Two-dimensional(2D) materials have attracted extensive interest due to their excellent electrical, thermal,mechanical, and optical properties. Graphene has been one of the most explored 2D materials. However, its zero...Two-dimensional(2D) materials have attracted extensive interest due to their excellent electrical, thermal,mechanical, and optical properties. Graphene has been one of the most explored 2D materials. However, its zero band gap has limited its applications in electronic devices. Transition metal dichalcogenide(TMDC), another kind of 2D material,has a nonzero direct band gap(same charge carrier momentum in valence and conduction band) at monolayer state,promising for the efficient switching devices(e.g., field-effect transistors). This review mainly focuses on the recent advances in charge carrier mobility and the challenges to achieve high mobility in the electronic devices based on 2DTMDC materials and also includes an introduction of 2D materials along with the synthesis techniques. Finally, this review describes the possible methodology and future prospective to enhance the charge carrier mobility for electronic devices.展开更多
Wind erosion represents a formidable environmental challenge and has serious negative impacts on soil health and agricultural productivity, particularly in arid and semi-arid areas. The complex dynamics of wind erosio...Wind erosion represents a formidable environmental challenge and has serious negative impacts on soil health and agricultural productivity, particularly in arid and semi-arid areas. The complex dynamics of wind erosion make its large-scale monitoring and quantification a daunting task. To facilitate the monitoring and quantification of wind erosion, various scientific approaches and methods have been employed. These include sophisticated wind erosion equations and models, wind tunnel experiments, and the application of radionuclides. Additionally, researchers have assessed soil physicochemical properties, used anemometers for wind speed measurement, and deployed dust collectors for particle capture. Remote sensing technologies, wind erosion monitoring stations, and evaluations of wind barriers have also been utilized. Recently, the adoption of machine learning methods has gained popularity. Despite their value, each of these techniques has limitations in capturing the full spectrum of the wind erosion process. This paper examines these limitations and assesses the effectiveness of each method in the context of wind erosion studies. It also outlines directions for future research and suggests pathways that could enhance the understanding and management of wind erosion.展开更多
BACKGROUND Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease(MASLD),formally known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease,is the most common chronic liver disease in the United States.Patients with MASLD have been...BACKGROUND Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease(MASLD),formally known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease,is the most common chronic liver disease in the United States.Patients with MASLD have been reported to be at a higher risk of developing severe coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)and death.However,most studies are single-center studies,and nationwide data in the AIM To study the influence of MASLD on COVID-19 hospitalizations during the initial phase of the pandemic.METHODS We retrospectively analyzed the 2020 National Inpatient Sample(NIS)database to identify primary COVID-19 hospitalizations based on an underlying diagnosis of MASLD.A matched comparison cohort of COVID-19 hospit-alizations without MASLD was identified from NIS after 1:N propensity score matching based on gender,race,and comorbidities,including hypertension,heart failure,diabetes,and cirrhosis.The primary outcomes included inpatient mortality,length of stay,and hospitalization costs.Secondary outcomes included the prevalence of systemic complications.RESULTS A total of 2210 hospitalizations with MASLD were matched to 2210 hospitalizations without MASLD,with a good comorbidity balance.Overall,there was a higher prevalence of severe disease with more intensive care unit admissions(9.5%vs 7.2%,P=0.007),mechanical ventilation(7.2%vs 5.7%,P=0.03),and septic shock(5.2%vs 2.7%,P<0.001)in the MASLD cohort than in the non-MASLD cohort.However,there was no difference in mortality(8.6%vs 10%,P=0.49),length of stay(5 d vs 5 d,P=0.25),and hospitalization costs(42081.5$vs 38614$,P=0.15)between the MASLD and non-MASLD cohorts.CONCLUSION The presence of MAFLD with or without liver cirrhosis was not associated with increased mortality in COVID-19 hospitalizations;however,there was an increased incidence of severe COVID-19 infection.This data(2020)predates the availability of COVID-19 vaccines,and many MASLD patients have since been vaccinated.It will be interesting to see if these trends are present in the subsequent years of the pandemic展开更多
Medium Frequency radio holds significance in modern society as it supports broadcasting and individual communications in the public, government, and military sectors. Enhancing the availability and quality of these co...Medium Frequency radio holds significance in modern society as it supports broadcasting and individual communications in the public, government, and military sectors. Enhancing the availability and quality of these communications is only possible by enhancing the understanding of medium frequency propagation. While traditional methods of radio wave propagation research can have a high material demand and cost, software defined radio presents itself as a versatile and low-cost platform for medium frequency signal reception and data acquisition. This paper details a research effort that utilizes software defined radio to help characterize medium frequency signal strength in relation to ionospheric and solar weather propagation determinants. Signal strength data from seven medium frequency stations of unique transmission locations and varying transmission powers were retrieved in 24-hour segments via a receiving loop antenna, Airspy HF+ Discovery software defined radio, and SDR Sharp software interface network. Retrieved data sets were visualized and analyzed in MATLAB for the identification of signal strength trends, which were subsequently compared to historical ionospheric and space weather indices in pursuit of a quantifiable correlation between such indices and medium frequency signal strengths. The results of the investigation prove that software defined radio, when used in conjunction with a receiving antenna and data analysis program, provides a versatile mechanism for cost-efficient propagation research.展开更多
Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is the most prevalent autoimmune sub-epidermal blistering disease that affects mainly the elderly and could lead to serious morbidity. It has numerous risk factors and triggers, including an ag...Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is the most prevalent autoimmune sub-epidermal blistering disease that affects mainly the elderly and could lead to serious morbidity. It has numerous risk factors and triggers, including an aging population with several comorbidities and drug exposure. In the published paper, we reported a case about a 32 years old male patient with unknown medical conditions who presented with erythematous patches and plaques on the scalp, face, and trunk with scattered blisters two weeks after initiating doxycycline treatment for folliculitis. The exact pathogenesis of the drug-reaction in drug- associated bullous pemphigoid (DABP) remains controversial. In conclusion, it is crucial for clinicians to be aware of DABP when prescribing doxycycline. The purpose of this case report is to raise awareness of the possible association between bullous pemphigoid and doxycycline.展开更多
AIM To evaluate the safety and efficacy of sedating pediatric patients for outpatient flexible bronchoscopy.METHODS A retrospective chart review was conducted for all children, age 17 years or under who underwent flex...AIM To evaluate the safety and efficacy of sedating pediatric patients for outpatient flexible bronchoscopy.METHODS A retrospective chart review was conducted for all children, age 17 years or under who underwent flexible bronchoscopy under deep sedation in an outpatient hospital-based setting. Two sedation regimens were used; propofol only or ketamine prior to propofol. Patients were divided into three age groups; infants(less than 12 mo), toddlers(1-3 years) and children(4-17 years). Demographics, indication for bronchoscopy, sedative dosing, sedation and recovery time and adverse events were reviewed.RESULTS Of the total 458 bronchoscopies performed, propofol only regimen was used in 337(74%) while propofol and ketamine was used in 121(26%). About 99% of the procedures were successfully completed. Children in the propofol + ketamine group tend to be youngerand have lower weight compared to the propofol only group. Adverse events including transient hypoxemia and hypotension occurred in 8% and 24% respectively. Median procedure time was 10 min while the median discharge time was 35 min. There were no differences in the indication of the procedure, propofol dose, procedure or recovery time in either sedative regimen. When compared to other age groups, infants had a higher incidence of hypoxemia.CONCLUSION Children can be effectively sedated for outpatient flexible bronchoscopy with high rate of success. This procedure should be performed under vigilance of highly trained providers.展开更多
Fecal microbiota transplantation(FMT)offers a potential treatment avenue for hepatic encephalopathy(HE)by leveraging beneficial bacterial displacement to restore a balanced gut microbiome.The prevalence of HE varies w...Fecal microbiota transplantation(FMT)offers a potential treatment avenue for hepatic encephalopathy(HE)by leveraging beneficial bacterial displacement to restore a balanced gut microbiome.The prevalence of HE varies with liver disease severity and comorbidities.HE pathogenesis involves ammonia toxicity,gut-brain communication disruption,and inflammation.FMT aims to restore gut microbiota balance,addressing these factors.FMT's efficacy has been explored in various conditions,including HE.Studies suggest that FMT can modulate gut microbiota,reduce ammonia levels,and alleviate inflammation.FMT has shown promise in alcohol-associated,hepatitis B and C-associated,and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.Benefits include improved liver function,cognitive function,and the slowing of disease progression.However,larger,controlled studies are needed to validate its effectiveness in these contexts.Studies have shown cognitive improvements through FMT,with potential benefits in cirrhotic patients.Notably,trials have demonstrated reduced serious adverse events and cognitive enhancements in FMT arms compared to the standard of care.Although evidence is promising,challenges remain:Limited patient numbers,varied dosages,administration routes,and donor profiles.Further large-scale,controlled trials are essential to establish standardized guidelines and ensure FMT's clinical applications and efficacy.While FMT holds potential for HE management,ongoing research is needed to address these challenges,optimize protocols,and expand its availability as a therapeutic option for diverse hepatic conditions.展开更多
A consensus meeting of national experts from all major national hepatobiliary centres in the country was held on May 26,2023,at the Pakistan Kidney and Liver Institute&Research Centre(PKLI&RC)after initial con...A consensus meeting of national experts from all major national hepatobiliary centres in the country was held on May 26,2023,at the Pakistan Kidney and Liver Institute&Research Centre(PKLI&RC)after initial consultations with the experts.The Pakistan Society for the Study of Liver Diseases(PSSLD)and PKLI&RC jointly organised this meeting.This effort was based on a comprehensive literature review to establish national practice guidelines for hilar cholangiocarcinoma(hCCA).The consensus was that hCCA is a complex disease and requires a multidisciplinary team approach to best manage these patients.This coordinated effort can minimise delays and give patients a chance for curative treatment and effective palliation.The diagnostic and staging workup includes high-quality computed tomography,magnetic resonance imaging,and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreato-graphy.Brush cytology or biopsy utilizing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is a mainstay for diagnosis.However,histopathologic confirmation is not always required before resection.Endoscopic ultrasound with fine needle aspiration of regional lymph nodes and positron emission tomography scan are valuable adjuncts for staging.The only curative treatment is the surgical resection of the biliary tree based on the Bismuth-Corlette classification.Selected patients with unresectable hCCA can be considered for liver transplantation.Adjuvant chemotherapy should be offered to patients with a high risk of recurrence.The use of preoperative biliary drainage and the need for portal vein embolisation should be based on local multidisciplinary discussions.Patients with acute cholangitis can be drained with endoscopic or percutaneous biliary drainage.Palliative chemotherapy with cisplatin and gemcitabine has shown improved survival in patients with irresectable and recurrent hCCA.展开更多
基金funded by Australian Research Council discovery project DP140103041Future Fellowship FT160100205
文摘Two-dimensional(2D) materials have attracted extensive interest due to their excellent electrical, thermal,mechanical, and optical properties. Graphene has been one of the most explored 2D materials. However, its zero band gap has limited its applications in electronic devices. Transition metal dichalcogenide(TMDC), another kind of 2D material,has a nonzero direct band gap(same charge carrier momentum in valence and conduction band) at monolayer state,promising for the efficient switching devices(e.g., field-effect transistors). This review mainly focuses on the recent advances in charge carrier mobility and the challenges to achieve high mobility in the electronic devices based on 2DTMDC materials and also includes an introduction of 2D materials along with the synthesis techniques. Finally, this review describes the possible methodology and future prospective to enhance the charge carrier mobility for electronic devices.
文摘Wind erosion represents a formidable environmental challenge and has serious negative impacts on soil health and agricultural productivity, particularly in arid and semi-arid areas. The complex dynamics of wind erosion make its large-scale monitoring and quantification a daunting task. To facilitate the monitoring and quantification of wind erosion, various scientific approaches and methods have been employed. These include sophisticated wind erosion equations and models, wind tunnel experiments, and the application of radionuclides. Additionally, researchers have assessed soil physicochemical properties, used anemometers for wind speed measurement, and deployed dust collectors for particle capture. Remote sensing technologies, wind erosion monitoring stations, and evaluations of wind barriers have also been utilized. Recently, the adoption of machine learning methods has gained popularity. Despite their value, each of these techniques has limitations in capturing the full spectrum of the wind erosion process. This paper examines these limitations and assesses the effectiveness of each method in the context of wind erosion studies. It also outlines directions for future research and suggests pathways that could enhance the understanding and management of wind erosion.
文摘BACKGROUND Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease(MASLD),formally known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease,is the most common chronic liver disease in the United States.Patients with MASLD have been reported to be at a higher risk of developing severe coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)and death.However,most studies are single-center studies,and nationwide data in the AIM To study the influence of MASLD on COVID-19 hospitalizations during the initial phase of the pandemic.METHODS We retrospectively analyzed the 2020 National Inpatient Sample(NIS)database to identify primary COVID-19 hospitalizations based on an underlying diagnosis of MASLD.A matched comparison cohort of COVID-19 hospit-alizations without MASLD was identified from NIS after 1:N propensity score matching based on gender,race,and comorbidities,including hypertension,heart failure,diabetes,and cirrhosis.The primary outcomes included inpatient mortality,length of stay,and hospitalization costs.Secondary outcomes included the prevalence of systemic complications.RESULTS A total of 2210 hospitalizations with MASLD were matched to 2210 hospitalizations without MASLD,with a good comorbidity balance.Overall,there was a higher prevalence of severe disease with more intensive care unit admissions(9.5%vs 7.2%,P=0.007),mechanical ventilation(7.2%vs 5.7%,P=0.03),and septic shock(5.2%vs 2.7%,P<0.001)in the MASLD cohort than in the non-MASLD cohort.However,there was no difference in mortality(8.6%vs 10%,P=0.49),length of stay(5 d vs 5 d,P=0.25),and hospitalization costs(42081.5$vs 38614$,P=0.15)between the MASLD and non-MASLD cohorts.CONCLUSION The presence of MAFLD with or without liver cirrhosis was not associated with increased mortality in COVID-19 hospitalizations;however,there was an increased incidence of severe COVID-19 infection.This data(2020)predates the availability of COVID-19 vaccines,and many MASLD patients have since been vaccinated.It will be interesting to see if these trends are present in the subsequent years of the pandemic
文摘Medium Frequency radio holds significance in modern society as it supports broadcasting and individual communications in the public, government, and military sectors. Enhancing the availability and quality of these communications is only possible by enhancing the understanding of medium frequency propagation. While traditional methods of radio wave propagation research can have a high material demand and cost, software defined radio presents itself as a versatile and low-cost platform for medium frequency signal reception and data acquisition. This paper details a research effort that utilizes software defined radio to help characterize medium frequency signal strength in relation to ionospheric and solar weather propagation determinants. Signal strength data from seven medium frequency stations of unique transmission locations and varying transmission powers were retrieved in 24-hour segments via a receiving loop antenna, Airspy HF+ Discovery software defined radio, and SDR Sharp software interface network. Retrieved data sets were visualized and analyzed in MATLAB for the identification of signal strength trends, which were subsequently compared to historical ionospheric and space weather indices in pursuit of a quantifiable correlation between such indices and medium frequency signal strengths. The results of the investigation prove that software defined radio, when used in conjunction with a receiving antenna and data analysis program, provides a versatile mechanism for cost-efficient propagation research.
文摘Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is the most prevalent autoimmune sub-epidermal blistering disease that affects mainly the elderly and could lead to serious morbidity. It has numerous risk factors and triggers, including an aging population with several comorbidities and drug exposure. In the published paper, we reported a case about a 32 years old male patient with unknown medical conditions who presented with erythematous patches and plaques on the scalp, face, and trunk with scattered blisters two weeks after initiating doxycycline treatment for folliculitis. The exact pathogenesis of the drug-reaction in drug- associated bullous pemphigoid (DABP) remains controversial. In conclusion, it is crucial for clinicians to be aware of DABP when prescribing doxycycline. The purpose of this case report is to raise awareness of the possible association between bullous pemphigoid and doxycycline.
文摘AIM To evaluate the safety and efficacy of sedating pediatric patients for outpatient flexible bronchoscopy.METHODS A retrospective chart review was conducted for all children, age 17 years or under who underwent flexible bronchoscopy under deep sedation in an outpatient hospital-based setting. Two sedation regimens were used; propofol only or ketamine prior to propofol. Patients were divided into three age groups; infants(less than 12 mo), toddlers(1-3 years) and children(4-17 years). Demographics, indication for bronchoscopy, sedative dosing, sedation and recovery time and adverse events were reviewed.RESULTS Of the total 458 bronchoscopies performed, propofol only regimen was used in 337(74%) while propofol and ketamine was used in 121(26%). About 99% of the procedures were successfully completed. Children in the propofol + ketamine group tend to be youngerand have lower weight compared to the propofol only group. Adverse events including transient hypoxemia and hypotension occurred in 8% and 24% respectively. Median procedure time was 10 min while the median discharge time was 35 min. There were no differences in the indication of the procedure, propofol dose, procedure or recovery time in either sedative regimen. When compared to other age groups, infants had a higher incidence of hypoxemia.CONCLUSION Children can be effectively sedated for outpatient flexible bronchoscopy with high rate of success. This procedure should be performed under vigilance of highly trained providers.
文摘Fecal microbiota transplantation(FMT)offers a potential treatment avenue for hepatic encephalopathy(HE)by leveraging beneficial bacterial displacement to restore a balanced gut microbiome.The prevalence of HE varies with liver disease severity and comorbidities.HE pathogenesis involves ammonia toxicity,gut-brain communication disruption,and inflammation.FMT aims to restore gut microbiota balance,addressing these factors.FMT's efficacy has been explored in various conditions,including HE.Studies suggest that FMT can modulate gut microbiota,reduce ammonia levels,and alleviate inflammation.FMT has shown promise in alcohol-associated,hepatitis B and C-associated,and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.Benefits include improved liver function,cognitive function,and the slowing of disease progression.However,larger,controlled studies are needed to validate its effectiveness in these contexts.Studies have shown cognitive improvements through FMT,with potential benefits in cirrhotic patients.Notably,trials have demonstrated reduced serious adverse events and cognitive enhancements in FMT arms compared to the standard of care.Although evidence is promising,challenges remain:Limited patient numbers,varied dosages,administration routes,and donor profiles.Further large-scale,controlled trials are essential to establish standardized guidelines and ensure FMT's clinical applications and efficacy.While FMT holds potential for HE management,ongoing research is needed to address these challenges,optimize protocols,and expand its availability as a therapeutic option for diverse hepatic conditions.
文摘A consensus meeting of national experts from all major national hepatobiliary centres in the country was held on May 26,2023,at the Pakistan Kidney and Liver Institute&Research Centre(PKLI&RC)after initial consultations with the experts.The Pakistan Society for the Study of Liver Diseases(PSSLD)and PKLI&RC jointly organised this meeting.This effort was based on a comprehensive literature review to establish national practice guidelines for hilar cholangiocarcinoma(hCCA).The consensus was that hCCA is a complex disease and requires a multidisciplinary team approach to best manage these patients.This coordinated effort can minimise delays and give patients a chance for curative treatment and effective palliation.The diagnostic and staging workup includes high-quality computed tomography,magnetic resonance imaging,and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreato-graphy.Brush cytology or biopsy utilizing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is a mainstay for diagnosis.However,histopathologic confirmation is not always required before resection.Endoscopic ultrasound with fine needle aspiration of regional lymph nodes and positron emission tomography scan are valuable adjuncts for staging.The only curative treatment is the surgical resection of the biliary tree based on the Bismuth-Corlette classification.Selected patients with unresectable hCCA can be considered for liver transplantation.Adjuvant chemotherapy should be offered to patients with a high risk of recurrence.The use of preoperative biliary drainage and the need for portal vein embolisation should be based on local multidisciplinary discussions.Patients with acute cholangitis can be drained with endoscopic or percutaneous biliary drainage.Palliative chemotherapy with cisplatin and gemcitabine has shown improved survival in patients with irresectable and recurrent hCCA.
