Search

Mobile robot path planning has received more and more attention as an important technology in robotics. Based on the D* Lite algorithm, this paper constructs a robot path planning model in a grid map environment, and proposes a deep learning fusion algorithm for path planning under complex large maps. The D* Lite algorithm with excellent performance adopts the enhanced neural network algorithm with environment self-learning ability for local parts. The model introduces the gentle update method of the Q value in the D* Lite algorithm into the optimization target calculation, calculates the loss function and updates the network parameters, thereby solving the overestimation problem of deep reinforcement learning in the application of mobile robot path planning. In the simulation process, the idea of averaging is introduced into the e-greedy strategy, and the value function output by the previous generation parameter network is used to obtain the average result to determine the next action direction of the mobile robot. The experimental results show that in the simple environment and the complex environment, the planned path lengths in the environment are 44.21, 43.63 and 43.61 m, respectively, reducing the number of collisions with obstacles during the training process of the mobile robot, and improving the superiority and effectiveness of the algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiming at the key design variables of journal bearings, a novel optimization scheme is proposed to minimize oil leakage and power loss. For the first time, the inversion technology is introduced into the multi-objective optimization genetic algorithm under thermohydrodynamics. Using the hybrid optimization method (sequential quadratic programming and multi-objective optimization genetic algorithm) and the pareto optimal frontier method, the journal bearing model under the oil supply condition of oil groove (Model A) and oil hole (Model B) is optimized. More importantly, the oil leakage (QL) formula is exhaustively deduced, and good prediction results are obtained by simulating the data in literature. The optimization test results show that compared with the maximum errors (13% and 25%) of the power loss and leakage flow prediction results in literature, the maximum errors of this prediction model are 8% and 14%, respectively. In addition, compared with hybrid optimization method, the pareto optimal frontier has better advantages under inversion technology. Both methods can give good prediction results. The accuracy of this model is proved by comparing experimental data in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objective: The diagnosis and treatment of small bowel diseases (SBDs) has always been a challenge. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the value of double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) in the diagnosis and treatment of small bowel diseases. Method: The clinical data of 466 patients who underwent double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) in the Endoscope Center of Gastroenterology Department of the First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province from Jan. 2015 to Dec. 2020 were analysed retrospectively. The factors included age, sex, indications, endoscopic treatment results, pathological results, discharge diagnosis and so on. Results: A total of 370 patients underwent 466 double-balloon enteroscopies, among whom 274 underwent one examination and 96 received two-way examinations (oral and transanal approaches). Abnormalities were detected in 299 cases, with a detection rate of 80.81% (299/370). The common indications were occult gastrointestinal bleeding (OGIB) (30.8%, 114/370) and abdominal pain (28.3%, 105/370). The diagnosis rates were 64.9% and 77.1%, respectively. The common positive findings included nonspecific inflammation/erosion (60 cases), ulcers (34 cases), diverticulum (32 cases), polyps (26 cases) and Crohn's disease (CD) (24 cases). The common tumours were lymphoma(12 cases), adenocarcinoma(11 cases) and stromal tumour(8 cases). Lymphoma was mostly located in the ileum, while stromal tumours and adenocarcinoma were mostly located in the duodenum and jejunum. The main endoscopic intervention measures were haemostasis and polypectomy, including haemostatic clip, argon plasma coagulation (APC), endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), endoscopic trap resection, endoscopic foreign body extraction and other operations, without serious complications. Conclusion: DBE has a high success rate in the diagnosis and treatment of some SBDs, and it is a safe and effective management method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The industrial waste and recyclable resources are rationally utilized. • HPL sanding dust and PP-based food pails can be alternatives to manufacture WPC. • Excellent mechanical and environmental properties are simultaneously achieved. • WPC with residue materials has low carbon emission and high economic added value. • WPC with residue materials is in line with the sustainable development strategy. Plastic pollution caused by non-degradable petrochemical-based plastics has become a serious environmental problem in China, and the reasonable management of industrial waste and renewable resources remains a huge challenge. Here, we report environment-friendly wood-plastic composites (WPCs), prepared from decorative high-pressure laminate (HPL) sanding dust (filler) and waste thermoplastic food pails (matrix), as well as comprehensively evaluate the processability, mechanical and interfacial properties, indoor safety evaluation. The elemental composition and thermal stability of these two residue materials were suitable for the WPC manufacturing process. The content of HPL sanding dust in WPC was fixed at 60 wt%, and the amount of maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (MAPP) added was 5 wt%-7 wt%, which maximized the utilization of waste resources, and can obtain impact strength as high as 5–6 kJ/m2, tensile strength of 35–42 MPa and flexural strength as high as 43–46 MPa. The developed WPCs had low formaldehyde emissions (≤1.53 mg/m3) and slightly improved flame retardancy. Finally, their lower cost (5,035 yuan/ton) and higher eco-efficiency (12.81 yuan/kg CO 2) characteristics allowed them to be compatible with the current sustainable development requirements. This study provides a novel approach for the utilization of industrial waste and recyclable resources for sustainable replacement of wood-based products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A triple-band terahertz (THz) metamaterial absorber is suggested in this paper, which is formed by the sandwich design strategy consisting of a patterned surface structure on top of a gold substrate separated by an ultra-thin thickness of 14 μm dielectric spacer. This patterned surface structure is composed of two same-sized gold split rings connected by a gold strip, which is slightly deviated from the geometric center, resulting in unequal dimensions on the left and right sides of the surface structure. This metamaterial structure can achieve three near-perfect absorption peaks (labeled P1, P2 and P3) at terahertz region. The three absorption peaks achieved the absorption of 99.94, 97.67 and 98.71% respectively. The frequencies of the three discrete absorption peaks are P1 = 1.15 THz, P2 = 1.88 THz and P3 = 1.98 THz respectively. The number of absorption peaks and the resonance frequencies of these peaks can be adjusted by changing the deviation position of the connecting gold strip and the parameters of the two gold split rings. When the gold strip is located in the geometric center, only two absorption peaks can be obtained. When it deviates from the center position, the number of absorption peaks will change, and three resonance absorption peaks will be obtained. In addition, the width and length of the two gold split rings can change the resonance frequencies of the three absorption peaks. These results show that the suggested THz metamaterial absorbers have broad application prospects in sensing, detection, imaging and other fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Inter-particle water infiltration dynamics of iron ore fines and concentrates was investigated using Washburn Capillary Rising method to evaluate the effect of various raw material conditions presented in the iron ore sintering process. The final water content and initial infiltration rate of the ores were determined from the measured infiltration curves and found to be heavily affected by the ore type and the blending, pre-wetting and packing conditions. The final water content of the ores was found to increase with the voidage of the packed ore bed. Ores forming a more permeable bed with a larger voidage is expected to achieve a higher final water content. The final water content of the blended ores showed an intermediate value between the component ores and can be readily predicted from the final water content of the component ores. Like the dry ore, the pre-wetted ore showed a similar infiltration curve. However, compared with the dry ore, the pre-wetted ore picked a considerably less amount of water at the end of infiltration test because some voidages were occupied by initial water. The initial infiltration rate of the ores was found to be greatly governed by the specific surface area, then bed voidage and contact angle. The Canadian magnetite concentrate showed the fastest initial infiltration rate of 3.0 × 10-9 kg2/s likely due to its smallest specific surface area. On the other hand, the Brazilian ores consisting of micro-porous hematite measured the smallest infiltration rate of 3.2 × 10-10 kg2/s due to their largest specific surface area. Unlike the final water content, the initial infiltration rate of the blended ores cannot be readily calculated from the component ores due to the nonlinear relationship between the initial infiltration rate and specific surface area. Pre-wetting was believed to improve the wettability and connection of ores with infiltrated water, leading to a faster completion of infiltration. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Water infiltration behavior of iron ores was studied with capillary rising method. • Ores with higher bed voidage or lower bulk density achieved higher water contents. • The initial infiltration rate is greatly affected by the specific surface area. • Blended ores showed an intermediate behavior between the component ores. • Pre-wetting leads to a faster completion of infiltration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Key interactions between adhering fines and nucleus particles during iron ore sintering were systematically investigated. • The importance of ore mineralogy was clearly demonstrated and it has a significant impact on the interactions between adhering fines and nucleus particles in sintering. • A good formation ability and fluidity of initial melt enhanced the melt penetration into and assimilation with nucleus particles. • Selection of ores with appropriate formation ability and fluidity, as well as penetration and assimilation ability of initial melt in sinter blends is essential to sintering productivity and sinter quality. Sinter quality (strength and reducibility) plays an important role in reducing the GHG emissions from the blast furnace ironmaking process and is significantly influenced by the reactions occurring in the sintering bed. Formation and fluidity of the initial sinter melt from adhering fines and its interactions with coarse nucleus particles are the key sintering reactions. Hence understanding of these high temperature characteristics of iron ore is urgently needed in order to produce strong and reducible sinter and optimise resource utilisation. In the present study, laboratory scale sintering tests were carried out to examine the effect of adhering fines and nucleus particles from various ores on the characteristics of initial sinter melt formation, fluidity, as well as penetration and assimilation. The formation ability and fluidity of the initial melts from various adhering fines were quite different, and various iron ore fines required distinct CaO contents to form the melt and spread out. The ore type of adhering fines and substrates affected the penetration and assimilation ability of the initial melt, but a good formation ability and fluidity of initial melt was the basis of good penetration and assimilation ability. Based on the micro and macro sinter structure, the high temperature characteristics were further related to the sinter quality and sintering performance. This information is expected to provide excellent tools in formulating and optimising future low cost and low emission sinter blends. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetite concentrate is typically high in Fe grade and releases extra heat when oxidized to hematite. This will not only improve the sinter quality but also have a potential beneficial impact on the fuel consumption of the sintering process. However, most concentrates are very fine and less reactive, which will negatively impact the green bed permeability and sintering reactions and consequently the productivity of the sintering process. This paper first discusses the effect of magnetite concentrates on the granulation and sintering reactions and then reviews and comments on the technologies recently developed to address the adverse impact of magnetite concentrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic alterations in K-ras and p53 are thought to be critical in pancreatic cancer development and progression. However, K-ras and p53 expression in pancreatic adenocarcinoma have not been systematically examined in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) Data Portal. Information regarding K-ras and p53 alterations, mRNA expression data, and protein/protein phosphorylation abundance was retrieved from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases, and analyses were performed by the cBioPortal for Cancer Genomics. The mutual exclusivity analysis showed that events in K-ras and p53 were likely to co-occur in pancreatic adenocarcinoma (Log odds ratio = 1.599, P = 0.006). The graphical summary of the mutations showed that there were hotspots for protein activation. In the network analysis, no solid association between K-ras and p53 was observed in pancreatic adenocarcinoma. In the survival analysis, neither K-ras nor p53 were associated with both survival events. As in the data mining study in the TCGA databases, our study provides a new perspective to understand the genetic features of K-ras and p53 in pancreatic adenocarcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fatigue is not only a familiar symptom in our daily lives, but also a common ailment that affects all of our bodily systems. Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have proven Tai Chi to be beneficial for patients suffering from fatigue, however conclusive evidence is still lacking. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed on all RCTs reporting the effects of Tai Chi for fatigue. Methods: In the end of April 2016, seven electronic databases were searched for RCTs involving Tai Chi for fatigue. The search terms mainly included Tai Chi, Tai-ji, Taiji, fatigue, tiredness, weary, weak, and the search was conducted without language restrictions. Methodological quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. RevMan 5.3 software was used for meta-analysis. Publication bias was estimated with a funnel plot and Egger’s test. We also assessed the quality of evidence with the GRADE system. Results: Ten trials (n = 689) were included, and there was a high risk of bias in the blinding. Two trials were determined to have had low methodological quality. Tai Chi was found to have improved fatigue more than conventional therapy (standardized mean difference (SMD): -0.45, 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.70, -0.20) overall, and have positive effects in cancer-related fatigue (SMD:-0.38, 95% CI: -0.65, -0.11). Tai Chi was also more effective on vitality (SMD: 0.63, 95% CI: 0.20, 1.07), sleep (SMD: -0.32, 95% CI: -0.61, -0.04) and depression (SMD: -0.58, 95% CI: -1.04, -0.11). However, no significant difference was found in multiple sclerosis-related fatigue (SMD: -0.77, 95% CI: -1.76, 0.22) and age-related fatigue (SMD: -0.77, 95% CI: -1.78, 0.24). No adverse events were reported among the included studies. The quality of evidence was moderate in the GRADE system. Conclusions: The results suggest that Tai Chi could be an effective alternative and /or complementary approach to existing therapies for people with fatigue. However, the quality of the evidence was only moderate and may have the potential for bias. There is still absence of adverse events data to evaluate the safety of Tai Chi. Further multi-center RCTs with large sample sizes and high methodological quality, especially carefully blinded design, should be conducted in future research. Registration number: PROSPERO CRD42016033066 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potassium plays a key role in plant development and reproduction. In agricultural practice, potassium deficiency is common worldwide, and leads to crop growth inhibition and output reduction. In this study, we analysed the transcriptome of tobacco seedlings under low potassium stress. Tobacco seedlings with or without decreased potassium treatment were harvested after 0 (control), 6, 12, or 24 h and were submitted for microarray analysis. The results showed that up to 3790 genes were upregulated or downregulated more than 2-fold as a result of the decreased potassium treatment. Gene ontology analysis revealed significantly differentially expressed genes that were categorized as cation binding, transcription regulation, metabolic processes, transporter activity and enzyme regulation. Some potassium, nitrogen and phosphorus transporters; transcription factors; and plant signal molecules, such as CPKs were also significantly differentially expressed under potassium deficiency. Our results indicate that the expression profiles of a large number of genes involved in various plant physiological processes are significantly altered in response to potassium deficiency, which can result in physiological and morphological changes in tobacco plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as face masks and gloves during work is the most direct and efficient measure of preventing and reducing occupational diseases for workers exposed to organic solvents. However, the use of PPE among migrant workers is rarely studied in China. This article examines both individual and organizational factors associated with Chinese migrant workers’ compliance with the use of PPE, and also determines the relative importance of these factors. Data were collected in 2012 through a cross-sectional survey including 907 rural-to-urban migrants exposed to organic solvents working at small- and medium-size enterprises (SMEs) in the Pearl River Delta Region (PRDR). A Health Promotion Model (HPM) was used as a theoretical framework to examine the predictors affecting PPE use. Analysis was performed using two-level logistic regression. For the use of face masks, after controlling for other variables, higher scores on social models and interpersonal support were significant predictors for greater PPE use, with OR 1.24 (95% CI: 1.13–1.35) and OR 1.14 (95% CI: 1.03–1.27). In addition, after controlling for other variables, higher social models and social norms were significant predictors of glove use, with OR 1.36 (95% CI: 1.23–1.50) and OR 1.19 (95% CI: 1.09–1.32). Our results suggest that priority should be given to enhancing social modeling, social norms and interpersonal support as a strategy to improve migrant workers’ compliance with PPE use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To explore the relationship between health-related quality of life (HRQOL) status and associated factors among rural-to-urban migrants in China. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 856 rural-to-urban migrants working at small- and medium-size enterprises (SMEs) in Shenzhen and Zhongshan City in 2012. Andersen's behavioral model was used as a theoretical framework to exam the relationships among factors affecting HRQOL. Analysis was performed using structural equation modeling (SEM). Results: Workers with statutory working hours, higher wages and less migrant experience had higher HRQOL scores. Need (contracting a disease in the past two weeks and perception of needing health service) had the greatest total effect on HRQOL (β = −0.78), followed by enabling (labor contract, insurance purchase, income, physical examination during work and training) (β = 0.40), predisposing (age, family separation, education) (β = 0.22) and health practices and use of health service (physical exercise weekly, health check-up and use of protective equipments) (β = −0.20). Conclusions: Priority should be given to satisfy the needs of migrant workers, and improve the enabling resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The sintering of iron ore is presently a significant industrial source of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) worldwide owing to the fundamental requirement of the operation of a high temperature process to pre-treat fines and to recycle plant by-products arising from the integrated iron and steelworks. The process is a noteworthy contributor of PCDD/F indirectly due to decreasing PCDD/F releases from municipal solid waste incineration. Commonly PCDD/F formation from the process is associated with the addition of oily mill scales although raw material containing a combination of C, Cl and specific metal catalyst has been shown to drastically increase PCDD/F formation in the process. The degenerate graphitic structure of carbon present in coke fuel and soot formed and the chemistry of catalytic metals and Cl are important factors. A review on PCDD/F emission in this process has been carried out, including examination of its formation mechanism, congener distribution, contributing factors and mitigation strategies, with emphasis on the use of inhibiting compound to achieve suppression. A detailed analysis of the de novo and precursor theories of formation and the contributing factor is given since the subject of PCDD/F formation is still controversial. The de novo formation pathway identified in sinter plants and controlled studies performed in the laboratory as well as at pilot-scale are discussed; where appropriate, a comparison is drawn between sintering and other thermal processes emitting PCDD/Fs. Summary of the latest developments in PCDD/F downstream abatement strategies presently employed in full scale industrial plants is provided. Potential inhibiting compounds are discussed in terms of their mode of action and merits under sintering conditions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We propose a framework that uses (external) environment information to enhance computer security. The benefit of our framework is that the environment information is collected by sensors that are outside the control of a host and communicate to an external monitor via an out-of-band channel (w.r.t. the host), thus it cannot be compromised by malware on a host system. The information gathered still remains intact even if malware uses rootkit techniques to hide its activities. Our framework can be applied for a number of security applications: (1) intrusion detection; (2) rate monitoring/control of external resources; and (3) access control. We show that that the framework is useful even with coarse-grained and simple information. We present some experimental prototypes that employ the framework to detect/control email spam, detect/control DDoS zombie attacks and detect misuse of compute resources. Experimental evaluation shows that the framework is effecting in detecting or limiting the activities of such malware. The growing popularity of multimodal sensors and physical security information management systems suggests that such environmental sensors will become common making our framework cost effective and feasible in the near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A total of 182 Escherichia coli isolates from animals, environment and workers of dairy cattle, swine and chicken farms in Shandong which locates in Eastern China, were investigated for antimicrobial resistance as well as prevalence and the transfer mechanisms of integrons. The results revealed isolates from swine and chicken farm exhibited high levels of resistance to antimicrobial agents. The positive rate of gene cassette of class 1 integron in dairy cattle, swine and chicken farms was 5%, 20% and 41.94%, respectively. Only four isolates possessed class 2 integron, all of which were from chicken farm. Nine distinct cassette arrays were detected and two novel gene cassette arrays yheSΔ-yheR-kefBΔ and chrAΔ-sul1-qacEΔ1-orf5-aadA5-dfrA17 were identified in class 1 integron for the first time. Class 1 integrons were found to be located mostly in both chromosomal and conjugative plasmid through southern hybridization and conjugation. PFGE revealed clonal relatedness among the isolates from different sources, especially within the same farm. The results confirmed the antimicrobial resistance and prevalence of integrons were strongly associated with the selection pressure of antimicrobial agents, and resistance genes in animal farms were probably spread by both vertical and horizontal transfer. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This letter comments on the letter by Stefanacci et al. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present investigation, an Fe–Cr–C eutectic alloy was prepared from industry-grade materials and subjected to unidirectional solidification (UDS), through which new types of fibre reinforced composites, eutectic composites, were generated. The composites obtained were examined using X-ray diffraction (XRD), electron microprobe and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). According to XRD, the composites consist of three phases, i.e. γ, M7C3 and trace amounts of M23C6. While the compositions of γ and M7C3 were determined by electron microprobe analysis, M23C6 was not detected due to the limited amount present. Fibre morphology was studied as a function of solidification rate (R) using FESEM. Fibre diameter, spacing and regularity decreased with increasing solidification rate; however, the volume fraction of fibres remained essentially constant at around 32%. Mechanical testing was carried out on both eutectic composites and as cast alloys. The tensile strength of Fe–Cr–C eutectic composites varied parabolically with solidification rate. When R was 58 mm h−1, a maximum strength of 2300 MPa was reached, which is about seven times as strong as that of conventional high chromium cast iron of similar composition. Two other alloys with hyper- and hypo-eutectic compositions were included in the present investigation for comparison purposes. It was found that the presence of primary phases significantly diminished fibre regularity and, therefore, the material strength. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In the present study, two processes, thermal treatment and oxidation, were separated for a fundamental study of structural evolution during pyrolysis and combustion, as well as for the study of the influence of such evolution on char reactivity. Chars were prepared at different temperatures and heating rates from a size-graded low volatile bituminous coal. The reactivity of resultant chars was measured in Kinetic Regime I using a fixed bed reactor. The structure of fresh and partly burnt chars was characterized using quantitative XRD analysis (QXRDA), high-resolution TEM (HRTEM), high-resolution FESEM, and multi-point gas adsorption.Both QXRDA and HRTEM observations show that char structure becomes more ordered with increasing pyrolysis temperature and decreasing heating rate. Char structure was also investigated as a function of char burnoff. The QXRDA results show that the amorphous concentration of char decreases during combustion while the aromaticity and average crystallite size of char increase. As a result, char structure becomes more ordered during combustion. This is in agreement with HRTEM observations. Due to the low reaction temperature (about 673 K), which is much lower than that for char preparation (1473 K), it was believed that oxidation, instead of thermal effect, contributed to the structural ordering observed during combustion. The structural parameters obtained from QXRDA were then correlated to char reactivity. Structural ordering was found to be responsible for char deactivation during thermal treatment and oxidation. Since the amorphous concentration and aromaticity of char are two strongest indicators of char reactivity, a structural disorder index, DOI, was defined based on them to describe char structural evolution, and further correlated to char reactivity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this study, the evolution of microstructure and its correlation with the viscosity of CaO–SiO 2 -based melts, incorporating various Al 2 O 3 additives, have been investigated by employing in situ high temperature Raman spectroscopy and viscosity model. Raman spectra of the melts were procured at 1823 K by using in situ high temperature Raman spectroscopy. After considering the intricate influences of temperature and Raman scattering cross section (RSCS), the original Raman spectra of aluminosilicate melts underwent calibration. Subsequently, the distribution of microstructure species Q i (i = 0–4) was quantitatively performed through meticulous deconvolution of calibrated Raman spectra. The evolution of Q i species with the increasing Al 2 O 3 content reveals a decrease in Q 1 and Q 2 species, while the fully polymerized Q 4 experiences a continuous and significant growth. Concurrently, Q 3 initially exhibits an upward trend followed by a subsequent decline. The Q i evolution culminates in an overall enhancement of the degree of polymerization. Viscosity was determined by utilizing a rigorously selected viscosity model, elucidating a consistent upward trajectory as Al 2 O 3 content is incrementally added. Furthermore, a quantitative analysis of the relationship between viscosity and structure was conducted based on the average number of non-bridging oxygen per network-forming tetrahedron (NBO/T). The findings demonstrate a robust linear relationship between the logarithm of viscosity and NBO/T, thereby offering valuable insights for examining and predicting viscosity behavior of aluminosilicate systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the design of triple-band terahertz metamaterial absorber, whose surface structure is a nested-type metallic pattern composed of two pairs of splitting arcs, of which the inner two splitting arcs have the same but smaller size, while the outer two possess the same but larger dimension. The surface patterned structure can strongly interact with the incident terahertz beam, resulting in three narrow-band and discrete resonance peaks having higher than 94% absorption rates. Near-field patterns of the three absorption peaks are discussed to insight into the physical mechanism of these peaks, it is revealed that the first two absorption peaks result from the dipole resonance of the inner two splitting arcs and outer pair of splitting arcs, respectively, while the last absorption peak is caused by surface propagation resonance of the surface patterned resonator. The effect of structure parameters, including the sizes of splitting arcs and the spacing between two pairs of splitting arcs, on the absorption properties, is further analyzed. The absorber suggested here could provide guidance for the design of multiple-band metamaterial absorbers, and could find great application prospects in terahertz technology-related areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This article aims to summarize the key characteristics of registered trials of 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19), in terms of their spatial and temporal distributions, types of design and interventions, and patient characteristics among others.Methods: A comprehensive search of the registered COVID-19 trials has been performed on platforms including ClinicalTrials.gov, WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (WHO ICTRP), Chinese Clinical Trials Registry (CHiCTR), Australian Clinical Trials Registry, Britain's National Research Register (BNRR), Current Control Trials (CCT), and Glaxo Smith Kline Register. Trials registered at the first 8 weeks of the COVID-19 outbreak are included, without language restrictions. For each study, the registration information, study design, and administrator information are collected and summarized.Results: A total of 220 registered trials were evaluated as of February 27, 2020. Hospital-initiated trials were the majority and account for 80% of the sample. Among the trials, pilot studies and phase 4 trials are more common and represent 35% and 19.1% of the sample, respectively. The median sample size of the registered trials is 100, with interquartile range 60-240. Further, 45.9% of the trials mentioned information on a data monitoring committee. 54.5% of the trials did not specify the disease severity among patients they intend to recruit. Four types of interventions are most common in the experimental groups across the registered studies: antiviral drugs, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), biological agents, and hormone drugs. Among them, the TCM and biological agents are frequently used in pilot study and correspond to a variety of primary endpoints. In contrast, trials with antiviral drugs have more targeted primary outcomes such as "COVID-19 nucleic acid test" and "28-day mortality."Conclusions: We provide an evidence mapping and analysis of registered COVID-19 clinical trials in China. In particular, it is critical for ongoing and future studies to refine their research hypothesis and better identify their intervention therapies and the corresponding primary outcomes. It is also imperative for multiple public health divisions and research institutions to work together for integrative clinical data capture and sharing, with a common objective of improving future studies that evaluate COVID-19 interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the impact of different statins therapies on the reduction of carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) may reflect their cardiovascular benefits which is useful in clinical decision. Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were searched, and 3539 articles published from 1992 to 2020 were retrieved. CIMT in randomized controlled trials for statins therapies were included for traditional and network meta-analyses analyzed by Stata 16. The quality of included studies was assessed by the Cochrane Collaboration's tool. Results: Thirty-three randomized controlled trials (n=8762) were eligible for network meta-analysis, of which 18 randomized controlled trials (n=5252) were included for comparison between statins and no statins and 11 randomized controlled trials (n=1338) were included for comparison between high-intensity statins or combination with niacin/ezetimibe and moderate/low-intensity statins in 2 traditional meta-analyses. In the traditional meta-analyses, the statins groups significantly reduce CIMT compared to no statins (standard mean difference=−0.207, 95% confidence interval: −0.291 to −0.123, p<0.001), while high-intensity statins or combination with niacin/ezetimibe performed significant CIMT reduction compared to moderate/low-intensity statins (standard mean difference=−0.287, 95% confidence interval: −0.460 to −0.114, p=0.001). In the network meta-analysis, a relative rank for the ability to reduce CIMT was given as follows: combination therapy with niacin (mean rank: 1.7), high-intensity statins, combination therapy with ezetimibe, and moderate/low-intensity statins. Conclusion: Statins combined with niacin performed a greater CIMT reduction compared to high-intensity statins alone and combination therapies with ezetimibe. The advantage of niacin-combined statins therapies to improve cardiovascular endpoint needs further validation through randomized controlled trials. Clinical trial registration: PROSPERO, CRD42020175972 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silico-ferrite of calcium and aluminum (SFCA) is one of the most commonly-produced phases in fluxed iron-ore sintering, and has long been regarded as an important bonding phase in industrial sinters. It is thus considered to have a significant effect on sinter quality. In this study, a solid solution model and database has been developed for the SFCA phase, and has been incorporated into the thermodynamic software, Multi-Phase Equilibrium (MPE). MPE calculations were compared with the in situ X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) observations of the formation of SFCA phase during sintering. The effects of the raw material composition, temperature and the oxygen partial pressure on the formation of mineral phases in the sinter, as well as the viscosity of the melt formed during sintering under equilibrium conditions, were modelled using MPE. The results show that the formation of SFCA phase can be promoted by increasing oxygen partial pressure and basicity of the raw material. Increases of Al2O3 and MgO content have no significant effect on the SFCA formation under equilibrium condition. The increase of oxygen partial pressure (10−3 atm or above) and basicity also leads to a decrease in melt viscosity, which enhances the fluidity of the melt, and hence, the assimilation of the sinter. However, increases of Al2O3 and MgO result in the increase of melt viscosity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study identifies inequities in the provincial-level geographical distribution of traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) hospital beds and doctors in China from 2004 to 2014. This provides policy implications of the optimal allocation of TCM health care resources. Methods: Our study used province level data on TCM hospital beds and doctors from 2004 to 2014. These data were obtained from the China TCM Yearbook 2004–2014 and the China Statistical Yearbook 2004–2014.Global and local spatial autocorrelation was performed by using Moran's index and the local Moran's index to describe the spatial distribution of TCM hospital beds (doctors) as well as their density. A Gini coefficient was used to estimate inequalities in the geographic distribution of TCM hospital beds (doctors) based on their density. Correlations of the Gini coefficients between TCM hospital beds and doctors were calculated by Pearson correlation analysis. Results: All indicators of TCM hospital beds and doctor density have increased over the past 11 years. The number of TCM hospital beds per 10,000 populations increased the fastest. Geographical clustering was not obvious in the density distribution of TCM hospital beds or doctors, as no significant spatial autocorrelation was found. Gini coefficients showed that from 2004 to 2014 the distribution of TCM hospital beds per 10,000 population and doctors per 10,000 populations were equitable between different regions. A large gap existed in the distribution inequality of TCM hospital beds (doctors) per square kilometer among different regions. Conclusion: Targeted health policy with equitable distribution of TCM hospital beds (doctors) per square kilometer and the balance and coordination of related resources should be a priority in shaping China's healthcare system reform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tobacco is a critical cash crop in China, so its growing status has received more and more attention. How to acquire accurate plant area, row spacing, and plant spacing at the same time have been key points for its grow status monitoring and yield prediction. However, accurately detecting small and densely arranged tobacco plants during the rosette stage poses a significant challenge. In Sichuan Province, the contours of scattered tobacco fields with different shapes are not well-extracted. Additionally, there is a lack of simultaneous methods for extracting crucial tobacco planting information, including area, row spacing, and plant spacing. In view of the above scientific problems, we proposed a method to extract the planting information of tobacco at the rosette stage with Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) remote sensing images. A detection model, YOLOv8s-EFF, was constructed for the small and weak tobacco in the rosette stage. We proposed an extraction algorithm for tobacco field area based on extended contours for different-shaped fields. Meanwhile, a planting distance extraction algorithm based on tobacco coordinates was presented. Further, four experimental areas were selected in Sichuan Province, and image processing and sample label production were carried out. Four isolated tobacco fields with different shapes in four experimental areas were used to preliminarily verify the effectiveness of the model and algorithm proposed. The results show that the precision ranges of tobacco field area, row spacing, and plant spacing were 96.51~99.04%, 90.08~99.74%, and 94.69~99.15%, respectively. And another two experimental areas, Jiange County, Guangyuan, and Dazhai County, Gulin County, and Luzhou, were selected to evaluate the accuracy of the method proposed in the research in practical application. The results indicate that the average accuracy of tobacco field area, row spacing, and plant spacing extracted by this method reached 97.99%, 97.98%, and 98.31%, respectively, which proved the extraction method of plant information is valuable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the structural behaviors of Al3+ in aluminosilicate systems, the microstructural characteristics of CaO–SiO 2 -based glassy samples with various Al 2 O 3 contents were examined quantitatively by Raman spectroscopy and 27Al MAS NMR. A sequence of multiple model clusters of aluminosilicate systems modified with Ca2+ and Na ​+ ​cations was designed. Then quantum chemistry (QC) ab initio calculations were performed for geometric optimization, and Raman spectral simulations were carried out. The functional relationship between the Raman scattering cross section (RSCS) and stress index of silicon-oxygen tetrahedron (SIT) for aluminosilicates was established, which was successfully applied to calibrate experimental Raman spectra. Some fivefold coordinated aluminum (AlⅤ, approximately 5%) and less than 2% sixfold coordinated aluminum (AlⅥ) were detected by 27Al MAS NMR, while most aluminum remained in tetrahedral sites (AlⅣ). The ever-finer quantitative results of Raman spectroscopy and NMR showed a gradual production of AlⅣ with the addition of Al 2 O 3 , along with a significant adjustment in Q i species distribution. Specifically, Q 1 , Q 2 decreased, fully polymerized Q 4 increased and Q 3 showed a nonmonotonic variation and obtained the maximum at Al 2 O 3 ​= ​12 ​mol%. Furthermore, the effects of aluminum on bridging oxygen bond types (T-O b , T ​= ​Si, Al) and the degree of polymerization were discussed in detail. These structural features related to composition are essential theoretic foundations for understanding the properties of these systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses physician's pledge and Chinese junior physicians with clause "I WILL ATTEND TO" my own health, well-being, and abilities in order to provide care of the highest standard. it mentions importance of occupational health promotion programmes to junior physicians. it also mentions efforts towards addressing the challenges faced by junior physicians.

Objective. To explore the methods for improving the reporting quality of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on acupuncture through evaluating the reporting quality in RCTs of acupuncture for acute herpes zoster by the CONSORT statement and STRICTA guidelines. Methods. English and Chinese databases were searched from database creation until October 2018 and updated to July 2019. The basic characteristics and methodological quality of the literatures included were evaluated based on the CONSORT statement and the STRICTA guidelines. Descriptive statistical analysis was used in this study. The agreement between the two researchers of all items was calculated by Cohen's kappa statistics. Results. A total of 40 RCTs were included. Based on the CONSORT statement, items "Background," "Randomised" in the title or abstract," "Statistical methods," and "Outcomes and estimation" were good reporting, with positive rates >80%. However, the quality of reporting in items "Sample size," "Allocation concealment," "Implementation," "Blinding," "Flow chart," "Intent-to-treat analysis," "Ancillary analyses," and "Clinical Trials Register" was very poor, with positive rates <10%. Based on the STRICTA guidelines, good reporting existed in items "Acupuncture rational," "Points used," "Needle stimulation," "Needle retention time," "Course of treatment," "Control intervention," and "Treatment frequency," with positive ratings >80%. The reporting quality of items "Numbers of needles inserted," "Depth of insertion," "Responses elicited," and "Practitioner background" was lower, with positive rates <50%. The agreement of most items was judged as moderate, substantial, or good.Conclusion. The reporting quality of RCTs in acupuncture for acute HZ is generally inadequate. It is necessary that researchers and journal editors learn and raise the adoption of the CONSORT statement and STRICTA guidelines to enhance the reporting quality of the RCTs in acupuncture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to help predict the properties of molten salts electrolytes and aluminium brazing flux used in the Hall–Héroult process and in aluminium brazing, the microstructure of binary KF‐AlF3 system from 298 K to its molten states was explored by in situ high‐temperature Raman spectroscopy in argon atmosphere. Comparing with experimental Raman spectra in molten system, quantum chemistry ab initio simulations were used to calculate the symmetric stretching vibrational modes of probable clusters in the melts. The molten KF‐AlF3 system was found to comprise monomer [AlF6]3−, [AlF5]2−, [AlF4]−, and dimer [Al2F7]− clusters. With the increase of KF content in the melts, the major species changes from [AlF4]− tetrahedra to [AlF6]3− octahedra. From the deconvoluted measured Raman spectra, the mole fractions of varied clusters in the system were also calculated. As the KF:AlF3 ratio was increased from 1 to 3, the content of [AlF6]3− in the melt increased from 22.30 to 98.83 mol%, whereas the [AlF4]− content decreased from 68.92 to 0.33 mol%. [AlF5]2− and [Al2F7]− clusters were also found in small amounts in the melts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: Poststroke fatigue (PSF) is a common complication after stroke. However, information on the global prevalence of PSF and how this varies geographically and by population is lacking. Our aim was to examine the global prevalence of PSF and identify sources of heterogeneity in the published literature. Methods: Four medical databases (PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews) were searched from their inception to 28 February 2022. The Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Instrument for studies reporting prevalence data (JBI) was used to assess the risk of bias (ROB) of the included studies. The primary outcome was the prevalence of PSF determined using a random-effects model. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression models were used to define the source of heterogeneity. Results: In all, 66 studies with 11,697 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The overall quality of the included studies was medium. The global pooled prevalence of PSF in stroke survivors was 46.79% (95% confidence interval (CI), 43.41–50.18%). The prevalence estimates of PSF based on the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory-20 (MFI-20), and Fatigue Assessment Scale (FAS) were 47.44% (95% CI, 43.20–51.67%), 51.69% (95% CI, 44.54–58.83%), and 36.13% (95% CI, 23.07–49.18%), respectively. Prevalence rates of PSF were higher in females (53.19%; 95% CI, 46.46–59.92%), in hemorrhagic stroke (57.54%; 95% CI, 40.55–74.53%), in those with a college degree or higher (53.18%; 95% CI, 42.82–63.54%), and in those with unmarried or divorced status (59.78%; 95% CI, 44.72–74.83%). Conclusions: The prevalence of PSF in stroke survivors is high, affecting almost half of all stroke sufferers. PSF rates were higher with female gender, being unmarried or divorced, having a higher educational level, and being hemorrhagic compared to ischemic stroke. Trial registration: PROSPERO (CRD42021269441). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: This paper aimed to evaluate the use of nonpharmacological interventions for the management of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The effects of acupuncture and behavioural therapy, two nonpharmalogical interventions, on social function in ASD patients are still controversial. This meta-analysis investigated the impact of these two treatments and compared their effects. Methods: Seven electronic databases were systematically searched to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the use of acupuncture or behavioural therapy for ASD. A meta-analysis was carried out using Review Manager 5.4 software. Continuous data are reported as mean differences (MDs) or standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). An assessment of methodological quality using the Cochrane risk-of-bias (ROB) tool for trials was carried out. The Grading of Recommendation Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) was applied to evaluate the quality (certainty) of evidence for results regarding social function indicators. Results: Thirty RCTs on acupuncture and 36 on behavioural therapy were included. Compared with the control condition, body acupuncture (SMD: 0.76, 95% CI: [0.52, 1.01]; low certainty), modern acupuncture technology (SMD: 0.84, 95% CI: [0.32, 1.35]; low certainty), cognitive behavioural therapy (SMD: 0.42, 95% CI: [0.26, 0.58]; high certainty), the Denver model (SMD: 0.61, 95% CI: [0.23, 0.99]; moderate certainty) and social skills training (SMD: 0.56, 95% CI: [0.41, 0.71]; moderate certainty) improved social functioning. Conclusion: Behavioural therapies (such as CBT, the Denver model, social skills training), improved the social functioning of patients with ASD in the short and long term, as supported by high- and moderate-quality evidence. Acupuncture (including scalp acupuncture, body acupuncture and use of modern acupuncture technology) also improved social functioning, as supported by low- and very low-quality evidence. More high-quality evidence is needed to confirm the effect of acupoint catgut embedding and Early Intensive Behavioural Intervention (EIBI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and mesothelioma are renowned for being diagnosed at a late stage and poor prognosis. Although surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy have yielded successful outcomes, the improvement on the survival rate of NSCLC and mesothelioma have been less marked. Recently, adoptive immunotherapy, particularly chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy demonstrated promise for improving the survival of acute lymphoblastic leukemia with minimum toxicity. However, its application in solid tumors still warrants in-depth investigations and multiple consistent trial results, particularly in eliminating 'off-tumor' toxicity. To explore CAR-T therapy in NSCLC and mesothelioma, second-generation CAR-T cells were constructed targeting mesothelin (MSLN), which is abundant in NSCLC and mesothelioma but is under expressed in normal tissues. The second-generation design incorporated co-stimulatory CD28 and 4-1BB signaling domains to enhance the proliferation. Following the successful analysis of CAR-T cells by flow cytometry, cytotoxicity experiments were performed using the LDH kit to verify the killing effect of CAR-T cells on target cells. Otherwise, the in vivo killing tumor activity of MSLN CAR-T cells was verified by constructing a mouse model using tumor-derived cells from patients to inoculate the mice. When the effector-to-target ratio is >0.5:1, CAR-T MSLN cells exhibited significantly higher ability to kill tumor cells than T cells. In in vivo experiments, mice whose tail vein was injected with CAR-T MSLN cells demonstrated significantly slower tumor growth. Without continuous administration, both groups became gradually synchronized in growth of tumor size, which suggests that the persistence of CAR-T cells is an important issue in preclinical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CuCl residue is a hazardous waste from the hydrometallurgical zinc recovery plant. It is very difficult to recycle due to complicated composition, highly corrosive nature, and refractory characteristics. Recently, a new process of microwave drying and roasting was successfully developed to produce both CuO solid and HCl gas products from the CuCl residue. In this paper, the dielectric property of the CuCl residue was measured under different moisture contents. The microwave absorption characteristics of the CuCl residue improved considerably as its moisture content increased. Laboratory-scale drying tests were conducted to evaluate the kinetics of microwave drying and to optimize the operation parameters. The efficiency of microwave drying was further demonstrated in industrial-scale level by microwave dryer developed in in-house. Finally, the drying mechanism of microwave heating of the sticky material was discussed and several measurements were optimized/implemented to intensify the drying process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To estimate the efficacy of multiple psychosocial interventions for opioid‐dependent people receiving methadone maintenance treatment (MMT). Methods: Systematic review and network meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reporting the effect of psychosocial intervention for opioid‐dependent people receiving MMT in outpatient clinics. We searched multiple data sources (Medline, Embase, Web of Science, PsycINFO and Cochrane Library) from inception to January 2022, finding 21 RCTs evaluating a total of 2862 people with opioid dependence receiving MMT. The primary outcome was the opioid‐positive rate (assessed by urinalysis) and the secondary outcome was treatment discontinuation (the number of patients who terminated the study for any reason). We performed random‐effects Bayesian meta‐analysis. We used relative ranking using surface under the cumulative ranking method and certainty of evidence using grading of recommendations, assessment, development and evaluations. Results: Cognitive–behavioral therapy (CBT) [odds ratio (OR) = 0.66, 95% credible interval (CI) = 0.66–0.96; low certainty] and educational and behavioral counseling (EBC) (OR = 0.28, 95% CI = 0.12–0.25; high certainty) were more effective than treatment as usual (TAU) in efficacy. In terms of treatment discontinuation, at the end of the follow‐up period there was no statistical significance among psychosocial interventions. According to the ranking probabilities, EBC might be the most effective treatment and behavioral couples' therapy (BCT) might be the best discontinuation treatment. Conclusions: Educational and behavioral counseling and cognitive–behavioral therapy appear to be the most effective psychosocial interventions for opioid‐dependent people receiving methadone maintenance treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accumulation of foam cells in arterial intima and the accompanied chronic inflammation are considered major causes of neoatherosclerosis and restenosis. However, both the underlying mechanism and effective treatment for the disease are yet to be uncovered. In this study, we combined transcriptome profiling of restenosis artery tissue and bioinformatic analysis to reveal that NLRP3 inflammasome is markedly upregulated in restenosis and that several restenosis‐related DEGs are also targets of mulberry extract, a natural dietary supplement used in traditional Chinese medicine. We demonstrated that mulberry extract suppresses the formation of ox‐LDL‐induced foam cells, possibly by upregulating the cholesterol efflux genes ABCA1 and ABCG1 to inhibit intracellular lipid accumulation. In addition, mulberry extract dampens NLRP3 inflammasome activation by stressing the MAPK signaling pathway. These findings unveil the therapeutic value of mulberry extract in neoatherosclerosis and restenosis treatment by regulating lipid metabolism and inflammatory response of foam cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) has been increasingly used to treat unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC). However, the superiority of combination therapy to TACE monotherapy remains controversial. Therefore, here we performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy and safety of TACE plus TKIs in patients with uHCC. Methods: We searched four databases for eligible studies. The primary outcome was time to progression (TTP), while the secondary outcomes were overall survival (OS), tumor response rates, and adverse events (AEs). Pooled hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were collected for TTP and OS, and the data were analyzed using random-effects meta-analysis models in STATA software. OR and 95% CIs were used to estimate dichotomous variables (complete remission[CR], partial remission[PR], stable disease[SD], progressive disease[PD], objective response rate[ORR], disease control rate[DCR], and AEs) using RStudio’s random-effects model. Quality assessments were performed using the Newcastle–Ottawa scale (NOS) for observational studies and the Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Results: The meta-analysis included 30 studies (9 RCTs, 21 observational studies) with 8246 patients. We judged the risk of bias as low in 44.4% (4/9) of the RCTs and high in 55.6% (5/9) of the RCTs. All observational studies were considered of high quality, with a NOS score of at least 6. Compared with TACE alone or TACE plus placebo, TACE combined with TKIs was superior in prolonging TTP (combined HR 0.72, 95% CI 0.65–0.80), OS (combined HR 0.57, 95% CI 0.49–0.67), and objective response rate (OR 2.13, 95% CI 1.23–3.67) in patients with uHCC. However, TACE plus TKIs caused a higher incidence of AEs, especially hand-foot skin reactions (OR 87.17%, 95%CI 42.88–177.23), diarrhea (OR 18.13%, 95%CI 9.32–35.27), and hypertension (OR 12.24%, 95%CI 5.89–25.42). Conclusions: Our meta-analysis found that TACE plus TKIs may be beneficial for patients with uHCC in terms of TTP, OS, and tumor response rates. However, combination therapy is also associated with a significantly increased risk of adverse reactions. Therefore, we must evaluate the clinical benefits and risks of combination therapy. Further well-designed RCTs are needed to confirm our findings. Trial registration: PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022298003. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are major component in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and play regulatory role in tumor progression. We aimed to investigate the infiltration and prognostic value of TAMs in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) and to reveal the underlying mechanism of TAM subgroups in tumorigenesis. Methods: Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining were performed to define the tumor nest and stroma of LSCC tissue microarrays. CD206 + /CD163 + and iNOS + TAM infiltrating profiles were obtained and analyzed through double-labeling immunofluorescence and immunohistochemical staining. The recurrence-free (RFS) and overall survival (OS) curves based on the infiltration of TAMs were plotted using the Kaplan-Meier method. Infiltration of macrophages, T lymphocytes and their corresponding subgroups were analyzed in fresh LSCC tissue samples by flow cytometry. Results: We found that CD206+ rather than CD163+ M2-like TAMs were the most enriched population in the TME of human LSCC. CD206+ macrophages localized mostly in the tumor stroma (TS) rather than the tumor nest (TN) region. In contrast, relatively low infiltration of iNOS+ M1-like TAMs were found in the TS and almost none in the TN region. High level of TS CD206+ TAM infiltration correlated with poor prognosis. Interestingly, we identified a HLA-DRhigh CD206+ macrophage subgroup that was significantly associated with the tumor-infiltrating CD4+ T lymphocytes and showed different surface costimulatory molecule expression than that of the HLA-DRlow/-CD206+ subgroup. Taken together, our results indicate that HLA-DRhigh-CD206+ is a highly activated subgroup of CD206 + TAMs that may interact with CD4 + T cells through MHC-II axis and promote tumorigenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel process involving microwave roasting of slurry mixtures of diasporic bauxite and alkaline solutions followed by dilute alkaline leaching, is proposed for extracting alumina from low grade diasporic bauxite ores. It was found that when the mole ratio of m NaOH / ( m Al + m Fe ) and m Ca / m Si in the slurry mixture was close to 1 and 2, the Al and Si contained in the bauxite were completely liberated into soluble NaAlO 2 and insoluble CaSiO 4 after roasting using a 1.0 kW microwave source at 800 °C for 20 min. The roasting process significantly improved the performance of the downstream leaching processing. The extraction of Al reached 97% while that of Si was as low as 7%, on leaching in low-concentration alkali solution at 80 °C under atmospheric pressure for 20 min. A new mechanism involving flashing, layering and homogeneous reaction is proposed for the new microwave roasting process. The key steps proposed are: creation of a hot core at the peak location of the electric field, preheating of the outer layer facilitated by heat conduction and vapor from the hot core, and finally microwave heating of the outer layer due to increasing dielectric loss and decreasing penetration depth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acupotomy intervention (AI) is an available treatment for knee osteoarthritis (KOA) in China, which is a common health problem over the world. However, the underlying mechanism of AI on the KOA treatment is still unknown. To further understand the mechanism of acupotomy in treating KOA, the morphological observation and TMT proteomic analyses were conducted in rabbits. By using X-ray and MRI, we found that the space of the knee joint was bigger in AI than in KOA. Moreover, the chondrocytes were neatly arranged in AI but disordered in KOA. With proteomic analyses in chondrocytes, 68 differently accumulated proteins (DAPs) were identified in AI vs. KOA and DAPs related to energy metabolism and the TCA cycle were suggested to play a central role in response to AI. Furthermore, AIFM1 was proposed to be an important regulator in controlling the energy production in mitochondrial. Besides, FN1, VIM, COL12A1, COL14A1, MYBPH, and DPYSL3 were suggested to play crucial roles in AI for the treatment of KOA. Our study was systematically elucidating the regulation mechanism of acupotomy intervention in the treatment of KOA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the cognitive effectiveness and safety of tau‐targeting drugs for Alzheimer's disease (AD) Methods: The MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, ClinicalTrials.gov, and WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform databases were searched from inception to 22 November 2021. A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials were performed Results: Thirty‐four randomized controlled trials comprising 5549 participants, of which fifteen (51.7%) had a low risk of bias, were included. The meta‐analysis showed no differences in the cognitive subscale of the AD: Assessment Scale (ADAS‐Cog) between anti‐tau drugs and placebo (mean difference [MD]: −0.77, 95% CI: −1.64 to 0.10; minimal important difference 3.1–3.8 points, moderate certainty evidence). For ADAS‐Cog, the results subgroup analysis suggested a statistical effect of tau posttranslational modifications on drug inhibition (MD: −0.80, 95% CI: −1.43 to −0.17), which was not seen with tau aggregation inhibitors or immunotherapy (interaction p = 0.24). A total of 11.0%, 5.2%, and 4.8% of drugs inhibiting tau aggregation, immunotherapy, and drugs targeting posttranslational modifications, respectively, had a reduced risk of dropouts due to adverse events (AEs). Discussion: Current evidence suggests that anti‐tau drugs are unlikely to have an important impact on slowing cognitive impairment. Although the subgroup analysis suggested that inhibition of tau posttranslational modifications is statistically effective and generally safer because of reduced dropouts due to AEs, the analysis has limited credibility. Additional large‐scale and well‐designed randomized and placebo‐controlled trials will be necessary to explore the benefit of a certain type of anti‐tau drug for AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of MgO on the microstructures and macroscopic properties of SiO2‐poor/rich MgO‐CaO‐SiO2 melts was investigated by in situ high temperature time‐gated Raman spectroscopy coupled with aerodynamic levitation heating of molten samples. Results of density functional theory calculations of Mg2SiO4, γ‐Ca2SiO4, and MgCaSiO4 crystals and quantum chemistry ab initio simulations of Q0 species (Q0 refers to tetrahedral Si‐O units without bridging oxygen) of SiO2‐poor series MgO‐CaO‐SiO2 molten samples certified that with the substitution of CaO by MgO, the variation of Raman intensity at 900–1100 cm−1 of xMgO‐(2‐x)CaO‐SiO2 melts was caused by the antisymmetric stretching vibration modes of distorted silicon‐oxygen tetrahedra. The experimental result of SiO2‐rich series of MgO‐CaO‐SiO2 molten samples could identify various Qi species quantitatively and demonstrated that with the substitution of CaO by MgO, the abundance of Q3 species dramatically decreased, but Q4 species increased slightly, whereas Q1 and Q2 species maintain insignificant change. A positive correlation between viscosity and the abundance ratio of Q3 to Q4 was assumed and illustrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Accumulating research suggests that psychotherapy helps improve abstinence but the difference in the efficacy of multiple psychotherapies in alcohol use disorder (AUD) remains to be explored. Patients and Methods: A systematic search of databases (Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and EBSCO) for studies (published from inception to April 10th.) of adults diagnosed with AUD accepting psychotherapies was conducted. Studies covering 9 countries and regions. The qualitative analysis pooled 2646 individuals from 34 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and the networks included 1928 participants (23 RCTs). The outcomes included percentage of days abstinent (PDA), change in drinks per drinking day (change in DDD), and change in craving compared among individuals accepting various psychotherapies. The protocol followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), and was registered on the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO). Results: For the network of PDA, motivational enhancement treatment (MET) (35.44, 11.78 to 59.09, high-certainty) and couple therapy (CT) (28.89, 13.42 to 44.36, moderate-certainty) were significantly different from treatment as usual (TAU) with the surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) mean rank 1.9 and 1.9 respectively. TAU+supportive psychotherapy (SP) was better than TAU for the change in DDD in the high-quality direct comparison. Conclusion: The motivational enhancement and the couple therapy show potential amelioration for alcohol abstinence. Additionally, the preferred interventions are different for improving PDA and change in DDD. The evidence network remains to be strengthened. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Comprehensive analysis on the superiority of Y. lipolytica. • Up-to-date overview of synthetic biology tools in Y. lipolytica. • First review on synthesis of diverse natural products by Y. lipolytica. • In-depth discussion on challenges and future perspectives for the production of natural products. With the rapid development of synthetic biology, researchers can design, modify, or even synthesize microorganisms de novo , and microorganisms endowed with unnatural functions can be considered "artificial life" and facilitate the development of functional products. Based on this concept, researchers can solve critical problems related to the insufficient supply of natural products, such as low yields, long production cycles, and cumbersome procedures. Due to its superior performance and unique physiological and biochemical characteristics, Yarrowia lipolytica is a favorable chassis cell used for green biomanufacturing by numerous researchers. This paper mainly reviews the development of synthetic biology techniques for Y. lipolytica and summarizes the recent research progress on the synthesis of natural products in Y. lipolytica. This review will promote the continued innovative development of Y. lipolytica by providing theoretical guidance for research on the biosynthesis of natural products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) is a major life‐threatening complication of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT). Inflammatory signaling pathways promote T‐cell activation and are involved in the pathogenesis of GVHD. Suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 (SOCS1) is a critical negative regulator for several inflammatory cytokines. However, its regulatory role in T‐cell activation and GVHD has not been elucidated. Multiomics analysis of the transcriptome and chromatin structure of granulocyte‐colony‐stimulating‐factor (G‐CSF)‐administered hyporesponsive T cells from healthy donors reveal that G‐CSF upregulates SOCS1 by reorganizing the chromatin structure around the SOCS1 locus. Parallel in vitro and in vivo analyses demonstrate that SOCS1 is critical for restraining T cell activation. Loss of Socs1 in T cells exacerbates GVHD pathogenesis and diminishes the protective role of G‐CSF in GVHD mouse models. Further analysis shows that SOCS1 inhibits T cell activation not only by inhibiting the colony‐stimulating‐factor 3 receptor (CSF3R)/Janus kinase 2 (JAK2)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway, but also by restraining activation of the inflammasome signaling pathway. Moreover, high expression of SOCS1 in T cells from patients correlates with low acute GVHD occurrence after HSCT. Overall, these findings identify that SOCS1 is critical for inhibiting T cell activation and represents a potential target for the attenuation of GVHD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent researches have identified multiple transcription factors as permissible reprogramming factors to pluripotency and lineage switching. The current standard strategy by ectopic factor overexpression however has intrinsic limitations in studying the reprogramming mechanism. There is a growing interest in engineering novel chimeric reprogramming factors and applying designer transcription factors technology to improve reprogramming efficiency and dissect the process of endogenous pluripotency network reactivation. Here, we provide a concise review on the latest progress in studying cellular reprogramming by transcription factor engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to study the effect of MgO on the microstructure and macroscopic thermos-physical properties of calcium silicate melt, quantitative analysis of the various silicon-oxygen Q i species in magnesium-calcium silicate glasses and melts at a constant alkalinity has been performed by in-situ high temperature Raman spectroscopy, 29Si MAS NMR and DFT (Density Functional Theory) calculation. Several cluster models, probably existed in magnesium-calcium silicate glasses and melts, modified by Ca2+ or Mg2+ have been designed, their Raman vibrational modes and scattering activities were thus simulated and calculated. A function correlating the wavenumbers of Si-O nb (non-bridge oxygen) of various SiOTs (silicon-oxygen tetrahedrons) with their RSCS (Raman scattering cross sections) was constructed and used to calibrate the experimental Raman spectra. The abundance of each primary Q i species of various magnesium-calcium silicate glasses can be composed by all the deconvoluted hyperfine peaks within the same Q i species. The quantitative description for glasses was proven to be consistent with the result from 29Si MAS NMR. Thus, Q i species distributions for melts were also quantitatively derived. It demonstrated that the abundances of Q 1 and Q 3 species increased while Q 2 species decreased with the increasing replacing amount of MgO. The relationship between the viscosity and Q i species distributions as well as different cations has been investigated and correlated. Q 3 species was predominantly responsible for the contribution of viscosity of melt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A series of aluminum-oxygen-fluorine molecular model clusters were proposed in the molten Al 2 O 3 -Na 3 AlF 6 system. • The microstructure evolution of various Al-O-F species (AlF x 3-x, Al 2 OF y 4-y, and Al 2 O 2 F z 2-z) were quantitatively studied. • The correlation between microstructure and viscosity was investigated. • DFT was applied to simulate the spectra of solid crystalline α-Al 2 O 3 and Na 3 AlF 6. The microstructure of the molten alumina-cryolite system is an important aspect in the dissolution behavior of alumina (α-Al 2 O 3) in cryolite (Na 3 AlF 6) molten salt and impacts the physical properties of the molten system. In this work, the symmetric stretching vibrational wavenumbers of aluminum nonbridging fluorine (AlF x 3-x) and aluminum-oxygen-fluorine (Al 2 OF y 4-y, and Al 2 O 2 F z 2-z) bonds in the high wavenumber range, as well as their corresponding Raman scattering cross sections (RSCS), were first analyzed and determined by quantum chemistry (QC) ab initio calculations. The species in binary Al 2 O 3 -Na 3 AlF 6 melts with varying Al 2 O 3 contents from 0 to 6.0 wt% were then qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed using in situ high-temperature Raman spectroscopy in conjunction with first principles calculation from room temperature to melt. The species of AlF 4 -, AlF 5 2- and AlF 6 3- were found to be present and predominant in the melts with Al 2 O 3 contents ranging from 0 to 6.0 wt%. The content of Al 2 OF 6 2- species tended to increase with Al 2 O 3 content from 0 to 3.0 wt%, while Al 2 O 2 F 4 2- species only existed in the melts with an Al 2 O 3 concentration of more than 3.0 wt%. Finally, the abundance of various species in the molten Al 2 O 3 -Na 3 AlF 6 system was further correlated to the melt viscosity. The contribution to viscosity was primarily determined by the distribution of AlF x 3-x (x = 4, 5, and 6) and Al 2 OF 6 2- species, and the contribution ability of corresponding species to viscosity was Al 2 OF 6 2-, AlF 6 3-, AlF 5 2- and AlF 4 - from largest to smallest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim. To provide available quantitative evidence of efficacy and safety of acupuncture treatments for improving sacroiliac joint malposition. Methods. Databases such as the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), China Science and Technology Journal Database (CQVIP), Wanfang Database (Wanfang), China Biology Medicine disc (CBMdisc), PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library were searched by computer to collect the reports on acupuncture treatment of sacroiliac joint malposition from the database creation to July 20, 2021. The selection of included studies, data extraction and coding, and bias risk assessment were conducted independently by two reviewers. RevMan5.4 software was used for meta-analysis, and the results were expressed as mean difference (MD) or standardized mean difference (SMD), with a confidence interval (CI) of 95%. Results. A total of 10 randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) with 1019 participants were included. Their overall quality of methodology was not high, and there may be publication bias. Meta-analysis showed that the total effective rate of the treatment group was higher than that of the control group (OR = 2.74 , 95% CI 2.00 to 3.74, P < 0.00001). The treatment group was better than the control group in improving VAS score (WMD = − 1.56 , 95% CI -2.18 to -0.94, P < 0.00001). The ODI score of the treatment group was lower than that of the control group (WMD = − 6.04 , 95% CI -7.05 to -5.02, P < 0.00001). With the improvement of the JOA score, the difference of iliac transverse diameter of sacroiliac joint dislocation and the index of sacroiliac joint malposition in the treatment group were better than those in the control group (P < 0.05). There was no significant heterogeneity among the studies. Conclusion. Acupuncture may have therapeutic advantages in improving sacroiliac joint malposition. Acupuncture and acupotomy provide a safe way to improve the related clinical symptoms and functional disorders in activity of sacroiliac joint dislocation. However, due to the low quality of the included literature, this conclusion still needs to be further verified by more high-quality and large-sample RCTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]