economic modeling context.We found that despite limitations,EO data can increase sectoral and temporal resolution,which leads to significant differences from other data sources in terms of direct and total impact results.The findings from this analytical approach have important implications for economic consequence modeling of disasters,as well as providing useful information to policymakers and emergency managers,whose goal is to reduce disaster costs and to improve economic resilience.展开更多
Subarachnoid hemorrhage(SAH) is a devastating condition that affects a total of 8 million people worldwide each year(Lauzier and Athiraman, 2024). Etiologies of SAH can be traumatic or nontraumatic, with the majority ...Subarachnoid hemorrhage(SAH) is a devastating condition that affects a total of 8 million people worldwide each year(Lauzier and Athiraman, 2024). Etiologies of SAH can be traumatic or nontraumatic, with the majority of non-traumatic SAH occurring due to intracranial aneurysm rupture(Rutledge et al., 2014).展开更多
AIM:To build a functional generalized estimating equation(GEE)model to detect glaucomatous visual field progression and compare the performance of the proposed method with that of commonly employed algorithms.METHODS:...AIM:To build a functional generalized estimating equation(GEE)model to detect glaucomatous visual field progression and compare the performance of the proposed method with that of commonly employed algorithms.METHODS:Totally 716 eyes of 716 patients with primary open angle glaucoma(POAG)with at least 5 reliable 24-2 test results and 2y of follow-up were selected.The functional GEE model was used to detect perimetric progression in the training dataset(501 eyes).In the testing dataset(215 eyes),progression was evaluated the functional GEE model,mean deviation(MD)and visual field index(VFI)rates of change,Advanced Glaucoma Intervention Study(AGIS)and Collaborative Initial Glaucoma Treatment Study(CIGTS)scores,and pointwise linear regression(PLR).RESULTS:The proposed method showed the highest proportion of eyes detected as progression(54.4%),followed by the VFI rate(34.4%),PLR(23.3%),and MD rate(21.4%).The CIGTS and AGIS scores had a lower proportion of eyes detected as progression(7.9%and 5.1%,respectively).The time to detection of progression was significantly shorter for the proposed method than that of other algorithms(adjusted P≤0.019).The VFI rate displayed moderate pairwise agreement with the proposed method(k=0.47).CONCLUSION:The functional GEE model shows the highest proportion of eyes detected as perimetric progression and the shortest time to detect perimetric progression in patients with POAG.展开更多
Cataract or clear lens extraction has been suggested as a treatment option for different spectrums of primary angle closure diseases.It might reduce the risk of progression of angle closure and/or glaucoma by helping ...Cataract or clear lens extraction has been suggested as a treatment option for different spectrums of primary angle closure diseases.It might reduce the risk of progression of angle closure and/or glaucoma by helping to open the angle and control the intraocular pressure (IOP).Conventionally,medically uncontrolled primary angle closure glaucoma was treated with trabeculectomy or phacotrabeculectomy and acute primary angle closure was treated with laser peripheral iridotomy. However,recent randomized controlled trials have demonstrated greater promise of phacoemulsification cataract surgery alone for control of the IOP. In this report we review the current literature to evaluate the impact of cataract surgery upon preventing and controlling primary angle closure diseases.展开更多
Aging of craniofacial skeleton significantly impairs the repair and regeneration of trauma-induced bony defects,and complicates dental treatment outcomes.Age-related alveolar bone loss could be attributed to decreased...Aging of craniofacial skeleton significantly impairs the repair and regeneration of trauma-induced bony defects,and complicates dental treatment outcomes.Age-related alveolar bone loss could be attributed to decreased progenitor pool through senescence,imbalance in bone metabolism and bone-fat ratio.Mesenchymal stem cells isolated from oral bones(OMSCs)have distinct lineage propensities and characteristics compared to MSCs from long bones,and are more suited for craniofacial regeneration.However,the effect of epigenetic modifications regulating OMSC differentiation and senescence in aging has not yet been investigated.In this study,we found that the histone demethylase KDM4B plays an essential role in regulating the osteogenesis of OMSCs and oral bone aging.Loss of KDM4B in OMSCs leads to inhibition of osteogenesis.Moreover,KDM4B loss promoted adipogenesis and OMSC senescence which further impairs bone-fat balance in the mandible.Together,our data suggest that KDM4B may underpin the molecular mechanisms of OMSC fate determination and alveolar bone homeostasis in skeletal aging,and present as a promising therapeutic target for addressing craniofacial skeletal defects associated with age-related deteriorations.展开更多
Marginal bone loss during bone healing exists around non-submerged dental implants. The aim of this study was to identify the relationship between different degrees of marginal bone loss during bone healing and the sa...Marginal bone loss during bone healing exists around non-submerged dental implants. The aim of this study was to identify the relationship between different degrees of marginal bone loss during bone healing and the salivary microbiome. One hundred patients were recruited, and marginal bone loss around their implants was measured using cone beam computed tomography during a 3-month healing period. The patients were divided into three groups according to the severity of marginal bone loss.Saliva samples were collected from all subjected and were analysed using 16 SMiSeq sequencing. Although the overall structure of the microbial community was not dramatically altered, the relative abundance of several taxonomic groups noticeably changed. The abundance of species in the phyla Spirochaeta and Synergistetes increased significantly as the bone loss became more severe. Species within the genus Treponema also exhibited increased abundance, whereas Veillonella, Haemophilus and Leptotrichia exhibited reduced abundances, in groups with more bone loss. Porphyromonasgingivalis, Treponemadenticola and Streptococcus intermedius were significantly more abundant in the moderate group and/or severe group. The severity of marginal bone loss around the non-submerged implant was associated with dissimilar taxonomic compositions. An increased severity of marginal bone loss was related to increased proportions of periodontal pathogenic species. These data suggest a potential role of microbes in the progression of marginal bone loss during bone healing.展开更多
BACKGROUND Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis(FSGS)is one of the most common glomerular diseases leading to renal failure.FSGS has a high risk of recurrence after kidney transplantation.Prevention of recurrent FSGS us...BACKGROUND Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis(FSGS)is one of the most common glomerular diseases leading to renal failure.FSGS has a high risk of recurrence after kidney transplantation.Prevention of recurrent FSGS using rituximab and/or plasmapheresis has been evaluated in multiple small studies with conflicting results.AIM To assess the risk of recurrence of FSGS after transplantation using prophylactic rituximab with or without plasmapheresis,and plasmapheresis alone compared to the standard treatment group without preventive therapy.METHODS This meta-analysis and systematic review were performed by first conducting a literature search of the MEDLINE,EMBASE,and Cochrane databases,from inception through March 2021;search terms included‘FSGS,’’steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome’,‘rituximab,’and‘plasmapheresis,’.We identified studies that assessed the risk of post-transplant FSGS after use of rituximab with or without plasmapheresis,or plasmapheresis alone.Inclusion criteria were:Original,published,randomized controlled trials or cohort studies(either prospective or retrospective),case-control,or cross-sectional studies;inclusion of odds ratio,relative risk,and standardized incidence ratio with 95%confidence intervals(CI),or sufficient raw data to calculate these ratios;and subjects without interventions(controls)being used as comparators in cohort and cross-sectional studies.Effect estimates from individual studies were extracted and combined using a random effects model.RESULTS Eleven studies,with a total of 399 kidney transplant recipients with FSGS,evaluated the use of rituximab with or without plasmapheresis;thirteen studies,with a total of 571 kidney transplant recipients with FSGS,evaluated plasmapheresis alone.Post-transplant FSGS recurred relatively early.There was no significant difference in recurrence between the group that received rituximab(with or without plasmapheresis)and the standard treatment group,with a pooled risk ratio of 0.82(95%CI:0.47-1.45,I2=65%).Similarly,plasmapheresis alone was not associated with any significant difference in FSGS recurrence when compared with no plasmapheresis;the pooled risk ratio was 0.85(95%CI:0.60-1.21,I2=23%).Subgroup analyses in the pediatric and adult groups did not yield a significant difference in recurrence risk.We also reviewed and analyzed posttransplant outcomes including timing of recurrence and graft survival.CONCLUSION Overall,the use of rituximab with or without plasmapheresis,or plasmapheresis alone,is not associated with a lower risk of FSGS recurrence after kidney transplantation.Future studies are required to assess the effectiveness of rituximab with or without plasmapheresis among specific patient subgroups with high-risk for FSGS recurrence.展开更多
The vehement explosion in two-dimensional (2D) materials has led to one exciting new discoveries after another for the past 15 years. This circumstance resembles a famous movie “The Gold Rush”(1925) expressed the tr...The vehement explosion in two-dimensional (2D) materials has led to one exciting new discoveries after another for the past 15 years. This circumstance resembles a famous movie “The Gold Rush”(1925) expressed the true story about the stream of American people as crowded as the hurricane to join the gold racing in the 19th century. Similarly, the family of 2D materials has gained tremendous interest from broad scientific community in various fields, from fundamental chemistry and physics to materials and device engineering. This special issue includes both tutorial reviews and original research articles, providing general overviews of the recent progresses and bringing about the newest discoveries in this rapidly evolving field.展开更多
Background/purpose:With increasing accessibility to the Internet,patients frequently use the Internet for hearing healthcare information.No study has examined the information about hearing loss available in the Mandar...Background/purpose:With increasing accessibility to the Internet,patients frequently use the Internet for hearing healthcare information.No study has examined the information about hearing loss available in the Mandarin language on online video-sharing platforms.The study’s primary purpose is to investigate the content,source,understandability,and actionability of hearing loss information in the Mandarin language’s one hundred most popular online videos.Method:In this project,publicly accessible online videos were analyzed.One hundred of the most popular Mandarin-language videos about hearing loss were identified(51 videos on YouTube and 49 on the Bilibili video-sharing platform).They were manually coded for different popularity metrics,sources,and content.Each video was also rated using the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for Audiovisual Materials(PEMAT-AV)to measure the understandability and actionability scores.Results:The video sources were classified as either media(n=36),professional(n=39),or consumer(n=25).The videos covered various topics,including symptoms,consequences,and treatment of hearing loss.Overall,videos attained adequate understandability scores(mean=73.6%)but low(mean=43.4%)actionability scores.Conclusions:While existing online content related to hearing loss is quite diverse and largely understandable,those videos provide limited actionable information.Hearing healthcare professionals,media,and content creators can help patients better understand their conditions and make educated hearing healthcare decisions by focusing on the actionability information in their online videos.展开更多
Over the last decade, the number of people diagnosed with osteoporosis has increased dramatically due to many factors. While it has been asserted that one variable associated with preserving bone health is participati...Over the last decade, the number of people diagnosed with osteoporosis has increased dramatically due to many factors. While it has been asserted that one variable associated with preserving bone health is participation in high-impact exercises, those same exercises are also well documented to damage the hip and knee joints. Therefore, the goal of the present study was to evaluate the potential benefits of a highly regimented, low impact weight-bearing exercise, Bikram Yoga. Specifically, the bone mineral content was measured using DEXA analysis of the proximal femur and lumbar spine of nine female Bikram Yoga instructors between the ages of 30 and 59, who not only participated in a minimum of 3 classes (4.5 hours) a week, but also actively taught Bikram Yoga classes. These same participants, who remained active as instructors and practitioners, were rescanned five years later. The results of the study, which focused on the percent change in individual bone mineral density over the five-year period were as follows: the premenopausal subjects showed a mean increase in BMD of 6.6% at the femoral neck, 2.0% for the total hip, and 1.0% for the total lumbar spine. In contrast, post-menopausal subjects revealed a mean decrease in bone mineral density (BMD) of ﹣6.0%, ﹣8.1%, and ﹣5.6% in the femoral neck, total hip, and total lumbar spine, respectively. Consequently, the results of this study suggest that performing Bikram Yoga may preserve, or even perhaps, increase bone mineral density in pre-menopausal women and hence, may be an effective countermeasure for preventing osteoporosis.展开更多
BACKGROUND Recurrent Clostridium difficile infection(CDI)in children can be difficult to manage and may represent an unidentified underlying pathology.Recurrence can be frequently encountered in immunodeficiency disor...BACKGROUND Recurrent Clostridium difficile infection(CDI)in children can be difficult to manage and may represent an unidentified underlying pathology.Recurrence can be frequently encountered in immunodeficiency disorders and inflammatory bowel disease(IBD).AIM To report cases of a select population of children with recurrent CDI who are immunocompetent and do not have an identified IBD and examine the potential for any underlying risk factors,disease course and disease outcome.METHODS Review of charts for children aged 1-21 years with recurrent CDI referred to see pediatric gastroenterology service was performed.All subjects with known immunosuppression or IBD were excluded.Subjects were followed for at least 24 mo.RESULTS Twelve children seen consecutively were identified.All patients were treated with antibiotic courses for CDI prior to their referral.Five out of 12 patients had an underlying pathology that was not previously identified,including eosinophilic colitis and IBD.CDI symptoms resolved after treatment of underlying colitis without the need to target therapy for CDI.There were 9 patients that failed antibiotic treatment of CDI and required fecal microbiome transplant,which was safe and highly effective in preventing recurrence(100%efficacy).The gut microbial changes after fecal transplant were characterized by a remarkable and durable increase in diversity and in abundance of Bacteroides.CONCLUSION Pediatric patients with frequent recurrence of CDI may have an unidentified underlying gastrointestinal pathology that may warrant further investigation by a specialist who can identify these diseases and help optimize management.Many of these children may benefit from fecal microbial transplant which appears to be a safe,highly effective therapy that results in long term changes in the gut microbiome.展开更多
Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are bioelectrochemical systems that convert chemical energy contained in organic matter into electrical energy by using the catalytic (metabolic) activity of living microorganisms. Mediator...Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are bioelectrochemical systems that convert chemical energy contained in organic matter into electrical energy by using the catalytic (metabolic) activity of living microorganisms. Mediator-less two chamber H-type MFCs were constructed in the current study, using dairy digester microbial population as anode inocula to convert finely ground pine tree (Avicel) at 2% (w/v) to electricity. MFCs were placed at 37°C and after the circuit voltage was stabilized on d9, bovine rumen microorganisms cultured anaerobically for 48 hrs in cellulose broth media were added to treatment group of MFC at 1% v/v dosage. MFC power and current across an external resistor were measured daily for 10 d. At the end of incubation on d19 head space gas and anode chamber liquid solutions were collected and analyzed for total gas volume and composition, and volatile fatty acids, respectively. Addition of enriched rumen microorganisms to anaerobic anode chamber increased cellulose digestibility and increased both CO2 and methane production;however, it decreased the methane to CO2 ratio. Over the experimental period, electricity generation was increased with rumen microorganism addition, and power density normalized to anode surface area was 17.6 to 67.2 mW/m2 with average of 36.0 mW/m2 in treatment, while control group had 3.6 to 21.6 (AVE 12.0) mW/m2. These observations imply that biocatalysis in MFCs requires additional cellulolytic activities to utilize structural biomass in bioenergy production.展开更多
The dietary polyphenolic compounds resveratrol and quercetin prevent neurodegenerative diseases in experimental models;however, they reach the brain only in nanomolar concentrations in the glucuronidated and sulfated ...The dietary polyphenolic compounds resveratrol and quercetin prevent neurodegenerative diseases in experimental models;however, they reach the brain only in nanomolar concentrations in the glucuronidated and sulfated forms, and not as the aglycone parent form(Pasinetti et al.,2015).展开更多
The search for new research ideas is a central challenge for many scientists.Over the past four decades,I have formed opinions on methods for discerning promising paths from how my own work has advanced in fits and st...The search for new research ideas is a central challenge for many scientists.Over the past four decades,I have formed opinions on methods for discerning promising paths from how my own work has advanced in fits and starts.I list five criteria whose relevance and utility I have assessed based on my checkered history of research.展开更多
文摘A metropolitan city such as Los Angeles (LA) is an ideal study site with a very high population density, and it houses at least 3 treatment plants where sewage is treated preliminarily and then progressing to tertiary treatment before discharging into the LA River. We will gain a better understanding of the water quality in the LA River and the nitrate load in the watershed system by examining the influence of waste water treatment plants (WWTPs). The goal of this study is to pinpoint the exact source of nitrate in the LA River using the isotope signatures. We have selected sampling locations both upstream and downstream of the WWTP. This serves to monitor nitrate levels, aiding in the assessment of treatment plant effectiveness, pinpointing nitrate pollution sources, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. The research explores the isotopic composition of NO3 in relation to atmospheric nitrogen and Vienna Standard Mean Ocean Water, shedding light on the contributions from various sources such as manure, sewage, soil organic nitrogen, and nitrogen fertilizers. Specifically, there is a change in the δ15NAir value between the dry and wet seasons. The isotope values in the Tillman WWTP sample changed between dry and wet seasons. Notably, the presence of nitrate originating from manure and sewage is consistent across seasons, emphasizing the significant impact of anthropogenic and agricultural activities on water quality. This investigation contributes to the broader understanding of nitrogen cycling in urban water bodies, particularly in the context of wastewater effluent discharge. The findings hold implications for water quality management and highlight the need for targeted interventions to mitigate the impact of nitrogen-containing compounds on aquatic ecosystems. Overall, the study provides a valuable framework for future research and environmental stewardship efforts aimed at preserving the health and sustainability of urban water resources. This data informs decisions regarding additional treatment or mitigation actions to safeguard downstream water quality and ecosystem health.
文摘Chronic diseases, such as diabetes and obesity, are more prevalent in low-income and minority communities. One promising method to understand and address these chronic conditions is through Community Based Participatory Research (CBPR). CBPR engages and empowers community members to identify risk factors and work toward solutions as equal partners with researchers. One positive and lasting outcome may be an increase in the community capacity which includes individual and community leadership development, policy making, creating connections and utilizing existing community resources. Evaluating community capacity created as a result of a CBPR project is one way to measure its effectiveness. This paper is a retrospective analysis of the capacity built during a CBPR study of diabetes and obesity in East and South Los Angeles which are two low-income and minority neighborhoods. Four people, who were heavily involved in the project, completed a retrospective analysis of the capacity built utilizing a validated instrument. There was consensus about the capacity built, which included: excellent participation by community members, inclusion of members’ ideas to leverage additional funding, and pride of community members in their participation in the project. One area that could have been strengthened was increased access for leadership and research experience among community members, especially since the project ended prematurely. There were differences among the two community groups with East Los Angeles members focusing more on tangible interventions and grant writing, while South Los Angeles members had a greater policy focus. Communities and researchers who are embarking on a CBPR project can learn from those who have implemented the strategy. Measuring capacity built during and after the project, can be one way to understanding the contributions of a project in a community. CBPR is an empowering research methodology which, done correctly, can build community capacity and have long-term impacts on individuals and communities.
文摘This paper provides commentary on some of the factors leading to a dramatic fall in heart disease death rates and the 42-year period (1968-2010) documented on the accompanying table.
文摘The coastal wetland, Ballona Lagoon in Southern California has experienced degradation and size reduction due to urbanization. This study analyzes nitrate concentrations in the lagoon to identify contamination sources and assess its impact. The study includes determining nitrate levels during high and low tides during wet and dry seasons, establishing concentration gradients, and examining the relationship between salinity and nitrate concentrations. The nitrate concentrations were found to be higher in locations closer to the head of the lagoon, particularly in urbanized areas, suggesting land-based sources during the dry season’s high tide (S2: 2.37 mg/l;S3: 3.85 mg/l;S4: 3.91 mg/l). Findings highlight the importance of managing nitrate contamination near urban areas. Monitoring nitrate levels over time are crucial for sustainability efforts. This research emphasizes the need for long-term monitoring and conservation strategies to mitigate nitrate contamination in Ballona Lagoon.
基金support from NASA(#80NSSC23K0028)NSF(#2101044)support from NIH(#R01ES036566).
文摘The Los Angeles metropolitan area,home to over 18 million residents,has been surrounded by multiple fast-growing fires since January 7,2025.As of January 23,these fires are estimated to have burned over 50,000 acres of land and destroyed at least 16,000 structures.Over 180,000 people have been ordered to evacuate,and at least 27 people are reported to have died in these fires.Preliminary estimates suggest that the economic loss of the Los Angeles 2025 fires could exceed 250 billion US dollars.Figure 1 shows the main areas affected by the current wildfires,a comparison with previous major wildfires,and their impacts on air quality.
基金funded by the NASA Disasters Program grant#NH18ZDA001N001N.
文摘Earth observation(EO) technologies,such as very high-resolution optical satellite data available from Maxar,can enhance economic consequence modeling of disasters by capturing the fine-grained and real-time behavioral responses of businesses and the public.We investigated this unique approach to economic consequence modeling to determine whether crowd-sourced interpretations of EO data can be used to illuminate key economic behavioral responses that could be used for computable general equilibrium modeling of supply chain repercussions and resilience effects.We applied our methodology to the COVID-19 pandemic experience in Los Angeles County,California as a case study.We also proposed a dynamic adjustment approach to account for the changing character of EO through longer-term disasters in the economic modeling context.We found that despite limitations,EO data can increase sectoral and temporal resolution,which leads to significant differences from other data sources in terms of direct and total impact results.The findings from this analytical approach have important implications for economic consequence modeling of disasters,as well as providing useful information to policymakers and emergency managers,whose goal is to reduce disaster costs and to improve economic resilience.
文摘Subarachnoid hemorrhage(SAH) is a devastating condition that affects a total of 8 million people worldwide each year(Lauzier and Athiraman, 2024). Etiologies of SAH can be traumatic or nontraumatic, with the majority of non-traumatic SAH occurring due to intracranial aneurysm rupture(Rutledge et al., 2014).
基金Supported by the Korea Health Technology R&D Project through the Korea Health Industry Development Institute(KHIDI),funded by the Ministry of Health&Welfare,Republic of Korea(No.HR20C0026)the National Research Foundation of Korea(NRF)(No.RS-2023-00247504)the Patient-Centered Clinical Research Coordinating Center,funded by the Ministry of Health&Welfare,Republic of Korea(No.HC19C0276).
文摘AIM:To build a functional generalized estimating equation(GEE)model to detect glaucomatous visual field progression and compare the performance of the proposed method with that of commonly employed algorithms.METHODS:Totally 716 eyes of 716 patients with primary open angle glaucoma(POAG)with at least 5 reliable 24-2 test results and 2y of follow-up were selected.The functional GEE model was used to detect perimetric progression in the training dataset(501 eyes).In the testing dataset(215 eyes),progression was evaluated the functional GEE model,mean deviation(MD)and visual field index(VFI)rates of change,Advanced Glaucoma Intervention Study(AGIS)and Collaborative Initial Glaucoma Treatment Study(CIGTS)scores,and pointwise linear regression(PLR).RESULTS:The proposed method showed the highest proportion of eyes detected as progression(54.4%),followed by the VFI rate(34.4%),PLR(23.3%),and MD rate(21.4%).The CIGTS and AGIS scores had a lower proportion of eyes detected as progression(7.9%and 5.1%,respectively).The time to detection of progression was significantly shorter for the proposed method than that of other algorithms(adjusted P≤0.019).The VFI rate displayed moderate pairwise agreement with the proposed method(k=0.47).CONCLUSION:The functional GEE model shows the highest proportion of eyes detected as perimetric progression and the shortest time to detect perimetric progression in patients with POAG.
文摘Cataract or clear lens extraction has been suggested as a treatment option for different spectrums of primary angle closure diseases.It might reduce the risk of progression of angle closure and/or glaucoma by helping to open the angle and control the intraocular pressure (IOP).Conventionally,medically uncontrolled primary angle closure glaucoma was treated with trabeculectomy or phacotrabeculectomy and acute primary angle closure was treated with laser peripheral iridotomy. However,recent randomized controlled trials have demonstrated greater promise of phacoemulsification cataract surgery alone for control of the IOP. In this report we review the current literature to evaluate the impact of cataract surgery upon preventing and controlling primary angle closure diseases.
基金supported by NIH/NIDCR grants R01DE028260 and R01DE024828。
文摘Aging of craniofacial skeleton significantly impairs the repair and regeneration of trauma-induced bony defects,and complicates dental treatment outcomes.Age-related alveolar bone loss could be attributed to decreased progenitor pool through senescence,imbalance in bone metabolism and bone-fat ratio.Mesenchymal stem cells isolated from oral bones(OMSCs)have distinct lineage propensities and characteristics compared to MSCs from long bones,and are more suited for craniofacial regeneration.However,the effect of epigenetic modifications regulating OMSC differentiation and senescence in aging has not yet been investigated.In this study,we found that the histone demethylase KDM4B plays an essential role in regulating the osteogenesis of OMSCs and oral bone aging.Loss of KDM4B in OMSCs leads to inhibition of osteogenesis.Moreover,KDM4B loss promoted adipogenesis and OMSC senescence which further impairs bone-fat balance in the mandible.Together,our data suggest that KDM4B may underpin the molecular mechanisms of OMSC fate determination and alveolar bone homeostasis in skeletal aging,and present as a promising therapeutic target for addressing craniofacial skeletal defects associated with age-related deteriorations.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC8137117381571001)+2 种基金State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases(SKLOD201704)International Team for Implantology(Grant No.975_2014,Basel,Switzerland)to Quan Yuanthe National Key R&D Program of China during the 13th Five-Year Plan(2016YFC1102700)to Xue-Dong Zhou
文摘Marginal bone loss during bone healing exists around non-submerged dental implants. The aim of this study was to identify the relationship between different degrees of marginal bone loss during bone healing and the salivary microbiome. One hundred patients were recruited, and marginal bone loss around their implants was measured using cone beam computed tomography during a 3-month healing period. The patients were divided into three groups according to the severity of marginal bone loss.Saliva samples were collected from all subjected and were analysed using 16 SMiSeq sequencing. Although the overall structure of the microbial community was not dramatically altered, the relative abundance of several taxonomic groups noticeably changed. The abundance of species in the phyla Spirochaeta and Synergistetes increased significantly as the bone loss became more severe. Species within the genus Treponema also exhibited increased abundance, whereas Veillonella, Haemophilus and Leptotrichia exhibited reduced abundances, in groups with more bone loss. Porphyromonasgingivalis, Treponemadenticola and Streptococcus intermedius were significantly more abundant in the moderate group and/or severe group. The severity of marginal bone loss around the non-submerged implant was associated with dissimilar taxonomic compositions. An increased severity of marginal bone loss was related to increased proportions of periodontal pathogenic species. These data suggest a potential role of microbes in the progression of marginal bone loss during bone healing.
文摘BACKGROUND Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis(FSGS)is one of the most common glomerular diseases leading to renal failure.FSGS has a high risk of recurrence after kidney transplantation.Prevention of recurrent FSGS using rituximab and/or plasmapheresis has been evaluated in multiple small studies with conflicting results.AIM To assess the risk of recurrence of FSGS after transplantation using prophylactic rituximab with or without plasmapheresis,and plasmapheresis alone compared to the standard treatment group without preventive therapy.METHODS This meta-analysis and systematic review were performed by first conducting a literature search of the MEDLINE,EMBASE,and Cochrane databases,from inception through March 2021;search terms included‘FSGS,’’steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome’,‘rituximab,’and‘plasmapheresis,’.We identified studies that assessed the risk of post-transplant FSGS after use of rituximab with or without plasmapheresis,or plasmapheresis alone.Inclusion criteria were:Original,published,randomized controlled trials or cohort studies(either prospective or retrospective),case-control,or cross-sectional studies;inclusion of odds ratio,relative risk,and standardized incidence ratio with 95%confidence intervals(CI),or sufficient raw data to calculate these ratios;and subjects without interventions(controls)being used as comparators in cohort and cross-sectional studies.Effect estimates from individual studies were extracted and combined using a random effects model.RESULTS Eleven studies,with a total of 399 kidney transplant recipients with FSGS,evaluated the use of rituximab with or without plasmapheresis;thirteen studies,with a total of 571 kidney transplant recipients with FSGS,evaluated plasmapheresis alone.Post-transplant FSGS recurred relatively early.There was no significant difference in recurrence between the group that received rituximab(with or without plasmapheresis)and the standard treatment group,with a pooled risk ratio of 0.82(95%CI:0.47-1.45,I2=65%).Similarly,plasmapheresis alone was not associated with any significant difference in FSGS recurrence when compared with no plasmapheresis;the pooled risk ratio was 0.85(95%CI:0.60-1.21,I2=23%).Subgroup analyses in the pediatric and adult groups did not yield a significant difference in recurrence risk.We also reviewed and analyzed posttransplant outcomes including timing of recurrence and graft survival.CONCLUSION Overall,the use of rituximab with or without plasmapheresis,or plasmapheresis alone,is not associated with a lower risk of FSGS recurrence after kidney transplantation.Future studies are required to assess the effectiveness of rituximab with or without plasmapheresis among specific patient subgroups with high-risk for FSGS recurrence.
文摘The vehement explosion in two-dimensional (2D) materials has led to one exciting new discoveries after another for the past 15 years. This circumstance resembles a famous movie “The Gold Rush”(1925) expressed the true story about the stream of American people as crowded as the hurricane to join the gold racing in the 19th century. Similarly, the family of 2D materials has gained tremendous interest from broad scientific community in various fields, from fundamental chemistry and physics to materials and device engineering. This special issue includes both tutorial reviews and original research articles, providing general overviews of the recent progresses and bringing about the newest discoveries in this rapidly evolving field.
文摘Background/purpose:With increasing accessibility to the Internet,patients frequently use the Internet for hearing healthcare information.No study has examined the information about hearing loss available in the Mandarin language on online video-sharing platforms.The study’s primary purpose is to investigate the content,source,understandability,and actionability of hearing loss information in the Mandarin language’s one hundred most popular online videos.Method:In this project,publicly accessible online videos were analyzed.One hundred of the most popular Mandarin-language videos about hearing loss were identified(51 videos on YouTube and 49 on the Bilibili video-sharing platform).They were manually coded for different popularity metrics,sources,and content.Each video was also rated using the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for Audiovisual Materials(PEMAT-AV)to measure the understandability and actionability scores.Results:The video sources were classified as either media(n=36),professional(n=39),or consumer(n=25).The videos covered various topics,including symptoms,consequences,and treatment of hearing loss.Overall,videos attained adequate understandability scores(mean=73.6%)but low(mean=43.4%)actionability scores.Conclusions:While existing online content related to hearing loss is quite diverse and largely understandable,those videos provide limited actionable information.Hearing healthcare professionals,media,and content creators can help patients better understand their conditions and make educated hearing healthcare decisions by focusing on the actionability information in their online videos.
文摘Over the last decade, the number of people diagnosed with osteoporosis has increased dramatically due to many factors. While it has been asserted that one variable associated with preserving bone health is participation in high-impact exercises, those same exercises are also well documented to damage the hip and knee joints. Therefore, the goal of the present study was to evaluate the potential benefits of a highly regimented, low impact weight-bearing exercise, Bikram Yoga. Specifically, the bone mineral content was measured using DEXA analysis of the proximal femur and lumbar spine of nine female Bikram Yoga instructors between the ages of 30 and 59, who not only participated in a minimum of 3 classes (4.5 hours) a week, but also actively taught Bikram Yoga classes. These same participants, who remained active as instructors and practitioners, were rescanned five years later. The results of the study, which focused on the percent change in individual bone mineral density over the five-year period were as follows: the premenopausal subjects showed a mean increase in BMD of 6.6% at the femoral neck, 2.0% for the total hip, and 1.0% for the total lumbar spine. In contrast, post-menopausal subjects revealed a mean decrease in bone mineral density (BMD) of ﹣6.0%, ﹣8.1%, and ﹣5.6% in the femoral neck, total hip, and total lumbar spine, respectively. Consequently, the results of this study suggest that performing Bikram Yoga may preserve, or even perhaps, increase bone mineral density in pre-menopausal women and hence, may be an effective countermeasure for preventing osteoporosis.
文摘BACKGROUND Recurrent Clostridium difficile infection(CDI)in children can be difficult to manage and may represent an unidentified underlying pathology.Recurrence can be frequently encountered in immunodeficiency disorders and inflammatory bowel disease(IBD).AIM To report cases of a select population of children with recurrent CDI who are immunocompetent and do not have an identified IBD and examine the potential for any underlying risk factors,disease course and disease outcome.METHODS Review of charts for children aged 1-21 years with recurrent CDI referred to see pediatric gastroenterology service was performed.All subjects with known immunosuppression or IBD were excluded.Subjects were followed for at least 24 mo.RESULTS Twelve children seen consecutively were identified.All patients were treated with antibiotic courses for CDI prior to their referral.Five out of 12 patients had an underlying pathology that was not previously identified,including eosinophilic colitis and IBD.CDI symptoms resolved after treatment of underlying colitis without the need to target therapy for CDI.There were 9 patients that failed antibiotic treatment of CDI and required fecal microbiome transplant,which was safe and highly effective in preventing recurrence(100%efficacy).The gut microbial changes after fecal transplant were characterized by a remarkable and durable increase in diversity and in abundance of Bacteroides.CONCLUSION Pediatric patients with frequent recurrence of CDI may have an unidentified underlying gastrointestinal pathology that may warrant further investigation by a specialist who can identify these diseases and help optimize management.Many of these children may benefit from fecal microbial transplant which appears to be a safe,highly effective therapy that results in long term changes in the gut microbiome.
文摘Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are bioelectrochemical systems that convert chemical energy contained in organic matter into electrical energy by using the catalytic (metabolic) activity of living microorganisms. Mediator-less two chamber H-type MFCs were constructed in the current study, using dairy digester microbial population as anode inocula to convert finely ground pine tree (Avicel) at 2% (w/v) to electricity. MFCs were placed at 37°C and after the circuit voltage was stabilized on d9, bovine rumen microorganisms cultured anaerobically for 48 hrs in cellulose broth media were added to treatment group of MFC at 1% v/v dosage. MFC power and current across an external resistor were measured daily for 10 d. At the end of incubation on d19 head space gas and anode chamber liquid solutions were collected and analyzed for total gas volume and composition, and volatile fatty acids, respectively. Addition of enriched rumen microorganisms to anaerobic anode chamber increased cellulose digestibility and increased both CO2 and methane production;however, it decreased the methane to CO2 ratio. Over the experimental period, electricity generation was increased with rumen microorganism addition, and power density normalized to anode surface area was 17.6 to 67.2 mW/m2 with average of 36.0 mW/m2 in treatment, while control group had 3.6 to 21.6 (AVE 12.0) mW/m2. These observations imply that biocatalysis in MFCs requires additional cellulolytic activities to utilize structural biomass in bioenergy production.
基金supported by NIH grants, NINDS R21 NS116720 and NINDS/NIA RF1 NS130681 (to RG and WJM)。
文摘The dietary polyphenolic compounds resveratrol and quercetin prevent neurodegenerative diseases in experimental models;however, they reach the brain only in nanomolar concentrations in the glucuronidated and sulfated forms, and not as the aglycone parent form(Pasinetti et al.,2015).
文摘The search for new research ideas is a central challenge for many scientists.Over the past four decades,I have formed opinions on methods for discerning promising paths from how my own work has advanced in fits and starts.I list five criteria whose relevance and utility I have assessed based on my checkered history of research.
