Biliary tract complications are the most common complications after liver transplantation.These complications are encountered more commonly as a result of increased number of liver transplantations and the prolonged s...Biliary tract complications are the most common complications after liver transplantation.These complications are encountered more commonly as a result of increased number of liver transplantations and the prolonged survival of transplant patients.Biliary complications remain a major source of morbidity in liver transplant patients,with an incidence of 5%-32%.Post liver transplantation biliary complications include strictures(anastomotic and non-anastomotic),leaks,stones,sphincter of Oddi dysfunction,and recurrence of primary biliary disease such as primary sclerosing cholangitis and primary biliary cirrhosis.The risk of occurrence of a specific biliary complication is related to the type of biliary reconstruction performed at the time of liver transplantation.In this article we seek to review the major biliary complications and their relation to the type of biliary reconstruction performed at the time of liver tranplantation.展开更多
Dementia is one of the greatest global challenges for health and social care in the 21st century.Alzheimer’s disease(AD),the most common type of dementia,is by no means an inevitable consequence of growing old.Severa...Dementia is one of the greatest global challenges for health and social care in the 21st century.Alzheimer’s disease(AD),the most common type of dementia,is by no means an inevitable consequence of growing old.Several lifestyle factors may increase,or reduce,an individual’s risk of developing AD.Much has been written over the ages about the benefits of exercise and physical activity.Among the risk factors associated with AD is a low level of physical activity.The relationship between physical and mental health was established several years ago.In this review,we discuss the role of exercise(aerobic and resistance)training as a therapeutic strategy for the treatment and prevention of AD.Older adults who exercise are more likely to maintain cognition.We address the main protective mechanism on brain function modulated by physical exercise by examining both human and animal studies.We will pay especial attention to the potential role of exercise in the modulation of amyloid b turnover,inflammation,synthesis and release of neurotrophins,and improvements in cerebral blood flow.Promoting changes in lifestyle in presymptomatic and predementia disease stages may have the potential for delaying one-third of dementias worldwide.Multimodal interventions that include the adoption of an active lifestyle should be recommended for older populations.展开更多
Background Allergen micro-arrays are powerful tools for screening of serum IgE-reactivity. In this study allergen micro-arrays were used to identify dominating IgE-binding allergens and cross-reactivity patterns among...Background Allergen micro-arrays are powerful tools for screening of serum IgE-reactivity. In this study allergen micro-arrays were used to identify dominating IgE-binding allergens and cross-reactivity patterns among selected Chinese allergy patients. Methods The study was conducted using patient sera from the cities of Guangzhou, Nanjing, Chengdu and Shenyang. In total 100 sera with Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus （Der p） specific IgE-levels higher than 50 kU/L were selected for testing against 103 individual allergens. Results Among 100 selected patients, 95% showed IgE-reactivity towards house-dust mite allergens Dermatophagoides farinae （Der f） 1, Der f 2 and Der p 2 and 94% were IgE positive against Der p 1, and 60% of sera contained IgE reacting against allergen Euroglyphus maynei （Eur m） 2. IgE against cat allergen, Felisdomesticus （Fel d） 1, was seen in 20%. Only 2% showed specific IgE-reactivity to Der p 10, a panallergen belonging to the tropomyosin family. Serum IgE-reactivity towards other allergens was in general low. IgE-reactivity against pollen allergens showed geographic differences. Conclusions This study clearly confirms that group 1 and group 2 are major allergens of house dust mites. These selected house-dust mite allergy patients are close to being mono-sensitized. Der p 10 is not an important allergen for cross-reactivity. Specific IgE-sensitization towards pollen allergens is low in southern China compared to other regions. The prevalence of food and stinging insect allergens known to give rise to IgE-mediated cross-reactivity is 2% or less.展开更多
The SARS-CoV-2-caused COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a devastating threat to human society in terms of health,economy,and lifestyle.Although the virus usually first invades and infects the lung and respiratory trac...The SARS-CoV-2-caused COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a devastating threat to human society in terms of health,economy,and lifestyle.Although the virus usually first invades and infects the lung and respiratory track tissue,in extreme cases,almost all major organs in the body are now known to be negatively impacted often leading to severe systemic failure in some people.Unfortunately,there is currently no effective treatment for this disease.Pre-existing pathological conditions or comorbidities such as age are a major reason for premature death and increased morbidity and mortality.The immobilization due to hospitalization and bed rest and the physical inactivity due to sustained quarantine and social distancing can downregulate the ability of organs systems to resist to viral infection and increase the risk of damage to the immune,respiratory,cardiovascular,musculoskeletal systems and the brain.The cellular mechanisms and danger of this“second wave”effect of COVID-19 to the human body,along with the effects of aging,proper nutrition,and regular physical activity,are reviewed in this article.展开更多
Hepatitis B virus(HBV) is still a worldwide health concern. While divergent factors are involved in its pathogenesis, it is now clear that HBV RNAs, principally templates for viral proteins and viral DNAs, have divers...Hepatitis B virus(HBV) is still a worldwide health concern. While divergent factors are involved in its pathogenesis, it is now clear that HBV RNAs, principally templates for viral proteins and viral DNAs, have diverse biological functions involved in HBV pathogenesis. These functions include viral replication, hepatic fibrosis and hepatocarcinogenesis. Depending on the sequence similarities, HBV RNAs may act as sponges for host mi RNAs and may deregulate mi RNA functions, possibly leading to pathological consequences. Some parts of the HBV RNA molecule may function as viralderived mi RNA, which regulates viral replication. HBV DNA can integrate into the host genomic DNA and produce novel viral-host fusion RNA, which may have pathological functions. To date, elimination of HBVderived covalently closed circular DNA has not been achieved. However, RNA transcription silencing may be an alternative practical approach to treat HBVinduced pathogenesis. A full understanding of HBV RNA transcription and the biological functions of HBV RNA may open a new avenue for the development of novel HBV therapeutics.展开更多
Abstract Objectives To explore the potential use of ultrasound measurement (SoundScan 2000 Compact, Myriad Ultrasound Systems Ltd., Rehovot, Israel), and to assess both quantitative and qualitative properties of bone....Abstract Objectives To explore the potential use of ultrasound measurement (SoundScan 2000 Compact, Myriad Ultrasound Systems Ltd., Rehovot, Israel), and to assess both quantitative and qualitative properties of bone. Methods The speed of sound waves (SOS; m/s) propagating along the cortical bone was determined at the tibial shaft. The performance, reliability, validity, and clinical application of this system were evaluated in Japanese subjects. Results In phantom experiments, validity of this system was 0.04(%), coefficient variation (CV: %) in same-day tests was 0.12, in five-separate-day tests was 0.13, and in independent operators was 0.11, respectively. In experiments with Japanese subjects, CV in same-day tests was 0.38, in five-separate-day tests was 0.99, and in independent operators was 0.90, respectively. In addition, cortical bone status of 1176 Japanese subjects (372 males, 804 females) was clinically evaluated by SoundScan 2000 Compact. SOS was negatively correlated with body fat percentage (%), body fat (kg) and waist hip ratio in females and subjects with higher weight bearing index (leg strength/body weight; WBI) have higher SOS in females under the age of forty. Conclusions These findings indicate that the SoundScan 2000 Compact is a highly reliable and valid method for determining cortical bone status and body composition and WBI are closely related to cortical bone status in Japanese females.展开更多
The World Health Organization describes calcifying fibrous tumors(CFTs) as rare, benign lesions characterized by hypocellular, densely hyalinized collagenization with lymphoplasmacytic infiltration. These tumors rarel...The World Health Organization describes calcifying fibrous tumors(CFTs) as rare, benign lesions characterized by hypocellular, densely hyalinized collagenization with lymphoplasmacytic infiltration. These tumors rarely involve the gastrointestinal(GI) tract. A routine endoscopic upper gastrointestinal screen detected a 10-mm submucosal tumor(SMT) in the lesser curvature of the lower corpus of the stomach of an apparently healthy, 37-year-old woman with no history of Helicobacter pylori infection. Endoscopic ultrasonography(EUS) localized the internally isoechoic, homogeneous SMT mainly within the submucosa. Malignancy was ruled out using endoscopic submucosal dissection(ESD). A pathological examination confirmed complete resection of the SMT, and defined a hypocellular, spindle-cell tumor with a densely hyalinized, collagenous matrix, scattered lymphoplasmacytic aggregates as well as a few psammomatous, dystrophic calcified foci. The mass was immunohistochemically positive for vimentin and negative for CD117(c-kit protein), CD34, desmin, smooth muscle actin(SMA) and S100. Therefore, the histological findings were characteristic of a CFT. To date, CFT resection by ESD has not been described. This is the first case report of a gastric calcifying fibrous tumor being completely resected by ESD after endoscopic ultrasonography.展开更多
Renewable energies are of major interest due to their inexhaustible and clean nature, with minimal impact on the environment. Numerous technological pathways exist in this field, each distinguished by the materials us...Renewable energies are of major interest due to their inexhaustible and clean nature, with minimal impact on the environment. Numerous technological pathways exist in this field, each distinguished by the materials used and their implementation principles. However, the cost-efficiency ratio remains a significant challenge for researchers. Currently, organic materials are gaining popularity due to their relatively low cost. However, their performance, particularly in terms of conversion efficiency, still requires improvements. This study focuses on optimizing the organic photovoltaic cell ITO/MoO3/CARAPA/PCBM/Alq3/Al using SCAPS. Several parameters were considered, such as layer thickness, recombination center density, and doping, to improve the cell’s performance. The optimal parameters obtained include an efficiency of 3%, a fill factor of 81.67%, an open-circuit voltage of 1610 mV, and a short-circuit current of 2.28 mA/cm2. The study also revealed that doping the phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) layer has a significant impact on efficiency and short-circuit current, improving these parameters up to a certain point before causing degradation due to increased recombination. Furthermore, high doping of the tri (8-hydroxyquinoline) aluminum (Alq3) layer improves performance up to a critical threshold, after which degradation is also observed. In contrast, doping the molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) layer does not have a notable impact on cell performance. Regarding the thickness of the active Carapaprocera (CARAPA) and PCBM layers, non-optimal values lead to a decrease in performance. Similarly, an optimal thickness of the Alq3 layer significantly improves efficiency. These results highlight the importance of parameter optimization to maximize the efficiency of organic solar cells.展开更多
Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, with breast cancer being the most common (2.26 million new cases and 685,000 deaths). In Saudi Arabia, breast cancer ranked the first among females in 2014, accounting for...Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, with breast cancer being the most common (2.26 million new cases and 685,000 deaths). In Saudi Arabia, breast cancer ranked the first among females in 2014, accounting for 15.9% of all cancers reported among Saudi nationals and 28.7% of all cancers reported among females of all ages. Early detection of breast cancer could decrease the risks, have a better prognosis, and have better outcomes/more successful treatments. Prevalence of breast cancer reached more than 25% of all diagnosed cancer in the kingdom among women. Aim: This study aims to assess the knowledge and performance of women attending primary care centers about breast self-examination and mammogram screening for prevention and early detection of breast cancer in Abha city primary healthcare centers, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Research Method: cross sectional design was conducted by using questionnaire, which was distributed to primary care center nurses. The collected data was statistically analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 25. Results: The study found that participants had poor awareness and knowledge about breast self-examination, risk factors for breast cancer, and trends and practices in early diagnosis of breast cancer. Conclusion and Recommendations: It recommends increasing awareness campaigns and providing educational programs to improve knowledge and practices.展开更多
Perovskites are a category of materials with a unique crystal structure that allows them to absorb sunlight efficiently. This efficiency is particularly high in the case of CH<sub>3</sub>NH<sub>3<...Perovskites are a category of materials with a unique crystal structure that allows them to absorb sunlight efficiently. This efficiency is particularly high in the case of CH<sub>3</sub>NH<sub>3</sub>Pb<sub>1-x</sub>Sn<sub>x</sub>I<sub>3</sub> mixed perovskites. The combination of lead (Pb) and tin (Sn) in this matrix provides a broad spectrum of sunlight absorption, enabling the generation of a larger voltage and, subsequently, increased power. The primary objective in solar cell development is to maximize the conversion of sunlight into electricity. Mixed perovskites like CH<sub>3</sub>NH<sub>3</sub>Pb<sub>1-x</sub>Sn<sub>x</sub>I<sub>3</sub> have demonstrated significant potential in this regard. Their tunable bandgap, courtesy of varying the Pb: Sn ratio, allows for the optimization of sunlight absorption. The result is solar cells that surpass many conventional counterparts in terms of energy efficiency. Another significant advantage of these mixed perovskite solar cells is their cost-effectiveness. They can be manufactured using solution-based processes, which are less expensive than the high-vacuum methods required for traditional silicon solar cells. While the prospects for mixed perovskite solar cells are undeniably promising, there are concerns about the toxicity of lead, a key component of these cells. Lead is known to have harmful effects on the environment and health. The aim of our work is to reduce or eliminate lead toxicity in the perovskite cell while maintaining its efficiency. Thus, in a theoretical and experimental approach, we obtained following efficiencies of samples: CH<sub>3</sub>NH<sub>3</sub>PbI<sub>3</sub> (22.49%) CH<sub>3</sub>NH<sub>3</sub>Pb<sub>0.75</sub>Sn<sub>0.25</sub>I<sub>3</sub> (22.72%), CH<sub>3</sub>NH<sub>3</sub>Pb<sub>0.5</sub>Sn<sub>0.5</sub>I<sub>3</sub> (23.00%) CH<sub>3</sub>NH<sub>3</sub>Pb<sub>0.25</sub>Sn<sub>0.75</sub>I<sub>3</sub> (22.61%), CH<sub>3</sub>NH<sub>3</sub>SnI<sub>3</sub> (22.38%). Doping with 50% tin gives the highest result (23.00%). By replacing展开更多
Two-dimensional （2D） layered materials, transition-metal dichalcogenides, and black phosphorus have attracted considerable interest from the viewpoints of fundamental physics and device applications. The establishme...Two-dimensional （2D） layered materials, transition-metal dichalcogenides, and black phosphorus have attracted considerable interest from the viewpoints of fundamental physics and device applications. The establishment of new functionalities in anisotropic layered 2D materials is a challenging but rewarding frontier, owing to the remarkable optical properties of these materials and their prospects for new devices. Herein, we report the anisotropic and thickness- dependent optical properties of a 2D layered monochalcogenide of germanium sulfide （GeS）. Three Raman-scattering peaks corresponding to the B3g,, A1g, and A2g modes with a strong polarization dependence are demonstrated in the GeS flakes, which validates polarized Raman spectroscopy as an effective method for identifying the crystal orientation of anisotropic layered GeS. Photoluminescence （PL） is observed with a peak at -1.66 eV that originates from the direct optical transition in GeS at room temperature. The polarization-dependent characteristics of the PL, which are revealed for the first time, along with the demonstration of anisotropic absorption, indicate an obvious anisotropic optical transition near the band edge of GeS, which is supported by density functional theory calculations. The significantly thickness-dependent PL is observed and discussed. This anisotropic layered GeS presents opportunities for the discovery of new physical phenomena and will find applications that exploit its anisotropic properties, such as polarization-sensitive photodetectors.展开更多
AIM:To determine the effects of genetic variants associated with gallstone formation and capsaicin (a pungent component of chili pepper) metabolism on the risk of gallbladder cancer (GBC).METHODS: A total of 57 patien...AIM:To determine the effects of genetic variants associated with gallstone formation and capsaicin (a pungent component of chili pepper) metabolism on the risk of gallbladder cancer (GBC).METHODS: A total of 57 patients with GBC, 119 patients with gallstones, and 70 controls were enrolled in this study. DNA was extracted from their blood or paraffi n block sample using standard commercial kits. The statuses of the genetic variants were assayed using Taqman SNP Genotyping Assays or Custom Taqman SNP Genotyping Assays.RESULTS:The non-ancestral T/T genotype of apolipoprotein B rs693 polymorphism was associated with a decreased risk of GBC (OR:0.14,95% CI:0.03-0.63). The T/T genotype of cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) rs708272 polymorphism was associated with an increased risk of GBC (OR:5.04,95% CI:1.43-17.8).CONCLUSION: Genetic variants involved in gallstone formation such as the apolipoprotein B rs693 and CETP rs 708272 polymorphisms may be related to the risk of developing GBC in Chilean women.展开更多
The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory(JUNO)is a large liquid scintillator detector designed to explore many topics in fundamental physics.In this study,the potential of searching for proton decay in the p→νK...The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory(JUNO)is a large liquid scintillator detector designed to explore many topics in fundamental physics.In this study,the potential of searching for proton decay in the p→νK^(+)mode with JUNO is investigated.The kaon and its decay particles feature a clear three-fold coincidence signature that results in a high efficiency for identification.Moreover,the excellent energy resolution of JUNO permits suppression of the sizable background caused by other delayed signals.Based on these advantages,the detection efficiency for the proton decay via p→νK^(+)is 36.9%±4.9%with a background level of 0.2±0.05(syst)±0.2(stat)events after 10 years of data collection.The estimated sensitivity based on 200 kton-years of exposure is 9.6×1033 years,which is competitive with the current best limits on the proton lifetime in this channel and complements the use of different detection technologies.展开更多
Mechanical shear resistance of wheat grain is a significant concern for the designers and researchers related to the design of threshing,handling and processing machinery of the field crops.The grain mechanical proper...Mechanical shear resistance of wheat grain is a significant concern for the designers and researchers related to the design of threshing,handling and processing machinery of the field crops.The grain mechanical properties directly affect the machine geometry and its operational parameters.The present study was carried out to determine the shear resistance of five wheat varieties(Locally names;TD-02,Sindhu-1105,Benazir,China and SKD-118)influenced by moisture content(16.7%,18.7%and 19.5%)and loading rate(3 mm/s,6 mm/s and 9 mm/s).However,some physio-dimensional properties(length,width,thickness,slenderness ratio,surface area and sphericity)were obtained at different moisture contents.The results showed that the shear resistance reduced by increasing the moisture content and loading rate.The average shear resistance decreased from 10.45 N to 3.74 N for 3-9 mm/s loading rate at moisture content of 16.7%to 19.5%.Thus,the maximum correlation(r=0.905)of shear resistance obtained at 16.7%,whereas minimum correlation(r=0.692)obtained at 19.5%.The shear resistance of wheat grain was highly significant(p<0.05)at 9 mm/s for 19.5%.Shear resistance decreased with an increase in the moisture content in the grain whereas deformation is increasing with the increase of moisture content.However,the maximum bulk density of wheat grain obtained at 19.5%for SKD-118,while the minimum obtained at 16.7%for TD-02.It is recommended that the design and modification of wheat grain processing equipment should be executed on the physio-mechanical properties of grain varieties.展开更多
This study investigated the vibration frequency in micro-vibration therapy (MVT) performed as a part of nursing care in Japan. We surveyed 31 nurses (25 women and 6 men) who performed MVT with accelerometers attached ...This study investigated the vibration frequency in micro-vibration therapy (MVT) performed as a part of nursing care in Japan. We surveyed 31 nurses (25 women and 6 men) who performed MVT with accelerometers attached to the backs of their hands, and the data obtained were analyzed. The mean vibration frequency was 8.3 Hz (standard deviation [SD]: 1.9 Hz) bilaterally, with a left-right difference of 0.8 Hz (SD: 1.1 Hz, right > left). Furthermore, vibration frequency was correlated with duration of MVT use (rs = 0.5, P < 0.01). The vibration frequency was higher in men (9.2 Hz, SD: 2.4 Hz) than in women (8.1 Hz, SD: 1.8 Hz), but this difference was not significant (P = 0.34). The vibrations of MVT are of a lower frequency than those of other vibration therapies.展开更多
The aim was to develop films with a new mixture of collagen fiber plus polyvinyl alcohol added of oregano or rosemary essential oils at different levels (0%, 2%, 4% and 6%), as well as to assess the antimicrobial acti...The aim was to develop films with a new mixture of collagen fiber plus polyvinyl alcohol added of oregano or rosemary essential oils at different levels (0%, 2%, 4% and 6%), as well as to assess the antimicrobial activity, physical, optical, microstructure and molecular properties in the films. An interaction between the ingredients was observed at the molecular level by FTIR. The amide II and amide III bands, which are important to verify collagen conformation, showed intense peaks in the films. The formation of a network through collagen fibers was produced, acting as a reinforcement in matrix. The films with essential oil had an expressive antimicrobial activity by the steam contact method (micro-atmosphere), mainly for Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The mixture of collagen fiber plus polyvinyl alcohol added of essential oils is a promising matrix for application in food as active packaging.展开更多
文摘Biliary tract complications are the most common complications after liver transplantation.These complications are encountered more commonly as a result of increased number of liver transplantations and the prolonged survival of transplant patients.Biliary complications remain a major source of morbidity in liver transplant patients,with an incidence of 5%-32%.Post liver transplantation biliary complications include strictures(anastomotic and non-anastomotic),leaks,stones,sphincter of Oddi dysfunction,and recurrence of primary biliary disease such as primary sclerosing cholangitis and primary biliary cirrhosis.The risk of occurrence of a specific biliary complication is related to the type of biliary reconstruction performed at the time of liver transplantation.In this article we seek to review the major biliary complications and their relation to the type of biliary reconstruction performed at the time of liver tranplantation.
基金TagedPThis work was supported by the following grants:Instituto de Salud Carlos III and co-funded by FEDER(Grant number PIE15/00013)SAF2016-75508-R from the Spanish Ministry of Education and Science(MEC)+2 种基金CB16/10/00435(CIBERFES)PROMETEOII2014/056 from Conselleria,de Sanitat de la Generalitat Valenciana and EU Funded CM1001 and FRAILOMICHEALTH.2012.2.1.1-2ADVANTAGE-724099 Join Action(HP-JA)3rd EU Health Programme and DIALBFRAIL-LATAM(825546 H2020-SC1-BHC).
文摘Dementia is one of the greatest global challenges for health and social care in the 21st century.Alzheimer’s disease(AD),the most common type of dementia,is by no means an inevitable consequence of growing old.Several lifestyle factors may increase,or reduce,an individual’s risk of developing AD.Much has been written over the ages about the benefits of exercise and physical activity.Among the risk factors associated with AD is a low level of physical activity.The relationship between physical and mental health was established several years ago.In this review,we discuss the role of exercise(aerobic and resistance)training as a therapeutic strategy for the treatment and prevention of AD.Older adults who exercise are more likely to maintain cognition.We address the main protective mechanism on brain function modulated by physical exercise by examining both human and animal studies.We will pay especial attention to the potential role of exercise in the modulation of amyloid b turnover,inflammation,synthesis and release of neurotrophins,and improvements in cerebral blood flow.Promoting changes in lifestyle in presymptomatic and predementia disease stages may have the potential for delaying one-third of dementias worldwide.Multimodal interventions that include the adoption of an active lifestyle should be recommended for older populations.
文摘Background Allergen micro-arrays are powerful tools for screening of serum IgE-reactivity. In this study allergen micro-arrays were used to identify dominating IgE-binding allergens and cross-reactivity patterns among selected Chinese allergy patients. Methods The study was conducted using patient sera from the cities of Guangzhou, Nanjing, Chengdu and Shenyang. In total 100 sera with Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus （Der p） specific IgE-levels higher than 50 kU/L were selected for testing against 103 individual allergens. Results Among 100 selected patients, 95% showed IgE-reactivity towards house-dust mite allergens Dermatophagoides farinae （Der f） 1, Der f 2 and Der p 2 and 94% were IgE positive against Der p 1, and 60% of sera contained IgE reacting against allergen Euroglyphus maynei （Eur m） 2. IgE against cat allergen, Felisdomesticus （Fel d） 1, was seen in 20%. Only 2% showed specific IgE-reactivity to Der p 10, a panallergen belonging to the tropomyosin family. Serum IgE-reactivity towards other allergens was in general low. IgE-reactivity against pollen allergens showed geographic differences. Conclusions This study clearly confirms that group 1 and group 2 are major allergens of house dust mites. These selected house-dust mite allergy patients are close to being mono-sensitized. Der p 10 is not an important allergen for cross-reactivity. Specific IgE-sensitization towards pollen allergens is low in southern China compared to other regions. The prevalence of food and stinging insect allergens known to give rise to IgE-mediated cross-reactivity is 2% or less.
文摘The SARS-CoV-2-caused COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a devastating threat to human society in terms of health,economy,and lifestyle.Although the virus usually first invades and infects the lung and respiratory track tissue,in extreme cases,almost all major organs in the body are now known to be negatively impacted often leading to severe systemic failure in some people.Unfortunately,there is currently no effective treatment for this disease.Pre-existing pathological conditions or comorbidities such as age are a major reason for premature death and increased morbidity and mortality.The immobilization due to hospitalization and bed rest and the physical inactivity due to sustained quarantine and social distancing can downregulate the ability of organs systems to resist to viral infection and increase the risk of damage to the immune,respiratory,cardiovascular,musculoskeletal systems and the brain.The cellular mechanisms and danger of this“second wave”effect of COVID-19 to the human body,along with the effects of aging,proper nutrition,and regular physical activity,are reviewed in this article.
基金Supported by the Research Program on Hepatitis from Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development,AMED to Otsuka M,No.JP18fk0210214the Project for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Evolution(P-CREATE)from AMED to Otsuka M,No.JP19cm0106602
文摘Hepatitis B virus(HBV) is still a worldwide health concern. While divergent factors are involved in its pathogenesis, it is now clear that HBV RNAs, principally templates for viral proteins and viral DNAs, have diverse biological functions involved in HBV pathogenesis. These functions include viral replication, hepatic fibrosis and hepatocarcinogenesis. Depending on the sequence similarities, HBV RNAs may act as sponges for host mi RNAs and may deregulate mi RNA functions, possibly leading to pathological consequences. Some parts of the HBV RNA molecule may function as viralderived mi RNA, which regulates viral replication. HBV DNA can integrate into the host genomic DNA and produce novel viral-host fusion RNA, which may have pathological functions. To date, elimination of HBVderived covalently closed circular DNA has not been achieved. However, RNA transcription silencing may be an alternative practical approach to treat HBVinduced pathogenesis. A full understanding of HBV RNA transcription and the biological functions of HBV RNA may open a new avenue for the development of novel HBV therapeutics.
文摘Abstract Objectives To explore the potential use of ultrasound measurement (SoundScan 2000 Compact, Myriad Ultrasound Systems Ltd., Rehovot, Israel), and to assess both quantitative and qualitative properties of bone. Methods The speed of sound waves (SOS; m/s) propagating along the cortical bone was determined at the tibial shaft. The performance, reliability, validity, and clinical application of this system were evaluated in Japanese subjects. Results In phantom experiments, validity of this system was 0.04(%), coefficient variation (CV: %) in same-day tests was 0.12, in five-separate-day tests was 0.13, and in independent operators was 0.11, respectively. In experiments with Japanese subjects, CV in same-day tests was 0.38, in five-separate-day tests was 0.99, and in independent operators was 0.90, respectively. In addition, cortical bone status of 1176 Japanese subjects (372 males, 804 females) was clinically evaluated by SoundScan 2000 Compact. SOS was negatively correlated with body fat percentage (%), body fat (kg) and waist hip ratio in females and subjects with higher weight bearing index (leg strength/body weight; WBI) have higher SOS in females under the age of forty. Conclusions These findings indicate that the SoundScan 2000 Compact is a highly reliable and valid method for determining cortical bone status and body composition and WBI are closely related to cortical bone status in Japanese females.
文摘The World Health Organization describes calcifying fibrous tumors(CFTs) as rare, benign lesions characterized by hypocellular, densely hyalinized collagenization with lymphoplasmacytic infiltration. These tumors rarely involve the gastrointestinal(GI) tract. A routine endoscopic upper gastrointestinal screen detected a 10-mm submucosal tumor(SMT) in the lesser curvature of the lower corpus of the stomach of an apparently healthy, 37-year-old woman with no history of Helicobacter pylori infection. Endoscopic ultrasonography(EUS) localized the internally isoechoic, homogeneous SMT mainly within the submucosa. Malignancy was ruled out using endoscopic submucosal dissection(ESD). A pathological examination confirmed complete resection of the SMT, and defined a hypocellular, spindle-cell tumor with a densely hyalinized, collagenous matrix, scattered lymphoplasmacytic aggregates as well as a few psammomatous, dystrophic calcified foci. The mass was immunohistochemically positive for vimentin and negative for CD117(c-kit protein), CD34, desmin, smooth muscle actin(SMA) and S100. Therefore, the histological findings were characteristic of a CFT. To date, CFT resection by ESD has not been described. This is the first case report of a gastric calcifying fibrous tumor being completely resected by ESD after endoscopic ultrasonography.
文摘Renewable energies are of major interest due to their inexhaustible and clean nature, with minimal impact on the environment. Numerous technological pathways exist in this field, each distinguished by the materials used and their implementation principles. However, the cost-efficiency ratio remains a significant challenge for researchers. Currently, organic materials are gaining popularity due to their relatively low cost. However, their performance, particularly in terms of conversion efficiency, still requires improvements. This study focuses on optimizing the organic photovoltaic cell ITO/MoO3/CARAPA/PCBM/Alq3/Al using SCAPS. Several parameters were considered, such as layer thickness, recombination center density, and doping, to improve the cell’s performance. The optimal parameters obtained include an efficiency of 3%, a fill factor of 81.67%, an open-circuit voltage of 1610 mV, and a short-circuit current of 2.28 mA/cm2. The study also revealed that doping the phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) layer has a significant impact on efficiency and short-circuit current, improving these parameters up to a certain point before causing degradation due to increased recombination. Furthermore, high doping of the tri (8-hydroxyquinoline) aluminum (Alq3) layer improves performance up to a critical threshold, after which degradation is also observed. In contrast, doping the molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) layer does not have a notable impact on cell performance. Regarding the thickness of the active Carapaprocera (CARAPA) and PCBM layers, non-optimal values lead to a decrease in performance. Similarly, an optimal thickness of the Alq3 layer significantly improves efficiency. These results highlight the importance of parameter optimization to maximize the efficiency of organic solar cells.
文摘Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, with breast cancer being the most common (2.26 million new cases and 685,000 deaths). In Saudi Arabia, breast cancer ranked the first among females in 2014, accounting for 15.9% of all cancers reported among Saudi nationals and 28.7% of all cancers reported among females of all ages. Early detection of breast cancer could decrease the risks, have a better prognosis, and have better outcomes/more successful treatments. Prevalence of breast cancer reached more than 25% of all diagnosed cancer in the kingdom among women. Aim: This study aims to assess the knowledge and performance of women attending primary care centers about breast self-examination and mammogram screening for prevention and early detection of breast cancer in Abha city primary healthcare centers, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Research Method: cross sectional design was conducted by using questionnaire, which was distributed to primary care center nurses. The collected data was statistically analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 25. Results: The study found that participants had poor awareness and knowledge about breast self-examination, risk factors for breast cancer, and trends and practices in early diagnosis of breast cancer. Conclusion and Recommendations: It recommends increasing awareness campaigns and providing educational programs to improve knowledge and practices.
文摘Perovskites are a category of materials with a unique crystal structure that allows them to absorb sunlight efficiently. This efficiency is particularly high in the case of CH<sub>3</sub>NH<sub>3</sub>Pb<sub>1-x</sub>Sn<sub>x</sub>I<sub>3</sub> mixed perovskites. The combination of lead (Pb) and tin (Sn) in this matrix provides a broad spectrum of sunlight absorption, enabling the generation of a larger voltage and, subsequently, increased power. The primary objective in solar cell development is to maximize the conversion of sunlight into electricity. Mixed perovskites like CH<sub>3</sub>NH<sub>3</sub>Pb<sub>1-x</sub>Sn<sub>x</sub>I<sub>3</sub> have demonstrated significant potential in this regard. Their tunable bandgap, courtesy of varying the Pb: Sn ratio, allows for the optimization of sunlight absorption. The result is solar cells that surpass many conventional counterparts in terms of energy efficiency. Another significant advantage of these mixed perovskite solar cells is their cost-effectiveness. They can be manufactured using solution-based processes, which are less expensive than the high-vacuum methods required for traditional silicon solar cells. While the prospects for mixed perovskite solar cells are undeniably promising, there are concerns about the toxicity of lead, a key component of these cells. Lead is known to have harmful effects on the environment and health. The aim of our work is to reduce or eliminate lead toxicity in the perovskite cell while maintaining its efficiency. Thus, in a theoretical and experimental approach, we obtained following efficiencies of samples: CH<sub>3</sub>NH<sub>3</sub>PbI<sub>3</sub> (22.49%) CH<sub>3</sub>NH<sub>3</sub>Pb<sub>0.75</sub>Sn<sub>0.25</sub>I<sub>3</sub> (22.72%), CH<sub>3</sub>NH<sub>3</sub>Pb<sub>0.5</sub>Sn<sub>0.5</sub>I<sub>3</sub> (23.00%) CH<sub>3</sub>NH<sub>3</sub>Pb<sub>0.25</sub>Sn<sub>0.75</sub>I<sub>3</sub> (22.61%), CH<sub>3</sub>NH<sub>3</sub>SnI<sub>3</sub> (22.38%). Doping with 50% tin gives the highest result (23.00%). By replacing
文摘Two-dimensional （2D） layered materials, transition-metal dichalcogenides, and black phosphorus have attracted considerable interest from the viewpoints of fundamental physics and device applications. The establishment of new functionalities in anisotropic layered 2D materials is a challenging but rewarding frontier, owing to the remarkable optical properties of these materials and their prospects for new devices. Herein, we report the anisotropic and thickness- dependent optical properties of a 2D layered monochalcogenide of germanium sulfide （GeS）. Three Raman-scattering peaks corresponding to the B3g,, A1g, and A2g modes with a strong polarization dependence are demonstrated in the GeS flakes, which validates polarized Raman spectroscopy as an effective method for identifying the crystal orientation of anisotropic layered GeS. Photoluminescence （PL） is observed with a peak at -1.66 eV that originates from the direct optical transition in GeS at room temperature. The polarization-dependent characteristics of the PL, which are revealed for the first time, along with the demonstration of anisotropic absorption, indicate an obvious anisotropic optical transition near the band edge of GeS, which is supported by density functional theory calculations. The significantly thickness-dependent PL is observed and discussed. This anisotropic layered GeS presents opportunities for the discovery of new physical phenomena and will find applications that exploit its anisotropic properties, such as polarization-sensitive photodetectors.
基金Supported by (in part) A Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C) (2007,#19590582) from the Japanese Ministry of Education,Science,Sports and Culture
文摘AIM:To determine the effects of genetic variants associated with gallstone formation and capsaicin (a pungent component of chili pepper) metabolism on the risk of gallbladder cancer (GBC).METHODS: A total of 57 patients with GBC, 119 patients with gallstones, and 70 controls were enrolled in this study. DNA was extracted from their blood or paraffi n block sample using standard commercial kits. The statuses of the genetic variants were assayed using Taqman SNP Genotyping Assays or Custom Taqman SNP Genotyping Assays.RESULTS:The non-ancestral T/T genotype of apolipoprotein B rs693 polymorphism was associated with a decreased risk of GBC (OR:0.14,95% CI:0.03-0.63). The T/T genotype of cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) rs708272 polymorphism was associated with an increased risk of GBC (OR:5.04,95% CI:1.43-17.8).CONCLUSION: Genetic variants involved in gallstone formation such as the apolipoprotein B rs693 and CETP rs 708272 polymorphisms may be related to the risk of developing GBC in Chilean women.
基金supported by the Chinese Academy of Sciencesthe National Key R&D Program of China+22 种基金the CAS Center for Excellence in Particle PhysicsWuyi Universitythe Tsung-Dao Lee Institute of Shanghai Jiao Tong University in Chinathe Institut National de Physique Nucléaire et de Physique de Particules (IN2P3) in Francethe Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare (INFN) in Italythe Italian-Chinese collaborative research program MAECI-NSFCthe Fond de la Recherche Scientifique (F.R.S-FNRS)FWO under the "Excellence of Science-EOS" in Belgiumthe Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnològico in Brazilthe Agencia Nacional de Investigacion y Desarrollo in Chilethe Charles University Research Centrethe Ministry of Education,Youth,and Sports in Czech Republicthe Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG)the Helmholtz Associationthe Cluster of Excellence PRISMA+ in Germanythe Joint Institute of Nuclear Research (JINR)Lomonosov Moscow State University in Russiathe joint Russian Science Foundation (RSF)National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) research programthe MOST and MOE in Taiwan,Chinathe Chulalongkorn UniversitySuranaree University of Technology in Thailandthe University of California at Irvine in USA
文摘The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory(JUNO)is a large liquid scintillator detector designed to explore many topics in fundamental physics.In this study,the potential of searching for proton decay in the p→νK^(+)mode with JUNO is investigated.The kaon and its decay particles feature a clear three-fold coincidence signature that results in a high efficiency for identification.Moreover,the excellent energy resolution of JUNO permits suppression of the sizable background caused by other delayed signals.Based on these advantages,the detection efficiency for the proton decay via p→νK^(+)is 36.9%±4.9%with a background level of 0.2±0.05(syst)±0.2(stat)events after 10 years of data collection.The estimated sensitivity based on 200 kton-years of exposure is 9.6×1033 years,which is competitive with the current best limits on the proton lifetime in this channel and complements the use of different detection technologies.
基金This work is financially supported by the National Key Research of Development Program of China(Grant No.2016YFD0702004)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.51605196)+3 种基金the Jiangsu Key Research and Development Program of China(Grant No.BE2016356)the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province of China(Grant No.BK20160532)the National Science Foundation for Post-doctoral Scientists of China(Grant No.2016M591788)Natural Science Foundation of the Higher Education Institutions of Jiangsu Province,China(Grant No.17KJB416003).
文摘Mechanical shear resistance of wheat grain is a significant concern for the designers and researchers related to the design of threshing,handling and processing machinery of the field crops.The grain mechanical properties directly affect the machine geometry and its operational parameters.The present study was carried out to determine the shear resistance of five wheat varieties(Locally names;TD-02,Sindhu-1105,Benazir,China and SKD-118)influenced by moisture content(16.7%,18.7%and 19.5%)and loading rate(3 mm/s,6 mm/s and 9 mm/s).However,some physio-dimensional properties(length,width,thickness,slenderness ratio,surface area and sphericity)were obtained at different moisture contents.The results showed that the shear resistance reduced by increasing the moisture content and loading rate.The average shear resistance decreased from 10.45 N to 3.74 N for 3-9 mm/s loading rate at moisture content of 16.7%to 19.5%.Thus,the maximum correlation(r=0.905)of shear resistance obtained at 16.7%,whereas minimum correlation(r=0.692)obtained at 19.5%.The shear resistance of wheat grain was highly significant(p<0.05)at 9 mm/s for 19.5%.Shear resistance decreased with an increase in the moisture content in the grain whereas deformation is increasing with the increase of moisture content.However,the maximum bulk density of wheat grain obtained at 19.5%for SKD-118,while the minimum obtained at 16.7%for TD-02.It is recommended that the design and modification of wheat grain processing equipment should be executed on the physio-mechanical properties of grain varieties.
文摘This study investigated the vibration frequency in micro-vibration therapy (MVT) performed as a part of nursing care in Japan. We surveyed 31 nurses (25 women and 6 men) who performed MVT with accelerometers attached to the backs of their hands, and the data obtained were analyzed. The mean vibration frequency was 8.3 Hz (standard deviation [SD]: 1.9 Hz) bilaterally, with a left-right difference of 0.8 Hz (SD: 1.1 Hz, right > left). Furthermore, vibration frequency was correlated with duration of MVT use (rs = 0.5, P < 0.01). The vibration frequency was higher in men (9.2 Hz, SD: 2.4 Hz) than in women (8.1 Hz, SD: 1.8 Hz), but this difference was not significant (P = 0.34). The vibrations of MVT are of a lower frequency than those of other vibration therapies.
文摘The aim was to develop films with a new mixture of collagen fiber plus polyvinyl alcohol added of oregano or rosemary essential oils at different levels (0%, 2%, 4% and 6%), as well as to assess the antimicrobial activity, physical, optical, microstructure and molecular properties in the films. An interaction between the ingredients was observed at the molecular level by FTIR. The amide II and amide III bands, which are important to verify collagen conformation, showed intense peaks in the films. The formation of a network through collagen fibers was produced, acting as a reinforcement in matrix. The films with essential oil had an expressive antimicrobial activity by the steam contact method (micro-atmosphere), mainly for Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The mixture of collagen fiber plus polyvinyl alcohol added of essential oils is a promising matrix for application in food as active packaging.
