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Objectives: To compare the facial asymmetry after bimaxillary surgery between mild craniofacial microsomia (CFM) and non-syndromic class II asymmetry. Materials and methods: Cone-beam computed tomography scans of adults with Pruzansky-Kaban types I and IIA CFM (CFM groups, n = 20), non-syndromic skeletal class II asymmetry (Class II group, n = 20), and normal controls (control group, n = 20) were compared. The area asymmetry of lower face and jaw bones was quantified. Landmark-based method was used to evaluate the lower facial asymmetry regarding midline, cants, and contour. Results: There were no significant postoperative differences in the hemi-facial and hemi-jaw area asymmetry between CFM and Class II groups, both of which were significantly larger than the control group. No significant difference was found in the midline deviation and lip and occlusal cants between CFM and Class II groups. The vertical contour asymmetry in CFM group became significantly larger than Class II group. Compared to the control group, the deviation of pronasale, subnasale, and soft-tissue menton, lip and occlusal cants, and sagittal and vertical contour asymmetry in CFM group were significantly larger, as were the deviation of subnasale and soft-tissue menton and vertical contour asymmetry in Class II group. Conclusions: The vertical contour asymmetry of mild CFM was significantly larger than non-CFM class II after surgery, while the area asymmetry, midline deviation, cants, and sagittal contour asymmetry of lower face showed no significant difference. Clinical relevance: Be aware that correcting vertical asymmetry of contour, lip, and dentition in CFM is still challenging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Fusarium head blight (FHB) and the presence of mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON) pose serious threats to wheat production and food safety worldwide. DON, as a virulence factor, is crucial for the spread of FHB pathogens on plants. However, germplasm resources that are naturally resistant to DON and DON‐producing FHB pathogens are inadequate in plants. Here, detoxifying bacteria genes responsible for DON epimerization were used to enhance the resistance of wheat to mycotoxin DON and FHB pathogens. We characterized the complete pathway and molecular basis leading to the thorough detoxification of DON via epimerization through two sequential reactions in the detoxifying bacterium Devosia sp. D6‐9. Epimerization efficiently eliminates the phytotoxicity of DON and neutralizes the effects of DON as a virulence factor. Notably, co‐expressing of the genes encoding quinoprotein dehydrogenase (QDDH) for DON oxidation in the first reaction step, and aldo‐keto reductase AKR13B2 for 3‐keto‐DON reduction in the second reaction step significantly reduced the accumulation of DON as virulence factor in wheat after the infection of pathogenic Fusarium, and accordingly conferred increased disease resistance to FHB by restricting the spread of pathogenic Fusarium in the transgenic plants. Stable and improved resistance was observed in greenhouse and field conditions over multiple generations. This successful approach presents a promising avenue for enhancing FHB resistance in crops and reducing mycotoxin contents in grains through detoxification of the virulence factor DON by exogenous resistance genes from microbes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Airflow obstruction is a hallmark of disease severity and prognosis in bronchiectasis. The relationship between lung microbiota, airway inflammation, and outcomes in bronchiectasis with fixed airflow obstruction (FAO) remains unclear. This study explores these interactions in bronchiectasis patients, with and without FAO, and compares them to those diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Methods: This prospective observational study in Taiwan enrolled patients with either bronchiectasis or COPD. To analyze the lung microbiome and assess inflammatory markers, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples were collected for 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The study cohort comprised 181 patients: 86 with COPD, 46 with bronchiectasis, and 49 with bronchiectasis and FAO, as confirmed by spirometry. Results: Patients with bronchiectasis, with or without FAO, had similar microbiome profiles characterized by reduced alpha diversity and a predominance of Proteobacteria, distinctly different from COPD patients who exhibited more Firmicutes, greater diversity, and more commensal taxa. Furthermore, compared to COPD and bronchiectasis without FAO, bronchiectasis with FAO showed more severe disease and a higher risk of exacerbations. A significant correlation was found between the presence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and increased airway neutrophilic inflammation such as Interleukin [IL]-1β, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF]-α, as well as with higher bronchiectasis severity, which might contribute to an increased risk of exacerbations. Moreover, in bronchiectasis patients with FAO, the ROSE (Radiology, Obstruction, Symptoms, and Exposure) criteria were employed to classify individuals as either ROSE (+) or ROSE (−), based on smoking history. This classification highlighted differences in clinical features, inflammatory profiles, and slight microbiome variations between ROSE (−) and ROSE (+) patients, suggesting diverse endotypes within the bronchiectasis with FAO group. Conclusion: Bronchiectasis patients with FAO may exhibit two distinct endotypes, as defined by ROSE criteria, characterized by greater disease severity and a lung microbiome more similar to bronchiectasis without FAO than to COPD. The significant correlation between Pseudomonas aeruginosa colonization and increased airway neutrophilic inflammation, as well as disease severity, underscores the clinical relevance of microbial patterns. This finding reinforces the potential role of these patterns in the progression and exacerbations of bronchiectasis with FAO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The occurrence of the “structural-loss” defect during single-crystal silicon growth (SCSG) is a significant issue in semiconductor manufacturing. When structural-loss occurs, it signifies a deviation from the desired quality of single-crystal formation, leading to the need to halt the growth process. Currently, there is a lack of scholarly literature addressing the determination of an optimal stopping time to promptly halt the process upon the occurrence of the defect on-line. Our research makes a substantial contribution by addressing this gap in the SCSG process, specifically focusing on orientations <100> and <111>. The study utilizes advanced AI with YOLO-v7 and innovative approaches. These include precise annotation of crystal misorientation features through a comprehensive definition of structural-loss and novel labeling techniques, identification of optimal hyper-parameters through a robust design, and the implementation of effective stopping rule mechanisms. Significant progress has been achieved in decision-making through the implementation of the stoping time shift to terminate the SCSG process within an average of less than 3 minutes for <100> orientations (with a standard error of 0.3 minutes) and less than 5 minutes for <111> orientations (with a standard error of 0.5 minutes). The promising results indicate that the proposed approaches have the capability to substitute manual inspections, opening up possibilities for new perspectives in this particular field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of telemedicine on ophthalmic screening and blood glucose control for patients with diabetes in remote areas of Northern Taiwan during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Methods: Telemedicine was implemented in Shiding and Wanli Districts using a 5G platform from April 2021 to December 2022. Patients with poorly controlled diabetes received real-time consultations from endocrinologists at Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, 50 km away, for medication adjustment, diet control, and lifestyle recommendations. The study also provided cloud-upload blood glucose meters for self-monitoring and regular medical advice from hospital nurses. Ophthalmic screenings included fundus imaging, external eye image, and intraocular pressure measurement, with instant communication and diagnosis by ophthalmologists through telemedicine. A satisfaction questionnaire survey was conducted. Results: The study enrolled 196 patients with diabetes. Blood glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin levels were significantly reduced after applying telemedicine (p = 0.01 and p = 0.005, respectively). Ophthalmic screenings led to hospital referrals for 16.0% with abnormal fundus images, 15.6% with severe cataract or anterior segment disorders, and 27.9% with ocular hypertension or glaucoma. Fundus screening rates remained high at 86.3% and 80.4% in 2022, mainly using telemedicine, comparable with the traditional screening rate in the past 5 years. The overall satisfaction rate was 98.5%. Conclusions: Telemedicine showed effectiveness and high satisfaction in managing diabetes and conducting ophthalmic screenings in remote areas during the COVID-19 pandemic. It facilitated early diagnosis and treatment of ocular conditions while maintaining good blood glucose control and fundus screening rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Journal of Plant Ecology (JPE) is an Open Access journal that covers a wide range of topics within the field of plant ecology. It is sponsored by the Botanical Society of China and the Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences. A recent analysis of JPE's publications from 2018 to 2022 reveals that the majority of articles focus on forestry, soil science, phylogenetics & genomics, crop science, and plant pathology. These research areas cover various topics such as seed dispersal, dendrochronology, microbial biomass, permafrost, and phosphorus. The analysis also includes tables listing representative articles in each research area and compares JPE's publication volume and impact with other similar journals. This information can be valuable for researchers seeking to explore the themes covered in JPE and understand its publication trends and impact. [Extracted from the article]

Summary: A systematic review and meta‐analysis was conducted to evaluate the relative effectiveness of different dietary macronutrient patterns on changes in resting energy expenditure (REE) in relation to weight loss, categorized as minimal (<5%) and moderate to high (>5%). Changes in REE were assessed using a DerSimonian and Laird random‐effects meta‐analysis. A diet lower in carbohydrates (CHO) or higher in fat and protein was associated with smaller reductions in REE, with these trends being more pronounced among participants who experienced moderate to high weight loss. Adjusted meta‐regression analysis indicated that, within the participants who experienced moderate to high weight loss, each 1% increase in CHO intake was associated with a reduction of 2.30 kcal/day in REE (95% CI: −4.11 to −0.47, p = 0.013). In contrast, a 1% increase in protein and fat intake was correlated with an increase in REE by 3.00 (95% confidence interval [CI] [1.02, 5.07], p = 0.003) and 0.5 (95% CI [−2.43, 3.41], p = 0.740) kcal/day, respectively. No significant associations were found among participants who experienced minimal weight loss. These findings indicate that, under a caloric deficit, the impact of dietary macronutrient composition on REE may vary depending on the degree of weight loss and individual metabolic responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radioactive nuclides cesium (Cs) and strontium (Sr) possess long half-lives, with 135Cs at approximately 2.3 million years and 87Sr at about 49 billion years. Their persistent accumulation can result in long-lasting radioactive contamination of soil ecosystems. This study employed geo-accumulation index (Igeo), pollution load index (PLI), potential ecological risk index (PEPI), health risk assessment model (HRA), and Monte Carlo simulation to evaluate the pollution and health risks of Cs and Sr in the surface soil of different functional areas in a typical mining city in China. Positive matrix factorization (PMF) model was used to elucidate the potential sources of Cs and Sr and the respective contribution rates of natural and anthropogenic sources. The findings indicate that soils in the mining area exhibited significantly higher levels of Cs and Sr pollution compared to smelting factory area, agricultural area, and urban residential area. Strontium did not pose a potential ecological risk in any studied functional area. The non-carcinogenic health risk of Sr to the human body in the study area was relatively low. Because of the lack of parameters for Cs, the potential ecological and human health risks of Cs was not calculated. The primary source of Cs in the soil was identified as the parent material from which the soil developed, while Sr mainly originated from associated contamination caused by mining activities. This research provides data for the control of Cs and Sr pollution in the surface soil of mining city. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Common Black Carp Strain (Cyprinus carpio var. baisenensis), known for its black skin, is commonly cultured in the integrated rice-agriculture (IRA) system in Guangxi province, China. This study aimed to compare the genetic diversity of three common carp strains/populations (Common Black Carp Strain, Huanghe, and Songpu) using resequencing data. The genome-based method reveals a significant difference (p < 0.05) in identified loci and SNP frequency (p < 1 × 10−6) between the Songpu (Sp) or mirror carp and Huanghe (Hh) new strain. Additionally, the Common Black Carp Strain (Bk) exhibits a higher number of Tajima's D values, possibly due to its population size and mutations within its entire genome. The average value of population nucleotide diversity (π) for the Bk is 1.706 × 10−4 while the mean number for the Hh and Sp strains is 1.691 × 10−4 Heterozygosity analysis results indicate that the Bk has the highest F coefficient compared to the Sp and Hh hybrids. This suggests that the isolated population of the Bk may have experienced a decrease in population size as a result of environmental disturbances in the IRA system. PCA results further reveal that all individuals of the Bk, except for one, are clustered together, while individuals of the Hh form a separate group. On the other hand, Sp displays a distinct distribution pattern. The comparative study of the genetic diversity of the Bk provides baseline data on its genome makeup. Assessing genetic diversity and genetic structure is critical for fisheries management and the conservation of critically endangered fish species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Obesity is a global concern, driving the search for alternative treatments beyond lifestyle changes and medications. Laser acupuncture (LA) shows promise in obesity management, yet few studies compare it with FDA-approved medications. This study aimed to assess and compare LA's impact with liraglutide on weight reduction in obese individuals. Methods: Data from the Chang Gung Research Database (CGRD) (2013–2018) were analyzed. Primary outcomes included changes in body weight and BMI within 180 days, with secondary outcomes measuring the proportion achieving 5%, 10%, and 15% weight loss. Adverse events were also assessed. Results: Of 745 subjects (173 LA users, 572 liraglutide users), LA users lost more weight by day 180 (5.82 ± 4.39 vs. 2.38 ± 5.75 kg; p < 0.001) and had a greater BMI reduction (−2.27 ± 1.73 vs. −0.93 ± 2.25 kg/m2; p < 0.001). More LA users achieved 5% and 10% weight loss compared to liraglutide users (64.2% vs. 22.7%, 26.6% vs. 4.2%; all p < 0.001). After balancing baseline differences, LA's benefits remained significant. No adverse events were reported with LA. Conclusions: LA may offer superior weight reduction compared to liraglutide. Future studies should explore LA alone or in combination with liraglutide for obesity management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lightweight polymer composites promise incredible applications in aerospace, seaprobes, and medical apparatus. However, their performance is generally limited by a trade‐off between mechanical strength and toughness. Herein, a crystallinity mitigating strategy driven by highly aligned bamboo macrofibers embedded in a polycaprolactone polyol (PCL) matrix for producing ultrastrong and tough lightweight polymer composites is proposed. The embedded bamboo macrofibers have oxygen‐containing functional groups on the fiber surface, that can interact with functional groups (ester and hydroxyl groups) in the molecular chains of the PCL in the form of hydrogen bonds, thus preventing the aggregation of molecular chains and the crystallization of PCL, which ultimately leads to unprecedented toughness. Meanwhile, the bamboo macrofibres with intrinsically aligned microstructure, can enable effective stress transfer and dissipation, providing remarkable ultrahigh strength. As a result, the obtained lightweight polymer composite achieves ultrahigh mechanical strength (31.5 MPa) and superior toughness (21.7 MJ m−3) at an unprecedented low density (1.07 g cm−3), representing the state‐of‐the‐art in reported lightweight polymers. Such lightweight polymer composite has the potential to greatly expedite the practical realization of artificial medical materials, including orthopedic instruments and joint prostheses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Associations among cognitive ability, depressive symptoms, and psychological resilience have been found, but the interaction among these variables remains unclear, especially for young adults. The current study aimed to investigate how these variables interact in young adults. A total of 192 participants (97 female) with a mean age of 21.84 years (range 19–30 years) were analyzed for this study. Participants' cognitive ability was assessed by the Taiwanese version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Depressive status was evaluated by the revision of Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II). Participants with a score of 14 or above were defined as mild-to-severe-depressed (MSD). Otherwise, they were defined as minimal-depressed (MD). For the psychological resilience measurement, a Chinese version of the Resilience Scale for Adults (RSA) was used. Using linear regression adjusted for gender and age, this study found a significant interaction between cognitive ability, depressive status, and psychological resilience in young adults. Specifically, higher cognitive ability was linked to lower resilience in those with MSD, as indicated by a negative relationship (B = −6.519, p =.044). Conversely, in MD individuals, cognitive ability and resilience showed no significant correlation. These findings suggested that depressive status significantly modulates how cognitive ability impacts psychological resilience, emphasizing the importance of customizing mental health interventions based on individual cognitive and emotional profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A diaphragm pump is a type of volumetric pump that has excellent sealing performance. An electromagnetic diaphragm pump is a kind of widely adopted diaphragm pump that has a simple structure, low power loss, and high cost performance. However, the calculation method of deformation for the electromagnetic diaphragm pump rubber diaphragm is presently lacking. Herein, a calculating method of deformation for the electromagnetic diaphragm pump rubber diaphragm is proposed. By establishing and analyzing a deformation model of the electromagnetic diaphragm pump rubber diaphragm, a theoretical relationship between the deformation of the electromagnetic diaphragm pump rubber diaphragm, the size of the electromagnetic diaphragm pump rubber diaphragm and the pressure of fluid is determined. The experimental results indicate that the biggest difference between the tested axial deformation and the calculated axial deformation of the electromagnetic diaphragm pump rubber diaphragm is 0.04 mm and the calculation results show agreement with the experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medium-entropy alloys (MEAs) have attracted considerable attention in recent decades due to their exceptional material properties and design flexibility. In this study, lightweight and non-equiatomic MEAs with low density (~5 g/cm3), high strength (yield strength: 1200 MPa), and high ductility (plastic deformation: ≧10%) were explored. We fine-tuned a previously developed Ti-rich MEA by microalloying it with small amounts of Ni (reducing the atomic radius and increasing the elastic modulus) through solid solution strengthening to achieve a series of MEAs with enhanced mechanical properties. Among the prepared MEAs, Ti65Ni1 and Ti65Ni3 exhibited optimal properties in terms of the balance between strength and ductility. Furthermore, the Ti65Ni3 MEA was subjected to thermo-mechanical treatment (TMT) followed by cold rolling 70% (CR70) and cold rolling 85% (CR85). Subsequently, the processed samples were rapidly annealed at 743 °C, 770 °C, 817 °C, and 889 °C at a heating rate of 15 °C/s. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that the MEA could retain its single-body-centered cubic solid solution structure after TMT. Additionally, the tensile testing results revealed that increasing the annealing temperature led to a decrease in yield strength and an increase in ductility. Notably, the Ti65Ni3 MEA sample that was subjected to CR70 and CR85 processing and annealed for 30 s exhibited high yield strength (>1250 MPa) and ductility (>13%). In particular, the Ti65Ni3 MEA subjected to CR85 exhibited a specific yield strength of 264 MPa·cm3/g, specific tensile strength of 300 MPa·cm3/g, and ductility of >13%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients undergoing radiation therapy (RT) often experience anxiety, which may jeopardize the treatment success. The efficacy of music interventions in reducing anxiety remains contentious. This randomized trial aimed to evaluate the impact of music listening on anxiety symptoms in patients undergoing initial RT. Methods: First-time RT patients were randomly allocated to experimental and control groups. The Brief Symptom Rating Scale (BSRS-5), Distress Thermometer (DT), and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI-C) were administered pre- and post-RT. Changes in physiological anxiety symptoms were monitored over 10 consecutive days starting from the first day of RT. The experimental group received music during RT; the control group did not. The generalized linear mixed model was used to estimate the pre–post difference in the BSRS-5, DT, and BAI-C scores between the music intervention and control group. Results: This study included 50 patients each in the experimental and control groups. BSRS-5 and DT scores were significantly reduced in the experimental group post-RT (p = 0.0114 and p = 0.0023, respectively). When music listening was discontinued, these scores rebounded. While the posttest BAI-C score was significantly lower in the experimental group (p < 0.0001), the pre–post difference between the two groups was not significant (p = 0.0619). On cessation of music listening, the BAI-C score also rebounded. Conclusions: For cancer patients undergoing initial RT, music listening intervention significantly reduced anxiety symptoms measured using the BSRS-5, DT, and BAI-C scores after two weeks. Our results demonstrate the effectiveness of music listening intervention in reducing anxiety symptoms, thereby potentially improving the quality of life of cancer patients undergoing RT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To find out the causes and risk factors of this food-borne disease outbreak that occurred in November 2019 at four schools in Qinzhou, Guangxi, implement effective preventive and control measures to curb the spread and escalation of the outbreak, and provide a basis for the investigation and management of similar incidents in the future. Methods Descriptive epidemiological methods were used to analyze the cases' clinical characteristics, three-dimensional distribution, and related risk factors. The etiological food was determined by the method of analytical epidemiology. A food hygiene investigation was conducted to trace the process of food contamination, and biological samples from cases and workers, suspicious food, and environmental samples were collected for laboratory testing. The detected Salmonella strains were analyzed for homogeneity using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Results The event involved four schools, with 69 suspected cases identified, resulting inan attack rate of 0.52% (69/13 307). The main clinical symptoms were abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fever, with an average incubation period of 20 hours. The epidemic curve indicated a point-source outbreak. Descriptive epidemiological methods inferred that bakery products distributed by Company F were the suspect foods. The case-control study indicated the risk of illness was increased among those who purchased and consumed food supplied by Company F (OR=37.67, 95%CI: 14.03-101.13), particularly those who consumed the delicious hamburger (OR=30.13, 95%CI: 13.22-68.67). Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) was detected in 12 anal swabsfrom patients, one patient's vomit, one flour sample used for bread-making, and one egg, with homogeneity of 100% achieved in PFGE molecular typing of the 15 positive Salmonella strains. Conclusions The outbreak is a food-borne disease outbreak caused by Salmonella contamination. It is recommended that regulatory authorities strengthen supervision and management of production and processing enterprises, standardize food processing processes, and establish and improve food safety management systems and long-term mechanisms for food safety knowledge promotion and education in schools to enhance students' hygiene awarenessand prevent similar incidents from occurring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To examine the predictive value of dual-layer spectral detector CT (DLCT) for spread through air spaces (STAS) in clinical lung adenocarcinoma. Methods: A total of 225 lung adenocarcinoma cases were retrospectively reviewed for demographic, clinical, pathological, traditional CT, and spectral parameters. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was carried out based on three logistic models, including a model using traditional CT features (traditional model), a model using spectral parameters (spectral model), and an integrated model combining traditional CT and spectral parameters (integrated model). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and decision curve analysis (DCA) were performed to assess these models. Results: Univariable analysis showed significant differences between the STAS and non-STAS groups in traditional CT features, including nodule density (p < 0.001), pleural indentation types (p = 0.006), air-bronchogram sign (p = 0.031), the presence of spiculation (p < 0.001), long-axis diameter of the entire nodule (LD) (p < 0.001), and consolidation/tumor ratio (CTR) (p < 0.001). Multivariable analysis revealed that LD > 20 mm (odds ratio [OR] = 2.271, p = 0.025) and CTR (OR = 24.208, p < 0.001) were independent predictors in the traditional model, while electronic density (ED) in the venous phase was an independent predictor in the spectral (OR = 1.062, p < 0.001) and integrated (OR = 1.055, p < 0.001) models. The area under the curve (AUC) for the integrated model (0.84) was the highest (spectral model, 0.83; traditional model, 0.80), and the difference between the integrated and traditional models was statistically significant (p = 0.015). DCA showed that the integrated model had superior clinical value versus the traditional model. Conclusions: DLCT has added value for STAS prediction in lung adenocarcinoma. Clinical relevance statement: Spectral CT has added value for spread through air spaces prediction in lung adenocarcinoma so may impact treatment planning in the future. Key Points: • Electronic density may be a potential spectral index for predicting spread through air spaces in lung adenocarcinoma. • A combination of spectral and traditional CT features enhances the performance of traditional CT for predicting spread through air spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral cancer represents a significant global public health challenge, contributing substantially to the incidence and mortality of cancer. Despite established risk factors such as tobacco use and alcohol consumption, early detection remains crucial for effective treatment. This study introduces a novel approach using a transistor-based biosensor system for detecting the P90 (CIP2A) protein. We tested the presence of CIP2A in human leukoplakia samples, which can undergo malignant conversion into aggressive oral squamous cell carcinoma. The method used commercially available glucose test strips functionalized with P90 antibodies, providing high sensitivity and a low limit of detection which was five orders lower than that of commercial ELISA kits. A specially designed printed circuit board (PCB) facilitated accurate measurements, and the device's performance was optimized through characteristic tests. Human sample testing validated the biosensor's effectiveness in distinguishing samples after cell lysis. This study contributes to advancing accurate and cost-effective diagnostic approaches for oral pre-cancer and cancer tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Diaphorina citri is an important transmission vector of Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas), the causal agent of citrus Huanglongbing (HLB). The control of HLB mainly depends on the management of D. citri. The efficiency of D. citri nymphs in acquiring CLas bacteria is significantly higher than that of the adults, while the transmission efficiency of CLas bacteria by adults is significantly higher than that of nymphs. Therefore, it is of great significance to research the functions of key genes during the molting of fifth-instar nymphs. In this study, SMRT and Illumina sequencing were performed on D. citri fifth-instar nymphs and adults. SMRT-Seq-generated full-length transcripts provide valuable information for improving functional gene research in D. citri. Additionally, Illumina sequencing revealed that the Hippo pathway played an important role in regulating the transition of D. citri from fifth-instar nymphs to adults. Our findings provide useful reference information and lay a foundation for controlling D. citri. Huanglongbing (HLB) is a systemic plant disease caused by 'Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas)' and transmitted by Diaphorina citri. D. citri acquires the CLas bacteria in the nymph stage and transmits it in the adult stage, indicating that molting from the nymph to adult stages is crucial for HLB transmission. However, the available D. citri reference genomes are incomplete, and gene function studies have been limited to date. In the current research, PacBio single-molecule real-time (SMRT) and Illumina sequencing were performed to investigate the transcriptome of D. citri nymphs and adults. In total, 10,641 full-length, non-redundant transcripts (FLNRTs), 594 alternative splicing (AS) events, 4522 simple sequence repeats (SSRs), 1086 long-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), 281 transcription factors (TFs), and 4459 APA sites were identified. Furthermore, 3746 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between nymphs and adults were identified, among which 30 DEGs involved in the Hippo signaling pathway were found. Reverse transcription–quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) further validated the expression levels of 12 DEGs and showed a positive correlation with transcriptome data. Finally, the spatiotemporal expression pattern of genes involved in the Hippo signaling pathway exhibited high expression in the D. citri testis, ovary, and egg. Silencing of the D. citri transcriptional co-activator (DcYki) gene significantly increased D. citri mortality and decreased the cumulative molting. Our results provide useful information and a reliable data resource for gene function research of D. citri. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The study aimed (1) to evaluate the site and severity of facial asymmetry in Class III patients before and after bimaxillary surgery, and (2) to identify the influence of initial severity and positional jaw asymmetry on residual facial asymmetry. Materials and methods: Preoperative and postoperative cone-beam computed tomography of 65 patients with Class III facial asymmetry who underwent bimaxillary surgery were evaluated. Five midline and 14 paramedian facial soft tissue landmarks were identified to assess facial asymmetry. The outcomes were compared to a control group consisting of 30 age- and gender-matched Class I subjects. The postoperative positional jaw asymmetry (i.e., shift, roll, yaw) of each osteotomy segment (maxilla, mandible, chin, ramus) was also measured. Results: Before surgery, the asymmetry was more severe at the chin, middle and lower contour. Bimaxillary surgery effectively corrected facial asymmetry, particularly in achieving normalization of chin deviation. However, significant asymmetry persisted postoperatively in the middle and lower contour (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively), which was affected by the positional ramus asymmetry in the roll and shift. Conclusions: Deviation of the chin, middle and lower contour contributed significantly to overall facial asymmetry in Class III asymmetry. Despite normalization of the chin deviation after bimaxillary surgery, asymmetry persisted at the middle and lower contour, primarily as the result of insufficient correction of the positional ramus asymmetry. Clinical relevance: Understanding the residual asymmetry after bimaxillary surgery is important for minimizing deviation and optimizing the surgical planning for its correction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Segmental Le Fort I osteotomy through the cleft is a common strategy to narrow the alveolar cleft in adults. This study compared skeletal stability between single and segmental Le Fort I osteotomies in patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP). Materials and methods: This retrospective analysis examined 45 adults with complete UCLP-associated class III deformities who underwent bimaxillary surgery with either single (n = 30) or segmental (n = 15) Le Fort I advancement. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans of the facial skeleton were acquired before surgery, 1-week postsurgery, and at follow-up. Measures of landmarks from the CBCT images for the two treatment groups were compared for translation (left/right, posterior/anterior, superior/inferior) and rotation (yaw, roll, pitch). Results: Postsurgery, the downward movement of the maxilla was larger in the segmental group than the single group. At follow-up, the maxilla moved backward in both groups, and upward in the segmental group. The mandible moved forward and upward and rotated upward in both groups. The amount of upward movement and rotation was larger in the segmental group than the single group. Conclusions: Two years after bimaxillary surgery in patients with UCLP-associated class III deformity, greater relapse was found after segmental Le Fort I osteotomies in vertical translation of the maxilla and mandible, and pitch rotation of the mandible compared with single Le Fort I osteotomies. Clinical relevance: The vertical relapse of the maxilla was larger after segmental Le Fort I advancement compared with single Le Fort I advancement in clefts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid‐state batteries (SSBs) are regarded as the most promising next‐generation energy storage devices due to their potential to achieve higher safety performance and energy density. However, the troubles in the preparation of ultrathin solid‐state electrolytes (SEs) as well as the resultant compromise in mechanical strength greatly limit the safety application of SSBs. Herein, a novel in situ polymerized integrated ultrathin SE/cathode design is developed. The ultrathin ceramic layer supported on the cathode serves not only as a rigid scaffold to prevent direct contact between the cathode and anode but also as active inorganic fillers to enhance the mechanical properties of in situ polymerized SE film. The unique Li‐ion coordination environments as well as the Li hopping mechanism profoundly promote fast ion transport in composite SEs. The in situ polymerized SEs simultaneously achieve the balance in ultrathin thickness (10 µm), fast ion transport (0.65 mS cm−1), superior Young's modulus (66.8 GPa), and excellent interface contact. The pouch cells with practical Li||LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 configuration achieve an ultrahigh volumetric energy density of 1018 Wh L−1 and safety performance. The in situ polymerized integrated ultrathin SE/cathode design exhibits great promise for the practical application of SSBs with high energy density and safety performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the low-order modeling of collective dynamics in a can-annular combustor consisting of four ring-coupled turbulent lean-premixed combustors. Each combustor is treated as an individual thermoacoustic oscillator, and the entire combustion system is modeled using four Van der Pol oscillators ring-coupled with dissipative, time-delay, and reactive coupling terms. We show that this model, despite its simplicity, can reproduce many collective dynamics observed in experiments under various combinations of equivalence ratios and combustor lengths, such as 2-can anti-phase synchronization, alternating anti-phase synchronization, pairwise anti-phase synchronization, spinning azimuthal mode, and 4 steady thermoacoustic oscillators. The phase relationship in the majority of cases can be quantitatively modeled. Moreover, by incorporating a reactive coupling term, the model is able to reproduce the frequency shift observed experimentally. This study demonstrates the feasibility of using a simple low-order model to reproduce collective dynamics in complex turbulent combustion systems. This suggests that this model could be used (i) to facilitate the interpretation of experimental data within the synchronization framework, (ii) to identify potential parameter regimes leading to amplitude death, and (iii) to serve as a basis for modeling the collective dynamics observed in more complicated multi-combustors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under many interactive environments in the real world, there is often a need to evaluate the minimization effects and subsequent allocation outcomes derived from these interactions under multiple considerations. For instance, in the context of product sales, it is necessary to evaluate how to minimize the manufacturing costs of various producing factors, and sometimes, from a holistic perspective, it may even be necessary to evaluate situations with minimal sales benefits. On the other hand, in order to evaluate related effects derived from interactions and subsequent allocation outcomes, many game-theoretical studies are based on interactive models to formulate evaluating mechanisms, and then they apply axiomatic processes to analyze the rationality of these mechanisms. Therefore, this study first proposes a mechanism for evaluating the minimization effects and subsequent allocation outcomes under multiple considerations. Additionally, considering that different environmental impacts result from varying participation factors, this study also presents several weighted derivatives based on participation factors and their behaviors. Concurrently, we utilize axiomatic results to demonstrate the mathematical correctness and practicality for these evaluating mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Facilitating members' continual participation in a community is crucial for ensuring the community's long-term survival. However, knowledge regarding whether member similarity is related to member participation and the mechanism underlying this relationship is limited. Drawing on similarity–attraction, social exchange and social identity theories, this study explored the influences of different facets of similarity (i.e. value, personality and goal similarity) on group norm conformity, group identity and social participation. Design/methodology/approach: Data were collected from 444 Taiwanese members of social networking sites (SNSs), and structural equation modeling was employed to examine the hypothesized relationships. Findings: The results revealed that value similarity directly affected group norm conformity but did not directly affect group identity; personality similarity influenced group identity but not group norm conformity. Goal similarity had positive influences on group norm conformity and group identity. Moreover, group norm conformity had direct and positive influences on group identity and social participation; group identity also had a positive influence on social participation. Originality/value: On the basis of the aforementioned findings, this study contributes to the understanding of factors facilitating SNS members' participation from the perspective of similarity. These findings can serve as a reference for SNS administrators to facilitate social participation by emphasizing member similarity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: BRCA2 plays a key role in homologous recombination. However, information regarding its mutations in Chinese patients with breast cancer remains limited. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the clinicopathological characteristics of BRCA2 mutation breast cancer and explore the mutation's effect on hormone receptor (HR)-positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative breast cancer survival in China. Design: This hospital-based cohort study prospectively included 629 women with breast cancer diagnosed from 2008 to 2023 at Zhejiang Cancer Hospital in China. Methods: We compared the clinicopathological characteristics and metastatic patterns and analysed the invasive disease-free survival (iDFS), distant relapse-free survival (DRFS) and first-line progression-free survival (PFS1) of patients with HR-positive/HER2-negative breast cancer according to BRCA2 mutations. Results: Among the 629 patients, 78 had BRCA2 mutations (12.4%) and 551 did not (87.6%). The mean age at diagnosis was lower in the BRCA2 mutation breast cancer group than in the non-mutation breast cancer group (38.91 versus 41.94 years, p = 0.016). BRCA2 mutation breast cancers were more likely to be lymph node-positive than non-mutation breast cancers (73.0% versus 56.6%, p = 0.037). The pathological grade was higher in 47.1% of BRCA2 mutation breast cancers than in 29.6% of non-mutation breast cancers (p = 0.014). The proportions of patients with BRCA2 mutations who developed contralateral breast cancer (19.2% versus 8.8%, p = 0.004), breast cancer in the family (53.8% versus 38.3%, p = 0.009) and ovarian cancer in the family (7.6% versus 2.4%, p = 0.022) were higher than those of patients without the mutation. The median follow-up time was 92.78 months. Multivariate analysis showed that BRCA2 mutation was not associated with poorer iDFS [hazard ratio = 0.9, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.64–1.27, p = 0.56] and poorer distant relapse-free survival (DRFS) (hazard ratio = 1.09, 95% CI = 0.61–1.93, p = 0.76). There was no significant difference between the two groups with regard to metastatic patterns in the advanced disease setting. In the first-line metastatic breast cancer setting, PFS1 expression was broadly similar between the two groups irrespective of chemotherapy or endocrine therapy. Conclusion: HR-positive/HER2-negative breast cancer with BRCA2 mutations differs from those without mutations in clinical behaviour and reflects more aggressive tumour behaviour. Our results indicate that BRCA2 mutations have no significant effect on the survival of Chinese women with HR-positive/HER2-negative breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intramuscular fat refers to the adipose tissue distributed in the muscle. It is an important indicator that affects the quality of goat meat, and can directly affect the tenderness and flavor of goat meat. Our previous study revealed the mRNA that may be crucial for intramuscular fat deposition during goat growth; however, how the microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in the process is largely unclear. In the present study, a total of 401 known miRNAs and 120 goat novel miRNAs, including 110 differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs, were identified among longissimus dorsi from three growth stages (2, 9, and 24 months) by miRNA sequencing. Combining analysis of the DE mRNAs and DE miRNAs was then performed by miRDB and miRwalk, and miR‐145‐5p and FOXO1, miR‐487b‐3p, and PPARG coactivator 1 α (PPARGC1A), miR‐345‐3p, and solute carrier family 2 member 4 (SLC2A4), etc. were shown to closely associate with lipid metabolism, which was then validated by a correlation analysis. The final DE mRNAs were significantly enriched in fatty acid transmembrane transport, fatty acid homeostasis, apelin signaling pathway, glucagon signaling pathway, insulin signaling pathway, and AMPK signaling pathway by gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis. Besides, miR‐145‐5p showed a certain effect on goat intramuscular fat metabolism by acting on the possible target gene Forkhead Box O1 (FOXO1). These data provide some theoretical support for improving the quality of goat meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) is the most prevalent cancer in children, and excessive iron buildup resulting from blood transfusions and chemotherapy potentially has a negative impact on treatment outcomes and prognosis in patients with ALL. Therefore, initiating early iron chelation therapy during ALL treatment is a logical approach. Ideally, the selected iron chelator should also possess anti-leukaemia properties. The aim of the present study was to explore the potential impact and underlying mechanism of deferasirox (DFX) in ALL therapy. This study proved that DFX, an iron chelator, is capable of inducing leukaemia cell death through ferroptosis, which is achievable by increasing the expression of acetylated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2). More specifically, NRF2 acetylation on Lys599 was facilitated by acetyltransferase-p300/CBP. These findings indicate that DFX could serve as a potent adjunctive medication for patients with ALL. Moreover, DFX may offer dual benefits in ALL treatment, functioning as both an iron chelator and NRF2-modulating agent. Further research and clinical trials are necessary to fully elucidate the therapeutic potential of DFX in patients with ALL and incorporate it into treatment protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This study investigates the potential utility of IKZF1 deletion as an additional high‐risk marker for paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). The prognostic impact of IKZF1 status, in conjunction with minimal/measurable residual disease (MRD), was evaluated within the MRD‐guided TPOG‐ALL‐2013 protocol using 412 newly diagnosed B‐ALL patients aged 1–18. IKZF1 status was determined using multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification. IKZF1 deletions, when co‐occurring with CDKN2A, CDKN2B, PAX5 or PAR1 region deletions in the absence of ERG deletions, were termed IKZF1plus. Both IKZF1 deletion (14.6%) and IKZF1plus (7.8%) independently predicted poorer outcomes in B‐ALL. IKZF1plus was observed in 4.1% of Philadelphia‐negative ALL, with a significantly lower 5‐year event‐free survival (53.9%) compared to IKZF1 deletion alone (83.8%) and wild‐type IKZF1 (91.3%) (p < 0.0001). Among patients with Day 15 MRD ≥0.01%, provisional high‐risk patients with IKZF1plus exhibited the worst outcomes in event‐free survival (42.0%), relapse‐free survival (48.0%) and overall survival (72.7%) compared to other groups (p < 0.0001). Integration of IKZF1plus and positive Day 15 MRD identified a subgroup of Philadelphia‐negative B‐ALL with a 50% risk of relapse. This study highlights the importance of assessing IKZF1plus alongside Day 15 MRD positivity to identify patients at increased risk of adverse outcomes, potentially minimizing overtreatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The early detection of dementia depends on efficient methods for the assessment of cognitive capacity. Existing cognitive screening tools are ill-suited to the differentiation of cognitive status, particularly when dealing with early-stage impairment. Methods: The study included 8,979 individuals (> 50 years) with unimpaired cognitive functions, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), or dementia. This study sought to determine optimal cutoffs values for the Cognitive Abilities Screening Instrument (CASI) aimed at differentiating between individuals with or without dementia as well as between individuals with or without mild cognitive impairment. Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the value of CASI tasks in predicting conversion from MCI to all-cause dementia, dementia of Alzheimer's type (DAT), or to vascular dementia (VaD). Results: Our optimized cutoff scores achieved high accuracy in differentiating between individuals with or without dementia (AUC = 0.87—0.93) and moderate accuracy in differentiating between CU and MCI individuals (AUC = 0.67 – 0.74). Among individuals without cognitive impairment, scores that were at least 1.5 × the standard deviation below the mean scores on CASI memory tasks were predictive of conversion to dementia within roughly 2 years after the first assessment (all-cause dementia: hazard ratio [HR] = 2.81 – 3.53; DAT: 1.28 – 1.49; VaD: 1.58). Note that the cutoff scores derived in this study were lower than those reported in previous studies. Conclusion: Our results in this study underline the importance of establishing optimal cutoff scores for individuals with specific demographic characteristics and establishing profiles by which to guide CASI analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of breast cancer in women underscores the urgent need for innovative and efficient detection methods. This study addresses this imperative by harnessing salivary biomarkers, offering a noninvasive and accessible means of identifying breast cancer. In this study, commercially available disposable based strips similar to the commonly used glucose detection strips were utilized and functionalized to detect breast cancer with biomarkers of HER2 and CA15-3. The results demonstrated limits of detection for these two biomarkers reached as low as 1 fg/ml much lower than those of conventional enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in the range of 1∼4 ng/ml. By employing a synchronized double-pulse method to apply 10 of 1.2 ms voltage pulses to the electrode of sensing strip and drain electrode of the transistor for amplifying the detected signal, and the detected signal was the average of 10 digital output readings corresponding to those 10 voltage pulses. The sensor sensitivities were achieved approximately 70/dec and 30/dec for HER2 and CA15-3, respectively. Moreover, the efficiency of this novel technique is underscored by its swift testing time of less than 15 ms and its minimal sample requirement of only 3 μl of saliva. The simplicity of operation and the potential for widespread public use in the future position this approach as a transformative tool in the early detection of breast cancer. This research not only provides a crucial advancement in diagnostic methodologies but also holds the promise of revolutionizing public health practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydnum (Hydnaceae, Cantharellales), one of the edible ectomycorrhizal mushrooms, is of considerable ecological and economic importance. Although previous studies have focused on the genus in China, the diversity still remains incompletely understood. In the present study, in addition to the known species from China being reviewed, six phylogenetic species from the country were described/redescribed, which included a new species: H. erectum, and five known taxa: H. cremeoalbum, H. minus, H. orientalbidum, H. tenuistipitum, and H. treui; H. treui is new to China. Detailed descriptions, color photographs of fresh basidiomata, and line drawings of microstructures of them are presented. A key to the accepted species of Hydnum in China is also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dissemination of bismuth (Bi) into the environment has become a significant concern due to its wide application. The low-cost orange peel was used as a bio-sorbent to remove Bi from water. Influence of pH (4 ~ 12), biochar dosage (5 ~ 12.5 g L–1), temperature (25 ~ 55 °C), and coexisting ions (Mg2+ and Zn2+) on Bi adsorption were investigated. The removal rate was 91.90% when 10 g L–1 adsorbent was added at 25 °C in 40 mL Bi solution with an initial concentration of 50 mg L–1. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model could better describe the adsorption process than pseudo-first-order model, demonstrating that the adsorption of Bi by the orange peel biochar was predominantly chemisorption. Analytical techniques such as SEM, FTIR, XRD, and XPS indicated that the adsorption mechanism concerned electrostatic attraction, ion exchange, π-π electron donor–acceptor interaction, – OH and – COOH complexation, and pore filling. Orange peel biochar demonstrated a sustained performance, maintaining over 65% removal efficiency for Bi after three regeneration cycles. Orange peel biochar has a good application prospect as a cost-effective bio-sorbent for the treatment of Bi removal from water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cryoballoon ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) requires adequate contact between the pulmonary vein (PV) antrum and cryoballoon. The surge of intraballoon pressure during the initial phase of ablation may change the balloon's shape and compliance, resulting in balloon dislodgement and loss of PV occlusion. Without continuous monitoring, this phenomenon is often undetected but can be associated with incomplete PV isolation (PVI). Methods: Primary cryoablation of AF was performed in 15 patients. PV occlusion status pre‐ and post‐freezing were analyzed with intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) and dielectric imaging‐based occlusion tool (DIOT) to calculate the incidence of expansion dislodgement of cryoballoon. Results: A total of 105 cryoablation applications were performed on 57 veins, including three common ostiums of left pulmonary veins. In the evaluation of PV occlusion, both modalities reported consistent results in 86.7% of the assessments. Despite complete PV occlusion before ablation, peri‐balloon leak after initiation of freezing was detected by ICE in 5/22 (22.7%) applications and by DIOT in 8/25 (32%) applications. Conclusion: Incidence of expansion dislodgement of the cryoballoon was detected in one‐fourth to one‐third of cryoablation applications depending on the imaging modality used, which was clinically frequent and significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar water evaporation is an emerging technology for drinkable water generation, while it remains a challenge to develop materials and device for efficient water evaporation and collection. Herein, dual‐plasmonic Ti3C2Tx/CuSe two‐dimensional (2D)/2D hybrids are prepared for high‐efficiency solar water evaporation and a hydrophilic device is designed for efficient water collection. The Ti3C2Tx/CuSe hybrids, which monocrystalline CuSe ultrathin nanosheets are chemically bonded with Ti3C2Tx nanosheets, show efficient photothermal conversion owing to the plasmon‐coupling‐induced strong light absorption and fast charge transfer in the 2D/2D interface. By transferring the hybrids on a cotton piece, the Ti3C2Tx/CuSe membrane displays over 95% of solar light absorption, a stable evaporation rate of 1.893 kg m−2 h−1, and solar‐to‐vapor efficiency of 99.13% under one‐sun irradiation. The membrane can also treat water with more than 20 wt% salinity due to the rich microchannel for ion diffusion. Furthermore, a water evaporation device, which the cambered roof is painted with hydrophilic SiO2, is designed for efficient water collection. The treated roof can efficiently reduce the optical loss and transfer the vapor condensation, leading to a high average freshwater generation of 16.4 kg m−2 in a daily (10 h) natural light irradiation, much higher than other reported devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T-cell therapy has greatly improved outcomes for patients with relapsed or refractory hematological malignancies. However, challenges such as treatment resistance, relapse, and severe toxicity still hinder its widespread clinical application. Traditional transcriptome analysis has provided limited insights into the complex transcriptional landscape of both leukemia cells and engineered CAR-T-cells, as well as their interactions within the tumor microenvironment. However, with the advent of single-cell sequencing techniques, a paradigm shift has occurred, providing robust tools to unravel the complexities of these factors. These techniques enable an unbiased analysis of cellular heterogeneity and molecular patterns. These insights are invaluable for precise receptor design, guiding gene-based T-cell modification, and optimizing manufacturing conditions. Consequently, this review utilizes modern single-cell sequencing techniques to clarify the transcriptional intricacies of leukemia cells and CAR-Ts. The aim of this manuscript is to discuss the potential mechanisms that contribute to the clinical failures of CAR-T immunotherapy. We examine the biological characteristics of CAR-Ts, the mechanisms that govern clinical responses, and the intricacies of adverse events. By exploring these aspects, we hope to gain a deeper understanding of CAR-T therapy, which will ultimately lead to improved clinical outcomes and broader therapeutic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Successful orthognathic surgery requires accurate transfer of the intraoperative surgical plan. This study aimed to (1) evaluate the surgical error of a novel intermediate splint in positioning the maxilla during maxilla-first orthognathic surgery and (2) determine factors influencing surgical error. Materials and methods: This prospective study examined 83 patients who consecutively underwent Le Fort I osteotomy for correction of skeletal class III deformity using a novel intermediate splint and a bilateral sagittal split osteotomy. Surgical error was the outcome variable, measured as the difference in postoperative translational and rotational maxillary position from the virtual plan. Measures included asymmetry, need and amount for mandibular opening during fabrication of intermediate splints, and planned and achieved skeletal movement. Results: Mean errors in translation for vertical, sagittal, and transversal dimensions were 1.0 ± 0.7 mm, 1.0 ± 0.6 mm, and 0.7 ± 0.6 mm, respectively; degrees in rotation for yaw, roll, and pitch were 0.8 ± 0.6, 0.6 ± 0.4, and 1.6 ± 1.1, respectively. The transverse error was smaller than sagittal and vertical errors; error for pitch was larger than roll and yaw (both p < 0.001). Error for sagittal, transverse, and roll positioning was affected by the achieved skeletal movement (roll, p < 0.05; pitch and yaw, p < 0.001). Surgical error of pitch positioning was affected by planned and achieved skeletal movement (both p < 0.001). Conclusions: Using the novel intermediate splint when performing Le Fort I osteotomy allowed for accurate positioning of the maxilla. Clinical relevance: The novel intermediate splint for maxillary positioning can be reliably used in clinical routines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Research has suggested that subjective memory complaints (SMC) are predictive of cognitive decline in cases of Alzheimer's disease; however, multidimensional characteristics of SMC make it difficult to formulate causal links. The Subjective Memory Complaints Questionnaire (SMCQ) has proven effective in capturing the nature of SMC. In this study, we developed a revised version of SMCQ (SMCQ-R) with corresponding normative data for application in Taiwan. Methods This study recruited 100 cognitively normal participants (> 45 years) stratified according to demographic characteristics. Assessments were performed to evaluate test-retest reliability, criterion-related validity, and construct validity of SMCQ-R. SMCQ-R scores of 20 matched patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) were also compared with those of normal participants to test construct validity. Results Reliability of SMCQ-R was satisfactory (0.81–0.95). Factor analysis revealed a three-factor structure: everyday memory problems (EMP), recent severe memory problems (RSMP), and long-term memory problems (LTMP). EMP and RSMP scores were negatively associated with objective cognitive function (r  = −.20 to.39). Depressive symptoms were positively associated with all factors (r  = .23–.33). Age was positively associated with total (b  = 0.09, p  < .05) and EMP scores (b  = 0.06, p  < .01). MCI patients obtained higher scores (p  < .05) on all subscales. SMCQ-R scores discriminated between normal and MCI individuals (area under the curve = 0.77). This study established a norm based on scores adjusted to control for effects of age. Conclusions SMCQ-R has sound psychometric properties and could potentially be used as a tool to assess SMC in clinical settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the 1980s, modern shrimp aquaculture has been seriously affected by shrimp diseases worldwide. Shrimp aquaculture cooperates with scientists in the lab to develop biosecurity strategies and biotechnology products, such as specific-pathogen-free shrimp, vaccines and probiotics, to tackle the risk of shrimp disease. Securing shrimp health needs to manage the breeding environment, particularly water quality and water ecologies. Shrimp and water travel between the lab and the field for monitoring, experimentation and disease prevention. This article proposes the notion of hydro-social life to analyse how biosecurity strategies and biotechnology products are developed in the lab and deployed in the field by visiting private, governmental and university laboratories in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta, Hô' Chí Minh City, and Taiwan. I argue that scientists innovate biotechnology products to improve biosecurity strategies by reconfiguring hydro-social lives, like managing shrimp health and water quality. The development and deployment of biosecurity from the lab to the field are influenced by capitalist forms of life and social relations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The diagnostic process for fibrotic interstitial lung disease (F-ILD) is notably intricate, necessitating a multidisciplinary discussion to achieve consensus based on both clinical and radiological features. This study investigated the shared and distinctive long-term mortality predictors among the two primary phenotypes of F-ILD, namely idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease (CTD-ILD). Methods: We included patients with F-ILD diagnosed from December 2018 to December 2019 and conducted follow-up assessments until February 2023. Age, gender, usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) pattern, gender–age–physiology (GAP) score, modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) dyspnea score, antifibrotic agent use, pulmonary function test parameters, and six-minute walking test (6MWT) parameters were recorded at baseline and used as mortality predictors in a multivariate Cox regression model. Results: We enrolled 104 ILD patients. The survival rate of non-IPF patients was more than twice that of IPF patients (78.9% vs. 34%, p < 0.001), and the survival rate of patients with a GAP score of 0–2 was more than twice that of patients with a score of > 2 (93.2% vs. 36.6%, p < 0.001). Older age, male gender, definite UIP pattern, higher GAP score, higher mMRC dyspnea score, lower forced expiratory volume in one second/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC), shorter 6MWT distance, and lower initial and final SpO2 were also associated with higher long-term mortality (p < 0.05). In multivariable analysis, only a GAP score of > 2 (hazard ratio [HR]:16.7; 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.28–85.14; p = 0.001) and definite UIP pattern (HR: 4.08; 95% CI 1.07–15.5; p = 0.039) were significantly associated with overall mortality. Conclusion: The long-term mortality rate of IPF patients was higher than that of CTD-ILD patients. The GAP score and UIP patterns were significant mortality predictors for both IPF and CTD-ILD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) stands out as one of the most aggressive forms of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs), currently without a definitive cure. Multidisciplinary discussion (MDD) is now considered a cornerstone in diagnosing and differentiating ILD subtypes. The Gender-Age-Physiology (GAP) score, developed to assess IPF prognosis based on sex, age, forced vital capacity, and diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO), is limited in not considering dyspnea and functional impairment during the walking test. We proposed a MDD-based clinical score for mortality prediction among those patients. Methods: From December 2018 to December 2019, we enrolled ILD patients with IPF and non-IPF and followed-up them till December 2020. Based on DLCO, modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) Dyspnea Scale, and six-minute walking test (6MWT) distance, a functional score was developed for mortality prediction. Results: We enrolled 104 ILD patients, 12 (11.5%) died by the one-year follow-up. In receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, DLCO (% predicted) was the most accurate variable predicting one-year mortality with an area under curve (AUC) of 0.88 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.80–0.94), followed by mMRC Dyspnea Score (AUC = 0.82 [95% CI = 0.73–0.89]), 6MWT distance (AUC = 0.80 [95% CI = 0.71–0.88]), and GAP score (AUC = 0.77 [95% CI = 0.67–0.84]). Only the GAP score (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.55, 95% CI = 1.03–2.34, p = 0.0.37) and functional score (HR = 3.45, 95% CI = 1.11–10.73, p = 0.032) were significantly associated with one-year mortality in multivariable analysis. Conclusion: The clinical score composite of DLCO, mMRC Dyspnea Scale, and 6MWT distance could provide an accurate prediction for long-term mortality in ILD patients, laying out a helpful tool for managing and following these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]