Fabrication and characterization of ZnGa1.01Te2.13/g-C3N4 heterojunction with enhanced photocatalytic activity

The extensive consumption of fossil fuels increases CO2 concentration in the atmosphere, resulting in serious global warming problems. Meanwhile, the problem of water contamination by organic substances is another significant global challenge. We have successfully synthesized ZnGa1.01Te2.13/g-C3N4 (ZGT/GCN) composites for the first time as effective photocatalysts for both pollutant degradation and CO2 reduction. ZGT/GCN composites were synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method. The prepared photocatalysts were characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM-EDS, DRS, BET, PL, and XPS. The ZGT/GCN heterojunction exhibited considerably enhanced photocatalytic activity in the degradation of crystal violet (CV) as well as in the photoreduction of CO2 when compared to pure ZGT and GCN semiconductors. The optimal rate constant for CV degradation was obtained with the ZGT-80%GCN composite (0.0442 h-1), which is higher than the constants obtained with individual ZGT and GCN by 7.75 and 1.63 times, respectively. Moreover, the CO2 reduction yields into CH4 by ZGT-80%GCN was 1.013 μmol/g in 72 h, which is 1.21 and 1.08 times larger than the yields obtained with ZGT and GCN. Scavenger and ESR tests were used to propose the photocatalytic mechanism of the ZGT/GCN composite as well as the active species in the CV degradation.

A Dosimetric Assessment of Sexual Organ Sparing Proton Radiotherapy in Female Pelvic Cancer Patients

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Optimizing treatment techniques for female patients undergoing curative treatment for pelvic cancers requires incorporating the goals of maximizing cure while maintaining quality of life. Optimizing treatment to maintain sexual quality of life has received little attention in female patients despite the presence of and toxicity risks to functional anatomic organs and their associated neurovasculature, including the bulboclitoris, vagina, and ovaries. Recent dosimetric data without employing sexual organ sparing suggest that mean VMAT dose to the bulboclitoris in low rectal cancer is around 3300 cGy, and in anal cancer, mean dose is around 2000 cGy to the external genitalia and 4500-5000 cGy to the bulboclitoris, all of which would be expected to result in clinically significant toxicity. Therefore, investigation of the avoidance of these important organs is needed and we hypothesize that proton techniques may achieve greater sparing than photon techniques.

MATERIALS/METHODS

In this study, we dosimetrically compare proton- vs. photon-based techniques in sparing functional sexual organs. The cohort consisted of four consecutive female pelvic cancer cases that had received 5000 cGy or greater. All cases were re-planned with VMAT and protons while optimizing dose to functional sexual organs and maintaining target coverage. Sexual organ structures assessed include the genitalia, vagina, ovaries, bulboclitoris and internal pudendal arteries. Given the small number of patients included in this demonstration study, statistical tests were not performed.

RESULTS

MRI was required to appropriately delineate soft tissue. In all cases, dosimetric sparing of sexual organs was improved with proton therapy without compromising target coverage. Mean doses were marginally decreased for structures within the PTV, while structures such as the bulboclitoris were spared substantially. Mean dose to the external genitalia was low with sparing using both VMAT (Median [IQR] (cGy): 852 [811, 1090]) and Proton techniques (Median [IQR] (cGy): 39.4 [11.9, 78.5]). Similarly, mean dose with sparing to the external genitalia was lower than would be expected without sparing, using both VMAT and Proton techniques (Median (IQR) Dmean (cGy) VMAT 3100 [2890, 3580] vs. Proton 1530 [1100, 2090]), with protons demonstrating greater sparing. In one case of a sacral chordoma, ovaries were substantially spared to below ablative thresholds (Dmean (cGy) VMAT 3598.8 and 3548.0 vs Proton 34.1 and 103.3).

CONCLUSION

Magnetic resonance imaging at simulation combined with proton radiotherapy for female sexual organ sparing may provide a technically feasible route to more equitable sexual outcomes for female patients. These results will guide future studies to optimize proton treatment techniques for female sexual organ sparing for future trials.

Degradation of sulfamethoxazole in water by AgNbO3 photocatalyst mediated by persulfate

In this paper, silver niobate (AgNbO₃) material was synthesized by a solid-state reaction. AgNbO₃ was characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) measurement. The photocatalytic activity of AgNbO₃ was investigated in degradation of sulfamethoxazole (SMX) under visible light, which is a widely used antibiotic with significant threats towards health and aquatic organisms. Persulfate (PS) oxidant was found to improve the efficiency of the proposed photocatalytic removal of SMX by AgNbO₃. The different operational parameters in the AgNbO₃/PS/Vis system were investigated. The best photocatalytic performance was achieved with 0.5 g L⁻¹ AgNbO₃, 1.0 mM PS, and pH = 5.0 as the optimal conditions, achieving 98% of SMX degradation after 8 h of visible-light irradiation. Scavenger and electron spin resonance (ESR) experiments were carried out to identify the major reactive species in the SMX degradation and to propose the photocatalytic mechanism by the AgNbO₃/PS/Vis system. The photodecomposition was found to be majorly caused by holes and ˙O₂⁻ species, with ˙OH and SO₄˙⁻ radicals contributing to improve the photocatalytic process. The AgNbO₃ catalyst was stable and reusable with efficient photocatalytic activity in three successive recycling experiments and its XRD patterns remained virtually unchanged. The reported process of PS activation by the AgNbO₃ photocatalyst is promising for visible-light application in remediation of antibiotic-contaminated water.

Silver niobate was synthesized by the solid-state reaction and combined with persulfate (PS) oxidant to advance water treatment application. The AgNbO₃/PS/Vis system was applied successfully for sulfamethoxazole removal from water samples.

[Minimally invasive surgery in the concept of enhanced recovery after surgery]

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) and minimally invasive surgery are two important development directions of modern surgery in the 21st century. They provide new clinical treatment methods and theoretical basis for the rapid recovery of surgical patients and more rational utilization of medical resources. They are two hot topics in clinical research and academic exchange of surgery-related subjects, and promote the rapid development and clinical application of surgery. ERAS covers a range of preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative optimization measures, of which minimally invasive surgery is an important part of intraoperative optimization. The quality of surgery, especially minimally invasive surgery, plays a key role in postoperative recovery, which is the most important one of all ERAS measures. With good surgical quality and no postoperative complications, patients will recover quickly. Therefore, minimally invasive surgery plays a central role in the ERAS concept. The combination of ERAS with minimally invasive surgery is not only safe and feasible, but is also better than these two clinical therapies alone for postoperative recovery, and improves short-term and long-term outcome and accelerates the recovery of patients. For surgical diseases treated with minimally invasive surgery as far as possible, using the ERAS management for patients will result in reduced traumatic stress, better surgical tolerance, less postoperative pain, smaller incision, earlier ambulation, better organ function, and less morbidity of complications. In short, ERAS and minimally invasive surgery complement and promote each other. As two outstanding achievements of modern medicine, they are clinical treatments that provide sufficient theoretical basis for rapid recovery of patients and open a new chapter for the development of modern surgery.

Photoreduction of carbon dioxide and photodegradation of organic pollutants using alkali cobalt oxides MCoO2 (M = Li or Na) as catalysts

The recycling of lithium batteries should be prioritized, and the use of discarded alkali metal battery electrode materials as photocatalysts merits research attention. This study synthesized alkali metal cobalt oxide (MCoO₂, M = Li or Na) as a photocatalyst for the photoreduction of CO₂ and degradation of toxic organic substances. The optimized NaCoO₂ and LiCoO₂ photocatalysts increased the photocatalytic CO₂-CH₄ conversion rate to 21.0 and 13.4 μmol g^-1 h^-1 under ultraviolet light irradiation and to 16.2 and 5.3 μmol g^-1 h^-1 under visible light irradiation, which is 17 times higher than that achieved by TiO₂ P25. The rate constants of the optimized reactions of crystal violet (CV) with LiCoO₂ and NaCoO₂ were 2.29 × 10^-2 and 4.35 × 10^-2 h^-1, respectively. The quenching effect of the scavengers and electron paramagnetic resonance in CV degradation indicated that active O₂^•-, ¹O₂, and h⁺ play the main role, whereas ^•OH plays a minor role for LiCoO₂. The hyperfine splitting of the DMPO-^•OH and DMPO-^•CH₃ adducts was a_N = 1.508 mT, a_Hβ = 1.478 mT and a_N = 1.558 mT, a_Hβ = 2.267 mT, respectively, whereas the hyperfine splitting of DMPO^+• was a_N = 1.475 mT. The quenching effect also indicated that active O₂^•- and h⁺ play the main role and that ^•OH and ¹O₂ play a minor role for NaCoO₂. The hyperfine splitting of the DMPO-^•OH and DMPO^+• adducts was a_N = 1.517 mT, a_Hβ = 1.489 mT and a_N = 1.496 mT, respectively. Discarded alkali metal battery electrode materials can be reused as photocatalysts to address environmental pollution.

One-pot synthesis of acid-base bifunctional catalysts for biodiesel production

Acid-base bifunctional heterogeneous solid catalysts, known as the active site with base-acid properties, exhibited relatively good performance on the transesterification for soybean oil for green fuel production. We investigated the use of niobium and three alkali metal oxides (Li, Na, and K) as M_yNbO_X (M = Li, Na, K) composite as acid-base catalysts for biodiesel production. M_yNbO_X catalysts were prepared using a simple solid-state reaction, mixing, and grinding niobium dioxide with alkali metal carbonates calcined at 800 °C in air for 4 h. XRD, BET, FE-SEM, TEM and TPD techniques were employed for catalysts characterization. The highest biodiesel yield (98.08%) was achieved under the transesterification condition of 65 °C, 6 h, 24 methanol/oil molar ratio and 2 wt% of LiNbO₃ as the catalyst. The results showed that LiNbO₃ could be efficiently reused at least 10 cycles with an insignificant reduction in the biodiesel yield. The physicochemical properties of the biodiesel were further studied and compared with the ASTM and the EN biodiesel specifications. The results showed that the properties of the biodiesel produced complied with the international standard specifications.

Controlled hydrothermal synthesis of BiOxCly/BiOmBrn/g-C3N4 composites exhibiting visible-light photocatalytic activity

The first systematic synthesis of bismuth oxychloride/bismuth oxybromide/graphitic carbon nitride (BiO_xCl_y/BiO_mBr_n/g-C₃N₄) nano-composites used a controlled hydrothermal method. The structure, morphology and characteristic of BiO_xCl_y/BiO_mBr_n/g-C₃N₄ photocatalyst were measured by XRD, UV-vis-DRS, FT-IR, FE-TEM, FE-SEM-EDS, PL, BET, HR-XPS and EPR. Under visible light irradiation, the photodegradation activity was evaluated for the decolorization of crystal violet (CV) and 2-hydroxybenzoic acid (2-HBA) in aqueous solution. The catalytic performance showed that, when using sample BB2C1-4-250-30 wt% g-C₃N₄ composite as a photocatalyst, the best reaction-rate-constant (k) was 0.071 h^-1. It was 1.5 times higher than the k value of BB2C1-4-250 as a photocatalyst. From the scavenging effect of various scavengers, the results of EPR showed that reactive OH was the main scavenger, while O₂^-, h⁺ and ¹O₂ were the second scavenger in CV degradation. In this study, a possible photodegradation mechanism was proposed and discussed. In this work, our method of BiO_xCl_y/BiO_mBr_n/g-C₃N₄ preparation could be used for future mass production and the BiO_xCl_y/BiO_mBr_n/g-C₃N₄ composite materials could be applied to the environmental pollution control in future.

Mask reuse during the COVID-19 pandemic: a national survey in Taiwan

Background

The use of masks is an effective measure to prevent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) infection; however, mask reuse is not recommended. Studies examining the factors associated with mask reuse during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic are limited. This nationwide survey aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with mask reuse among Taiwanese citizens during the pandemic.

Methods

From May 18 through May 31, 2020, a computer-assisted telephone interview system was used to randomly select Taiwanese citizens who were interviewed for COVID-19 preventive behaviors and knowledge on the usage of masks. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with mask reuse during the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, generalized estimating equations (GEE) were used to analyze the rate of mask reuse among participants before and during the pandemic.

Results

For a total of 1,075 participants, the overall mean age was 57.4 years, and 82.2% of participants reported mask reuse during the COVID-19 pandemic. After controlling for other covariates, participants who had a greater knowledge on mask usage or had a high supply of masks were less likely to reuse masks during the pandemic. GEE analysis showed that compared with the participants' mask wearing behaviors before the COVID-19 pandemic, they were more likely to reuse masks during the pandemic.

Conclusions

The rate of mask reuse among the general population during the pandemic was significantly higher than that before the pandemic. Individuals were less likely to reuse masks if they had adequate knowledge on mask usage or had a high supply of masks. Since mask reuse is associated with a higher risk of COVID-19 due to the possibility of wearing SAS-CoV-2-contaminated masks, it is imperative to educate people on the correct usage of masks. Further, the government should provide sufficient masks to the general population to decrease the reuse of masks.

Key messages

Mask reuse increased during the COVID-19 pandemic due to the shortage in supply. It is imperative to educate people about the correct usage of masks.

Visible-light-driven photocatalysis of carbon dioxide and organic pollutants by MFeO2 (M = Li, Na, or K)

In recent years, lithium-containing ceramic materials have attracted considerable research attention as high-temperature adsorbents of carbon dioxide. The recycling of electrode materials from spent lithium-ion batteries for use as photocatalysts in recovering CO₂ and degrading organic pollutants is worthy of exploration. Solid, magnetic ferrite-containing photocatalysts are easily separated from reaction solutions by using magnetic devices. Solid catalysts (e.g., LiFeO₂, LiFe₅O₈, NaFeO₂, and K₂Fe₂O₄) were prepared through the calcination of Fe₂O₃ and M₂CO₃. CO₂ was photoreduced and crystal violet (CV) and 2-hydroxybenzoic acid (2-HBA) were photodegraded under visible light irradiation. The optimized K₂Fe₂O₄ photocatalyst increased the rate of photocatalytic conversion from CO₂ to methane at 20.9 µmol g^-1 h^-1. The catalytic efficiency indicated that the optimized reaction rate constants of CV with LiFeO₂, NaFeO₂, and K₂Fe₂O₄ were 2.98 × 10^-1, 5.32 × 10^-1, and 4.36 × 10^-1 h^-1, respectively. The quenching effect achieved through the use of various scavengers and the electron paramagnetic resonance in CV degradation revealed the substantial contribution of the reactive superoxide anion radical O₂^- and the minor roles of h⁺ and the OH radical. Its usefulness in the synthesis of solid-base catalyst MFeO₂ is promising for environmental control and relevant applications, particularly in solar energy manufacturing.

Inpatient and outpatient treatment patterns of cancer-associated thrombosis in the United States

Low molecular weight heparins (LMWHs) and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are among the recommended treatment options for cancer-associated thrombosis (CAT) in the 2019 National Comprehensive Care Network guidelines. Little is known about the current utilization of DOACs in CAT patients, particularly on the inpatient to outpatient therapy transition. This study assessed real-world treatment patterns of CAT in hospital/ED in adult cancer patients (≥ 18 years) diagnosed with CAT during a hospital visit in IQVIA's Hospital Charge Data Master database between July 1, 2015 and April 30, 2018, and followed their outpatient medical and pharmacy claims to evaluate the initial inpatient/ED and outpatient anticoagulants received within 3 months post-discharge. Results showed that LMWH and unfractionated heparin (UFH) were the most common initial inpatient/ED CAT treatments (35.2% and 27.4%, respectively), followed by DOACs (9.6%); 20.8% of patients received no anticoagulants. Most DOAC patients remained on DOACs from inpatient/ED to outpatient settings (71.4%), while 24.1%, 43.5%, and 0.1% of patients treated with LMWH, warfarin, or UFH respectively, remained on the same therapy after discharge. In addition, DOACs were the most common initial post-discharge outpatient therapy. Outpatient treatment persistence and adherence appeared higher in patients using DOACs or warfarin versus LMWH or UFH. This study shows that DOACs are used as an inpatient/ED treatment option for CAT, and are associated with less post-discharge treatment switching and higher persistence and adherence. Further research generating real-world evidence on the role of DOACs to help inform the complex CAT clinical treatment decisions is warranted.

Photocatalytic Degradation of Ethiofencarb by a Visible Light-Driven SnIn4S8 Photocatalyst

This work reports the preparation and detailed characterization of stannum indium sulfide (SnIn4S8) semiconductor photocatalyst for degradation of ethiofencarb (toxic insecticide) under visible-light irradiation. The as-prepared SnIn4S8 showed catalytic efficiency of 98% in 24 h under optimal operating conditions (pH = 3, catalyst dosage of 0.5 g L-1). The photodegradation reaction followed pseudo-first-order kinetics. The major intermediates have been identified using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. •O2- and •OH radicals appeared to be the primary active species in the degradation process as revealed by scavenger and electronic spin resonance studies, while photogenerated holes had a secondary role in this process. A plausible mechanism involving two routes was proposed for ethiofencarb degradation by SnIn4S8 after identifying the major intermediate species: oxidative cleavage of the CH2-S and the amide bonds of the carbamate moiety. Lastly, SnIn4S8 was found to be efficient, stable, and reusable in treating real water samples in three successive photodegradation experiments. This study demonstrates the prospect of SnIn4S8 photocatalysis in treatment of natural and contaminated water from extremely toxic organic carbamates as ethiofencarb.

Lessons learned from an unusual condition of incidental synchronous multiple hernias of indirect inguinal hernia, femoral hernia, and incarcerated obturator hernia

Hernias are one of the most common diseases. The frequency of multiple hernias is much higher than the frequency reported during herniorrhaphy. Multiple hernias may account for some of the so-called recurrences, in which the small hernia may be veiled by the bigger one and omitted. In this study, we present a case of an 83-year-old female who suffered from multiple hernias namely a left-sided indirect inguinal hernia, a right-sided femoral hernia, and a right-sided incarcerated obturator hernia. Additionally, the characteristics and treatment of obturator hernia were discussed. Ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) are capable of accurately diagnosing groin hernia. Preoperative bilateral ultrasound of examinations or abdominopelvic CT should be recommended to perform routinely for patients with suspected hernias to avoid ignoring the concurrent hernias. A careful exploration of the operative field in the operation is mandatory. The CT is also helpful for early diagnosis of obturator hernia. In addition, the intra-abdominal approach through a low midline incision might be a preference for the treatment of obturator hernia.

Pathological Changes of Petechial Hemorrhage after High Temperature Treatment

OBJECTIVES

To study the main features of mechanical asphyxia--the pathological characteristics of petechial hemorrhage after high temperature effect （roasted, boiled） and its changing rules.

METHODS

Rabbit model of mechanical asphyxia death with choking neck and death from anteposition hanging was established. The experimental rabbits were randomly divided into roasted group and boiled group （n=4, in each group）. The laryngeal ventricles and cardiopulmonary tissues in the roasted group were roasted for 3, 6 and 10 min, and the positions of petechial hemorrhage were observed and photographed. The same organs and tissues in the boiled group were heated in boiling water （100 ℃）, and were observed and photographed at 30 and 60 s. Then histopathological examination was performed on all the laryngeal ventricles and cardiopulmonary tissues.

RESULTS

The petechial hemorrhage originating from laryngeal ventricle, trachea and lung did not disappear after high temperature treatment in the eight rabbits. The deepened color was visible to naked eyes and distinct from the surrounding normal tissues, with bleeding under the microscope.

CONCLUSIONS

Petechial hemorrhage caused by mechanical asphyxia would not disappear under high temperature, which might be related to the manner of death, the intensity and time of action, and the individual differences.

Rapid nano-scale surface modification on micro-arc oxidation coated titanium by microwave-assisted hydrothermal process

Nano to submicron scaled surface possesses excellent biological affinity and several processes have been undertaken to develop titanium implant with specific surface chemical and phase composition and nano-scale features. A simple process was used to modify the nano topographies on a micro-arc-oxidation (MAO) surface which shortens the time for the conventional hydrothermal process (HT). Nano-scaled anatase precipitates on the MAO surface with different crystallinities and morphologies were regulated via microwave-assisted hydrothermal in pure water (MWDD) or in pH conditioned mediums containing calcium and phosphorus ions (MWCP, MWCP9, MWCP11). The surface morphologies and structures were investigated by SEM, XRD, FTIR, and TEM. Anatase crystals as nano-spikes along [001] direction were observed on the surface of the MWDD and MWCP groups. Increasing the pH of the conditioned medium leads the precipitate to lose its crystallinity; the surface of MWCP11 is covered with amorphous anatase which has a 3D nano-sheet architecture. The MW treated surfaces possess superior hydrophilicity can adsorb more proteins (fibronectin and bovine serum albumin), and the osteoblasts-like MG63 cells on these surfaces have higher spreading ratios than on the MAO and HT groups. The cell viabilities in the MW groups were significantly higher than in the MAO and HT groups on the 7th day (P < 0.05), although their cell viabilities were similar on the first day. MWCP and MWCP11 have higher alkaline phosphatase activity on days 7 and 14 compared to other groups (P < 0.05). The MW treatment produces different nanomorphologies on the MAO surface and retains the original micro/submicron pores and surface calcium and phosphorus contents, thus it is expected to promote osseointegration without compromising the bond strength.

Observation of an Unusual Upward-Going Cosmic-Ray-like Event in the Third Flight of ANITA

We report on an upward traveling, radio-detected cosmic-ray-like impulsive event with characteristics closely matching an extensive air shower. This event, observed in the third flight of the Antarctic Impulsive Transient Antenna (ANITA), a NASA-sponsored long-duration balloon payload, is consistent with a similar event reported in a previous flight. These events could be produced by the atmospheric decay of an upward-propagating τ lepton produced by a ν_{τ} interaction, although their relatively steep arrival angles create tension with the standard model neutrino cross section. Each of the two events have a posteriori background estimates of ≲10^{-2} events. If these are generated by τ-lepton decay, then either the charged-current ν_{τ} cross section is suppressed at EeV energies, or the events arise at moments when the peak flux of a transient neutrino source was much larger than the typical expected cosmogenic background neutrinos.

[Clinical manifestations analysis of patients diagnosed with primary pulmonary mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma]

Objective: To analyze the clinical features of pulmonary mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma. Methods: A total of 14 cases diagnosed with primary pulmonary MALT lymphoma were collected from May 2007 to May 2017 in Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University. The clinical features, pathological characteristics, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis were retrospectively analyzed. Results: All 14 cases were pathologically diagnosed with primary pulmonary MALT lymphoma. The biopsy tissues were obtained through the Video-assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) (4 cases), percutaneous puncture (2 cases), and bronchoscopy (8 cases). Cell types of these tumors were centrocyte-like cells (10 cases), lymphocytoid cells (2 cases), and monocytoid B cells (2 cases). The B cell clonality was detected by IgH cloning test in 4 cases and 3 of them were demonstrated with monoclonal strips. MALT1 breakup gene was positive in 3 out of 6 examined cases using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). As for the treatment, 8 patients underwent chemotherapy, 5 patients underwent surgical resection and 1 patient abandoned treatment. Twelve patients were followed up to 9 years. The tumor recurrence occurred in 2 patients and resulted their death. Conclusions: The clinical manifestations of primary pulmonary MALT lymphoma are lack of specificity. The pathology, immunohistochemistry, IgH cloning test and MALT1 breakup gene tested by FISH are the criteria for diagnosis.

[An investigation of psychological state at different stages of occupational AIDS exposure and related influencing factors in Nanning, China]

Objective: To investigate the changes in psychological state after occupational exposure in the AIDS occupational exposure population and related influencing factors, and to provide baseline data and a basis for related departments to conduct mental health prevention and intervention for personnel with occupational AIDS exposure. Methods: AIDS risk assessment was performed for all personnel with occupational AIDS exposure in 2014 in Nanning, China, and the Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90) psychological scale was used for psychological state evaluation at 24 hours, 1 week, and 3 months after occupational exposure in all persons who met the research criteria. Results: Most of the persons with occupational AIDS exposure came from secondary and tertiary hospitals (85%) , and nurses accounted for the highest percentage (78.3% ). The age ranged from 21 to 50 years, and the mean age was 31.02 ± 7.92 years. The persons with occupational AIDS exposure aged 20~29 years accounted for the highest percentage (51.6%) , and most persons (76.7%) graduated from junior colleges. Compared with the adult norm, there was significant increases in the total psychological score and the number of positive items after occupational exposure (P<0.05). The scores of all items at 24 hours were significantly higher than those at the other time points, and the scores of all items gradually decreased over time (F=227.24, 267.57, and 287.46, P<0.05). Compared with the adult norm, there were significant increases in the factor points at 24 hours and significant reductions in the factor points at 3 months (P<0.05). Compared with those at 24 hours, the factor scores at 3 months decreased significantly (P<0.05). Conclusion: Occupational AIDS exposure affects the mental status of related personnel, and the mental status at 24 hours after exposure is poor. Related departments should provide corresponding psychological counseling for the occupational exposure population at different exposure times.

Tumor-induced osteomalacia in association with PTEN-negative Cowden syndrome

Tumor-induced osteomalacia (TIO) is a rare paraneoplastic condition in which phosphaturic mesenchymal tumors (PMTs) secrete high levels of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) into the circulation. This results in renal phosphate wasting, hypophosphatemia, muscle weakness, bone pain, and pathological fractures. Recent studies suggest that fibronectin-fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FN1-FGFR1) translocations may be a driver of tumorigenesis. We present a patient with TIO who also exhibited clinical findings suggestive of Cowden syndrome (CS), a rare autosomal dominant disorder characterized by numerous benign hamartomas, as well as an increased risk for multiple malignancies, such as thyroid cancer. While CS is a clinical diagnosis, most, but not all, harbor a mutation in the tumor suppressor gene PTEN. Genetic testing revealed a somatic FN1-FGFR1 translocation in the FGF23-producing tumor causing TIO; however, a germline PTEN mutation was not identified. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of concurrent TIO and CS.

Strongly exchange-coupled and surface-state-modulated magnetization dynamics in Bi2Se3/yttrium iron garnet heterostructures

Harnessing the spin–momentum locking of topological surface states in conjunction with magnetic materials is the first step to realize novel topological insulator-based devices. Here, we report strong interfacial coupling in Bi₂Se₃/yttrium iron garnet (YIG) bilayers manifested as large interfacial in-plane magnetic anisotropy (IMA) and enhancement of damping probed by ferromagnetic resonance. The interfacial IMA and damping enhancement reaches a maximum when the Bi₂Se₃ film approaches its two-dimensional limit, indicating that topological surface states play an important role in the magnetization dynamics of YIG. Temperature-dependent ferromagnetic resonance of Bi₂Se₃/YIG reveals signatures of the magnetic proximity effect of T_C as high as 180 K, an emerging low-temperature perpendicular magnetic anisotropy competing the high-temperature IMA, and an increasing exchange effective field of YIG steadily increasing toward low temperature. Our study sheds light on the effects of topological insulators on magnetization dynamics, essential for the development of topological insulator-based spintronic devices.

Understanding the effects of topological insulators on magnetization dynamics of adjacent magnetic materials is essential for novel spintronic devices. Here, Fanchiang et al. report thickness dependence of interfacial in-plane magnetic anisotropy and damping enhancement in Bi₂Se₃/yttrium iron garnet (YIG) bilayers, indicating an important role of topological surface states in the magnetization dynamics of YIG.

Severe hypoglycemia and hip fracture in patients with type 2 diabetes: a nationwide population-based cohort study

Hypoglycemia is a major concern in glycemic control. Using the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database, we found that the risk of hip fracture was associated with emergency or hospitalization visits of severe hypoglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes; greater visits were associated with higher incidence of hip fracture.

INTRODUCTION

The objective of the study was to assess the risk of hip fracture among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and severe hypoglycemia.

METHODS

Using the National Health Insurance Research database in Taiwan, we identified 2588 patients with T2DM who had developed severe hypoglycemia from 2001 to 2009. A comparison cohort who had never developed severe hypoglycemia was frequency matched at a ratio of approximately 1:2. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analysis was used to evaluate the risk of hip fracture.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up period of 3.9 years, there were 219 hip fracture events in 5173 comparison cohorts and 148 hip fracture events in 2588 hypoglycemia cohorts. The incidence of hip fracture was higher in patients with severe hypoglycemia than without severe hypoglycemia (17.19 vs. 8.83 per 1000 person-years; adjusted HR 1.71, 95% CI = 1.35-2.16). Approximately half of the individuals developed hip fracture within 2 years from the first occurrence of severe hypoglycemia. There was a significant associated trend towards increased hip fracture risk with increasing average visit of severe hypoglycemia per year (p for trend <0.001). Medication analysis showed that patients taking sulfonylurea alone, insulin alone, and insulin secretagogues combined with insulin had a higher associated risk to develop hip fracture.

CONCLUSIONS

Severe hypoglycemia was associated with a higher risk to develop hip fracture. The more the visits of severe hypoglycemia per year indicated the higher associated risk in patients with T2DM. Fall is likely an important reason for severe hypoglycemia in relation to increased risk of hip fracture.

Manual Ability Measure (MAM-16): A Preliminary Report on a New Patient-Centred and Task-Oriented Outcome Measure of Hand Function

The purpose of this study was to develop an easy-to-use and psychometrically sound outcome instrument that is task-oriented and patient-centred. One hundred fifteen patients with a variety of hand impairments completed a rating scale of perceived manual ability (i.e., the Manual Ability Measure). The first 70 patients also completed two other questionnaires about physical health and psychological well-being. Rasch Analyses were conducted to transform the ordinal ratings into linear measures; Rasch statistics were used to evaluate its measurement properties at both scale and item levels. Eighty-three original items were reduced to 16 common tasks; Rasch reliabilities were good; the easy-to-difficult item hierarchy makes sense clinically. Moderate correlations were found between manual ability, physical function and general sense of well-being. The results of this preliminary study suggest that the MAM is a promising outcome measure that has adequate psychometric properties and can be used to complement other objective clinical measurements.

[Report and analysis of 2 cases of nerve paralysis with aspiration pneumonia after infection of herpes zoster virus]

Two cases of patients were hospitalized for sore throat with Dysphagia.Check:Wall of the pharynx,tongue and epiglottis scattered the ulcer.The patients were loss of pharynx reflex.Oropharynx and piriform fossa has a lot of saliva retention.Posterior pharyngeal wall was drooping like waterfull.CT scan showed may be the aspiration pneumonia in right lower lung.The admission diagnosiswere pharyngeal herpes zoster virus infection,pharyngeal side muscle paralysis,and inhalation pneumonia.The patients' clinical data were retrospectively analyzed,and the report is as follows.

Insights into the Photoelectron Spectroscopy of Chlorofluoroethenes Studied by Density-Functional and Coupled-Cluster Theories

The first two ionic states of chlorofluoroethenes were studied by using both time-independent and time-dependent density-functional theories. We calculated the equilibrium geometries and harmonic vibrational frequencies of 1,1-, cis-, and trans-C2H2FCl and their cations by using the B3LYP and B3PW91 functionals together with the cc-pVTZ and aug-cc-pVTZ basis sets. Franck-Condon factors were computed by the method developed in our group, in which the Duschinsky effect was treated explicitly. A new technique, named alignment transformation, followed by Euler transformations was developed to achieve the Eckart conditions. The adiabatic ionization energies were calculated by the CCSD(T) method extrapolated to the complete basis set limit. Insights into the simulated photoelectron spectra of C2H2FCl indicate that the resolutions of recent threshold photoelectron experiments are not high enough to detect individual transitions. The high-resolution photoelectron spectra of C2H2FCl are predicted for future reference. The computed adiabatic ionization energies of the three isomers of C2H2FCl are in accord with the experiments with the absolute deviations ranging from 0.004 to 0.021 eV. We suggest that the agreement between experimental and theoretical spectra should be a key criterion to judge whether a spectral assignment is reasonable.

Synthesis of a SrFeO3−x/g-C3N4heterojunction with improved visible-light photocatalytic activities in chloramphenicol and crystal violet degradation

Some solid magnetic photocatalysts containing ferrites are convenient for being separated from reaction solutions by a magnet.

A series of BiOxIy/GO photocatalysts: synthesis, characterization, activity, and mechanism

Four composites BiOI/GO, Bi₄O₅I₂/GO, Bi₇O₉I₃/GO, and Bi₅O₇I/GO.

A novel heterojunction photocatalyst, Bi2SiO5/g-C3N4: synthesis, characterization, photocatalytic activity, and mechanism

A new type of heterojunction photocatalyst, Bi₂SiO₅/g-C₃N₄, was prepared using a controlled hydrothermal method.

Photolysis and photocatalytic decomposition of sulfamethazine antibiotics in an aqueous solution with TiO2

Photo-decomposition of sulfamethazine (SMT) involves photolytic and photo-catalytic reactions, which occur simultaneously.

Novel synthesis of bismuth oxyiodide/graphitic carbon nitride nanocomposites with enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity

The first systematic synthetic study of bismuth oxyiodide/graphitic carbon nitride (BiO_xI_y/g-C₃N₄) nanocomposite preparation using a controlled hydrothermal method is reported.

Diagnostic Accuracy of PET, SPECT, and Arterial Spin-Labeling in Differentiating Tumor Recurrence from Necrosis in Cerebral Metastasis after Stereotactic Radiosurgery

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Radiographic assessment of cerebral metastasis after stereotactic radiosurgery remains a major challenge in neuro-oncology. It is often difficult to distinguish tumor progression from radiation necrosis in this setting using conventional MR imaging. The objective of this study was to compare the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of different functional imaging modalities for detecting tumor recurrence after stereotactic radiosurgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed patients treated between 2007 and 2010 and identified 14 patients with cerebral metastasis who had clinical or radiographic progression following stereotactic radiosurgery and were imaged with arterial spin-labeling, FDG-PET, and thallium SPECT before stereotactic biopsy. Diagnostic accuracy, specificity, sensitivity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were calculated for each imaging technique by using the pathologic diagnosis as the criterion standard.

RESULTS

Six patients (42%) had tumor progression, while 8 (58%) developed radiation necrosis. FDG-PET and arterial spin-labeling were equally sensitive in detecting tumor progression (83%). However, the specificity of arterial spin-labeling was superior to that of the other modalities (100%, 75%, and 50%, respectively). A combination of modalities did not augment the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, or negative predictive value of arterial spin-labeling.

CONCLUSIONS

In our series, arterial spin-labeling positivity was closely associated with the pathologic diagnosis of tumor progression after stereotactic radiosurgery. Validation of this finding in a large series is warranted.

Roles of Proton-Sensing Receptors in the Transition from Acute to Chronic Pain

Chronic pain, when not effectively treated, is a leading health and socioeconomic problem and has a harmful effect on all aspects of health-related quality of life. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanism of how pain transitions from the acute to chronic phase is essential for developing effective novel analgesics. Accumulated evidence has shown that the transition from acute to chronic pain is determined by a cellular signaling switch called hyperalgesic priming, which occurs in primary nociceptive afferents. The hyperalgesic priming is triggered by inflammatory mediators and is involved in a signal switch from protein kinase A (PKA) to protein kinase Cε (PKCε) located in both isolectin B4 (IB4)-positive (nonpeptidergic) and IB4-negative (peptidergic) nociceptors. Acidosis may be the decisive factor regulating the PKA-to-PKCε signal switch in a proton-sensing G-protein-coupled receptor-dependent manner. Protons can also induce the hyperalgesic priming in IB4-negative muscle nociceptors in a PKCε-independent manner. Acid-sensing ion channel 3 (ASIC3) and transient receptor potential/vanilloid receptor subtype 1 (TRPV1) are 2 major acid sensors involved in the proton-induced hyperalgesic priming. The proton-induced hyperalgesic priming in muscle afferents can be prevented by a substance P-mediated signaling pathway. In this review, we summarize the factors that modulate hyperalgesic priming in both IB4-positive and IB4-negative nociceptors and discuss the role of acid signaling in inflammatory and noninflammatory pain as well as orofacial muscle pain.

Evaluation of the potential anti-allergic effects of heat-inactivated Lactobacillus paracasei V0151 in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo

The efficacy of Lactobacillus paracasei V0151 (V0151), isolated from the faeces of a child, to modulate immune responses was investigated. In RAW 264.7 cells expressing an inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS)-directed luciferase gene, heat-inactivated V0151 stimulated iNOS expression followed by nitric oxide production. V0151 significantly elevated interferon gamma, interleukin (IL)-10, tumour necrosis factor alpha, and IL-1β production in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. In splenocytes isolated from ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitised BALB/c mice treated with OVA and V0151 at different bacterium-to-cell ratios (1:1, 10:1, and 20:1) for 96 h, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 production was dose-dependently downregulated, whereas IL-12 was dose-dependently upregulated. Collectively, our findings indicate that V0151 might regulate pro-inflammatory factors in macrophages and splenocytes. Furthermore, the T helper 1/T helper 2 (Th1/Th2) balance was also skewed toward Th1 dominance through the elevation of Th1 cytokine production.

Application of a long-lasting colloidal substrate with pH and hydrogen sulfide control capabilities to remediate TCE-contaminated groundwater

A long-lasting emulsified colloidal substrate (LECS) was developed for continuous carbon and nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) release to remediate trichloroethylene (TCE)-contaminated groundwater under reductive dechlorinating conditions. The developed LECS contained nZVI, vegetable oil, surfactants (Simple Green™ and lecithin), molasses, lactate, and minerals. An emulsification study was performed to evaluate the globule droplet size and stability of LECS. The results show that a stable oil-in-water emulsion with uniformly small droplets (0.7 μm) was produced, which could continuously release the primary substrates. The emulsified solution could serve as the dispensing agent, and nZVI particles (with diameter 100-200 nm) were distributed in the emulsion evenly without aggregation. Microcosm results showed that the LECS caused a rapid increase in the total organic carbon concentration (up to 488 mg/L), and reductive dechlorination of TCE was significantly enhanced. Up to 99% of TCE (with initial concentration of 7.4 mg/L) was removed after 130 days of operation. Acidification was prevented by the production of hydroxide ion by the oxidation of nZVI. The formation of iron sulfide reduced the odor from produced hydrogen sulfide. Microbial analyses reveal that dechlorinating bacteria existed in soils, which might contribute to TCE dechlorination.

The impact of joint range of motion limitations on health-related quality of life in patients with haemophilia A: a prospective study

In patients with haemophilia A, repeated occurrences of haemarthrosis and synovitis lead to limitations in range of motion (ROM) of major joints. However, the effect of limitations in joint ROM on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in these patients has not been studied previously. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of ROM limitations of 10 major joints (bilateral shoulders, elbows, hips, knees and ankles), combined with other possibly influential factors, on HRQOL in patients with haemophilia A. The ROM limitations in 13 movements and pain intensity of the 10 major joints were measured. The socio-demographic and clinical data were recorded. Short-Form 36 was used as the HRQOL measurement. Eighteen patients (mean age: 36.9 years) were included. Hip ROM limitations, knee ROM limitations and hip pain intensity predicted physical functioning scale (P < 0.001; adjusted R2 = 0.553). Shoulder ROM limitations and age predicted role limitation were due to emotional problems scale (P < 0.001; adjusted R2 = 0.373). Elbow ROM limitations and haemophilia severity predicted mental health scale (P = 0.001; adjusted R2 = 0.320). Hip ROM limitations predicted social functioning scale (P = 0.041; adjusted R2 = 0.091). Educational level and elbow ROM limitations predicted vitality scale (P < 0.001; adjusted R2 = 0.416). The ROM limitations of hip, knee, shoulder and elbow could be predictors for HRQOL in patients with haemophilia A. Improving ROM of major joints could be an appropriate treatment strategy to enhance HRQOL in these patients.

Hydrothermal synthesis of bismuth oxybromide–bismuth oxyiodide composites with high visible light photocatalytic performance for the degradation of CV and phenol

This is the first report on a series of BiO_pBr_q/BiO_mI_n heterojunctions that were prepared using controlled hydrothermal methods.

Synthesis of bismuth oxyiodides and their composites: characterization, photocatalytic activity, and degradation mechanisms

Schematic diagram of synthesis method for as-prepared BiO_xI_y/BiO_pI_q under different conditions.