Globalization and technological change are transforming the ways in which buildings are being designed and built. An overlooked aspect of this development is its impact on construction labor, and the significance of l...Globalization and technological change are transforming the ways in which buildings are being designed and built. An overlooked aspect of this development is its impact on construction labor, and the significance of labor for assessing the work of architecture. The paper draws upon the sociological concept of the “glocal” to analyse the construction site as the product of the tension between global and local conditions of architectural production and consumption. The construction of Preston Scott Cohen’s 2010 Tel Aviv Museum Addition serves as its case study for theorizing the “glocal” dynamics of digital architecture, building technology and construction labor. This methodological approach highlights the role of migrant vip workers and technological transfer in contemporary construction culture. To realize with precision the complex design under local constraints, the contractor developed a hybrid work process that interspersed labor saving automated manufacturing techniques with artisanal, skilled construction work. In addition, workers and contractors exercised a high level of control over the pace and method of construction, and devised building solutions which improved upon the architect’s design. In conclusion, the paper argues that construction activity differs from broader trends in manufacturing due to the self-reflexivity of architectural design to its condition of production, but that at the same time, this critical capacity is enabled by the globalization of construction labor.展开更多
Neurodevelopmental processes represent a finely tuned interplay between genetic and environmental factors,shaping the dynamic landscape of the developing brain.A major component of the developing brain that enables th...Neurodevelopmental processes represent a finely tuned interplay between genetic and environmental factors,shaping the dynamic landscape of the developing brain.A major component of the developing brain that enables this dynamic is the white matter(WM),known to be affected in neurodevelopmental disorders(NDDs)(Rokach et al.,2024).WM formation is mediated by myelination,a multifactorial process driven by neuro-glia interactions dependent on proper neuronal functionality(Simons and Trajkovic,2006).Another key aspect of neurodevelopmental abnormalities involves neuronal dynamics and function,with recent advances significantly enhancing our understanding of both neuronal and glial mitochondrial function(Devine and Kittler,2018;Rojas-Charry et al.,2021).Energy homeostasis in neurons,attributed largely to mitochondrial function,is critical for proper functionality and interactions with oligodendrocytes(OLs),the cells forming myelin in the brain’s WM.We herein discuss the interplay between these processes and speculate on potential dysfunction in NDDs.展开更多
Colorectal cancer （CRC） is caused by a series of genetic or epigenetic changes, and in the last decade there has been an increased awareness that there are multiple forms of colorectal cancer that develop through di...Colorectal cancer （CRC） is caused by a series of genetic or epigenetic changes, and in the last decade there has been an increased awareness that there are multiple forms of colorectal cancer that develop through different pathways. Microsatellite instability is involved in the genesis of about 15% of sporadic colorectal cancers and most of hereditary nonpolyposis cancers. Tumors with a high frequency of microsatellite instability tend to be diploid, to possess a mucinous histology, and to have a surrounding lymphoid reaction. They are more prevalent in the proximal colon and have a fast pass from polyp to cancer. Nevertheless, they are associated with longer survival than stage-matched tumors with microsateUite stability. Resistance of colorectal cancers with a high frequency of microsatellite instability to 5-fluorouracilbased chemotherapy is well established. Silencing the MLH1 gene expression by its promoter methylation stops the formation of MLH1 protein, and prevents the normal activation of the DNA repair gene. This is an important cause for genomic instability and cell proliferation to the point of colorectal cancer formation. Better knowledge of this process will have a huge impact on colorectal cancer management, prevention, treatment and prognosis.展开更多
BACKGROUND Liver cirrhosis is a significant source of morbidity and mortality worldwide.The disease is usually indolent and asymptomatic early in its course while many cirrhotic patients are diagnosed late when severe...BACKGROUND Liver cirrhosis is a significant source of morbidity and mortality worldwide.The disease is usually indolent and asymptomatic early in its course while many cirrhotic patients are diagnosed late when severe complications occur.A major challenge is to diagnose advanced fibrosis as early as possible,using simple and non-invasive diagnostics tools.Thrombocytopenia represents advanced fibrosis and portal hypertension(HTN)and most non-invasive scores that predict liver fibrosis incorporate platelets as a strong risk factor.However,little is known about the association between longitudinal changes in platelet counts(PTC),when still within the normal range,and the risk of cirrhosis.AIM To explore whether platelet counts trajectories over time,can predict advanced liver fibrosis across the different etiologies of liver diseases.METHODS A nested case-control study utilizing a large computerized database.Cirrhosis cases(n=5258)were compared to controls(n=15744)matched for age and sex at a ratio of 1:3.All participants had multiple laboratory measurements prior to enrollment.We calculated the trends of PTC,liver enzymes,bilirubin,international normalized ratio,albumin and fibrosis scores(fibrosis-4 and aspartate transaminase-to-platelet ratio index)throughout the preceding 20 years prior to cirrhosis diagnosis compared to healthy controls.The association between PTC,cirrhosis complications and fibrosis scores prior to cirrhosis diagnosis was investigated.RESULTS The mean age in both groups was 56(SD 15.8).Cirrhotic patients were more likely to be smokers,diabetic with chronic kidney disease and had a higher prevalence of HTN.The leading cirrhosis etiologies were viral,alcoholic and fatty liver disease.The mean PTC decreased from 240000/μL to 190000/μL up to 15 years prior to cirrhosis diagnosis compared to controls who’s PTC remained stable around the values of 240000/μL.This trend was consistent regardless of sex,cirrhosis etiology and was more pronounced in patients who developed varices and ascites.Compared to controls whose values remained in the normal range,in the cirrhosis group aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase,increased from 40 U/L to 75 U/L and FIB-4 increased gradually from 1.3 to 3 prior to cirrhosis diagnosis.In multivariable regression analysis,a decrease of 50 units in PTC was associated with 1.3 times odds of cirrhosis(95%CI 1.25-1.35).CONCLUSION In the preceding years before the diagnosis of cirrhosis,there is a progressive decline in PTC,within the normal range,matched to a gradual increase in fibrosis scores.展开更多
Accumulating evidence indicates that ataxia-telangiectasia mutated kinase is critical for maintaining cellular homeostasis and that it has both nuclear and cytoplasmic functions.However,the functions of ataxia-telangi...Accumulating evidence indicates that ataxia-telangiectasia mutated kinase is critical for maintaining cellular homeostasis and that it has both nuclear and cytoplasmic functions.However,the functions of ataxia-telangiectasia mutated that when lost lead to cerebellar degeneration are still unknown.In this review,we first describe the role of ataxia-telangiectasia mutated in cerebellar pathology.In addition to its canonical nuclear functions in DNA damage response circuits,ataxia-telangiectasia mutated functions in various cytoplasmic and mitochondrial processes that are critically important for cellular homeostasis.We discuss these functions with a focus on the role of ataxia-telangiectasia mutated in maintaining the homeostatic redox state.Finally,we describe the unique functions of ataxia-telangiectasia mutated in various types of neuronal and glial cells including cerebellar granule neurons,astrocytes,and microglial cells.展开更多
AIM: To evaluate daclatasvir vs telaprevir, each combined with peginterferon alfa-2a/ribavirin(peg IFN/RBV), in treatment-naive hepatitis C virus(HCV) genotype(GT) 1-infected patients.METHODS: In this phase 3, randomi...AIM: To evaluate daclatasvir vs telaprevir, each combined with peginterferon alfa-2a/ribavirin(peg IFN/RBV), in treatment-naive hepatitis C virus(HCV) genotype(GT) 1-infected patients.METHODS: In this phase 3, randomized, open-label, noninferiority study, 602 patients were randomly assigned(2:1) to daclatasvir vs telaprevir, stratified by IL28 B rs12979860 host genotype(CC vs non-CC), cirrhosis status(compensated cirrhosis vs no cirrhosis), and HCV GT1 subtype(GT1a vs GT1b). Patients were selected by study inclusion criteria from a total of 793 enrolled patients. Patients received daclatasvir 60 mg once daily or telaprevir 750 mg 3 times daily plus peg IFN/RBV. Daclatasvir recipients received 24 wk of daclatasvir plus peg IFN/RBV; those without an extended rapid virologic response(e RVR; undetectable HCV-RNA at weeks 4 and 12) received an additional 24 wk of peg IFN/RBV. Telaprevir-treated patients received 12 wk of telaprevir plus peg IFN/RBV followed by 12(with e RVR) or 36(no e RVR) wk of peg IFN/RBV. The primary objective was to compare for noninferiority of sustained virologic response rates at posttreatment week 12(SVR12) in GT1b-infected patients. Key secondary objectives were to demonstrate that the rates of anemia(hemoglobin < 10 g/d L) and rashrelated events, through week 12, were lower with daclatasvir + peg IFN/RBV than with telaprevir + peg IFN/RBV among GT1b-infected patients. Resistance testing was performed using population-based sequencing of the NS5 A region for all patients at baseline, and for patients with virologic failure or relapse and HCV-RNA ≥ 1000 IU/m L, to investigate any link between NS5 A polymorphisms associated with daclatasvir resistance and virologic outcome. RESULTS: Patient demographics and disease characteristics were generally balanced across treatment arms; however, there was a higher proportion of black/African Americans in the daclatasvir groups(6.0% and 8.2% in the GT1 b and GT1 a groups, respectively) than in the telaprevir groups(2.2% and 3.0%). Among GT1 binfected patients, daclatasvir plus peg IFN/RBV was noninferior to telaprevir plus peg IFN/RBV for SVR12 [85%(228/268) vs 81%(109/134); difference, 4.3%(95%CI:-3.3% to 11.9%)]. Anemia(hemoglobin < 10 g/d L) was significantly less frequent with daclatasvir than with telaprevir [difference,-29.1%(95%CI:-38.8% to-19.4%)]. Rash-related events were also less common with daclatasvir than with telaprevir, but the difference was not statistically significant. In GT1 ainfected patients, SVR12 was 64.9% with daclatasvir and 69.7% with telaprevir. Among both daclatasvir and telaprevir treatment groups, across GT1b- or GT1a-infected patients, lower response rates were observed in patients with IL28 B non-CC and cirrhosis- factors known to affect response to peg IFN/RBV. Consistent with these observations, a multivariate logistic regression analysis in GT1b-infected patients d e m o n s t ra t e d t h a t S V R 1 2 wa s a s s o c i a t e d w i t h IL28 B host genotype(CC vs non-CC, P = 0.011) and cirrhosis status(absent vs present, P = 0.031). NS5 A polymorphisms associated with daclatasvir resistance(at L28, R30, L31, or Y93) were observed in 17.3% of GT1b-infected patients at baseline; such variants did not appear to be absolute predictors of failure since 72.1% of these patients achieved SVR12 compared with 86.9% without these polymorphisms. Among GT1b-infected patients, treatment was completed by 85.4%(229/268) in the daclatasvir group, and by 85.1%(114/134) in the telaprevir group, and among GT1a-infected patients, by 67.2%(90/134) and 69.7%(46/66), respectively. Discontinuations(of all 3 agents) due to an AE were more frequent with telaprevir than with daclatasvir, whereas discontinuations due to lack of efficacy were more frequent with daclatasvir, due, in part, to differences in futility criteria. CONCLUSION: Daclatasvir plus peg IFN/RBV demonstrated noninferiority to telaprevir plus peg IFN/RBV for SVR12 and was well-tolerated in treatment-naive GT1 binfected patients, supporting the use of daclatasvir with other direct-acting antivirals.展开更多
A detailed analysis of the influence of Rydberg states to the behavior of GPS satellite signals in the D and E atmospheric layers has been carried out. It is demonstrated that these states are the main reason for the ...A detailed analysis of the influence of Rydberg states to the behavior of GPS satellite signals in the D and E atmospheric layers has been carried out. It is demonstrated that these states are the main reason for the GPS signal distortion. It is shown that the behavior of satellite signals is associated with the spectral characteristics of the UHF radiation of the Rydberg states depending on the geomagnetic conditions of ionosphere. The foundations of the quantum theory of distortion and delay of GPS satellite signal propagation through D and E atmospheric layers are analyzed and expounded. The problem reduces to the resonant scattering of photons, moving in the electromagnetic field of the signal, to the Rydberg complexes populated in a two-temperature non-equilibrium plasma. The processes of creation of additional photons because of stimulated emission and resonance scattering of photons are considered. In the present work, the quantum theory of the propagation of a satellite signal in the Earth’s upper atmosphere, firstly earlier proposed by the same authors, is described in detail. The general problems of the theory and possible theoretical and applied consequences are discussed. It is explained that two main processes occurring here, are directly related to the resonant quantum properties of the propagation medium. The first process leads to a direct increase in the power of the received signal, and second—to a shift in the signal carrier frequency??and the time delay??of its propagation. The main reasons of the processes are scattering of the Rydberg electron by the ion core and presence of the neutral medium molecule in the intermediate autoionization states of the composite system populated by the strong non-adiabatic coupling of electron and nuclear motions. The main purposes of our investigation are the physical justification of the formation of parameters ?and??using the quantum dynamics of the electron behavior in the intermediate state of the Rydberg complex A**M and the estimation of the quantities of??and??in the elementary act of elastic (Rayleigh) photon scattering.展开更多
Background: Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is a relatively common, albeit under-recognized autosomal-dominant multisystemic vascular disorder. Epistaxis due to telangiectases in the nasal mucosa is the mo...Background: Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is a relatively common, albeit under-recognized autosomal-dominant multisystemic vascular disorder. Epistaxis due to telangiectases in the nasal mucosa is the most common and often the earliest symptom of HHT. As many as 90% of affected individuals eventually experience recurrent epistaxis, with a mean frequency of 18 episodes per month. Prompted by the limitations of invasive treatment, researchers have directed attention to laser photocoagulation as an alternative nonsurgical treatment modality with promising results. Purpose: The purpose of the present study was to describe our experience with the state-of-the-art 980 nm diode laser for the treatment of bleeding lesions of the skin, nasal and oral mucosa in patients with HHT. Methodology/Principal: We treated 16 HHT patients with intractable bleeding from telangiectasias using the 980-nm diode laser as an office procedure using local anesthesia. We recorded hemoglobin levels before and after treatment and used disability questionnaires. Results: All patients treated had an improvement in hemoglobin levels and disability scores. In patients with multiple lesions hemoglobin levels improved from a mean of 8.4 to 11.2 (p = 0.008). The disability index in this group improved from a mean of 5.3 to 2.8 (p = 0.007). Follow-up ranged between 4 and 12 months. Conclusions: The 980-nm diode laser is a good office based solution for bleeding in HHT.展开更多
Background:Over the past few decades,a threefold increase in obesity and type 2 diabetes(T2D)has placed a heavy burden on the health-care system and society.Previous studies have shown correlations between obesity,T2D...Background:Over the past few decades,a threefold increase in obesity and type 2 diabetes(T2D)has placed a heavy burden on the health-care system and society.Previous studies have shown correlations between obesity,T2D,and neurodegenera-tive diseases,including dementia.It is imperative to further understand the relation-ship between obesity,T2D,and cognitive deficits.Methods:This investigation tested and evaluated the cognitive impact of obesity and T2D induced by high-fat diet(HFD)and the effect of the host genetic background on the severity of cognitive decline caused by obesity and T2D in collaborative cross(CC)mice.The CC mice are a genetically diverse panel derived from eight inbred strains.Results:Our findings demonstrated significant variations in the recorded phenotypes across different CC lines compared to the reference mouse line,C57BL/6J.CC037 line exhibited a substantial increase in body weight on HFD,whereas line CC005 ex-hibited differing responses based on sex.Glucose tolerance tests revealed significant variations,with some lines like CC005 showing a marked increase in area under the curve(AUC)values on HFD.Organ weights,including brain,spleen,liver,and kidney,varied significantly among the lines and sexes in response to HFD.Behavioral tests using the Morris water maze indicated that cognitive performance was differentially affected by diet and genetic background.Conclusions:Our study establishes a foundation for future quantitative trait loci map-ping using CC lines and identifying genes underlying the comorbidity of Alzheimer's disease(AD),caused by obesity and T2D.The genetic components may offer new tools for early prediction and prevention.展开更多
Translation regulation is an important layer of gene expression:Generation of genome-wide expression datasets at multi-omics levels in spatial,temporal,and cell-type resolution is essential for deciphering brain compl...Translation regulation is an important layer of gene expression:Generation of genome-wide expression datasets at multi-omics levels in spatial,temporal,and cell-type resolution is essential for deciphering brain complexity.Regulation of gene expression is a highly dynamic process aiming at the production of precise levels of gene products to guarantee optimal cellular function,in response to physiological cues.Speedy advances in next-generation sequencing enabled the understanding of epigenomic and transcriptomic dynamic landscapes of different brain regions along development,aging,and disease progression.However,the correlation of the“transcriptome”with protein levels is poor because numerous mRNAs are subjected to manipulation of their translation efficiency,to warrant a favorable result under certain conditions.Hence,it is widely accepted that regulation at the translation level is a vital layer of gene expression.Quantification of actively translated mRNA populations(i.e.,“translatome”)is a more reliable predictor of the“proteome”(Wang et al.,2020).展开更多
This study introduces a real-time data-driven battery management scheme designed to address uncertainties in load and generation forecasts,which are integral to an optimal energy storage control system.By expanding on...This study introduces a real-time data-driven battery management scheme designed to address uncertainties in load and generation forecasts,which are integral to an optimal energy storage control system.By expanding on an existing algorithm,this study resolves issues discovered during implementation and addresses previously overlooked concerns,resulting in significant enhancements in both performance and reliability.The refined real-time control scheme is integrated with a day-ahead optimization engine and forecast model,which is utilized for illustrative simulations to highlight its potential efficacy on a real site.Furthermore,a comprehensive comparison with the original formulation was conducted to cover all possible scenarios.This analysis validated the operational effectiveness of the scheme and provided a detailed evaluation of the improvements and expected behavior of the control system.Incorrect or improper adjustments to mitigate forecast uncertainties can result in suboptimal energy management,significant financial losses and penalties,and potential contract violations.The revised algorithm optimizes the operation of the battery system in real time and safeguards its state of health by limiting the charging/discharging cycles and enforcing adherence to contractual agreements.These advancements yield a reliable and efficient real-time correction algorithm for optimal site management,designed as an independent white box that can be integrated with any day-ahead optimization control system.展开更多
Objectives Patient education while hospitalized enhances patients’ability to manage chronic diseases,including mental disorders,promoting adherence to treatment plans.This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of...Objectives Patient education while hospitalized enhances patients’ability to manage chronic diseases,including mental disorders,promoting adherence to treatment plans.This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of gamification as an instructional approach for nurse-led inpatient education.Methods A quasi-experimental study was conducted.A total of 112 participants were recruited from the Geha Mental Health Center,a tertiary mental health center in Israel,from September 2022 to June 2023 and randomly allocated to the intervention group or control group.Nurses provided health education to patients in the intervention group using gamification techniques based on traditional health education methods.Responsibilities,rights,and relevant information for hospitalized patients were written on different cards.Patients were divided into groups of 3–4,and health education was delivered through memory card games and quartet card games.Each type of game was played twice,each lasting 30 min,occurring once every two weeks.In the control group of patients,traditional health education methods were utilized.A self-developed questionnaire assessing knowledge,self-efficacy,and adherence was used to investigate the two patient groups before and after the intervention,allowing for a comparison of the results.Results Overall,90 patients completed the study:45 in the intervention group and 45 in the control group.Both groups improved knowledge,self-efficacy,and adherence after the intervention(P<0.01).Furthermore,health education based on gamification methods was more effective than conventional health education in enhancing all three aspects of patient outcomes(P<0.01).Conclusion Gamification is preferable to routine education for fostering patient engagement in therapeutic sessions by enhancing self-efficacy and knowledge.The findings may contribute to developing gamified educational interventions to improve the effectiveness of inpatient education.展开更多
It is increasingly recognized that young,chow-fed inbred mice poorly model the com-plexity of human carcinogenesis.In humans,age and adiposity are major risk factors for malignancies,but most genetically engineered mo...It is increasingly recognized that young,chow-fed inbred mice poorly model the com-plexity of human carcinogenesis.In humans,age and adiposity are major risk factors for malignancies,but most genetically engineered mouse models(GEMM)induce car-cinogenesis too rapidly to study these influences.Standard strains,such as C57BL/6,commonly used in GEMMs,further limit the exploration of aging and metabolic health effects.A similar challenge arises in modeling periodontitis,a disease influenced by aging,diabesity,and genetic architecture.We propose using diverse mouse popula-tions with hybrid vigor,such as the Collaborative Cross(CC)×Apc ^(Min) hybrid,to slow disease progression and better model human colorectal cancer(CRC)and comorbidi-ties.This perspective highlights the advantages of this model,where delayed car-cinogenesis reveals interactions with aging and adiposity.Unlike Apc ^(Min) mice,which develop cancer rapidly,CC×Apc ^(Min) hybrids recapitulate human-like progression.This facilitates the identification of modifier loci affecting inflammation,diet susceptibility,organ size,and polyposis distribution.The CC×Apc ^(Min) model offers a transformative platform for studying CRC as a disease of adulthood,reflecting its complex inter-play with aging and comorbidities.The insights gained from this approach will en-hance early detection,management,and treatment strategies for CRC and related conditions.展开更多
BACKGROUND Intra-articular hip injections(IAHIs)are commonly used for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes but are often associated with patient anxiety and fear.The disparity between anticipated and experienced pain d...BACKGROUND Intra-articular hip injections(IAHIs)are commonly used for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes but are often associated with patient anxiety and fear.The disparity between anticipated and experienced pain during IAHIs and the role of preinjection local anesthesia in pain modulation remains unclear.AIM To investigate the difference between anticipated and experienced pain during IAHIs and the impact of pre-injection local anesthesia.METHODS This prospective study enrolled 60 patients undergoing IAHI,30 receiving pre-injection superficial local anesthesia and 30 serving as a control group without pre-injection local anesthesia.Pain levels were assessed using numeric rating scales.RESULTS Patients significantly overestimated anticipated pain compared to experienced pain(6.43±2.48 vs 3.68±2.37,P<0.001).Pre-injection local anesthesia did not significantly reduce experienced pain(3.19±2.38 vs 4.20±2.29,P=0.130).CONCLUSION Patients overestimate anticipated pain during IAHIs.Pre-injection local anesthesia does not reduce experienced pain.展开更多
Biomass is among the most important state variables used to characterize ecosystems. Estimation of tree biomass involves the development of species-specific “allometric equations” that describe the relationship betw...Biomass is among the most important state variables used to characterize ecosystems. Estimation of tree biomass involves the development of species-specific “allometric equations” that describe the relationship between tree biomass and tree diameter and/or height. While many allometric equations were developed for northern hemisphere and tropical species, rarely have they been developed for trees in arid ecosystems, limiting, amongst other things, our ability to estimate carbon stocks in arid regions. Acacia raddiana and A. tortilis are major components of savannas and arid regions in the Middle East and Africa, where they are considered keystone species. Using the opportunity that trees were being uprooted for land development, we measured height (H), north-south (C1) and east-west (C2) canopy diameters, stem diameter at 1.3 meters of the largest stem (D1.3 or DBH), and aboveground fresh and dry weight (FW and DW, respectively) of nine trees (n = 9) from each species. For A. tortilis only, we recorded the number of trunks, and measured the diameter of the largest trunk at ground level (D0). While the average crown (canopy) size (C1 + C2) was very similar among the two species, Acacia raddiana trees were found to be significantly taller than their Acacia tortilis counterparts. Results show that in the arid Arava (southern Israel), an average adult acacia tree has ~200 kg of aboveground dry biomass and that a typical healthy acacia ecosystem in this region, may include ~41 tons of tree biomass per km2. The coefficients of DBH (tree diameter at breast height) to biomass and wood volume, could be used by researchers studying acacia trees throughout the Middle East and Africa, enabling them to estimate biomass of acacia trees and to evaluate their importance for carbon stocks in their arid regions. Highlights: 1) Estimations of tree biomass in arid regions are rare. 2) Biomass allometric equations were developed for A. raddiana and A. tortilis trees. 3) Equations contribute to the estimation of carbon stocks in arid regions.展开更多
BACKGROUND The diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)involves clinical,endoscopic,and radiologic evaluation.Endoscopic procedures,particularly in pediatrics,require general anesthesia and carry potential risks.A...BACKGROUND The diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)involves clinical,endoscopic,and radiologic evaluation.Endoscopic procedures,particularly in pediatrics,require general anesthesia and carry potential risks.AIM To investigate whether serum biomarkers can differentiate between pediatric patients with and without IBD.Secondary objectives included identifying biomarkers that distinguish Crohn’s disease(CD)from ulcerative colitis(UC)and assessing their predictive value for progression to biologic therapy.METHODS Pediatric patients undergoing diagnostic colonoscopy at British Columbia Children’s Hospital between December 2017 and June 2022 were enrolled.Blood samples were collected at colonoscopy,and demographic clinical data,laboratory,and histopathologic evaluation were obtained.An exploratory screen of 50 biomarkers was undertaken in a subset of patients(54 IBD,41 controls)using LegendplexTM flow cytometry kits to identify candidates.A refined panel of 12 serum biomarkers was subsequently selected and a supervised learning model was developed to classify patients.RESULTS The study included 246 pediatric patients,who had a median age of 13.03 years and were 37.4%female(103 CD,52 UC,91 controls).In univariate analyses,C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 9(CXCL9)was the only biomarker significantly elevated in IBD vs controls(P<0.001).A multivariable model achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic of 0.861 for distinguishing IBD from controls.Interleukin 8(IL-8)emerged as a key biomarker alongside CXCL9 and IL-22 in the model.The random forest model identified CXCL9 with the greatest diagnostic accuracy(area under the curve[AUC]=0.81),followed by IL8 and IL22(AUC=0.737 and 0.68,respectively).CXCL9 and IL-18 showed higher levels in CD(P=0.016),whereas CXCL1 levels predicted progression to biologic therapy within 1 year(P=0.039).However,the model did not effectively predict disease subclassification or progression to biologic therapy.CONCLUSION Serum biomarkers,particularly CXCL9,IL-8,and IL-22,can aid in the diagnosis of pediatric IBD.CXCL9 and IL18 were found to be significant predictors of CD,and CXCL1 differed between patients requiring biologic therapy vs those who did not.展开更多
We propose a theoretical framework,based on the two-component Gross-Pitaevskii equation(GPE),for the investigation of vortex solitons(VSs)in hybrid atomic-molecular Bose-Einstein condensates under the action of the st...We propose a theoretical framework,based on the two-component Gross-Pitaevskii equation(GPE),for the investigation of vortex solitons(VSs)in hybrid atomic-molecular Bose-Einstein condensates under the action of the stimulated Raman-induced photoassociation and square-optical-lattice potential.Stationary solutions of the coupled GPE system are obtained by means of the imaginary-time integration,while the temporal dynamics are simulated using the fourth-order Runge-Kutta algorithm.The analysis reveals stable rhombus-shaped VS shapes with topological charges m=1 and 2 of the atomic component.The stability domains and spatial structure of these VSs are governed by three key parameters:the parametric-coupling strength(χ),atomicmolecular interaction strength(g_(12)),and the optical-lattice potential depth(V_(0)).By varyingχand g_(12),we demonstrate a structural transition where four-core rhombus-shaped VSs evolve into eight-core square-shaped modes,highlighting the nontrivial nonlinear dynamics of the system.This work establishes a connection between interactions of cold atoms and topologically structured matter waves in hybrid quantum systems.展开更多
Objective:This article reviews the latest updates and outcomes of kidney-sparing surgery(KSS)in patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma(UTUC).Methods:A comprehensive literature search was performed using the Pu...Objective:This article reviews the latest updates and outcomes of kidney-sparing surgery(KSS)in patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma(UTUC).Methods:A comprehensive literature search was performed using the PubMed and Embase databases to identify related English-language studies published within the last 10 years.Key search words included“upper urinary tract tumour/cancer/carcinoma”,“kidney-sparing surgery or approach”,“endoscopic treatment for upper tract tumour/cancer/carcinoma”,“topical instillation in the upper urinary tract”,and“urinary marker for urothelial carcinoma”.References within the identified literature were explored and evaluated for relevance.Results:KSS is recommended for both low-risk and selected high-risk UTUC with imperative indications such as solitary kidney.Studies have shown comparable oncological outcomes after KSS including endoscopic ablation,segmental ureterectomy,and topical instillation of novel agents when compared to radical nephroureterectomy in well-selected cases.The development of novel diagnostic tools and risk-stratifying models allows optimal case selection for KSS without compromising oncological outcomes.Conclusion:Kidney-sparing approach for UTUC is an evolving and promising area in urologic oncology,driven by advances in technology,better diagnostic tools,and novel therapeutic agents.Our article provides a comprehensive review of the latest advancements and clinical recommendations.While current evidence is mainly based on retrospective studies,prospective trials are required to address important but unanswered clinical questions in this field.展开更多
文摘Globalization and technological change are transforming the ways in which buildings are being designed and built. An overlooked aspect of this development is its impact on construction labor, and the significance of labor for assessing the work of architecture. The paper draws upon the sociological concept of the “glocal” to analyse the construction site as the product of the tension between global and local conditions of architectural production and consumption. The construction of Preston Scott Cohen’s 2010 Tel Aviv Museum Addition serves as its case study for theorizing the “glocal” dynamics of digital architecture, building technology and construction labor. This methodological approach highlights the role of migrant vip workers and technological transfer in contemporary construction culture. To realize with precision the complex design under local constraints, the contractor developed a hybrid work process that interspersed labor saving automated manufacturing techniques with artisanal, skilled construction work. In addition, workers and contractors exercised a high level of control over the pace and method of construction, and devised building solutions which improved upon the architect’s design. In conclusion, the paper argues that construction activity differs from broader trends in manufacturing due to the self-reflexivity of architectural design to its condition of production, but that at the same time, this critical capacity is enabled by the globalization of construction labor.
文摘Neurodevelopmental processes represent a finely tuned interplay between genetic and environmental factors,shaping the dynamic landscape of the developing brain.A major component of the developing brain that enables this dynamic is the white matter(WM),known to be affected in neurodevelopmental disorders(NDDs)(Rokach et al.,2024).WM formation is mediated by myelination,a multifactorial process driven by neuro-glia interactions dependent on proper neuronal functionality(Simons and Trajkovic,2006).Another key aspect of neurodevelopmental abnormalities involves neuronal dynamics and function,with recent advances significantly enhancing our understanding of both neuronal and glial mitochondrial function(Devine and Kittler,2018;Rojas-Charry et al.,2021).Energy homeostasis in neurons,attributed largely to mitochondrial function,is critical for proper functionality and interactions with oligodendrocytes(OLs),the cells forming myelin in the brain’s WM.We herein discuss the interplay between these processes and speculate on potential dysfunction in NDDs.
文摘Colorectal cancer （CRC） is caused by a series of genetic or epigenetic changes, and in the last decade there has been an increased awareness that there are multiple forms of colorectal cancer that develop through different pathways. Microsatellite instability is involved in the genesis of about 15% of sporadic colorectal cancers and most of hereditary nonpolyposis cancers. Tumors with a high frequency of microsatellite instability tend to be diploid, to possess a mucinous histology, and to have a surrounding lymphoid reaction. They are more prevalent in the proximal colon and have a fast pass from polyp to cancer. Nevertheless, they are associated with longer survival than stage-matched tumors with microsateUite stability. Resistance of colorectal cancers with a high frequency of microsatellite instability to 5-fluorouracilbased chemotherapy is well established. Silencing the MLH1 gene expression by its promoter methylation stops the formation of MLH1 protein, and prevents the normal activation of the DNA repair gene. This is an important cause for genomic instability and cell proliferation to the point of colorectal cancer formation. Better knowledge of this process will have a huge impact on colorectal cancer management, prevention, treatment and prognosis.
文摘BACKGROUND Liver cirrhosis is a significant source of morbidity and mortality worldwide.The disease is usually indolent and asymptomatic early in its course while many cirrhotic patients are diagnosed late when severe complications occur.A major challenge is to diagnose advanced fibrosis as early as possible,using simple and non-invasive diagnostics tools.Thrombocytopenia represents advanced fibrosis and portal hypertension(HTN)and most non-invasive scores that predict liver fibrosis incorporate platelets as a strong risk factor.However,little is known about the association between longitudinal changes in platelet counts(PTC),when still within the normal range,and the risk of cirrhosis.AIM To explore whether platelet counts trajectories over time,can predict advanced liver fibrosis across the different etiologies of liver diseases.METHODS A nested case-control study utilizing a large computerized database.Cirrhosis cases(n=5258)were compared to controls(n=15744)matched for age and sex at a ratio of 1:3.All participants had multiple laboratory measurements prior to enrollment.We calculated the trends of PTC,liver enzymes,bilirubin,international normalized ratio,albumin and fibrosis scores(fibrosis-4 and aspartate transaminase-to-platelet ratio index)throughout the preceding 20 years prior to cirrhosis diagnosis compared to healthy controls.The association between PTC,cirrhosis complications and fibrosis scores prior to cirrhosis diagnosis was investigated.RESULTS The mean age in both groups was 56(SD 15.8).Cirrhotic patients were more likely to be smokers,diabetic with chronic kidney disease and had a higher prevalence of HTN.The leading cirrhosis etiologies were viral,alcoholic and fatty liver disease.The mean PTC decreased from 240000/μL to 190000/μL up to 15 years prior to cirrhosis diagnosis compared to controls who’s PTC remained stable around the values of 240000/μL.This trend was consistent regardless of sex,cirrhosis etiology and was more pronounced in patients who developed varices and ascites.Compared to controls whose values remained in the normal range,in the cirrhosis group aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase,increased from 40 U/L to 75 U/L and FIB-4 increased gradually from 1.3 to 3 prior to cirrhosis diagnosis.In multivariable regression analysis,a decrease of 50 units in PTC was associated with 1.3 times odds of cirrhosis(95%CI 1.25-1.35).CONCLUSION In the preceding years before the diagnosis of cirrhosis,there is a progressive decline in PTC,within the normal range,matched to a gradual increase in fibrosis scores.
文摘Accumulating evidence indicates that ataxia-telangiectasia mutated kinase is critical for maintaining cellular homeostasis and that it has both nuclear and cytoplasmic functions.However,the functions of ataxia-telangiectasia mutated that when lost lead to cerebellar degeneration are still unknown.In this review,we first describe the role of ataxia-telangiectasia mutated in cerebellar pathology.In addition to its canonical nuclear functions in DNA damage response circuits,ataxia-telangiectasia mutated functions in various cytoplasmic and mitochondrial processes that are critically important for cellular homeostasis.We discuss these functions with a focus on the role of ataxia-telangiectasia mutated in maintaining the homeostatic redox state.Finally,we describe the unique functions of ataxia-telangiectasia mutated in various types of neuronal and glial cells including cerebellar granule neurons,astrocytes,and microglial cells.
文摘AIM: To evaluate daclatasvir vs telaprevir, each combined with peginterferon alfa-2a/ribavirin(peg IFN/RBV), in treatment-naive hepatitis C virus(HCV) genotype(GT) 1-infected patients.METHODS: In this phase 3, randomized, open-label, noninferiority study, 602 patients were randomly assigned(2:1) to daclatasvir vs telaprevir, stratified by IL28 B rs12979860 host genotype(CC vs non-CC), cirrhosis status(compensated cirrhosis vs no cirrhosis), and HCV GT1 subtype(GT1a vs GT1b). Patients were selected by study inclusion criteria from a total of 793 enrolled patients. Patients received daclatasvir 60 mg once daily or telaprevir 750 mg 3 times daily plus peg IFN/RBV. Daclatasvir recipients received 24 wk of daclatasvir plus peg IFN/RBV; those without an extended rapid virologic response(e RVR; undetectable HCV-RNA at weeks 4 and 12) received an additional 24 wk of peg IFN/RBV. Telaprevir-treated patients received 12 wk of telaprevir plus peg IFN/RBV followed by 12(with e RVR) or 36(no e RVR) wk of peg IFN/RBV. The primary objective was to compare for noninferiority of sustained virologic response rates at posttreatment week 12(SVR12) in GT1b-infected patients. Key secondary objectives were to demonstrate that the rates of anemia(hemoglobin < 10 g/d L) and rashrelated events, through week 12, were lower with daclatasvir + peg IFN/RBV than with telaprevir + peg IFN/RBV among GT1b-infected patients. Resistance testing was performed using population-based sequencing of the NS5 A region for all patients at baseline, and for patients with virologic failure or relapse and HCV-RNA ≥ 1000 IU/m L, to investigate any link between NS5 A polymorphisms associated with daclatasvir resistance and virologic outcome. RESULTS: Patient demographics and disease characteristics were generally balanced across treatment arms; however, there was a higher proportion of black/African Americans in the daclatasvir groups(6.0% and 8.2% in the GT1 b and GT1 a groups, respectively) than in the telaprevir groups(2.2% and 3.0%). Among GT1 binfected patients, daclatasvir plus peg IFN/RBV was noninferior to telaprevir plus peg IFN/RBV for SVR12 [85%(228/268) vs 81%(109/134); difference, 4.3%(95%CI:-3.3% to 11.9%)]. Anemia(hemoglobin < 10 g/d L) was significantly less frequent with daclatasvir than with telaprevir [difference,-29.1%(95%CI:-38.8% to-19.4%)]. Rash-related events were also less common with daclatasvir than with telaprevir, but the difference was not statistically significant. In GT1 ainfected patients, SVR12 was 64.9% with daclatasvir and 69.7% with telaprevir. Among both daclatasvir and telaprevir treatment groups, across GT1b- or GT1a-infected patients, lower response rates were observed in patients with IL28 B non-CC and cirrhosis- factors known to affect response to peg IFN/RBV. Consistent with these observations, a multivariate logistic regression analysis in GT1b-infected patients d e m o n s t ra t e d t h a t S V R 1 2 wa s a s s o c i a t e d w i t h IL28 B host genotype(CC vs non-CC, P = 0.011) and cirrhosis status(absent vs present, P = 0.031). NS5 A polymorphisms associated with daclatasvir resistance(at L28, R30, L31, or Y93) were observed in 17.3% of GT1b-infected patients at baseline; such variants did not appear to be absolute predictors of failure since 72.1% of these patients achieved SVR12 compared with 86.9% without these polymorphisms. Among GT1b-infected patients, treatment was completed by 85.4%(229/268) in the daclatasvir group, and by 85.1%(114/134) in the telaprevir group, and among GT1a-infected patients, by 67.2%(90/134) and 69.7%(46/66), respectively. Discontinuations(of all 3 agents) due to an AE were more frequent with telaprevir than with daclatasvir, whereas discontinuations due to lack of efficacy were more frequent with daclatasvir, due, in part, to differences in futility criteria. CONCLUSION: Daclatasvir plus peg IFN/RBV demonstrated noninferiority to telaprevir plus peg IFN/RBV for SVR12 and was well-tolerated in treatment-naive GT1 binfected patients, supporting the use of daclatasvir with other direct-acting antivirals.
文摘A detailed analysis of the influence of Rydberg states to the behavior of GPS satellite signals in the D and E atmospheric layers has been carried out. It is demonstrated that these states are the main reason for the GPS signal distortion. It is shown that the behavior of satellite signals is associated with the spectral characteristics of the UHF radiation of the Rydberg states depending on the geomagnetic conditions of ionosphere. The foundations of the quantum theory of distortion and delay of GPS satellite signal propagation through D and E atmospheric layers are analyzed and expounded. The problem reduces to the resonant scattering of photons, moving in the electromagnetic field of the signal, to the Rydberg complexes populated in a two-temperature non-equilibrium plasma. The processes of creation of additional photons because of stimulated emission and resonance scattering of photons are considered. In the present work, the quantum theory of the propagation of a satellite signal in the Earth’s upper atmosphere, firstly earlier proposed by the same authors, is described in detail. The general problems of the theory and possible theoretical and applied consequences are discussed. It is explained that two main processes occurring here, are directly related to the resonant quantum properties of the propagation medium. The first process leads to a direct increase in the power of the received signal, and second—to a shift in the signal carrier frequency??and the time delay??of its propagation. The main reasons of the processes are scattering of the Rydberg electron by the ion core and presence of the neutral medium molecule in the intermediate autoionization states of the composite system populated by the strong non-adiabatic coupling of electron and nuclear motions. The main purposes of our investigation are the physical justification of the formation of parameters ?and??using the quantum dynamics of the electron behavior in the intermediate state of the Rydberg complex A**M and the estimation of the quantities of??and??in the elementary act of elastic (Rayleigh) photon scattering.
文摘Background: Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is a relatively common, albeit under-recognized autosomal-dominant multisystemic vascular disorder. Epistaxis due to telangiectases in the nasal mucosa is the most common and often the earliest symptom of HHT. As many as 90% of affected individuals eventually experience recurrent epistaxis, with a mean frequency of 18 episodes per month. Prompted by the limitations of invasive treatment, researchers have directed attention to laser photocoagulation as an alternative nonsurgical treatment modality with promising results. Purpose: The purpose of the present study was to describe our experience with the state-of-the-art 980 nm diode laser for the treatment of bleeding lesions of the skin, nasal and oral mucosa in patients with HHT. Methodology/Principal: We treated 16 HHT patients with intractable bleeding from telangiectasias using the 980-nm diode laser as an office procedure using local anesthesia. We recorded hemoglobin levels before and after treatment and used disability questionnaires. Results: All patients treated had an improvement in hemoglobin levels and disability scores. In patients with multiple lesions hemoglobin levels improved from a mean of 8.4 to 11.2 (p = 0.008). The disability index in this group improved from a mean of 5.3 to 2.8 (p = 0.007). Follow-up ranged between 4 and 12 months. Conclusions: The 980-nm diode laser is a good office based solution for bleeding in HHT.
文摘Background:Over the past few decades,a threefold increase in obesity and type 2 diabetes(T2D)has placed a heavy burden on the health-care system and society.Previous studies have shown correlations between obesity,T2D,and neurodegenera-tive diseases,including dementia.It is imperative to further understand the relation-ship between obesity,T2D,and cognitive deficits.Methods:This investigation tested and evaluated the cognitive impact of obesity and T2D induced by high-fat diet(HFD)and the effect of the host genetic background on the severity of cognitive decline caused by obesity and T2D in collaborative cross(CC)mice.The CC mice are a genetically diverse panel derived from eight inbred strains.Results:Our findings demonstrated significant variations in the recorded phenotypes across different CC lines compared to the reference mouse line,C57BL/6J.CC037 line exhibited a substantial increase in body weight on HFD,whereas line CC005 ex-hibited differing responses based on sex.Glucose tolerance tests revealed significant variations,with some lines like CC005 showing a marked increase in area under the curve(AUC)values on HFD.Organ weights,including brain,spleen,liver,and kidney,varied significantly among the lines and sexes in response to HFD.Behavioral tests using the Morris water maze indicated that cognitive performance was differentially affected by diet and genetic background.Conclusions:Our study establishes a foundation for future quantitative trait loci map-ping using CC lines and identifying genes underlying the comorbidity of Alzheimer's disease(AD),caused by obesity and T2D.The genetic components may offer new tools for early prediction and prevention.
基金funded by the Israel Science Foundation(grants No.1036/12 and 1228/20)(to OES).
文摘Translation regulation is an important layer of gene expression:Generation of genome-wide expression datasets at multi-omics levels in spatial,temporal,and cell-type resolution is essential for deciphering brain complexity.Regulation of gene expression is a highly dynamic process aiming at the production of precise levels of gene products to guarantee optimal cellular function,in response to physiological cues.Speedy advances in next-generation sequencing enabled the understanding of epigenomic and transcriptomic dynamic landscapes of different brain regions along development,aging,and disease progression.However,the correlation of the“transcriptome”with protein levels is poor because numerous mRNAs are subjected to manipulation of their translation efficiency,to warrant a favorable result under certain conditions.Hence,it is widely accepted that regulation at the translation level is a vital layer of gene expression.Quantification of actively translated mRNA populations(i.e.,“translatome”)is a more reliable predictor of the“proteome”(Wang et al.,2020).
基金supported by the Israeli Ministry of Infrastructure,Energy and Water Resources.
文摘This study introduces a real-time data-driven battery management scheme designed to address uncertainties in load and generation forecasts,which are integral to an optimal energy storage control system.By expanding on an existing algorithm,this study resolves issues discovered during implementation and addresses previously overlooked concerns,resulting in significant enhancements in both performance and reliability.The refined real-time control scheme is integrated with a day-ahead optimization engine and forecast model,which is utilized for illustrative simulations to highlight its potential efficacy on a real site.Furthermore,a comprehensive comparison with the original formulation was conducted to cover all possible scenarios.This analysis validated the operational effectiveness of the scheme and provided a detailed evaluation of the improvements and expected behavior of the control system.Incorrect or improper adjustments to mitigate forecast uncertainties can result in suboptimal energy management,significant financial losses and penalties,and potential contract violations.The revised algorithm optimizes the operation of the battery system in real time and safeguards its state of health by limiting the charging/discharging cycles and enforcing adherence to contractual agreements.These advancements yield a reliable and efficient real-time correction algorithm for optimal site management,designed as an independent white box that can be integrated with any day-ahead optimization control system.
文摘Objectives Patient education while hospitalized enhances patients’ability to manage chronic diseases,including mental disorders,promoting adherence to treatment plans.This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of gamification as an instructional approach for nurse-led inpatient education.Methods A quasi-experimental study was conducted.A total of 112 participants were recruited from the Geha Mental Health Center,a tertiary mental health center in Israel,from September 2022 to June 2023 and randomly allocated to the intervention group or control group.Nurses provided health education to patients in the intervention group using gamification techniques based on traditional health education methods.Responsibilities,rights,and relevant information for hospitalized patients were written on different cards.Patients were divided into groups of 3–4,and health education was delivered through memory card games and quartet card games.Each type of game was played twice,each lasting 30 min,occurring once every two weeks.In the control group of patients,traditional health education methods were utilized.A self-developed questionnaire assessing knowledge,self-efficacy,and adherence was used to investigate the two patient groups before and after the intervention,allowing for a comparison of the results.Results Overall,90 patients completed the study:45 in the intervention group and 45 in the control group.Both groups improved knowledge,self-efficacy,and adherence after the intervention(P<0.01).Furthermore,health education based on gamification methods was more effective than conventional health education in enhancing all three aspects of patient outcomes(P<0.01).Conclusion Gamification is preferable to routine education for fostering patient engagement in therapeutic sessions by enhancing self-efficacy and knowledge.The findings may contribute to developing gamified educational interventions to improve the effectiveness of inpatient education.
基金Israel Cancer Research FoundationSamuel Waxman Cancer Research FoundationCore funding from Tel Aviv University。
文摘It is increasingly recognized that young,chow-fed inbred mice poorly model the com-plexity of human carcinogenesis.In humans,age and adiposity are major risk factors for malignancies,but most genetically engineered mouse models(GEMM)induce car-cinogenesis too rapidly to study these influences.Standard strains,such as C57BL/6,commonly used in GEMMs,further limit the exploration of aging and metabolic health effects.A similar challenge arises in modeling periodontitis,a disease influenced by aging,diabesity,and genetic architecture.We propose using diverse mouse popula-tions with hybrid vigor,such as the Collaborative Cross(CC)×Apc ^(Min) hybrid,to slow disease progression and better model human colorectal cancer(CRC)and comorbidi-ties.This perspective highlights the advantages of this model,where delayed car-cinogenesis reveals interactions with aging and adiposity.Unlike Apc ^(Min) mice,which develop cancer rapidly,CC×Apc ^(Min) hybrids recapitulate human-like progression.This facilitates the identification of modifier loci affecting inflammation,diet susceptibility,organ size,and polyposis distribution.The CC×Apc ^(Min) model offers a transformative platform for studying CRC as a disease of adulthood,reflecting its complex inter-play with aging and comorbidities.The insights gained from this approach will en-hance early detection,management,and treatment strategies for CRC and related conditions.
基金approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of the Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center Institutional Review Board,approval No.TLV-0674-21.
文摘BACKGROUND Intra-articular hip injections(IAHIs)are commonly used for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes but are often associated with patient anxiety and fear.The disparity between anticipated and experienced pain during IAHIs and the role of preinjection local anesthesia in pain modulation remains unclear.AIM To investigate the difference between anticipated and experienced pain during IAHIs and the impact of pre-injection local anesthesia.METHODS This prospective study enrolled 60 patients undergoing IAHI,30 receiving pre-injection superficial local anesthesia and 30 serving as a control group without pre-injection local anesthesia.Pain levels were assessed using numeric rating scales.RESULTS Patients significantly overestimated anticipated pain compared to experienced pain(6.43±2.48 vs 3.68±2.37,P<0.001).Pre-injection local anesthesia did not significantly reduce experienced pain(3.19±2.38 vs 4.20±2.29,P=0.130).CONCLUSION Patients overestimate anticipated pain during IAHIs.Pre-injection local anesthesia does not reduce experienced pain.
文摘Biomass is among the most important state variables used to characterize ecosystems. Estimation of tree biomass involves the development of species-specific “allometric equations” that describe the relationship between tree biomass and tree diameter and/or height. While many allometric equations were developed for northern hemisphere and tropical species, rarely have they been developed for trees in arid ecosystems, limiting, amongst other things, our ability to estimate carbon stocks in arid regions. Acacia raddiana and A. tortilis are major components of savannas and arid regions in the Middle East and Africa, where they are considered keystone species. Using the opportunity that trees were being uprooted for land development, we measured height (H), north-south (C1) and east-west (C2) canopy diameters, stem diameter at 1.3 meters of the largest stem (D1.3 or DBH), and aboveground fresh and dry weight (FW and DW, respectively) of nine trees (n = 9) from each species. For A. tortilis only, we recorded the number of trunks, and measured the diameter of the largest trunk at ground level (D0). While the average crown (canopy) size (C1 + C2) was very similar among the two species, Acacia raddiana trees were found to be significantly taller than their Acacia tortilis counterparts. Results show that in the arid Arava (southern Israel), an average adult acacia tree has ~200 kg of aboveground dry biomass and that a typical healthy acacia ecosystem in this region, may include ~41 tons of tree biomass per km2. The coefficients of DBH (tree diameter at breast height) to biomass and wood volume, could be used by researchers studying acacia trees throughout the Middle East and Africa, enabling them to estimate biomass of acacia trees and to evaluate their importance for carbon stocks in their arid regions. Highlights: 1) Estimations of tree biomass in arid regions are rare. 2) Biomass allometric equations were developed for A. raddiana and A. tortilis trees. 3) Equations contribute to the estimation of carbon stocks in arid regions.
基金Supported by the Lutsky Family Foundation and AdMare Bioinnovations(previously known as the Genome BC CDRD Development Fund).
文摘BACKGROUND The diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)involves clinical,endoscopic,and radiologic evaluation.Endoscopic procedures,particularly in pediatrics,require general anesthesia and carry potential risks.AIM To investigate whether serum biomarkers can differentiate between pediatric patients with and without IBD.Secondary objectives included identifying biomarkers that distinguish Crohn’s disease(CD)from ulcerative colitis(UC)and assessing their predictive value for progression to biologic therapy.METHODS Pediatric patients undergoing diagnostic colonoscopy at British Columbia Children’s Hospital between December 2017 and June 2022 were enrolled.Blood samples were collected at colonoscopy,and demographic clinical data,laboratory,and histopathologic evaluation were obtained.An exploratory screen of 50 biomarkers was undertaken in a subset of patients(54 IBD,41 controls)using LegendplexTM flow cytometry kits to identify candidates.A refined panel of 12 serum biomarkers was subsequently selected and a supervised learning model was developed to classify patients.RESULTS The study included 246 pediatric patients,who had a median age of 13.03 years and were 37.4%female(103 CD,52 UC,91 controls).In univariate analyses,C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 9(CXCL9)was the only biomarker significantly elevated in IBD vs controls(P<0.001).A multivariable model achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic of 0.861 for distinguishing IBD from controls.Interleukin 8(IL-8)emerged as a key biomarker alongside CXCL9 and IL-22 in the model.The random forest model identified CXCL9 with the greatest diagnostic accuracy(area under the curve[AUC]=0.81),followed by IL8 and IL22(AUC=0.737 and 0.68,respectively).CXCL9 and IL-18 showed higher levels in CD(P=0.016),whereas CXCL1 levels predicted progression to biologic therapy within 1 year(P=0.039).However,the model did not effectively predict disease subclassification or progression to biologic therapy.CONCLUSION Serum biomarkers,particularly CXCL9,IL-8,and IL-22,can aid in the diagnosis of pediatric IBD.CXCL9 and IL18 were found to be significant predictors of CD,and CXCL1 differed between patients requiring biologic therapy vs those who did not.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.62275075)the Natural Science Foundation of Hubei Soliton Research Association(Grant No.2025HBSRA09)+1 种基金joint supported by Hubei Provincial Natural Science Foundation and Xianning of China(Grant Nos.2025AFD401 and 2025AFD405)Israel Science Foundation(Grant No.1695/22).
文摘We propose a theoretical framework,based on the two-component Gross-Pitaevskii equation(GPE),for the investigation of vortex solitons(VSs)in hybrid atomic-molecular Bose-Einstein condensates under the action of the stimulated Raman-induced photoassociation and square-optical-lattice potential.Stationary solutions of the coupled GPE system are obtained by means of the imaginary-time integration,while the temporal dynamics are simulated using the fourth-order Runge-Kutta algorithm.The analysis reveals stable rhombus-shaped VS shapes with topological charges m=1 and 2 of the atomic component.The stability domains and spatial structure of these VSs are governed by three key parameters:the parametric-coupling strength(χ),atomicmolecular interaction strength(g_(12)),and the optical-lattice potential depth(V_(0)).By varyingχand g_(12),we demonstrate a structural transition where four-core rhombus-shaped VSs evolve into eight-core square-shaped modes,highlighting the nontrivial nonlinear dynamics of the system.This work establishes a connection between interactions of cold atoms and topologically structured matter waves in hybrid quantum systems.
文摘Objective:This article reviews the latest updates and outcomes of kidney-sparing surgery(KSS)in patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma(UTUC).Methods:A comprehensive literature search was performed using the PubMed and Embase databases to identify related English-language studies published within the last 10 years.Key search words included“upper urinary tract tumour/cancer/carcinoma”,“kidney-sparing surgery or approach”,“endoscopic treatment for upper tract tumour/cancer/carcinoma”,“topical instillation in the upper urinary tract”,and“urinary marker for urothelial carcinoma”.References within the identified literature were explored and evaluated for relevance.Results:KSS is recommended for both low-risk and selected high-risk UTUC with imperative indications such as solitary kidney.Studies have shown comparable oncological outcomes after KSS including endoscopic ablation,segmental ureterectomy,and topical instillation of novel agents when compared to radical nephroureterectomy in well-selected cases.The development of novel diagnostic tools and risk-stratifying models allows optimal case selection for KSS without compromising oncological outcomes.Conclusion:Kidney-sparing approach for UTUC is an evolving and promising area in urologic oncology,driven by advances in technology,better diagnostic tools,and novel therapeutic agents.Our article provides a comprehensive review of the latest advancements and clinical recommendations.While current evidence is mainly based on retrospective studies,prospective trials are required to address important but unanswered clinical questions in this field.
