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Air pollution monitoring is an important issue in environmental science. The Birnbaum–Saunders (BS) distribution, originally applied to describe product failure time distribution to fatigue failures and general random wear failures, is also well to describe the pollutant concentration data due to accumulations of various pollutants in the air over time. Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is a critical factor in air pollution. Hence, it is important to monitor its concentration variation for air pollution prevention. Due to the complexity of its distribution form, there is no reliable and easy‐to‐use control chart for monitoring pollutant concentrations based on the BS distribution. We found that the SO2 concentration data follows the BS distribution. In this study, we propose a new median control chart based on the exact sampling distribution of the monitoring statistic to detect shifts in the median of BS distribution. Thus, given the false alarm rate, the control limits for such control charts can be obtained precisely satisfying a preset in‐control average run length using Monte Carlo simulations. The out‐of‐control average run lengths are calculated by simulation to evaluate the detection performance of the proposed chart when the median shifts occur. We further compare the detection performance of the proposed chart and those of the existing control charts based on asymptotic sampling distributions. In order to improve the detection ability of the proposed chart for small median shifts, an exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) control chart is constructed. The results of numerical analyses demonstrated that the proposed EWMA chart performs much better than all existing control charts for monitoring the median of BS distribution. Finally, the proposed control charts are applied to monitor the median of SO2 concentrations for air pollution control, showing that both charts can effectively detect a shift in the median of SO2 concentrations. The proposed EWMA control chart even detects out a small shift in the median of SO2 concentrations. The results provide a continuous monitoring solution for air pollution prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper studies quantum symmetric pairs (U ~ , U ~ ı) associated with quasi-split Satake diagrams of affine type A 2 r - 1 , D r , E 6 with a nontrivial diagram involution fixing the affine simple node. Various real and imaginary root vectors for the universal ı quantum groups U ~ ı are constructed with the help of the relative braid group action, and they are used to construct affine rank one subalgebras of U ~ ı . We then establish relations among real and imaginary root vectors in different affine rank one subalgebras and use them to give a Drinfeld type presentation of U ~ ı . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel and interesting controllable spirocyclization of unsaturated barbiturates with enamino esters for the assembly of cyclopentenyl and pyrrolinyl spirobarbiturates has been developed under ball-milling conditions. The present protocol features high chemoselectivity and efficiency, excellent functional group tolerance and mild reaction conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Addressing the optimization problem during the simultaneous energy and information transmission stage in the simultaneous wireless information and power transfer (SWIPT), an optimal energy efficiency strategy based on mmWave cooperative communication small cell is proposed to maximize the link energy efficiency. This strategy, under the joint constraints of minimum link transmission rate and minimum collected energy, employs a power splitting mode at the receding end of energy-constrained user devices. By optimizing transmit power control and power splitting factors, it aims to maximize the systems link energy efficiency. Recognizing the original problem as a nonconvex fractional programming problem with NP-hard characteristics, the Dinkelbach method is utilized to transform the objective function into a convex optimization problem that is easier to solve. An iterative algorithm is designed to find the optimal solution through cross iterations. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed strategy outperforms traditional power control methods and maximum transmit power approaches in optimizing system energy efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Illite is a type of clay mineral that forms rocks. It plays an important role in the mechanical properties of the red-bed soft rock, which is significantly influenced by water. However, it remains unclear how water affects the mechanical properties of illite. An axial tensile test of illite with water content is performed using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Uniform tensile velocity is applied in the directions parallel (x) and perpendicular (z) to the illite. The slip and shear of this clay mineral sheet are the main cause of the softening of the red-bed soft rock because stretched illite is difficult to disturb when soaked in water. The density distribution of the interparticle solution shows that only the inner-sphere surface complexes exist in illite when it has a low water content. While in the cases of high water content, outer-sphere surface complexes exist in illite as well. The existence of water can greatly reduce the tensile strength of illite, by as much as 14%–25% (along x-direction) and 54%–84% (along z-direction) than those of the dehydrated cases, respectively, with different water film thicknesses. The destruction of tension along the x-direction is first caused by the tension fracture of the substituted tetrahedral covalent bond (At···Ob), which finally leads to the crack coalescence of the clay mineral sheet. While the tensile failure along the z-direction is mainly due to the pull off of the interparticle solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The \imathHall algebra of a weighted projective line is defined to be the semi-derived Ringel-Hall algebra of the category of 1-periodic complexes of coherent sheaves on the weighted projective line over a finite field. We show that this Hall algebra provides a realization of the \imathquantum loop algebra, which is a generalization of the \imathquantum group arising from the quantum symmetric pair of split affine type ADE in its Drinfeld type presentation. The \imathHall algebra of the \imathquiver algebra of split affine type A was known earlier to realize the same algebra in its Serre presentation. We then establish a derived equivalence which induces an isomorphism of these two \imathHall algebras, explaining the isomorphism of the \imathquantum group of split affine type A under the two presentations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the underpinning mechanisms of the Chinese public's belief in two opposing conspiracy theories on the origins of coronavirus disease 2019. Utilizing survey data from 4,251 Chinese internet users, our study reveals both the universality and distinctiveness of mechanisms involved in conspiracy theory beliefs. The distinctiveness primarily emanates from the political system and its media environment, while universality is mainly attributed to the cognitive style of intuitive thinking. In China's political system, exposure to either domestic or foreign media sources exerts substantial influence on public conspiracy beliefs. Notably, we emphasize the mediating role of political ideologies in domestic media exposure. Exposure to domestic media is more likely to lead conservative individuals to reject the conspiracy asserting COVID-19 originated in a lab in China. Concurrently, nationalism mediates foreign media exposure, reinforcing convictions of U.S.-centered conspiracies. This research shows how media narratives, molded by the political context, generate divergent perspectives on conspiracy theories in China. Furthermore, given the role of intuitive thinking in conspiracy beliefs, our findings highlight the potential for cultivating a more rational society through the promotion of analytical thinking, which requires the public to employ a deliberative and conscious cognitive process when exposed to highly politicized media content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We extend the ıHall algebra realization of ıquantum groups arising from quantum symmetric pairs, which establishes an injective homomorphism from the universal ıquantum group of Kac–Moody type to the ıHall algebra associated to an arbitrary ıquiver (not necessarily virtually acyclic). This generalizes Lu–Wang's result. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analyzing the spatial agglomeration and characteristics of urban functional elements and effectively identifying the polycentric pattern of a city can provide a scientific basis for urban planning. This study, on the basis of point‐of‐interest (POI) data, designs a weighted overlay‐analysis method that is based on functional categories, spatial agglomeration, and POI weights to identify the spatial‐agglomeration pattern and polycentric urban structure of Shenyang, China. Our results show that Shenyang has a significant polycentric urban structure. The POI elements in the municipal center in the second ring road show concentration and a contiguous distribution pattern. The POI element distribution near the city is scattered, and the spatial distribution of hotspots is uneven. The urban centers in the city planned by the government and those that we have identified differ. Because of the remote location and insufficient support facilities, the municipal subcenters and district centers do not play the role of decentralization as intended. Further strengthening the overall industrial planning and transportation apparatus is necessary in order to enhance the outward radiation and inward attraction of municipal subcenters. Our weighted overlay method realizes effective identification of the polycentric urban structure and can provide relevant reference for urban research and planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Imbalanced data is a problem in that the number of samples in different categories or target value ranges varies greatly. Data imbalance imposes excellent challenges to machine learning and pattern recognition. The performance of machine learning models leans to be partially towards the majority of samples in the imbalanced dataset, which will further affect the effect of the model. The imbalanced data problem includes an imbalanced categorical problem and an imbalanced regression problem. Many studies have been developed to address the issue of imbalanced classification data. Nevertheless, the imbalanced regression problem has not been well-researched. In order to solve the problem of unbalanced regression data, we define an RNGRU model that can simultaneously learn the regression characteristics and neighbor characteristics of regression samples. To obtain the most comprehensive sample information of regression samples, the model uses the idea of confrontation to determine the proportion between the regression characteristics and neighbor characteristics of the original samples. According to the regression characteristics of the regression samples, an index ccr (correlation change rate) is proposed to evaluate the similarity between the generated samples and the original samples. And on this basis, an RNGAN model is proposed to reduce the similarity between the generated samples and the original samples by using the idea of confrontation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diamond film is prone to oxidation in environment above 600 °C, making it difficult to maintain good wear resistance at high-temperatures. The high temperature oxidation resistance of diamond films can be improved through multiple doping. However, its wear resistance and anti-friction performance during high-temperature processing remain to be studied. In this study, single-doped, co-doped, and multi-doped diamond films with B, N, and Si doping combinations were fabricated on the surface of cemented carbide substrates. Performance characterization and high-temperature friction experiments were carried out on these films. The results show that B-doping can enhance wear resistance at high temperatures, N-doping can improve hardness, and Si-doping can reduce the coefficient of friction (CoF) of the diamond film. The multi-doped diamond film exhibits a comprehensive improvement effect due to the combination of different doping elements. During the high-temperature friction process, its CoF is significantly lower than that of undoped diamond film, resulting in a relatively high surface finish of the silicon nitride ball friction against it. Additionally, its excellent high-temperature wear resistance leads to minimal grain wear on the film surface and a low degree of transition from diamond to graphite phase on the surface. This study provides valuable insights for the application of multiple doped diamond films in high-temperature processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diamond-coated tools have extremely extraordinary physical and chemical properties and have become ideal tools for machining the emerging materials that are hard to machine. In mass production of diamond-coated milling tools, the homogeneity of diamond coatings has always been sought for and is highly influenced by the uniformity of temperature field near the tool substrate. In order to further improve the uniformity of the temperature field and deposit diamond coatings with uniform thickness, a novel hot filament chemical vapor deposition (HFCVD) device with separated worktables and plates for mass production of diamond-coated milling tools is proposed. First, the simulation models of previous device with integrated worktable versus new device with separated worktables are established using finite volume method. The simulation results shows that the temperature distribution is more uniform in the device with separated worktables. Second, temperature measurement experiments are conducted, which prove the correctness of simulation model. Subsequently, experiments involving the deposition of diamond coatings on milling tools are conducted using two kinds of worktables, utilizing the same parameters as in the simulation. Finally, high-speed milling experiments are conducted to test the diamond-coated milling tools. According to the results of SEM, Raman and high-speed milling experiments, it can be concluded that the homogeneity of coating thickness and cutting performance of the milling tools produced by HFCVD device with separated worktables and plates are better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evaluate the effect of corneal and contact lens-related (CLR) culture results on visual acuity (VA) in patients with microbial keratitis (MK). MK patients with corneal and CLR cultures were identified in the University of Michigan electronic health record from August 2012 to April 2022. Test results were classified as laboratory-positive or laboratory-negative. Linear regression was used to examine trends of VA and associations between changes in VA (differences of VA at 90-day and baseline VA) and corneal and CLR culture results, after adjustment for baseline VA. One-sample t-tests were used to test if the slope estimates were different from zero. MK patients (n = 50) were on average 49 years old (standard deviation = 20.9), 56% female, and 90% White. Positive corneal and CLR cultures were reported in 60% and 64% of patients, respectively, and 38% reported both. The agreement rate between corneal and CLR culture results was 30% (n = 15/50). LogMAR VA improved over time in patients with positive corneal and CLR cultures (Estimate=-0.19 per 10-day increase, p = 0.002), and in those with negative corneal and positive CLR cultures (Estimate= −0.17 per 10-day increase, p = 0.004). Compared to patients with negative corneal and CLR cultures, there was a trend toward improvement in VA for patients with positive corneal and CLR cultures (Estimate=-0.68, p = 0.068), and those with negative corneal and positive CLR cultures (Estimate= −0.74, p = 0.059), after adjusting for baseline VA. Positive CLR cultures are associated with significant improvement in VA over time. These additional cultures can provide guidance on appropriate antimicrobial selection, especially when corneal cultures are negative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research devises a risk indexing method to assess the occupational health and safety (OHS) hazards associated with major sources of energy in the construction field, providing numerical inputs to project plan and schedule optimization. Further, the problem of "minimizing project schedule at lowest safety risks" (MPSLSR) is formalized to incorporate the concept of energy sources for OHS management in project planning and scheduling optimization. Instead of following commonly applied techniques to solve multiobjective optimization problems, the proposed research takes an alternative two-step approach to minimizing project duration and risk index, based on interpretation of path float in connection with the critical path method. This results in optimized project schedules that mitigate the substantial increment of OHS-related risks due to accelerating construction progress on projects through avoiding the incurrences of unnecessary activity time crashing and associated increases in OHS-related risks. The research application is demonstrated with (1) a tunnel construction project and (2) a made-up project featuring a large, complex network model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the first of our papers on quasi-split affine quantum symmetric pairs \big (\widetilde {\mathbf U}(\widehat {\mathfrak g}), \widetilde {{\mathbf U}}^\imath \big), focusing on the real rank one case, i.e., \mathfrak g = \mathfrak {sl}_3 equipped with a diagram involution. We construct explicitly a relative braid group action of type A_2^{(2)} on the affine \imathquantum group \widetilde {{\mathbf U}}^\imath. Real and imaginary root vectors for \widetilde {{\mathbf U}}^\imath are constructed, and a Drinfeld type presentation of \widetilde {{\mathbf U}}^\imath is then established. This provides a new basic ingredient for the Drinfeld type presentation of higher rank quasi-split affine \imathquantum groups in the sequels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wearable electronic sensors have attracted extensive attention in multifunctional electronic skin, personalized health monitoring, intelligent human–machine interaction, and smart medical treatment. However, critical challenge exists in simultaneously achieving excellent sensing performances with high sensitivity, rapid response, low sensing limit, and excellent cycling stability for full‐scale human healthcare detection and further timely photothermal therapy. For highly sensitive human skin, the spinosum microstructure in epidermis and dermis takes an important part in sensing signal amplification and transmission. Inspired by the spinosum microstructure of human skin for highly sensitive tactile perception, a skin‐inspired flexible electronic sensor is prepared from the face‐to‐face assembly of an as‐prepared polybutylene adipate‐polyurethane (PBAPU) elastomer matrix with conducting MXene nanosheets‐coated urchin‐like microstructure templated from natural chrysanthemum pollen grain microstructures, and an interdigitated electrode‐coated PBAPU elastomer substrate. The PBAPU elastomer matrix is newly prepared, exhibiting outstanding tensile strength (18.87 MPa), high stretchability (1190%), and comparable elastic modulus (1.7 MPa) to human skin. The as‐assembled flexible electronic sensor exhibits a highly sensitive sensitivity (up to 784.02 kPa−1), low detection limit (0.12 Pa), and reliable cycling stability for intelligent human–machine interfacing. The MXene nanosheets‐coated urchin‐like microstructure‐contained PBAPU possesses efficient photothermal heating performance to achieve on‐demand photothermal therapy for rehabilitation training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the realization of quantum Borcherds–Bozec algebra U∼$\operatorname{\widetilde{\bf U}}\nolimits$ and quantum‐generalized Kac–Moody algebra BU∼${}^{\texttt {B}}\operatorname{\widetilde{\bf U}}\nolimits$ via semi‐derived Ringel–Hall algebra of a quiver with loops, we deduce the braid group actions of U∼$\operatorname{\widetilde{\bf U}}\nolimits$ introduced by Fan and Tong recently and establish braid group actions for BU∼${}^{\texttt {B}}\operatorname{\widetilde{\bf U}}\nolimits$ by applying the Bernstein‐Gelfand‐Ponomarev (BGP)‐reflection functors to semi‐derived Ringel–Hall algebras. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article is a book review of "Palaces for the People: How Social Infrastructure Can Help Fight Inequality, Polarization, and the Decline of Civic Life" by Eric Klinenberg. The book introduces the concept of social infrastructure and argues that it is crucial for maintaining social connection and collective life in a democratic society. It emphasizes the importance of spaces and facilities such as libraries, parks, cafes, community centers, sports fields, and schools in fostering social interaction and addressing pressing issues like social isolation, class differentiation, and climate change. The book provides numerous social research evidence and case studies to support its claims. However, it also acknowledges that the concept of social infrastructure is still developing and calls for further research and practice in this area. [Extracted from the article]

Real-time, rapid, accurate, and non-destructive batch testing of fruit growth state is crucial for improving economic benefits. However, for plums, environmental variability, multi-scale, occlusion, overlapping of leaves or fruits pose significant challenges to accurate and complete labeling using mainstream algorithms like YOLOv5. In this study, we established the first artificial dataset of plums and used deep learning to improve target detection. Our improved YOLOv5 algorithm achieved more accurate and rapid batch identification of immature plums, resulting in improved quality and economic benefits. The YOLOv5-plum algorithm showed 91.65% recognition accuracy for immature plums after our algorithmic improvements. Currently, the YOLOv5-plum algorithm has demonstrated significant advantages in detecting unripe plums and can potentially be applied to other unripe fruits in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to make sure that the reactions developed are truly catalyst-free in nature, it is important to take the following precautions when working on catalyst-free water-based reactions. 3 C-S Bond-Formation Reactions: Allenic Amides as the Electrophiles As mentioned earlier, click reactions involving Huisgen-type reactions have been used widely in chemical biology. However, many of the reported methods suffer from various drawbacks; these include the need to use toxic reagents/solvents, metal catalysts, or harsh reaction conditions and the poor atom-economy of the reactions. Keywords: catalyst-free reaction; biocompatibility; Mukaiyama aldol reaction; allenic amides; antibody-drug conjugates; green chemistry EN catalyst-free reaction biocompatibility Mukaiyama aldol reaction allenic amides antibody-drug conjugates green chemistry 1309 1316 8 07/11/23 20230725 NES 230725 Graph 1 Introduction The development of catalyst-free reactions that can work under biocompatible reaction conditions (aqueous media, pH 7.0, rt, etc.) is one of the most important goals in green chemistry and chemical biology. [Extracted from the article]

We use semi-derived Ringel-Hall algebras of quivers with loops to realize the whole quantum Borcherds-Bozec algebras and quantum generalized Kac-Moody algebras. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The posterior complex of the anterior olfactory nucleus (AOP) was characterized. • The proportion of GABAergic neurons in the AOP was estimated to be about 17%. • The AOP sends glutamatergic-predominant moderate projections to the BLA. • The AOP sends glutamatergic-predominant moderate-to-strong projections to the MeP. • Collateral projections from the AOP to the BLA and MeP was only about 2%. Social buffering is a phenomenon where stress responses are ameliorated by an affiliative conspecific. Our previous findings suggest that the posterior complex of the anterior olfactory nucleus (AOP) is well positioned to participate in the neural mechanisms underlying social buffering. However, the lack of anatomical information prevents us from further estimating the role of the AOP. Here, we obtained anatomical information regarding the AOP in male rats. In Experiment 1 (n = 5), among 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole-positive cells in the AOP, the proportion of glutamic acid decarboxylase 67 (GAD67)-positive cells was 13.8% ± 1.2%. In Experiment 2 (n = 5), among the cells that were labeled by a retrograde tracer injected into the basolateral complex of the amygdala (BLA), the proportion of GAD67-positive cells was 18.6% ± 0.8%. In Experiment 3 (n = 5), we demonstrated the existence of cells that were labeled by the retrograde tracer injected into the posterior part of the medial amygdala (MeP), mostly into the ventral part of the MeP. In addition, the proportion of GAD67-positive cells among the tracer-labeled cells was 21.7% ± 1.7%. In Experiment 4 (n = 3), the retrograde tracers were injected into the BLA and MeP, mostly into the ventral part of the MeP. The proportion of double-labeled cells among the tracer-labeled cells was 2.1% ± 1.2%. Taken together, these results suggest that the AOP is predominantly composed of glutamatergic neurons. In addition, the AOP sends mutually independent glutamatergic-predominant projections to the BLA and MeP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Qishen Gubiao granules, a traditional Chinese medicine preparation composed of nine herbs, have been widely used to prevent and treat coronavirus disease 2019 with good clinical efficacy. In the present study, an integrated strategy based on chemical profiling followed by network pharmacology and molecular docking was employed, to explore the active components and potential molecular mechanisms of Qishen Gubiao granules in the therapy of coronavirus disease 2019. Using the ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry technique, a total of 186 ingredients corresponding to eight structure types in Qishen Gubiao preparation were identified or structurally annotated with the elucidation of the fragmentation pathways in the typical compounds. The network pharmacology analysis screened 28 key compounds including quercetin, apigenin, scutellarein, luteolin and naringenin acting on 31 key targets, which possibly modulated signal pathways associated with immune and inflammatory responses in the treatment of coronavirus disease 2019. The molecular docking results observed that the top 5 core compounds had a high affinity for angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 and 3‐chymotrypsin‐like protease. This study proposed a reliable and feasible approach for elucidating the multi‐components, multi‐targets, and multi‐pathways intervention mechanism of Qishen Gubiao granules against coronavirus disease 2019, providing a scientific basis for its further quality evaluation and clinical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous studies have established that the regulation of prolonged, distal neuronal inhibition by the GABAB heteroreceptor (GABABR) is determined by its stability, and hence residence time, on the plasma membrane. Aims: Here, we show that GABABR in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) of rats affects the development of cocaine‐induced behavioral sensitization by mediating its perinucleus internalization and membrane expression. Materials & Methods: By immunofluorescent labeling, flow cytometry analysis, Co‐immunoprecipitation and open field test, we measured the role of Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) to the control of GABABR membrane anchoring and cocaine induced‐behavioral sensitization. Results: Repeated cocaine treatment in rats (15 mg/kg) significantly decreases membrane levels of GABAB1R and GABAB2R in the NAc after day 3, 5 and 7. The membrane fluorescence and protein levels of GABABR was also decreased in NAc GAD67+ neurons post cocaine (1 μM) treatment after 5 min. Moreover, the majority of internalized GABAB1Rs exhibited perinuclear localization, a decrease in GABAB1R‐pHluroin signals was observed in cocaine‐treated NAc neurons. By contrast, membrane expression of phosphorylated CaMKII (pCaMKII) post cocaine treatment was significantly increased after day 1, 3, 5 and 7. Baclofen blocked the cocaine induced behavioral sensitization via inhibition of cocaine enhanced‐pCaMKII‐GABAB1R interaction. Conclusion: These findings reveal a new mechanism by which pCaMKII‐GABABR signaling can promote psychostimulant‐induced behavioral sensitization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic resonance–guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) has been applied successfully in treating refractory tremors in Parkinson disease (PD). It generates a precise thermal ablation in a specific nucleus or tract, such as ventral intermediate nucleus (VIM) or pallidothalamic tract (PTT). Despite a single lesion improving parts of the PD symptoms, the feasibility and efficacy of a stepwise dual-lesion in VIM and PTT are yet to be explored. Three patients with tremor-dominant PD (aged 60.7 ± 6.0 years) received dual-target MRgFUS treatment with a series of primary and secondary outcome measures. The VIM and PTT were navigated based on individual magnetic resonance imaging planning of the brain. The primary outcome measures were the off-status Clinical Rating Scale for Tremor and Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale part III (UPDRS-III). The secondary outcome measures included UPDRS I, II, IV, Hohen and Yahr score, Neuropsychiatry Inventory, Quality of life in PD Rating Scale, Non-Motor Symptoms Scale, and Clinical Global Impression. The baseline data were compared with those acquired 1 day and 1 month following the treatment. The severity of tremor and motor deficits represented by Clinical Rating Scale for Tremor–part B and UPDRS III were significantly improved (P < 0.05 by nonparametric Mann–Whitney U tests) after dual-target ablations. The nonmotor symptoms investigated by UPDRS II and Non-Motor Symptoms Scale also showed significant improvement at the 1-day and 1-month follow-up. There was no adverse effect except temporary procedure-related headache and dizziness during the treatment. Stepwise dual-lesion targeting VIM and PTT is a safe and effective MRgFUS therapeutic strategy for patients with PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forecasting tourism volume can provide helpful information support for decision-making in managing tourist attractions. However, existing studies have focused on the long-term and large-scale prediction and scarcely considered high-frequency and micro-scale ones. In addition, the current approaches are limited regarding forecasting the visitor volume of a designated sub-area in a tourist attraction. This sub-area forecast can assist local-scaled managing decisions of tourist attractions, particularly for large-scale tourist attractions. Therefore, to achieve high-frequency forecasts of tourist volume for finer scale areas such as parks and their sub-areas and generate more controllable and flexible forecasts, this study developed a novel method that incorporates a forecasting model composed of multiple deep learning components and a designed control mechanism. The control mechanism produces high-temporal-resolution sequences of tourist volume for designated sub-areas, and the forecasting model is built on an attention-based deep-bidirectional neural network to better capture the long-range dependencies of the sequence and enhance the forecasting accuracy and robustness. The experimental research was performed at Taiyangdao Park and its two designated sub-areas to validate the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method compared to other widely used deep-learning methods; three types of performance evaluations were adopted including fitting methods, error measures, and Diebold–Mariano tests. The results demonstrated that the proposed method provided outstanding performance in high-frequency forecasts and yielded more desired forecasting outcomes than other widely used forecasting methods. Furthermore, the comparison with the performances of various other deep learning models provide insights concerning their forecasting capacity; for instance, bidirectional RNN models tend to achieve better forecasts than general RNN models in the high-frequency forecasts. The proposed method has significant practical applicability in aiding short-term micro-scale management decisions and can also serve as an alternative approach in the field of tourist volume forecasting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. The aim of the present study is to investigate the rules and characteristics of the clinical administration of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) using data mining methods. Method. Medical cases of well-known contemporary TCM doctors treating PCOS were collected from the China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chinese Biomedical Literature Service System, Wanfang, Chinese Scientific Journals Database, and PubMed; the data were then characterized, and a standardized database of medical cases was built. This database was used to (1) count the frequency of syndrome types and the herbs used in medical cases by data mining methods and (2) analyze drug association rules and systematic clustering methods. Results. A total of 330 papers were included, involving 382 patients and a total of 1,427 consultations. The most common syndrome type was kidney deficiency; sputum stasis was the core pathological product and causative factor. A total of 364 herbs were used. Among them, 22 herbs were used >300 times, including Danggui (Angelicae Sinensis Radix), Tusizi (Semen Cuscutae), Fuling (Poria), Xiangfu (Nutgrass Galingale Rhizome), and Baizhu (Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma). Additionally, 22 binomial associations were obtained from the analysis of association rules; five clustering formulae were obtained via the analysis of high-frequency drug clusters; and 27 core combinations were obtained by k-means clustering of formula. Conclusion. In the treatment of PCOS, TCM is primarily employed as a combination approach involving tonifying the kidneys, strengthening the spleen, eliminating damp and dissolving phlegm, activating blood circulation, and resolving blood stasis. The core prescription is primarily a compound intervention based on the Cangfu Daotan pill, Liuwei Dihuang pill, and Taohong Siwu decoction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-decoupling technology was recently proposed for radio frequency (RF) coil array designs. Here, we propose a novel geometry to reduce the peak local specific absorption rate (SAR) and improve the robustness of the self-decoupled coil. We first demonstrate that B1 is determined by the arm conductors, while the maximum E-field and local SAR are determined by the feed conductor in a self-decoupled coil. Then, we investigate how the B1, E-field, local SAR, SAR efficiency, and coil robustness change with respect to different lift-off distances for feed and mode conductors. Next, the simulation of self-decoupled coils with optimal lift-off distances on a realistic human body is performed. Finally, self-decoupled coils with optimal lift-off distances are fabricated and tested on the workbench and MRI experiments. The peak 10 g-averaged SAR of the self-decoupled coil on the human body can be reduced by 34% by elevating the feed conductor. Less coil mismatching and less resonant frequency shift with respect to loadings were observed by elevating the mode conductor. Both the simulation and experimental results show that the coils with elevated conductors can preserve the high interelement isolation, B1+ efficiency, and SNR of the original self-decoupled coils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The \imathHall algebra of the projective line is by definition the twisted semi-derived Ringel-Hall algebra of the category of 1-periodic complexes of coherent sheaves on the projective line. This \imathHall algebra is shown to realize the universal q-Onsager algebra (i.e., \imathquantum group of split affine A_1 type) in its Drinfeld type presentation. The \imathHall algebra of the Kronecker quiver was known earlier to realize the same algebra in its Serre type presentation. We then establish a derived equivalence which induces an isomorphism of these two \imathHall algebras, explaining the isomorphism of the q-Onsager algebra under the two presentations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This phase 1 trial evaluated the safety, preliminary efficacy, and pharmacokinetics of surufatinib, a small molecular tyrosine kinase inhibitor, combined with toripalimab, a programmed cell death protein-1 antibody, in patients with advanced solid tumors. Methods: This is an open-label, dose-escalation and expansion study in patients with solid tumors who had failed standard therapies or had no effective treatment. In the dose-escalation stage, patients were treated with surufatinib, at dose levels of 200, 250, or 300 mg once daily (QD) in combination with toripalimab 240 mg, every 3 weeks (Q3W), to estimate maximum tolerated dose. Additional patients were enrolled in the dose expansion stage to further assess the efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetics profile. Recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D) was determined based on the safety, tolerability, and preliminary efficacy from dose-escalation and expansion stages. Results: From Feb 14, 2019 to Dec 20, 2020, 33 patients were screened, of which 30 patients were enrolled. One patient in the 300 mg cohort experienced dose limited toxicity, a grade 3 hyperthyroidism. The most frequent treatment-related adverse events of grade ≥ 3 were hypertension (20.0%), transaminases increased (13.3%), and blood bilirubin increased (13.3%). No treatment-related death or treatment discontinuation was identified. The RP2D was determined to be surufatinib 250 mg QD plus toripalimab 240 mg Q3W. Objective response rate was 24.1% (95% confidence interval 10.3‒43.5%) in this study. Conclusions: Surufatinib plus toripalimab was well tolerated, with no unexpected safety signals, and showed preliminary anti-tumor activity in patients with advanced solid tumors. Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT03879057; registration date: March 18, 2019. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macrocycles are commonly synthesized via late-stage macrolactamization and macrolactonization. Strategies involving C–C bond macrocyclization have been reported, and examples include the transition-metal-catalyzed ring-closing metathesis and coupling reactions. In this mini-review, we summarize the recent progress in the direct synthesis of polyketide and polypeptide macrocycles using a transition-metal-catalyzed C–H bond activation strategy. In the first part, rhodium-catalyzed alkene–alkene ring-closing coupling for polyketide synthesis is described. The second part summarizes the synthesis of polypeptide macrocycles. The activation of indolyl and aryl C(sp2)–H bonds followed by coupling with various coupling partners such as aryl halides, arylates, and alkynyl bromide is then documented. Moreover, transition-metal-catalyzed C–C bond macrocyclization reactions via alkyl C(sp3)–H bond activation are also included. We hope that this mini-review will inspire more researchers to explore new and broadly applicable strategies for C–C bond macrocyclization via intramolecular C–H activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a practical context of construction management, a number of special contractors are selected to deliver a multiproject program in a definitive time frame. Research has yet to address how well contractors are matched to projects in scheduling and how to evaluate this criterion in scheduling optimization analysis. This research formulates a novel resource scheduling optimization problem termed multicontractor multiproject matching optimization problem (MCMPMO) based on the current practice of planning modular school development programs. The particular goal of MCMPMO is to determine which contractor is a better match for delivering which project in such a way that the program would be completed by available resources in time, resulting in the highest chances of completing the whole program to the satisfaction of all the stakeholders. A bi-objective optimization formulation for MCMPMO is proposed in the application context of planning modular school development programs. A computer program was prototyped to identify a Pareto front of the MCMPMO problem in a case study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ciprofol is a novel compound that was independently developed in China. According to the Chinese product instructions approved by the China National Medical Products Administration and the information of official website, indications for ciprofol include sedation and anesthesia during the surgical/procedure of nontracheal intubation, induction and maintenance of general anesthesia, and sedation during intensive care. Ciprofol is a short-acting intravenous sedative based on the structural modification of propofol. Ciprofol has high efficacy, good selectivity, and fewer adverse reactions, indicating good clinical application potential. A series of clinical studies have been conducted to evaluate the sedative effect of ciprofol in various procedures and settings, including gastroscopy and colonoscopy, fiber-optic bronchoscopy, general anesthesia in elective surgeries, and mechanical ventilation in intensive care units. This review summarizes the chemical structure, pharmacodynamics, and pharmacokinetic properties of ciprofol. We also assessed the efficacy and safety of ciprofol by synthesizing the relevant clinical trial data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alkenes and their derivatives are featured widely in a variety of natural products, pharmaceuticals, and advanced materials. Significant efforts have been made toward the development of new and practical methods to access this important class of compounds by selectively activating the alkenyl C-(sp2)–H bonds in recent years. In this comprehensive review, we describe the state-of-the-art strategies for the direct functionalization of alkenyl sp2 C–H and C–F bonds until June 2022. Moreover, metal-free, photoredox, and electrochemical strategies are also covered. For clarity, this review has been divided into two parts; the first part focuses on currently available alkenyl sp2 C–H functionalization methods using different alkene derivatives as the starting materials, and the second part describes the alkenyl sp2 C–F bond functionalization using easily accessible gem-difluoroalkenes as the starting material. This review includes the scope, limitations, mechanistic studies, stereoselective control (using directing groups as well as metal-migration strategies), and their applications to complex molecule synthesis where appropriate. Overall, this comprehensive review aims to document the considerable advancements, current status, and emerging work by critically summarizing the contributions of researchers working in this fascinating area and is expected to stimulate novel, innovative, and broadly applicable strategies for alkenyl sp2 C–H and C–F bond functionalizations in the coming years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A review of literature and practice indicates that there has been a lack of academic research and that there is a shortage of appropriate methods for construction planning and project scheduling for development of projects in northern and remote regions. This study proposes a new project planning method that features seamless integration of specific time-window constraints due to seasonal cycles and environmental regulations. In contrast with the established critical path method, with the proposed method there is no need to estimate each activity's duration up front as schedule inputs. Instead, a project plan is devised analytically, satisfying all time-window constraints imposed by the environment and precedence relationships defined by construction method. The resulting allowable duration of each activity is further confirmed through activity-level planning. A case study was conducted to schedule the construction of a river-crossing bridge situated at a remote location in the northern region of Canada. Two construction methods (namely crane erection versus incremental launching) were contrasted in two application scenarios. A third application scenario investigated the effect of adjusting the time-window constraint for berm installation activities in implementing the incremental launching method. A novel project scheduling method is proposed herein to assist practitioners in planning construction activities in northern and remote regions subject to limited accessibility, seasonal cycles, and harsh environmental conditions. Current mainstream project planning methods and tools (e.g., critical path method and Primavera P6) do not adequately factor in environment-induced constraints in scheduling analysis. Therefore, the resulting project milestones, duration, and budget, which often serve as contractual commitments and baselines to assess project performance, are almost certain to be overly optimistic and unrealistic. In the proposed new method, a planner needs to specify time-window constraints due to seasonal conditions and environmental regulations. A project schedule is analytically devised, satisfying all the time-window constraints imposed by the environment and precedence relationships defined by the construction method. A case study was conducted to schedule the construction of a river-crossing bridge situated at a remote location in the northern region of Canada. The construction method of crane erection was contrasted with incremental launching while holding all activity time-window constraints identical. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Birdcage coils are widely used in preclinical MRI as they perform well, allow for quadrature drive, and can provide a homogeneous transmit field. Unlike in larger bore scanners, an RF shield is essential to avoid strong cross-talk with gradient coils that are in close proximity. However, gradient switching induces eddy currents that heat the shield and coil and impair the temporal signal-to-noise ratio (tSNR). The motivation of this study is to investigate the performance of different designs of RF shields on a birdcage coil used for high resolution functional MRI of small primates at 9.4 T. We found the choice of materials for RF shields significantly affected ghosting and tSNR in fMRI scans. Both ultrathin foils and a slotted pattern reduce eddy currents and improve imaging quality. Our results also demonstrate that a 9-um-thick copper foil is sufficiently thin to reduce the eddy current effects for high-resolution fMRI scans and there is no need for high-cost 4-um-thick foil. For slotted shields, our results demonstrate that the number of slots should be carefully considered, and an excessive number of slots can lead to a lower SNR and tSNR. We believe the results from this study can be used as a reference to design future RF coil shields selection for preclinical scanners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A quantum symmetric pair consists of a quantum group U and its coideal subalgebra U ς ı (called an ı quantum group) with parameters ς . In this note, we use the derived Hall algebras of 1-periodic complexes to realize the ı quantum groups U ς ı of split type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We establish automorphisms with closed formulas on quasi-split ı quantum groups of symmetric Kac-Moody type associated to restricted Weyl groups. The proofs are carried out in the framework of ı Hall algebras and reflection functors, thanks to the ı Hall algebra realization of ı quantum groups in our previous work. Several quantum binomial identities arising along the way are established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, organic dyes and other environmental contaminants are focal areas of research, with considerable interest in the production of stable, high-efficiency, and eco-friendly photocatalysts to eliminate these contaminants. In the present work, bismuth-doped zinc ferrite (Bi-ZnFe2O4) nanoparticles (NPs) and bismuth-doped zinc ferrites supported on sulfur-doped graphitic carbon nitride (Bi-ZnFe2O4/S-g-C3N4) (BZFG) photocatalysts were synthesized via a hydrothermal process. SEM, XRD, and FTIR techniques were used to examine the morphological, structural, and bonding characteristics of the synthesized photocatalysts. The photocatalytic competence of the functional BZFG nanocomposites (NCs) was studied against MB under sunlight. The influence of Bi (0.5, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11 wt.%) doping on the photocatalytic performance of ZnFe2O4 was verified, and the 9%Bi-ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles exhibited the maximum MB degradation. Then, 9%Bi-ZnFe2O4 NPs were homogenized with varying amounts of S-g-C3N4 (10, 30, 50, 60, and 70 wt.%) to further enhance the photocatalytic performance of BZFG NCs. The fabricated Bi-ZnFe2O4/30%S-g-C3N4 (BZFG-30) composite outperformed ZnFe2O4, S-g-C3N4 and other BZFG NCs in terms of photocatalytic performance. The enriched photocatalytic performance of the BZFG NCs might be ascribed to a more efficient transfer and separation of photo-induced charges due to synergic effects at the Bi-ZnFe2O4/S-g-C3N4 interconnection. The proposed modification of ZnFe2O4 using Bi and S-g-C3N4 is effective, inexpensive, and environmentally safe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: High-density multi-coil arrays are desirable in MRI because they provide high signal-to-noise ratios (SNR), enable highly accelerated parallel imaging, and provide more uniform transmit fields at high fields. For high-density arrays such as a head array with 16 elements in a row, popular dipole antennas and microstrip transmission line (also referred to as “MTL”) resonators both have severe coupling issues. Methods: In this work, we show that dipoles and MTLs have naturally low coupling and propose a novel array configuration in which they are interleaved. We first show the electromagnetic (EM) coupling between a single dipole and a single MTL across different separations in bench tests. Then we validate and analyze this through EM simulations. Finally, we construct a 16-channel mixed dipole and MTL array and evaluate its performance on the bench and through MRI experiments. Results: Without any decoupling treatments, the worst coupling between a dipole and an MTL was only −15.8 dB when their center-to-center distance was 4.7 cm (versus −5.4 dB for two dipole antennas and −6.0 dB for two MTL resonators). Even in a dense 16-channel mixed array, the inter-element isolation among all elements was better than −14 dB. Conclusion: This study reveals, analyzes, and validates a novel finding that the popular dipole antennas and MTL resonators used in ultrahigh field MRI have naturally low coupling. Significance: These findings will simplify the construction of high-density arrays, enable new applications, and benefit imaging performance in ultrahigh field MRI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shortening the time to diagnosis and initiating early treatment are imperative to improve outcomes in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The aim of this case-control study, based on the data from the Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD), was to investigate the patterns of diagnoses of disease phenotypes in female patients with SLE up to eight years prior to its definitive diagnosis. The 547 cases were selected from the 2000–2012 NHIRD catastrophic illness datafile and frequency-matched with 2188 controls. The primary diagnosis based on the first ICD-9-CM code for each outpatient visit was converted to Phecodes. Separate regression models, based on least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (lasso) regularization, with seven different lag periods from 1–2 to 7–8 years, were conducted. Results showed that SLE was associated with 46 disease phenotypes in a lag period of 2–3 years, but fewer in other lag periods. A number of SLE-associated disease phenotypes, such as primary thrombocytopenia, thyroid diseases, Raynaud's syndrome, renal disease, and several infectious diseases, occurred mainly in the first few years prior to SLE diagnosis. In conclusion, SLE should be suspected when the disease phenotypes identified in the present study occurred concomitantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After the founding of the People's Republic of China, the state formulated the first five-year plan for national economic development with the development of heavy industry as the core. The assistance of the Soviet Union completely opened the prelude to China's large-scale industrial construction. With the continuous increase of urban energy consumption in China and the huge pressure it brings to the environment, urban planning and design aiming at energy conservation and climate adaptability has attracted more and more attention. Residential building layout is an important part of urban planning and design, which is closely related to building environmental energy consumption and urban microclimate. Therefore, it is necessary to study the energy saving and climate adaptive design strategy of residential building layout. Yichun is a cold city, located in the northernmost part of the three northeastern provinces, with a population of about 1 million. Its climate is characterized by continuous low temperature in winter, and the extreme value of daily lowest air temperature in Yichun City since 1981 is -42.2°C. The highest temperature in summer is 35°C. The unique geographical location and climate have created Yichun's unique urban quality, and outdoor cultural activities are also unique. Yichun is a place with four distinct seasons, and each season has its own characteristics. The beauty of the four seasons contrasts greatly. The best travel time in Yichun is from June to September. In this study, the scientific nature of environment numerical simulation software is verified. Taking the surrounding residential open space as the research object, reasonable grid simulation size and initial boundary conditions are set. The quantitative relationship between design elements and thermal comfort level is established through software simulation. After repeated and a large number of hourly simulation verification, combined with the spatial distribution map and numerical distribution map of thermal comfort, the design elements and open space are established. On this basis, the optimization strategies of open space in residential areas in extreme weather areas are put forward, including the reasonable layout of activity areas, careful selection of open positions, attention to the proportion of open space, attention to plane enclosure and corner units, encouragement of secondary restrictions of activity space, reasonable selection of underlying surface materials, and reasonable layout of water bodies. This paper mainly studies the design of outdoor communication space in Yichun residential area in winter. The average temperature in winter is -14°C ~ -2°C. Through the study of design methods and countermeasures, an operable Yichun residential area design method is found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regression modeling has been based on analyzing error terms between the predicted output and the target output without addressing the variance of the predicted output and the impact of individual input parameters on the variance. This research critically reviews established methods for variance analysis on commonly applied multiple linear regressions (MLR). An MLR model with high accuracy (the mean of the prediction close to the target value) but low precision (too high of a variance of the prediction) would be deemed insufficient in the context of cost estimating applications. An analytical method to account for the impact of the uncertainty associated with each input parameter on the uncertainty of the final output has yet to be formalized. This research integrates the error propagation theory with MLR modeling in an attempt to quantify the variance of the MLR predicted output in estimating labor cost for prefabricated products. A metric based on the resulting variance analysis (i.e., the ratio of the standard deviation over the mean) is found effective to gauge the precision of the MLR model. The research has advanced regression modeling methods with respect to MLR variance analysis and contributed to the estimating practice for prefabricated products such as structural steel fabrication, precast concrete, industrial modules, and building modules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent years have witnessed rapid advances in learnt video coding. Most algorithms have solely relied on the vector-based motion representation and resampling (e.g., optical flow based bilinear sampling) for exploiting the inter frame redundancy. In spite of the great success of adaptive kernel-based resampling (e.g., adaptive convolutions and deformable convolutions) in video prediction for uncompressed videos, integrating such approaches with rate-distortion optimization for inter frame coding has been less successful. Recognizing that each resampling solution offers unique advantages in regions with different motion and texture characteristics, we propose a hybrid motion compensation (HMC) method that adaptively combines the predictions generated by these two approaches. Specifically, we generate a compound spatiotemporal representation (CSTR) through a recurrent information aggregation (RIA) module using information from the current and multiple past frames. We further design a one-to-many decoder pipeline to generate multiple predictions from the CSTR, including vector-based resampling, adaptive kernel-based resampling, compensation mode selection maps and texture enhancements, and combines them adaptively to achieve more accurate inter prediction. Experiments show that our proposed inter coding system can provide better motion-compensated prediction and is more robust to occlusions and complex motions. Together with jointly trained intra coder and residual coder, the overall learnt hybrid coder yields the state-of-the-art coding efficiency in low-delay scenario, compared to the traditional H.264/AVC and H.265/HEVC, as well as recently published learning-based methods, in terms of both PSNR and MS-SSIM metrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rise of low-carbon concept and the trend of low-carbon planning, the evaluation of low-carbon planning has been paid more and more attention by the academic and planning circles. Carbon evaluation has become a hot topic after "environmental evaluation" and "green evaluation." In order to promote the important content of energy conservation and sustainable development in the construction of low-carbon cities, this paper constructs and plans the content of low-carbon city planning and construction. On the basis of the effectiveness evaluation index system, this paper discusses the linkage between analytic hierarchy process and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method and makes a comprehensive quantitative evaluation on the effectiveness of case planning EIA. Combining the advantages of analytic hierarchy process and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method, the subobjectives and weights of each index are determined by the analytic hierarchy process. The multi-level fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method is used to evaluate the factors that affect the low-carbon effect of urban high-rise residential district planning. This study leads the new trend of future urban construction, and the construction of low-carbon residential areas, as an important part of promoting urban sustainable development, is the core component of future low-carbon urban planning and construction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In microlap welding, a real-time welding quality monitoring system is crucial to the identification of low strength joints caused by the unreliable contact between two layers of stainless metal sheets. In this study, a multispacing configured microphone array filter was designed and applied to a sound-based quality monitoring system for laser microlap welding, and the filter's performance was evaluated to improve the reliability of the developed monitoring system when collected sound signals are contaminated by the noises generated around a welding site. In the experimental setup, joint strength was modulated by controlling the clamping conditions of the fixture and changing the welding location. The results indicated that noises contaminated the signals obtained from single microphones and reduced classification rates by up to 25% when time domain features were adopted. Through the application of the proposed microphone array in the developed monitoring system, the classification rate of weld quality can be improved to a level resembling that observed when artificial noise is not applied to the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: The risk‐adapted screening strategy showed satisfying colorectal cancer (CRC) screening yield and efficiency. We therefore further explored the diagnostic performance variation of this strategy using different risk prediction models. Methods: A literature search was conducted to identify studies evaluating risk models for advanced colorectal neoplasm (ACN). The included models were retrospectively validated in a subset sample (N = 3219) from a population‐based CRC screening trial in China. Diagnosis‐related indictors were compared between the risk‐adapted screening strategy using different models and the fecal immunochemical test (FIT)‐only strategy. For simulated populations with ACN prevalence of 3% to 12%, the trade‐off of additional false positives for each additional true positive were calculated. Results: We included 14 eligible risk models with the area under the curves ranging 0.570 to 0.652 in the validation set. The overall sensitivities of the risk‐adapted screening strategy using different risk models for ACN varied from 46.0% to 69.8%, higher than FIT (21.9%), but at the expense of specificities (51.6% to 78.3% vs 97.1%). For population having ACN prevalence of 3%, risk‐adapted screening strategies needed 20.5 to 31.1 additional false positives for each additional true positive compared with FIT, and respective number would substantially reduce (4.7 to 7.1) as the ACN prevalence increased to 12%. Conclusions: Risk‐adapted screening strategy using the current risk models showed improved sensitivity for ACN compared with FIT, at the cost of increased colonoscopy workload. The optimal strategy for screening practice should be tailored considering the disease burden and availability of healthcare resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Medical imaging plays a crucial role in modern medicine. In order to provide fast and accurate medical diagnosis, computed tomography (CT) is a commonly used tool in radiological examinations, and 640-slice CT is the most advanced CT imaging modality. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the radiation dose and the risk under 640-slice abdominal CT examination. METHODS: Examinations were performed using a 640-slice CT scanner on an Alderson-Rando anthropomorphic phantom. The used scanning acquisition parameters were the same as those used on abdominal examination without contrast medium injection in clinical practice. To measure the absorbed doses, optically stimulated luminescence dosimeters (OSLDs) were put into liver, stomach, bladder, gonads, colon, small intestine, bone marrow, and skin. RESULTS: According to the 1990 Recommendations of the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP Publication 60), the calculated effective doses received from this examination were 0.90 mSv in males and 0.89 mSv in females. According to the 2007 Recommendations of the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP Publication 103), the calculated effective dose received from this examination was 0.83 mSv in both sexes. CONCLUSIONS: Radiation doses obtained from the abdominal 640-slice CT examination are lower than the yearly cumulative doses received from natural radiation, revealing there is no deterministic effect and radiation risk is relatively low; therefore, this CT examination is considered safe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to analyze neuroendocrine neoplasm (NEN) bone metastasis (BM) and gallium-68 (68Ga)-DOTA-TATE performance and to explore their correlation with the immunohistochemical proliferation index (Ki-67). Procedures: A total of 112 patients with BMs were screened from 1082 NEN patients who underwent [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TATE imaging. All patients had pathological results, and BMs were affirmed by clinical/imaging follow-up and/or histopathology. The maximum standard uptake value (SUVmax) ratio of BM to normal bone determined for each patient was used in the final analysis. Results: The incidence rate of BMs in NENs was 10.35%. BMs occurred in the spine (75%), pelvis (72.3%), ribs (58%), clavicles and scapulae (41.1%), limbs (37.5%), and skull (28.6%). Most cases were associated with liver metastases (70.5%) and lymph node metastases (65.2%) simultaneously. The SUVmax ratio of G3b (median ratio = 3.77, Ki-67 >55%) was significantly lower than that of G1 (11.43, Ki-67 ≤2%) and G2a (11.15, 3% ≤ Ki-67 ≤10%) separately (p < 0.05), while no differences were found for G2b (8.5, 11% ≤ Ki-67 ≤55%) and G3a (6.64, Ki-67 >55%) groups. In the total patients, there was a significant negative correlation between the SUVmax ratio of BMs to normal bone and Ki-67 (r = −0.267, p < 0.01). According to the changes in bone density on CT scans, the cases were divided into 4 groups: osteogenesis, osteolysis, no change, and a mixed group (median Ki-67: 6.5%, 15%, 12%, and 22.5%). The Ki-67 values were significantly different between the osteogenesis group and the other groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion: BM is present in 10.35% of NEN patients and most have simultaneous liver and/or lymph node metastases. The occurrence of osteogenesis indicates relatively good differentiation, and there is a negative correlation between SUVmax ratio of BMs and NEN proliferation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Second-generation antipsychotics increase the risk of atrial fibrillation. This study explores whether the atypical antipsychotic ziprasidone triggers inflammasome signaling, leading to atrial arrhythmia. Electromechanical and pharmacological assessments were conducted on the rabbit left atria (LA). The patch-clamp technique was used to measure ionic channel currents in single cardiomyocytes. Detection of cytosolic reactive oxygen species production was performed in atrial cardiomyocytes. The duration of action potentials at 50 % and 90 % repolarization was dose-dependently shortened in ziprasidone-treated LA. Diastolic tension in LA increased after ziprasidone treatment. Ziprasidone-treated LA showed rapid atrial pacing (RAP) triggered activity. PI3K inhibitor, Akt inhibitor and mTOR inhibitor abolished the triggered activity elicited by ziprasidone in LA. The NLRP3 inhibitor MCC950 suppressed the ziprasidone-induced post-RAP-triggered activity. MCC950 treatment reduced the reverse-mode Na+/Ca2+ exchanger current in ziprasidone-treated myocytes. Cytosolic reactive oxygen species production decreased in ziprasidone-treated atrial myocytes after MCC950 treatment. Protein levels of inflammasomes and proinflammatory cytokines, including NLRP3, caspase-1, IL-1β, IL-18, and IL-6 were observed to be upregulated in myocytes treated with ziprasidone. Our findings suggest ziprasidone induces atrial arrhythmia, potentially through upregulation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and enhancement of reactive oxygen species production via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. [Display omitted] • Ziprasidone-treated atria show arrhythmias, mitigated by PI3K/Akt/mTOR inhibition. • Ziprasidone-treated myocytes show upregulated NLRP3 and pro-inflammatory cytokines. • NLRP3 inhibitor MCC950 reduces triggered firing, NCX current, and ROS production. • Ziprasidone induces arrhythmia via PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, activating NLRP3 and ROS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]