Drought resistance is required in rice breeding to address the challenge of frequent droughts . However, the evolutionary mechanism of rice drought resistance is not fully understood. We investigated the genetic diffe...Drought resistance is required in rice breeding to address the challenge of frequent droughts . However, the evolutionary mechanism of rice drought resistance is not fully understood. We investigated the genetic differentiation between upland and lowland rice domesticated in agro-ecosystems with contrasting water-soil conditions using genome-wide SNPs. We estimated morphological differences among upland and lowland rice in drought resistance and productivity through common garden experiments. Upland rice had better drought resistance but poorer productivity. The negative correlations between traits of drought resistance and productivity are attributed to the underlying genetic trade-offs through tight linkages (e.g., DCA1 and OsCesA7) or pleiotropic effects (e.g., LAX1). The genetic trade-offs are comm on and greatly shape the evolutio n of drought resista nee in upland rice . In genomic regions associated with both productivity and drought resistance, signs of balancing selection were detected in upland rice, while signs of directional selection were detected in lowland rice, potentially contributing to their adaptive differentiation. Signs of balancing selection in upland rice resulted from bi-directional selection during its domestication in drought-prone upland agro-ecosystems.Using genome-wide association analysis, we ide ntified several valuable quantitative trait loci associated with drought resista nee, for which highly differentiated genes should be considered candidates. Bi-directional selection breaking tight linkages by accumulating recombination events would be applicable in breeding water-saving and droughtresistance rice.展开更多
Coordination between mitochondria and the nucleus is crucial for fertility determination in plants with cytoplasmic male sterility(CMS).Using yeast one-hybrid screening,we identified a transcription factor,ZmDREB1.7,t...Coordination between mitochondria and the nucleus is crucial for fertility determination in plants with cytoplasmic male sterility(CMS).Using yeast one-hybrid screening,we identified a transcription factor,ZmDREB1.7,that is highly expressed in sterile microspores at the large vacuole stage and activates the expression of mitochondria-encoded CMS gene orf355.Δpro,a weak allele of ZmDREB1.7 with the loss of a key unfolded protein response(UPR)motif in the promoter,partially restores male fertility of CMS-S maize.ZmDREB1.7 expression increases rapidly in response to antimycin A treatment,but this response is attenuated in theΔpro allele.Furthermore,we found that expression of orf355 in mitochondria activates mitochondrial retrograde signaling,which in turn induces ZmDREB1.7 expression.Taken together,these findings demonstrate that positive-feedback transcriptional regulation between a nuclear regulator and a mitochondrial CMS gene determines male sterility in maize,providing new insights into nucleus-mitochondria communication in plants.展开更多
The electronic properties of sphalerite(110) surface with Zn-vacancy and S-vacancy were calculated by using density-functional theory,and the effects of vacancy defect on the copper activation of sphalerite were inves...The electronic properties of sphalerite(110) surface with Zn-vacancy and S-vacancy were calculated by using density-functional theory,and the effects of vacancy defect on the copper activation of sphalerite were investigated.The calculated results indicate that surface state occurs in the band gap of Zn-vacancy sphalerite,which is from the contribution of S 3p orbital at the first layer of the surface.The presence of S-vacancy results in surface state appearing near the Fermi level and the bottom of conductor band,which are composed of S 3p and Zn 4s orbital,respectively.The surface structure of Zn-vacancy sphalerite is more stable than S-vacancy surface due to the occupation of Zn-vacancy by Cu atoms;hence,the substitution reaction of Cu for Zn vacancy is easier than the substitution of Cu for Zn atoms with S-vacancy surface.展开更多
Pneumoconiosis,an interstitial lung disease that occurs from breathing in certain kinds of damaging dust particles,is a major occupational disease in China.Patients diagnosed with occupational pneumoconiosis can avail...Pneumoconiosis,an interstitial lung disease that occurs from breathing in certain kinds of damaging dust particles,is a major occupational disease in China.Patients diagnosed with occupational pneumoconiosis can avail of free medical treatment,whereas patients without a diagnosis of occupational diseases cannot not claim free medical treatment in most provinces from the government before 2019.This study aimed to analyze the priority of medical facility selection and its influencing factors among patients with pneumoconiosis.展开更多
Chemotherapy-induced neutropenia(CIN)is a potentially fatal and common complication in myelosuppressive chemotherapy.The timing and grade of CIN may play prognostic and predictive roles in cancer therapy.CIN is associ...Chemotherapy-induced neutropenia(CIN)is a potentially fatal and common complication in myelosuppressive chemotherapy.The timing and grade of CIN may play prognostic and predictive roles in cancer therapy.CIN is associated with older age,poor functional and nutritional status,the presence of significant comorbidities,the type of cancer,previous chemotherapy cycles,the stage of the disease,specific chemotherapy regimens,and combined therapies.There are many key points and new challenges in the management of CIN in adults including:(1)Genetic risk factors to evaluate the patient’s risk for CIN remain unclear.However,these risk factors urgently need to be identified.(2)Febrile neutropenia(FN)remains one of the most common reasons for oncological emergency.No consensus nomogram for FN risk assessment has been established.(3)Different assessment tools[e.g.,Multinational Association for Supportive Care in Cancer(MASCC),the Clinical Index of Stable Febrile Neutropenia(CISNE)score model,and other tools]have been suggested to help stratify the risk of complications in patients with FN.However,current tools have limitations.The CISNE score model is useful to support decision-making,especially for patients with stable FN.(4)There are still some challenges,including the benefits of granulocyte colony stimulating factor treatment and the optimal antibiotic regimen in emergency management of FN.In view of the current reports,our group discusses the key points,new challenges,and management of CIN.展开更多
Al-6Zn-2Mg and Al-6Zn-2Mg-0.4Er alloys were prepared by cast metallurgy. The effects of trace Er on the mechanical properties, recrystallization behavior and age-hardening characteristic of Al-Zn-Mg alloy were studied...Al-6Zn-2Mg and Al-6Zn-2Mg-0.4Er alloys were prepared by cast metallurgy. The effects of trace Er on the mechanical properties, recrystallization behavior and age-hardening characteristic of Al-Zn-Mg alloy were studied. The effect of Er on microstructures was also studied by OM, XRD, SEM, EDS and TEM. The results show that the addition of Er on Al-6Zn-2Mg alloy is capable of refining grains obviously. The addition of Er can improve the strength considerably by strengthening mechanisms of precipitation and grain refinement. With the addition of Er into Al-6Zn-2Mg alloy, the aging process is quickened and the age-hardening effect is heightened. Er additive can retard the recrystallizing behavior of Al-6Zn-2Mg alloy and cause the increase of recrystallization temperature due to the pinning effect of fine dispersed Al3Er precipitates on dislocations and subgrain boundaries.展开更多
Nickel/cobalt-layered double hydroxides(Ni Co-LDH) have been attracted increasing interest in the applications of anode materials for lithium ion battery(LIB), but the low cycle stability and rate performance are stil...Nickel/cobalt-layered double hydroxides(Ni Co-LDH) have been attracted increasing interest in the applications of anode materials for lithium ion battery(LIB), but the low cycle stability and rate performance are still limited its practice applications. To achieve high performance LIB, the surface-confined strategy has been applied to design and fabricate a new anode material of NiCo-LDH nanosheet anchored on the surface of Ti3C2 MXene(Ni Co-LDH/Ti3C2). The ultra-thin, bended and wrinkled α-phase crystal with an interlayer spacing of 8.1 ? can arrange on the conductive substrates Ti3C2 MXene directly, resulting in high electrolyte diffusion ability and low internal resistance. Furthermore, chemical bond interactions between the highly conductive Ti3C2 MXene and Ni Co-LDH nanosheets can greatly increase the ion and electron transport and reduce the volume expansion of NiCo-LDH during Li ion intercalation. As expected,the discharge capacity of 562 m Ah g-1 at 5.0 A g-1 for 800 cycles without degradation can be achieved,rate capability and cycle performance are better than that of NiCo-LDH(~100 mAh g-1). Furthermore, the density function theory(DFT) calculations were performed to demonstrate that Ni Co-LDH/Ti3C2 system can be used as a highly desirable and promising anode material for lithium ion battery.展开更多
Soft robots and actuators are emerging devices providing more capabilities in the field of robotics.More flexibility and compliance attributing to soft functional materials used in the fabrication of these devices mak...Soft robots and actuators are emerging devices providing more capabilities in the field of robotics.More flexibility and compliance attributing to soft functional materials used in the fabrication of these devices make them ideal for delivering delicate tasks in fragile environments,such as food and biomedical sectors.Yet,the intuitive nonlinearity of soft functional materials and their anisotropic actuation in compliant mechanisms constitute an existent challenge in improving their performance.Topology optimization(TO)along with four-dimensional(4D)printing is a powerful digital tool that can be used to obtain optimal internal architectures for the efficient performance of porous soft actuators.This paper employs TO analysis for achieving high bending deflection of a 3D printed polyelectrolyte actuator,which shows bending deformations in response to electrical stimuli in an electrolyte solution.The performance of the actuator is studied in terms of maximum bending and actuation rate compared with a solid,uniformly 3D printed and topology-optimized actuator.The experimental results proved the effectiveness of TO on achieving higher bending deformation and actuation rate against a uniformly 3D printed actuator.展开更多
Purpose:Interdisciplinarity is a hot topic in science and technology policy.However,the concept of interdisciplinarity is both abstract and complex,and therefore difficult to measure using a single indicator.A variety...Purpose:Interdisciplinarity is a hot topic in science and technology policy.However,the concept of interdisciplinarity is both abstract and complex,and therefore difficult to measure using a single indicator.A variety of metrics for measuring the diversity and interdisciplinarity of articles,journals,and fields have been proposed in the literature.In this article,we ask whether institutions can be ranked in terms of their(inter-)disciplinary diversity.Design/methodology/approach:We developed a software application(interd_vb.exe)that outputs the values of relevant diversity indicators for any document set or network structure.The software is made available,free to the public,online.The indicators it considers include the advanced diversity indicators Rao-Stirling(RS)diversity and DIV*,as well as standard measures of diversity,such as the Gini coefficient,Shannon entropy,and the Simpson Index.As an empirical demonstration of how the application works,we compared the research portfolios of 42“Double First-Class”Chinese universities across Web of Science Subject Categories(WCs).Findings:The empirical results suggest that DIV*provides results that are more in line with one’s intuitive impressions than RS,particularly when the results are based on sampledependent disparity measures.Furthermore,the scores for diversity are more consistent when based on a global disparity matrix than on a local map.Research limitations:“Interdisciplinarity”can be operationalized as bibliographic coupling among(sets of)documents with references to disciplines.At the institutional level,however,diversity may also indicate comprehensiveness.Unlike impact(e.g.citation),diversity and interdisciplinarity are context-specific and therefore provide a second dimension to the evaluation.Policy or practical implications:Operationalization and quantification make it necessary for analysts to make their choices and options clear.Although the equations used to calculate diversity are often mathematically transparent,the specification in term展开更多
Olfaction is one of our 5 main qualitative sensory abilities. In this review, we have examined the physiology of olfaction from the olfactory receptor to the brain. Through analyzing the physiology of olfaction, we ha...Olfaction is one of our 5 main qualitative sensory abilities. In this review, we have examined the physiology of olfaction from the olfactory receptor to the brain. Through analyzing the physiology of olfaction, we have found that the biochemistry of olfactory nerve stimulation is unique from that of other similar pathways. Upon receiving large amounts of input from the olfactory nerve, the olfactory bulb, followed by several layers of centrifugal and centripetal processing in the brain, has to sort the information from the input as well as integrate it with other inputs from the brain to develop a coherent understanding of the input. We then examined the implications of olfaction in the military, the practical applications of electronic noses and problems associated with injury to olfaction that could affect compensation and combat worthiness of a soldier following injury. In the military, olfaction can allow the army to perform at its best through 4 main methods, namely ensuring olfaction is consistent with other dimensions of perception(ensuring optimal olfaction ability in all soldiers in combat), understanding the impact of different common combat environments on the sense of smell, utilizing odor as a defense mechanism and using olfactory aids when necessary. Electronic noses are olfactory aids that have a large potential in the military ranging from saving lives through the detection of explosives to potential methods for improving combustion efficiency. There are several problems associated with injury to olfaction that should be considered when deciding on compensation and combat worthiness of the soldier following an injury.展开更多
We aim to evaluate the incidence of incontinence following laser endoscopic enucleation of the prostate(EEP)comparing en-bloc(Group 1)versus 2-lobe/3-lobe techniques(Group 2).We performed a retrospective review of pat...We aim to evaluate the incidence of incontinence following laser endoscopic enucleation of the prostate(EEP)comparing en-bloc(Group 1)versus 2-lobe/3-lobe techniques(Group 2).We performed a retrospective review of patients undergoing EEP for benign prostaticenlargement in 12 centers between January 2020 and January 2022.Data were presented as median and interquartile range(IQR).Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate factors associated with stress urinary incontinence(SUI)and mixed urinary incontinence(MUI).There were 1711 patients in Group 1 and 3357 patients in Group 2.Patients in Group 2were significantly younger(68[62–73]years vs 69[63–74]years,P=0.002).Median(interquartile range)prostate volume(PV)wassimilar between the groups(70[52–92]ml in Group 1 vs 70[54–90]ml in Group 2,P=0.774).There was no difference in preoperativeInternational Prostate Symptom Score,quality of life,or maximum flow rate.Enucleation,morcellation,and total surgical time weresignificantly shorter in Group 1.Within 1 month,overall incontinence rate was 6.3%in Group 1 versus 5.3%in Group 2(P=0.12),and urge incontinence was significantly higher in Group 1(55.1%vs 37.3%in Group 2,P<0.001).After 3 months,the overall rate ofincontinence was 1.7%in Group 1 versus 2.3%in Group 2(P=0.06),and SUI was significantly higher in Group 2(55.6%vs 24.1%in Group 1,P=0.002).At multivariable analysis,PV and IPSS were factors significantly associated with higher odds of transient SUI/MUI.PV,surgical time,and no early apical release technique were factors associated with higher odds of persistent SUI/MUI.展开更多
Objective:To explore potential natural products against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus(SARS-CoV-2)via the study of structural and non-structural proteins of human coronaviruses.Methods:In this study,we ...Objective:To explore potential natural products against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus(SARS-CoV-2)via the study of structural and non-structural proteins of human coronaviruses.Methods:In this study,we performed an in-silico survey of 25 potential natural compounds acting against SARS-CoV-2.Molecular docking studies were carried out using compounds against 3-chymotrypsin-like protease(3 CL^(PHO)),papain-like protease(PL^(PRO)),RNA-dependent RNA polymerase(RdRp),non-structural protein(nsp),human angiotensin converting enzyme 2 receptor(hACE2 R),sapike glycoprotein(S protein),abelson murine leukemia viral oncogene homolog 1(ABL1),calcineurin-nuclear factor of activated T-cells(NFAT)and transmembrane protease serine 2.Results:Among the screened compounds,amentoflavone showed the best binding affinity with the 3 CL^(PRO),RdRp,nsp13,nsp15,hACE2 R,ABL1 and calcineurin-NFAT;berbamine with hACE2 R and ABL1;cepharanthine with nsp10,nsp14,nsp16,S protein and ABL1;glucogallin with nsp15;and papyriflavonol A with PL^(PRO)protein.Other good interacting compounds were juglanin,betulinic acid,betulonic acid,broussooflavan A,tomentin A,B and E,7-methoxycryptopleurine,aloe emodin,quercetin,tanshinone I,tylophorine and furruginol,which also showed excellent binding affinity towards a number of target proteins.Most of these compounds showed better binding affinities towards the target proteins than the standard drugs used in this study.Conclusion:Natural products or their derivatives may be one of the potential targets to fight against SARS-CoV-2.展开更多
To report a case of cochlear implantation with a misplaced electrode array in the vestibule and the causes for the delay in identification.A 23-year-old male with left single-sided deafness underwent cochlear implanta...To report a case of cochlear implantation with a misplaced electrode array in the vestibule and the causes for the delay in identification.A 23-year-old male with left single-sided deafness underwent cochlear implantation.The intraoperative assessment did not reveal any major red flags of electrode array misplacement.He did not display any vestibular symptoms postoperatively but showed poor speech performance,even though the aided tone audiometry revealed good sound detection thresholds.High-resolution computed tomography(HRCT)showed that the entire perimodiolar electrode array was situated within the vestibule,and a revision surgery was conducted.Retrospective analysis of the neural response telemetry(NRT)revealed subtle differences in responses between the misplaced and correctly placed electrode arrays.Unlike previously reported cases,the patient did not display vestibular symptoms despite the misplacement of the electrode in the vestibule due to existing weakness in otolithic function.Further investigation is warranted when a motivated patient with normal inner ear anatomy does not show benefit with the cochlear implant post-operatively.展开更多
The influence of different features of natural soft clays,namely anisotropy,destructuration and viscosity,on modelling the time-dependent behaviour of Murro embankment was investigated.The newly developed elasto-visco...The influence of different features of natural soft clays,namely anisotropy,destructuration and viscosity,on modelling the time-dependent behaviour of Murro embankment was investigated.The newly developed elasto-viscoplastic models were enhanced for determining viscosity parameters in a straightforward way and adopted for the finite element analysis.The same set of common parameters determined from conventional triaxial and oedometer tests was employed for all models,with additional parameters required for representing different soil features.The finite element predictions by using models coupled with BIOT's consolidation theory were compared with each other and with field data for settlement,horizontal displacement and excess pore pressures.In addition,the stress paths under the embankment loading were also compared with each other to improve the understanding of the effect of different soil features.All simulations demonstrate that all three features significantly influence the predictions.As a consequence,accounting for soil features needs to be carefully considered when they are applied to a construction site.展开更多
Purpose： To discuss the problems arising from hierarchical cluster analysis of co-occurrence matrices in SPSS, and the corresponding solutions. Design/methodology/approach： We design different methods of using the S...Purpose： To discuss the problems arising from hierarchical cluster analysis of co-occurrence matrices in SPSS, and the corresponding solutions. Design/methodology/approach： We design different methods of using the SPSS hierarchical clustering module for co-occurrence matrices in order to compare these methods. We offer the correct syntax to deactivate the similarity algorithm for clustering analysis within the hierarchical clustering module of SPSS. Findings： When one inputs co-occurrence matrices into the data editor of the SPSS hierarchical clustering module without deactivating the embedded similarity algorithm, the program calculates similarity twice, and thus distorts and overestimates the degree of similarity. Practical implications： We offer the correct syntax to block the similarity algorithm for clustering analysis in the SPSS hierarchical clustering module in the case of co-occurrence matrices. This syntax enables researchers to avoid obtaining incorrect results. Originality/value： This paper presents a method of editing syntax to prevent the default use of a similarity algorithm for SPSS＇s hierarchical clustering module. This will help researchers, especially those from China, to properly implement the co-occurrence matrix when using SPSS for hierarchical cluster analysis, in order to provide more scientific and rational results.展开更多
Serum spermidine was assayed by radioimmuno-assay in different stages of esophageal carcinogenesis in the population from high risk area of esophageal cancer, Linxian County. The serum spermidine values were 76.94+74....Serum spermidine was assayed by radioimmuno-assay in different stages of esophageal carcinogenesis in the population from high risk area of esophageal cancer, Linxian County. The serum spermidine values were 76.94+74.38 ng ml in 36 normal individuals; 115.71+113.45 ng/ml in 35 patients with marked epithelial hyperplasia (MEH) and 294.48+135.36 ng/ml in 31 patients with early esophageal cancer. Patients with MEH were given intervention treatment by Aminoretinoic Ester or Anticancer B or placebo (starch) as controls. One year later, samples from the population were collected again for serum spermidine msasurement. The values were 95.8+ 68.2 ng/ml in 27 normals; 125.1±72.9 ng/ml in 62 patients with MEH treated by Anticancer B; 125.6± 117.2 ng/ml in 64 patients with MEH treated by Aminoretinoic Ester; 162.4±76.6 ng/ml in 62 controls and 210.5±182.9 ng/ml in 44 patients with early esophageal cancer.The results showed that spermidine radioim-munoassay could reflect the tendency of esophageal precancerous changes toward cancer or back to normal. They can be taken as a mid-way monitor indicator for tumor-blocking drugs. Also, it could be of value in the early diagnosis of esophageal cancer.展开更多
Objective In recent years,many studies have reported that air pollution is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM).The aim of this systematic review and meta・analysis is to summarize the evidence about the as...Objective In recent years,many studies have reported that air pollution is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM).The aim of this systematic review and meta・analysis is to summarize the evidence about the association between exposure to air pollution andT2DM in developing countries.Methods The databases,including PubMed,EMBASE and Web of Science,were systematically searched for studies published up to 31 March 2022.Studies about the association between air pollution andT2DM prevalence or incidence in developing countries were included.The odds ratio(OR)was used as effect estimate.We synthesized the included studies in the meta-analysis.Results We included 8 cross-sectional studies and 8 cohort studies,all conducted in developing countries.Meta-analysis of 8 studies on PM_(2.5)(particulate matter ≤2.5 μm in diameter)showed that T2DM prevalence was significantly associated with PM_(2.5)exposure(OR=1.12;95%CI:1.07,1.17;P<0.001).The association between air pollutants andT2DM incidence was not estimated due to the limited relevant studies.Conclusions The exposure to PM_(2.5)would be positively associated with an increased prevalence of T2DM in developing countries.Some effective measures should be taken to reduce air pollutant exposure in people who are vulnerable to diabetes.展开更多
Objective:Double-J(DJ)ureteric stents are commonly placed perioperatively for semirigid or flexible ureteroscopic renal surgery.It is believed that lesser stent material within the bladder mitigates stent-related symp...Objective:Double-J(DJ)ureteric stents are commonly placed perioperatively for semirigid or flexible ureteroscopic renal surgery.It is believed that lesser stent material within the bladder mitigates stent-related symptoms.This study aimed to evaluate the J-Fil ureteral stent,a single pigtail suture stent compared with conventional DJ stent in relation to stent symptoms in an Asian population undergoing ureterorenal intervention.Methods:Based on internal audit committee recommendation approval,the records of 50 patients retrieved,available data of 41 patients who were prospectively enrolled into two groups(Group 1[J-Fil stent group],n=21 and Group 2[DJ stent group],n=20)between August 2020 to January 2021,were analysed.Parameters compared were nature of procedure,stone location and size,ease of deployment or removal,and complications.A modified universal stent symptom questionnaire was used to assess morbidity of stent symptoms within 48 h of insertion and at removal.Results:Both groups had similar median age,distribution in male to female ratio,and stone size.The overall median universal stent symptom questionnaire score at insertion was similar for bladder pain,flank or loin pain,and quality of life between Group 1 and 2;however,at removal Group 1 fared significantly better than Group 2,especially for flank or loin pain and pain at voiding.Both groups had similar ease in insertion with no hospital readmissions.Conclusion:Our audit favoured the single pigtail suture stent in Asian ureters in mitigating stent-related issues.It showed a good safety profile with easy deployment and removal.It promises a new standard in stenting.展开更多
Objective:To scrutinize the definitions of minimal invasive surgical therapy(MIST)and to investigate urologists’knowledge,attitudes,and practices for benign prostatic obstruction surgeries.Methods:A 36-item survey wa...Objective:To scrutinize the definitions of minimal invasive surgical therapy(MIST)and to investigate urologists’knowledge,attitudes,and practices for benign prostatic obstruction surgeries.Methods:A 36-item survey was developed with a Delphi method.Questions on definitions of MIST and attitudes and practices of benign prostatic obstruction surgeries were included.Urologists were invited globally to complete the online survey.Consensus was achieved when more than or equal to 70%responses were“agree or strongly agree”and less than or equal to 15%responses were“disagree or strongly disagree”(consensus agree),or when more than or equal to 70%responses were“disagree or strongly disagree”and less than or equal to 15%responses were“agree or strongly agree”(consensus disagree).Results:The top three qualities for defining MIST were minimal blood loss(n=466,80.3%),fast post-operative recovery(n=431,74.3%),and short hospital stay(n=425,73.3%).The top three surgeries that were regarded as MIST were Urolift®(n=361,62.2%),Rezum®(n=351,60.5%),and endoscopic enucleation of the prostate(EEP)(n=332,57.2%).Consensus in the knowledge section was achieved for the superiority of Urolift®,Rezum®,and iTIND®over transurethral resection of the prostate with regard to blood loss,recovery,day surgery feasibility,and post-operative continence.Consensus in the attitudes section was achieved for the superiority of Urolift®,Rezum®,and iTIND®over transurethral resection of the prostate with regard to blood loss,recovery,and day surgery feasibility.Consensus on both sections was achieved for EEP as the option with the better symptoms and flow improvement,lower retreatment rate,and better suitable for prostate more than 80 mL.Conclusion:Minimal blood loss,fast post-operative recovery,and short hospital stay were the most important qualities for defining MIST.Urolift®,Rezum®,and EEP were regarded as MIST by most urologists.展开更多
基金the National Key R&D Programe of China (grant no. 2017YFD0300100)Shanghai Agriculture Applied Technology Development Program, China (grant no. G2016060107)+4 种基金Shanghai Natural Science Foundation (17ZR1425500)National High-Tech Research and Development Program of China (863 Plan (grant no.2014AA10A603)Shan ghai Agriculture Applied Tech no logy Developme nt Program, China (grant no. 2017-02-08-00-08-F00071)National Natural Science Foundation of China (grant no. 31501270)Shared Platform of Crop Germplasm Resources in Shanghai (18DZ2293700).
文摘Drought resistance is required in rice breeding to address the challenge of frequent droughts . However, the evolutionary mechanism of rice drought resistance is not fully understood. We investigated the genetic differentiation between upland and lowland rice domesticated in agro-ecosystems with contrasting water-soil conditions using genome-wide SNPs. We estimated morphological differences among upland and lowland rice in drought resistance and productivity through common garden experiments. Upland rice had better drought resistance but poorer productivity. The negative correlations between traits of drought resistance and productivity are attributed to the underlying genetic trade-offs through tight linkages (e.g., DCA1 and OsCesA7) or pleiotropic effects (e.g., LAX1). The genetic trade-offs are comm on and greatly shape the evolutio n of drought resista nee in upland rice . In genomic regions associated with both productivity and drought resistance, signs of balancing selection were detected in upland rice, while signs of directional selection were detected in lowland rice, potentially contributing to their adaptive differentiation. Signs of balancing selection in upland rice resulted from bi-directional selection during its domestication in drought-prone upland agro-ecosystems.Using genome-wide association analysis, we ide ntified several valuable quantitative trait loci associated with drought resista nee, for which highly differentiated genes should be considered candidates. Bi-directional selection breaking tight linkages by accumulating recombination events would be applicable in breeding water-saving and droughtresistance rice.
基金supported by grants from the National Key Research and Development Programs of China(2016YFD0101803 and 2017YFD0300301).
文摘Coordination between mitochondria and the nucleus is crucial for fertility determination in plants with cytoplasmic male sterility(CMS).Using yeast one-hybrid screening,we identified a transcription factor,ZmDREB1.7,that is highly expressed in sterile microspores at the large vacuole stage and activates the expression of mitochondria-encoded CMS gene orf355.Δpro,a weak allele of ZmDREB1.7 with the loss of a key unfolded protein response(UPR)motif in the promoter,partially restores male fertility of CMS-S maize.ZmDREB1.7 expression increases rapidly in response to antimycin A treatment,but this response is attenuated in theΔpro allele.Furthermore,we found that expression of orf355 in mitochondria activates mitochondrial retrograde signaling,which in turn induces ZmDREB1.7 expression.Taken together,these findings demonstrate that positive-feedback transcriptional regulation between a nuclear regulator and a mitochondrial CMS gene determines male sterility in maize,providing new insights into nucleus-mitochondria communication in plants.
基金Project(50864001) supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China
文摘The electronic properties of sphalerite(110) surface with Zn-vacancy and S-vacancy were calculated by using density-functional theory,and the effects of vacancy defect on the copper activation of sphalerite were investigated.The calculated results indicate that surface state occurs in the band gap of Zn-vacancy sphalerite,which is from the contribution of S 3p orbital at the first layer of the surface.The presence of S-vacancy results in surface state appearing near the Fermi level and the bottom of conductor band,which are composed of S 3p and Zn 4s orbital,respectively.The surface structure of Zn-vacancy sphalerite is more stable than S-vacancy surface due to the occupation of Zn-vacancy by Cu atoms;hence,the substitution reaction of Cu for Zn vacancy is easier than the substitution of Cu for Zn atoms with S-vacancy surface.
基金supported by Medical Health Science and Technology Key projects of the Scientific Research Foundation of National Health,Commission of China-Zhejiang Provincial Health Commission[WKJ-ZJ-2022]key projects of international science and technology innovation cooperation between governments,National key R&D plan[2019YFE0116100]+1 种基金Advisory Research Project of the Chinese Academy of Engineering in[20192019-XZ-70]the support and gracious help from several institutions of occupational disease prevention and treatment,society insurance organizations in China,and volunteers of Love Save Pneumoconiosis。
文摘Pneumoconiosis,an interstitial lung disease that occurs from breathing in certain kinds of damaging dust particles,is a major occupational disease in China.Patients diagnosed with occupational pneumoconiosis can avail of free medical treatment,whereas patients without a diagnosis of occupational diseases cannot not claim free medical treatment in most provinces from the government before 2019.This study aimed to analyze the priority of medical facility selection and its influencing factors among patients with pneumoconiosis.
基金supported by grants from the Demonstrative Research Platform of Clinical Evaluation Technology for New Anticancer Drugs(Grant Nos.18ZX09201-015 and 2017ZX09304015)the Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(Grant No.CIFMS,2016-I2M-1-001)。
文摘Chemotherapy-induced neutropenia(CIN)is a potentially fatal and common complication in myelosuppressive chemotherapy.The timing and grade of CIN may play prognostic and predictive roles in cancer therapy.CIN is associated with older age,poor functional and nutritional status,the presence of significant comorbidities,the type of cancer,previous chemotherapy cycles,the stage of the disease,specific chemotherapy regimens,and combined therapies.There are many key points and new challenges in the management of CIN in adults including:(1)Genetic risk factors to evaluate the patient’s risk for CIN remain unclear.However,these risk factors urgently need to be identified.(2)Febrile neutropenia(FN)remains one of the most common reasons for oncological emergency.No consensus nomogram for FN risk assessment has been established.(3)Different assessment tools[e.g.,Multinational Association for Supportive Care in Cancer(MASCC),the Clinical Index of Stable Febrile Neutropenia(CISNE)score model,and other tools]have been suggested to help stratify the risk of complications in patients with FN.However,current tools have limitations.The CISNE score model is useful to support decision-making,especially for patients with stable FN.(4)There are still some challenges,including the benefits of granulocyte colony stimulating factor treatment and the optimal antibiotic regimen in emergency management of FN.In view of the current reports,our group discusses the key points,new challenges,and management of CIN.
基金Project(G1999064907) supported by the National Key Fundamental Research and Development Program of China
文摘Al-6Zn-2Mg and Al-6Zn-2Mg-0.4Er alloys were prepared by cast metallurgy. The effects of trace Er on the mechanical properties, recrystallization behavior and age-hardening characteristic of Al-Zn-Mg alloy were studied. The effect of Er on microstructures was also studied by OM, XRD, SEM, EDS and TEM. The results show that the addition of Er on Al-6Zn-2Mg alloy is capable of refining grains obviously. The addition of Er can improve the strength considerably by strengthening mechanisms of precipitation and grain refinement. With the addition of Er into Al-6Zn-2Mg alloy, the aging process is quickened and the age-hardening effect is heightened. Er additive can retard the recrystallizing behavior of Al-6Zn-2Mg alloy and cause the increase of recrystallization temperature due to the pinning effect of fine dispersed Al3Er precipitates on dislocations and subgrain boundaries.
基金Rachadapisek Sompoch project,Chulalongkorn University(CU_GR_62_14_62_02)the Energy Conservation and Promotion Fund Office,Ministry of Energy+2 种基金the NSFC(grant 51421091)National Science Foundation for Distinguished Young Scholars for Hebei Province of China(grant E2016203376)Asahi Glass Foundation。
文摘Nickel/cobalt-layered double hydroxides(Ni Co-LDH) have been attracted increasing interest in the applications of anode materials for lithium ion battery(LIB), but the low cycle stability and rate performance are still limited its practice applications. To achieve high performance LIB, the surface-confined strategy has been applied to design and fabricate a new anode material of NiCo-LDH nanosheet anchored on the surface of Ti3C2 MXene(Ni Co-LDH/Ti3C2). The ultra-thin, bended and wrinkled α-phase crystal with an interlayer spacing of 8.1 ? can arrange on the conductive substrates Ti3C2 MXene directly, resulting in high electrolyte diffusion ability and low internal resistance. Furthermore, chemical bond interactions between the highly conductive Ti3C2 MXene and Ni Co-LDH nanosheets can greatly increase the ion and electron transport and reduce the volume expansion of NiCo-LDH during Li ion intercalation. As expected,the discharge capacity of 562 m Ah g-1 at 5.0 A g-1 for 800 cycles without degradation can be achieved,rate capability and cycle performance are better than that of NiCo-LDH(~100 mAh g-1). Furthermore, the density function theory(DFT) calculations were performed to demonstrate that Ni Co-LDH/Ti3C2 system can be used as a highly desirable and promising anode material for lithium ion battery.
文摘Soft robots and actuators are emerging devices providing more capabilities in the field of robotics.More flexibility and compliance attributing to soft functional materials used in the fabrication of these devices make them ideal for delivering delicate tasks in fragile environments,such as food and biomedical sectors.Yet,the intuitive nonlinearity of soft functional materials and their anisotropic actuation in compliant mechanisms constitute an existent challenge in improving their performance.Topology optimization(TO)along with four-dimensional(4D)printing is a powerful digital tool that can be used to obtain optimal internal architectures for the efficient performance of porous soft actuators.This paper employs TO analysis for achieving high bending deflection of a 3D printed polyelectrolyte actuator,which shows bending deformations in response to electrical stimuli in an electrolyte solution.The performance of the actuator is studied in terms of maximum bending and actuation rate compared with a solid,uniformly 3D printed and topology-optimized actuator.The experimental results proved the effectiveness of TO on achieving higher bending deformation and actuation rate against a uniformly 3D printed actuator.
基金support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.71573085,71974150).
文摘Purpose:Interdisciplinarity is a hot topic in science and technology policy.However,the concept of interdisciplinarity is both abstract and complex,and therefore difficult to measure using a single indicator.A variety of metrics for measuring the diversity and interdisciplinarity of articles,journals,and fields have been proposed in the literature.In this article,we ask whether institutions can be ranked in terms of their(inter-)disciplinary diversity.Design/methodology/approach:We developed a software application(interd_vb.exe)that outputs the values of relevant diversity indicators for any document set or network structure.The software is made available,free to the public,online.The indicators it considers include the advanced diversity indicators Rao-Stirling(RS)diversity and DIV*,as well as standard measures of diversity,such as the Gini coefficient,Shannon entropy,and the Simpson Index.As an empirical demonstration of how the application works,we compared the research portfolios of 42“Double First-Class”Chinese universities across Web of Science Subject Categories(WCs).Findings:The empirical results suggest that DIV*provides results that are more in line with one’s intuitive impressions than RS,particularly when the results are based on sampledependent disparity measures.Furthermore,the scores for diversity are more consistent when based on a global disparity matrix than on a local map.Research limitations:“Interdisciplinarity”can be operationalized as bibliographic coupling among(sets of)documents with references to disciplines.At the institutional level,however,diversity may also indicate comprehensiveness.Unlike impact(e.g.citation),diversity and interdisciplinarity are context-specific and therefore provide a second dimension to the evaluation.Policy or practical implications:Operationalization and quantification make it necessary for analysts to make their choices and options clear.Although the equations used to calculate diversity are often mathematically transparent,the specification in term
文摘Olfaction is one of our 5 main qualitative sensory abilities. In this review, we have examined the physiology of olfaction from the olfactory receptor to the brain. Through analyzing the physiology of olfaction, we have found that the biochemistry of olfactory nerve stimulation is unique from that of other similar pathways. Upon receiving large amounts of input from the olfactory nerve, the olfactory bulb, followed by several layers of centrifugal and centripetal processing in the brain, has to sort the information from the input as well as integrate it with other inputs from the brain to develop a coherent understanding of the input. We then examined the implications of olfaction in the military, the practical applications of electronic noses and problems associated with injury to olfaction that could affect compensation and combat worthiness of a soldier following injury. In the military, olfaction can allow the army to perform at its best through 4 main methods, namely ensuring olfaction is consistent with other dimensions of perception(ensuring optimal olfaction ability in all soldiers in combat), understanding the impact of different common combat environments on the sense of smell, utilizing odor as a defense mechanism and using olfactory aids when necessary. Electronic noses are olfactory aids that have a large potential in the military ranging from saving lives through the detection of explosives to potential methods for improving combustion efficiency. There are several problems associated with injury to olfaction that should be considered when deciding on compensation and combat worthiness of the soldier following an injury.
文摘We aim to evaluate the incidence of incontinence following laser endoscopic enucleation of the prostate(EEP)comparing en-bloc(Group 1)versus 2-lobe/3-lobe techniques(Group 2).We performed a retrospective review of patients undergoing EEP for benign prostaticenlargement in 12 centers between January 2020 and January 2022.Data were presented as median and interquartile range(IQR).Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate factors associated with stress urinary incontinence(SUI)and mixed urinary incontinence(MUI).There were 1711 patients in Group 1 and 3357 patients in Group 2.Patients in Group 2were significantly younger(68[62–73]years vs 69[63–74]years,P=0.002).Median(interquartile range)prostate volume(PV)wassimilar between the groups(70[52–92]ml in Group 1 vs 70[54–90]ml in Group 2,P=0.774).There was no difference in preoperativeInternational Prostate Symptom Score,quality of life,or maximum flow rate.Enucleation,morcellation,and total surgical time weresignificantly shorter in Group 1.Within 1 month,overall incontinence rate was 6.3%in Group 1 versus 5.3%in Group 2(P=0.12),and urge incontinence was significantly higher in Group 1(55.1%vs 37.3%in Group 2,P<0.001).After 3 months,the overall rate ofincontinence was 1.7%in Group 1 versus 2.3%in Group 2(P=0.06),and SUI was significantly higher in Group 2(55.6%vs 24.1%in Group 1,P=0.002).At multivariable analysis,PV and IPSS were factors significantly associated with higher odds of transient SUI/MUI.PV,surgical time,and no early apical release technique were factors associated with higher odds of persistent SUI/MUI.
文摘Objective:To explore potential natural products against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus(SARS-CoV-2)via the study of structural and non-structural proteins of human coronaviruses.Methods:In this study,we performed an in-silico survey of 25 potential natural compounds acting against SARS-CoV-2.Molecular docking studies were carried out using compounds against 3-chymotrypsin-like protease(3 CL^(PHO)),papain-like protease(PL^(PRO)),RNA-dependent RNA polymerase(RdRp),non-structural protein(nsp),human angiotensin converting enzyme 2 receptor(hACE2 R),sapike glycoprotein(S protein),abelson murine leukemia viral oncogene homolog 1(ABL1),calcineurin-nuclear factor of activated T-cells(NFAT)and transmembrane protease serine 2.Results:Among the screened compounds,amentoflavone showed the best binding affinity with the 3 CL^(PRO),RdRp,nsp13,nsp15,hACE2 R,ABL1 and calcineurin-NFAT;berbamine with hACE2 R and ABL1;cepharanthine with nsp10,nsp14,nsp16,S protein and ABL1;glucogallin with nsp15;and papyriflavonol A with PL^(PRO)protein.Other good interacting compounds were juglanin,betulinic acid,betulonic acid,broussooflavan A,tomentin A,B and E,7-methoxycryptopleurine,aloe emodin,quercetin,tanshinone I,tylophorine and furruginol,which also showed excellent binding affinity towards a number of target proteins.Most of these compounds showed better binding affinities towards the target proteins than the standard drugs used in this study.Conclusion:Natural products or their derivatives may be one of the potential targets to fight against SARS-CoV-2.
文摘To report a case of cochlear implantation with a misplaced electrode array in the vestibule and the causes for the delay in identification.A 23-year-old male with left single-sided deafness underwent cochlear implantation.The intraoperative assessment did not reveal any major red flags of electrode array misplacement.He did not display any vestibular symptoms postoperatively but showed poor speech performance,even though the aided tone audiometry revealed good sound detection thresholds.High-resolution computed tomography(HRCT)showed that the entire perimodiolar electrode array was situated within the vestibule,and a revision surgery was conducted.Retrospective analysis of the neural response telemetry(NRT)revealed subtle differences in responses between the misplaced and correctly placed electrode arrays.Unlike previously reported cases,the patient did not display vestibular symptoms despite the misplacement of the electrode in the vestibule due to existing weakness in otolithic function.Further investigation is warranted when a motivated patient with normal inner ear anatomy does not show benefit with the cochlear implant post-operatively.
基金Project(11PJ1405700) supported by Pujiang Talent Plan of Shanghai,ChinaProject(41002091) supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of ChinaProject(PIAP-GA-2009-230638) supported by the European Community through the Program "People"
文摘The influence of different features of natural soft clays,namely anisotropy,destructuration and viscosity,on modelling the time-dependent behaviour of Murro embankment was investigated.The newly developed elasto-viscoplastic models were enhanced for determining viscosity parameters in a straightforward way and adopted for the finite element analysis.The same set of common parameters determined from conventional triaxial and oedometer tests was employed for all models,with additional parameters required for representing different soil features.The finite element predictions by using models coupled with BIOT's consolidation theory were compared with each other and with field data for settlement,horizontal displacement and excess pore pressures.In addition,the stress paths under the embankment loading were also compared with each other to improve the understanding of the effect of different soil features.All simulations demonstrate that all three features significantly influence the predictions.As a consequence,accounting for soil features needs to be carefully considered when they are applied to a construction site.
文摘Purpose： To discuss the problems arising from hierarchical cluster analysis of co-occurrence matrices in SPSS, and the corresponding solutions. Design/methodology/approach： We design different methods of using the SPSS hierarchical clustering module for co-occurrence matrices in order to compare these methods. We offer the correct syntax to deactivate the similarity algorithm for clustering analysis within the hierarchical clustering module of SPSS. Findings： When one inputs co-occurrence matrices into the data editor of the SPSS hierarchical clustering module without deactivating the embedded similarity algorithm, the program calculates similarity twice, and thus distorts and overestimates the degree of similarity. Practical implications： We offer the correct syntax to block the similarity algorithm for clustering analysis in the SPSS hierarchical clustering module in the case of co-occurrence matrices. This syntax enables researchers to avoid obtaining incorrect results. Originality/value： This paper presents a method of editing syntax to prevent the default use of a similarity algorithm for SPSS＇s hierarchical clustering module. This will help researchers, especially those from China, to properly implement the co-occurrence matrix when using SPSS for hierarchical cluster analysis, in order to provide more scientific and rational results.
文摘Serum spermidine was assayed by radioimmuno-assay in different stages of esophageal carcinogenesis in the population from high risk area of esophageal cancer, Linxian County. The serum spermidine values were 76.94+74.38 ng ml in 36 normal individuals; 115.71+113.45 ng/ml in 35 patients with marked epithelial hyperplasia (MEH) and 294.48+135.36 ng/ml in 31 patients with early esophageal cancer. Patients with MEH were given intervention treatment by Aminoretinoic Ester or Anticancer B or placebo (starch) as controls. One year later, samples from the population were collected again for serum spermidine msasurement. The values were 95.8+ 68.2 ng/ml in 27 normals; 125.1±72.9 ng/ml in 62 patients with MEH treated by Anticancer B; 125.6± 117.2 ng/ml in 64 patients with MEH treated by Aminoretinoic Ester; 162.4±76.6 ng/ml in 62 controls and 210.5±182.9 ng/ml in 44 patients with early esophageal cancer.The results showed that spermidine radioim-munoassay could reflect the tendency of esophageal precancerous changes toward cancer or back to normal. They can be taken as a mid-way monitor indicator for tumor-blocking drugs. Also, it could be of value in the early diagnosis of esophageal cancer.
文摘Objective In recent years,many studies have reported that air pollution is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM).The aim of this systematic review and meta・analysis is to summarize the evidence about the association between exposure to air pollution andT2DM in developing countries.Methods The databases,including PubMed,EMBASE and Web of Science,were systematically searched for studies published up to 31 March 2022.Studies about the association between air pollution andT2DM prevalence or incidence in developing countries were included.The odds ratio(OR)was used as effect estimate.We synthesized the included studies in the meta-analysis.Results We included 8 cross-sectional studies and 8 cohort studies,all conducted in developing countries.Meta-analysis of 8 studies on PM_(2.5)(particulate matter ≤2.5 μm in diameter)showed that T2DM prevalence was significantly associated with PM_(2.5)exposure(OR=1.12;95%CI:1.07,1.17;P<0.001).The association between air pollutants andT2DM incidence was not estimated due to the limited relevant studies.Conclusions The exposure to PM_(2.5)would be positively associated with an increased prevalence of T2DM in developing countries.Some effective measures should be taken to reduce air pollutant exposure in people who are vulnerable to diabetes.
文摘Objective:Double-J(DJ)ureteric stents are commonly placed perioperatively for semirigid or flexible ureteroscopic renal surgery.It is believed that lesser stent material within the bladder mitigates stent-related symptoms.This study aimed to evaluate the J-Fil ureteral stent,a single pigtail suture stent compared with conventional DJ stent in relation to stent symptoms in an Asian population undergoing ureterorenal intervention.Methods:Based on internal audit committee recommendation approval,the records of 50 patients retrieved,available data of 41 patients who were prospectively enrolled into two groups(Group 1[J-Fil stent group],n=21 and Group 2[DJ stent group],n=20)between August 2020 to January 2021,were analysed.Parameters compared were nature of procedure,stone location and size,ease of deployment or removal,and complications.A modified universal stent symptom questionnaire was used to assess morbidity of stent symptoms within 48 h of insertion and at removal.Results:Both groups had similar median age,distribution in male to female ratio,and stone size.The overall median universal stent symptom questionnaire score at insertion was similar for bladder pain,flank or loin pain,and quality of life between Group 1 and 2;however,at removal Group 1 fared significantly better than Group 2,especially for flank or loin pain and pain at voiding.Both groups had similar ease in insertion with no hospital readmissions.Conclusion:Our audit favoured the single pigtail suture stent in Asian ureters in mitigating stent-related issues.It showed a good safety profile with easy deployment and removal.It promises a new standard in stenting.
文摘Objective:To scrutinize the definitions of minimal invasive surgical therapy(MIST)and to investigate urologists’knowledge,attitudes,and practices for benign prostatic obstruction surgeries.Methods:A 36-item survey was developed with a Delphi method.Questions on definitions of MIST and attitudes and practices of benign prostatic obstruction surgeries were included.Urologists were invited globally to complete the online survey.Consensus was achieved when more than or equal to 70%responses were“agree or strongly agree”and less than or equal to 15%responses were“disagree or strongly disagree”(consensus agree),or when more than or equal to 70%responses were“disagree or strongly disagree”and less than or equal to 15%responses were“agree or strongly agree”(consensus disagree).Results:The top three qualities for defining MIST were minimal blood loss(n=466,80.3%),fast post-operative recovery(n=431,74.3%),and short hospital stay(n=425,73.3%).The top three surgeries that were regarded as MIST were Urolift®(n=361,62.2%),Rezum®(n=351,60.5%),and endoscopic enucleation of the prostate(EEP)(n=332,57.2%).Consensus in the knowledge section was achieved for the superiority of Urolift®,Rezum®,and iTIND®over transurethral resection of the prostate with regard to blood loss,recovery,day surgery feasibility,and post-operative continence.Consensus in the attitudes section was achieved for the superiority of Urolift®,Rezum®,and iTIND®over transurethral resection of the prostate with regard to blood loss,recovery,and day surgery feasibility.Consensus on both sections was achieved for EEP as the option with the better symptoms and flow improvement,lower retreatment rate,and better suitable for prostate more than 80 mL.Conclusion:Minimal blood loss,fast post-operative recovery,and short hospital stay were the most important qualities for defining MIST.Urolift®,Rezum®,and EEP were regarded as MIST by most urologists.
