The dynamic features and microbial mechanism of nitrogen transformation for hydrothermal aqueous phase as fertilizer in dryland soil

Hydrothermal aqueous phase (HAP) contains abundant organics and nutrients, which have potential to partially replace chemical fertilizers for enhancing plant growth and soil quality. However, the underlying reasons for low available nitrogen (N) and high N loss in dryland soil remain unclear. A cultivation experiment was conducted using HAP or urea to supply 160 mg N kg-1 in dryland soil. The dynamic changes of soil organic matters (SOMs), pH, N forms, and N cycling genes were investigated. Results showed that SOMs from HAP stimulated urease activity and ureC, which enhanced ammonification in turn. The high-molecular-weight SOMs relatively increased during 5-30 d and then biodegraded during 30-90 d, which SUV254 changed from 0.51 to 1.47 to 0.29 L-1 m-1. This affected ureC that changed from 5.58 to 5.34 to 5.75 lg copies g-1. Relative to urea, addition HAP enhanced ON mineralization by 8.40 times during 30-90 d due to higher ureC. It decreased NO3-N by 65.35%-77.32% but increased AOB and AOA by 0.25 and 0.90 lg copies g-1 at 5 d and 90 d, respectively. It little affected nirK and increased nosZ by 0.41 lg copies g-1 at 90 d. It increased N loss by 4.59 times. The soil pH for HAP was higher than that for urea after 11 d. The comprehensive effects of high SOMs and pH, including ammonification enhancement and nitrification activity inhibition, were the primary causes of high N loss. The core idea for developing high-efficiency HAP fertilizer is to moderately inhibit ammonification and promote nitrification.

Using CT imaging features to predict visceral pleural invasion of non-small-cell lung cancer

AIM

To examine the diagnostic performance of different models based on computed tomography (CT) imaging features in differentiating the invasiveness of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with multiple pleural contact types.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 1,573 patients with NSCLC (tumour size ≤3 cm) were included retrospectively. The clinical and pathological data and preoperative imaging features of these patients were investigated and their relationships with visceral pleural invasion (VPI) were compared statistically. Multivariate logistic regression was used to eliminate confounding factors and establish different predictive models.

RESULTS

By univariate analysis and multivariable adjustment, surgical history, tumour marker (TM), number of pleural tags, length of solid contact and obstructive inflammation were identified as independent risk predictors of pleural invasiveness (p=0.014, 0.003, <0.001, <0.001, and 0.017, respectively). In the training group, comparison of the diagnostic efficacy between the combined model including these five independent predictors and the image feature model involving the latter three imaging predictors were as follows: sensitivity of 88.9% versus 77% and specificity of 73.5% versus 84.1%, with AUC of 0.868 (95% CI: 0.848-0.886) versus 0.862 (95% CI: 0.842-0.880; p=0.377). In the validation group, the sensitivity and specificity of these two models were as follow: the combined model, 93.5% and 74.3%, the imaging feature model, 77.4% and 81.3%, and their areas under the curve (AUCs) were both 0.884 (95% CI: 0.842-0.919). The best cut-off value of length of solid contact was 7.5 mm (sensitivity 68.9%, specificity 75.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

The image feature model showed great potential in predicting pleural invasiveness, and had comparable diagnostic efficacy compared with the combined model containing clinical data.

Construction of magnetically recoverable MnZnFe2O4@Ag3PO4 Z-scheme photocatalyst for rapid visible-light-driven phenol degradation

Visible-light-driven magnetic heterojunction as a promising photocatalysts has received much attention in environmental remediation. In this work, novel Z-scheme heterojunction MnZnFe₂O₄@Ag₃PO₄ (MZFO@APO) magnetic photocatalysts with excellent visible-light-driven photocatalytic activity are successfully constructed and characterized. The photocatalytic activity for phenol degradation is measured, and photodegradation mechanism is investigated with EPR, radical trapping experiments, and LC-MS. It turns out that the heterojunction introduced MZFO exhibits good adsorption effect on visible light and the direct Z-scheme bandgap alignment of MZFO and APO significantly improves charge separation and electron transfer, outperforming that of pure APO. MZFO@APO-40% with 40% APO content shows the rapid photodegradation performance, obtaining a 100% removal efficiency of phenol (25 mg L^-1) after 12-min visible light irradiation, and its kinetic constants are approximately 25.3 and 4.9 times higher than that of P25 TiO₂ and pure APO, respectively. Especially, MZFO@APO-40% also possesses a high magnetic separation property and can be efficiently reused for 5 cycles. Additionally, EPR and radical trapping experiments confirm that h⁺, O₂^-, and ¹O₂ are the main active species in the photocatalytic process. Hydroquinone and small molecular organic acids such as maleic acid and oxalic acid are detected by LC-MS, which further indicates that the pathway of phenol degradation involves hydroxylation, open-ring reactions, and mineralization reactions. The novel addition of MZFO in photocatalyst construction has the potential to promote its application in environmental remediation.

Construction of a p-n heterojunction based on magnetic Mn0.6Zn0.4Fe2O4 and ZnIn2S4 to improve photocatalytic performance

To improve the photocatalytic performance of Mn_0.6Zn_0.4Fe₂O₄ (MZFO) and ZnIn₂S₄ (ZIS) for organic pollutants, the p-n MZFO@ZIS heterojunctions with different weight percentage (10 ~ 40%) of MZFO are constructed from spent batteries and added indium ion via a green bioleaching and hydrothermal method. Structural, optical, and photocatalytic properties for the heterojunctions are investigated systematically by XRD, FT-IR, SEM-EDX, TEM, BET, VB-XPS, UV-vis DRS, PL, etc. The results confirm that p-n junction significantly improves the visible light adsorption and the separation efficiency of photogenerated carriers. Specifically, MZFO-25%@ZIS shows the highest photodegradation performance toward Congo red (CR), and its reactive kinetic constant is about 9.6, 7.8, and 7.0 times higher than that of P25 TiO₂, MZFO, and ZIS, respectively, and MZFO-25%@ZIS still possesses a high reusability and simple magnetic separation after 5 cycles of reuse. The radical trapping experiments and electronic paramagnetic resonance (EPR) tests show that ·O₂^-, ·OH, and h⁺ are the most important active substance for degrading CR. The pathways for the CR degradation are further proposed based on the intermediate analysis. DFT + U calculations confirm that the high charge density of Zn-O, Fe-O, and Zn-S bonds in the MZFO and ZIS molecules provides the electrons for the sufficient production of free radicals. This work also provides a novel high value-added strategy for the green utilization of spent batteries.

Effects of process water obtained from hydrothermal carbonization of poultry litter on soil microbial community, nitrogen transformation, and plant nitrogen uptake

Process water (PW) obtained from hydrothermal carbonization of nitrogen-rich (N-rich) biowaste is proposed to be a renewable resource utilized as a liquid N fertilizer. However, its effects on soil microbial community, N transformation, and plant N uptake are unclear or controversial. In this study, fertilizers were prepared with different percentages of PW (poultry litter, 220 °C 1 or 8 h, PW-S or -L) and urea to supply 160 mg kg^-1 total N in a barren alkali soil. Results showed that the addition of PW relative to pure urea decreased organic N mineralization by low bio-accessibility, increased N loss by high soil pH, and decreased NO₃^--N by low nitrification substrate. It supported the lettuce in health but decreased plant N uptake by low NO₃^--N. It significantly increased the gram-positive bacteria that responded to resistant organic matter, changed the bacterial community to enhance decomposition, detoxification, ureolysis, and denitrification, and to decrease nitrification. Its inhibition effect on nitrification activity was stronger than that on nitrifiers growth. Different from PW-S, the addition of PW-L seriously and significantly decreased seed germination index and fungal biomass that responded to N retaining capacity, respectively. The best fertilizer was 50% urea +50% PW-S that supported the seed germination and seedling growth, and mildly affected microbial community.

[Analysis of the application of radiotherapy facility construction project evaluation standard in health management institutions]

Objective: To investigate the application of GBZ/T 220.2-2009 "The Specification of Radiological Protection Assessment for Occupational Hazard in Construction Project-Part 2: Radiotherapy Facility" in health management institutions, and to understand the scientificity, practicability and problems existing in the implementation of the standard. Methods: The method of multistage stratified sampling and questionnaire survey were used to collect the standard application status among 96 radiological health managers who had participated in the evaluation of radiotherapy facility construction projects in 6 provinces and cities from November 2020 to April 2021. A descriptive statistical analysis method was used to analyze the basic information of the survey object, the knowledge of the standard, the publicity and implementation of the standard. Results: The radiological health management personnel mainly came from health supervision agencies (62.5%, 60/96) , and 86.5% (83/96) were engaged in the pre-evaluation of radiotherapy device construction project and the approval and supervision of control effect evaluation. The awareness rate and training rate of radiological health managers on GBZ/T 220.2-2009 were 88.5% (85/96) and 31.3% (30/96) , respectively. 89.6% (86/96) managers thought it could meet the needs of radiotherapy facility construction project approval or supervision. 49.0% (47/96) of managers believed that the standard needed to be revised. Conclusion: The content of GBZ/T 220.2-2009 is basically scientific and reasonable, but the publicity, implementation and training of radiological health administrator still need to be strengthened. It is suggested to revise some clauses in the standard that do not meet the requirements.

A Methodology for Reconstructing Source Properties of a Conical Piezoelectric Actuator Using Array-Based Methods

We investigated the force produced by a conical piezoelectric (PZT, lead zirconate titanate) transducer actuated by high voltage pulses (HVP) in contact with a steel transfer plate. Using elastic wave propagation theory in a semi-infinite plate, we aimed to quantify the magnitude and estimate the shape of the force-time function via the body waves produced in the transfer plate using the displacement field recorded on an array of 20 absolutely calibrated PZT receivers. We first calibrated the receiver array using glass capillary fracture. We proceeded to use a conical PZT transducer to actively produce a source at the origin, allowing us to study the displacement field produced on the now calibrated PZT receiver array. We studied two types of HVP: An impulsive and step source. The calibrated receiver array was used to estimate the general shape of the force-time functions for each type of HVP. From our hypothesized force-time functions we were able to estimate the peak force produced by the PZT actuator: The impulsive source generated a force of f peak = 2.90 ± 0.42 N and the step source generated f peak = 1.79 ± 0.30 N, respectively, for a peak applied voltage of 273 V. This translates to an applied force of ∼ 0.011 N/V and 0.007 N/V for the impulse and step force-time functions, respectively, which is similar to estimates found in the literature for other conical transducers in contact with metallic transfer media. This measurement was verified directly by independent measurements of the peak force f peak using a dynamic force transducer. We found that our methodology correctly estimated the magnitude of the force but is limited to transducers with incident angles θ < 53 ∘ . Beyond this angle, overestimates of the force were observed due to the lack of body wave energy produced by the source. These results allow us to quantitatively determine the forces produced by active PZT techniques using only the measurement of the displacement field captured on a calibrated conical PZT array. Quantitative understanding of active PZT sources additionally constrains the transfer functions approach, which is commonly used in the non-destructive testing of materials and in other fields, such as rock physics and laboratory seismology.

Structural, optical and photocatalytic properties of magnetic recoverable Mn0.6Zn0.4Fe2O4@Zn0.9Mn0.1O heterojunction prepared from waste Mn-Zn batteries

Green, simple and high value-adding technology is crucial for realizing waste batteries recycling. In this work, the magnetically recyclable Mn_0.6Zn_0.4Fe₂O₄@Zn_0.9Mn_0.1O (MZFO@ZMO) heterojunctions are prepared from waste Mn-Zn batteries via a green bioleaching and sample co-precipitation method. The as-prepared catalysts with different Zn_0.9Mn_0.1O weight percentage (25%, 50% and 75%) have been comprehensively characterized in structure, optics, photoelectrochemistry and photocatalytic activity. Characterization results indicate that MZFO@ZMO heterojunctions with the core-shell structure, demonstrates excellent absorption intensity in the visible light region, outperforming that of individual ZnO and Zn_0.9Mn_0.1O. Especially, the staggered bandgap alignment of Mn_0.6Zn_0.4Fe₂O₄ and Zn_0.9Mn_0.1O greatly enhances electron transfer and charge separation in the binary heterojunction system. The optimized MZFO@50%-ZMO shows the highest photodegradation performance toward methylene blue (MB) under the visible light irradiation, with a 99.7% of photodegradation efficiency of 20 mg L^-1 of MB within 90 min, and its reactive kinetic constants is about 7.2, 10.8 and 21.7 times higher than that of Zn_0.9Mn_0.1O, P25 TiO₂ and Mn_0.6Zn_0.4Fe₂O₄, respectively. The MB photocatalytic mechanism is investigated in the scavenger and 5,5-dimethylpyrroline-N-oxide (DMPO) spin-trapping electron spin resonance (ESR) experiments, and h⁺ and *O₂^- are identified as the major active species for MB degradation. In addition, MZFO@50%-ZMO also exhibits a good reusability and high magnetic separation properties after six successive cycles. This new material indicates the advantages of low costs, simple reuse and great potential in application.

Green synthesis of magnetically recyclable Mn0.6Zn0.4Fe2O4@Zn1-xMnxS composites from spent batteries for visible light photocatalytic degradation of phenol

Magnetic binary heterojunctions are a kind of promising photocatalysts due to their high catalytic activity and easy magnetic separation; however, their synthesis may involve high costs or secondary environmental impacts. In this work, the magnetically recyclable Mn_0.6Zn_0.4Fe₂O₄@Zn_1-xMn_xS (MZFO@Zn_1-xMn_xS, x = 0.00-0.07) photocatalysts are synthesized from spent batteries via a green biocheaching and egg white-assisted hydrothermal method. The as-synthesized photocatalysts have been comprehensively characterized in phase, morphology, texture, optics, photoelectrochemistry and photocatalytic activity. Characterization results indicate that the desired core-shell structure MZFO@Zn_1-xMn_xS composites are successfully synthesized, theirs absorption intensity in the visible light region is greatly enhanced compared to Zn_1-xMn_xS. In addition, doped Mn²⁺ in ZnS host lattice and the staggered bandgap alignment of MZFO and Zn_1-xMn_xS greatly enhances electron transfer and charge separation in the binary heterojunction system. The optimized MZFO@Zn_0.95Mn_0.05S shows the highest photodegradation performance toward phenol under the visible light irradiation, with a complete degradation of 25 mg L^-1 of phenol within 120 min, and its reactive kinetic constants is about 5.2 and 13.3 times higher than that of pure Zn_0.95Mn_0.05S and MZFO, respectively. Furthermore, the mechanism and pathways for the degradation of phenol are proposed. In addition, MZFO@Zn_0.95Mn_0.05S also exhibits a good reusability and high magnetic separation properties after 5 successive cycles. This new material has the advantages of low costs, simple reuse and great potential in application.

Phytotoxicity and nutrition behavior of process water obtained from the hydrothermal carbonization of poultry litter and its effect on lettuce germination and growth

Nine hydrothermal carbonization process waters (PWs) of poultry litter were prepared at 180, 220, and 260 °C for 1, 4, and 8 h, respectively. They were characterized with pH, EC (electric conductivity), DOC (dissolved organic carbon), TN (total nitrogen), NH4+-N, NO3--N, etc. After diluted according to TN, the PWs were supplied as liquid nitrogen fertilizers and their phytotoxic and nutrition effects on lettuce germination and growth were studied. The results showed that the PWs from short time (1 h) were with low DOC/TN and DOC/NH4+-N and high NH4+-N/TN. Compared with the PWs from long time 4 and 8 h, they provided more NH4+-N and less DOC and resulted in lettuce with relatively high germination index (GI), dry biomass, and low antioxidant enzyme activities. Especially, the PW from 220 °C and 1 h significantly enhanced the dry weight by 196.3% relative to negative control of nitrogen deficiency. However, all the PWs led lettuce to an unhealthy condition, which decreased GI and the chlorophyll content and increased antioxidant enzyme activities. Furthermore, it was confirmed by linear regression that the ratios of DOC/TN, NH4+-N/TN, and DOC/NH4+-N were the determining indexes for evaluating the phytotoxicity and nutrition behavior of the PWs as liquid nitrogen fertilizers.

A single-arm pilot of a web-based intervention to improve itch-related quality of life

BACKGROUND

Many patients with chronic itch and atopic dermatitis (AD) or psoriasis do not receive/use available medical and psychosocial treatments properly due to system, provider and/or patient factors.

OBJECTIVE

An educational website (ITCH-RELIEF) to improve itch-related quality of life (QoL) for adults with AD or psoriasis and chronic itch was developed and assessed. ITCH RELIEF stands for Interactive Toolbox of Comprehensive Health Resources to Enhance Living with Itch - Educational Facilitation (for Adults).

METHODS

Single-arm pre- and post-test design with 1-month follow-up (N = 137 at baseline).

RESULTS

There was statistically and clinically significant improvement in the primary outcome of itch-related QoL impairment as assessed by the ItchyQoL from baseline [M = 78.9, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 75.9, 81.9] to follow up (M = 75.4, CI = 72.4, 78.5), P = 0.007, as well as statistically significant improvement in several itch-related secondary outcomes (all Ps < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated initial effectiveness of an online intervention to improve itch-related QoL among individuals with AD or psoriasis and chronic itch. Future studies should address limitations by randomizing more heterogeneous participants, utilizing a longer follow-up and assessing medication use.

Psychosocial adjustment mediates impacts of playmate positive support on body mass index and overweight risk in adolescents

OBJECTIVES

We examined the mediation effects of psychosocial adjustment on the impact of playmate positive support throughout childhood and early adolescence (from age 54 months to 11 years) on later body mass index (BMI) and overweight risk in middle adolescence (age 15 years).

STUDY DESIGN

This was a prospective cohort study.

METHODS

Among 844 children and their families, positive support between child-playmate dyads was repeatedly assessed from child's age 54 months to Grade 5. Long-term positive support between child-playmate dyads throughout childhood and early adolescence was prospectively linked to child's BMI and overweight/obesity status at age 15 years. The average scores of repeated assessments of internalizing and externalizing behavior problems from Grades 3 to 6 were used as mediators.

RESULTS

Significant mediations of internalizing and externalizing behavior problems were observed on pathways from positive support between child-playmate dyads to later BMI and overweight/obesity status at age 15 years. The observed mediations were mainly sustained with pronounced magnitudes in girls, but not in boys.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrated a significant mediating role of psychosocial adjustment. Future research efforts are highly encouraged to replicate our findings and further explore this underlying mediation mechanism.

Diagnostic efficacy of contrast-enhanced ultrasound versus MRI Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) for categorising hepatic observations in patients at risk of hepatocellular carcinoma

AIM

To investigate the diagnostic efficacy of the contrast-enhanced ultrasound Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (CEUS LI-RADS) for categorising hepatic observations in patients at risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) compared with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) LI-RADS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

CEUS and MRI data were analysed retrospectively according to the LI-RADS scheme. Follow-up results and pathological findings served as the reference standard. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to reveal the area under the curve (AUC). The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and positive (PPV) and negative predictive values (NPV) of LR-5 for determining HCC were calculated. The intra-observer agreement of CEUS LI-RADS was also evaluated.

RESULTS

Eighty-four patients with 86 liver observations were enrolled. Forty-two observations were classified as LR-5 by CEUS and MRI, respectively. Based on the reference standard, 53 nodules were HCC. The AUCs were 0.876 for CEUS and 0.873 for MRI, without a significant difference (Z=0.050, p=0.960). The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy of LR-5 was 75.47%, 93.94%, 95.24%, 70.45%, 82.56% with CEUS and 73.58%, 90.9%, 92.86%, 68.18%, 80.23% with MRI, respectively. There was a significant difference in specificity between CEUS and MRI (p=0.006). There was almost perfect agreement for arterial phase hyperenhancement (k=0.870), substantial agreement for washout (k=0.765) and CEUS LI-RADS category (k=0.787).

CONCLUSION

The CEUS LI-RADS scheme is an effective diagnostic tool for HCC with substantial intra-observer reliability. The diagnostic performance of CEUS LI-RADS for determining HCC was comparable to MRI LI-RADS, and the specificity of CEUS LR-5 was significantly higher.

Green synthesis of a novel Mn-Zn ferrite/biochar composite from waste batteries and pine sawdust for Pb2+ removal

Magnetic ferrite/biochar composites are a kind of promising adsorbents due to their high adsorption efficiency and facile magnetic separation; however, their synthesis is associated with high cost and secondary environmental impacts. In this study, a novel Mn-Zn ferrite/biochar composite (MZF-BC) is synthesized via a green two-step biocheaching and hydrothermal method using waste batteries and pine sawdust. Characterization results indicate that the introduced Mn-Zn ferrite particles are successfully embedded and coated on biochar (BC), and synthesized MZF-BC₅₀ with 50% BC content exhibits best performance with a specific surface area of 138.5 m² g^-1, the saturation magnetization of 27.5 emu g^-1 and CEC value of 53.2 mmol 100 g^-1. The maximum adsorption capacity of Pb²⁺ is 99.5 mg g^-1 based on the Langmuir sorption isotherm study at 298 K, and pseudo-second-order model accurately describes the adsorption process. Regeneration test suggests that MZF-BC₅₀ can be efficiently reused for 6 cycles. In addition, it exhibits a good selective Pb²⁺ and Cd²⁺ removal performance in lead-acid battery wastewater. The results illustrate that this newly developed material has low cost and rapid remediation of Pb²⁺ as good application potential.

Thermal oxidation activation of hydrochar for tetracycline adsorption: the role of oxygen concentration and temperature

Poplar hydrochar (RHC) was activated by thermal oxidation (TA-O) in air at 300 °C (O300) and in air + N2 (0.5% O2) at 500 and 700 °C (O500 and O700), respectively, and in N2 at 300-700 °C (N300-N700) as control. Samples characterized by various methods were used to analyze their effect on tetracycline adsorption. The results showed that TA-O greatly increased adsorption capacity qe, 100 (mg·g-1, C0 = 100 mg·L-1) from 6.29 for RHC to 33.32, 96.23 and 60.90 for O300, O500 and O700, respectively. The O300 increased carboxyl and aromaticity whereas little influenced on porosity. The O500, with the highest SBET and Smicro, enhanced adsorption probably by micropore filling and π-π interactions. The O700 fused micropore into mesopore but decreased the SBET, Smicro and qe, 100. Thus, thermal oxidation at 500 °C and 0.5% O2 is recommended for hydrochar activation to absorb tetracycline.

Interactions between electrokinetics and rhizoremediation on the remediation of crude oil-contaminated soil

An electrokinetics (EK)-enhanced phytoremediation system with ryegrass was constructed to remediate crude oil-polluted soil. The four treatments employed in this study included (1) without EK or ryegrass (CK-NR), (2) EK only (EK-NR), (3) ryegrass only (CK-R), and (4) EK and ryegrass (EK-R). After 30d of ryegrass growth, EK at 1.0 V·cm^-1 with polarity reversal (PR-EK) was supplied for another 30 d. The electric current was recorded during remediation. The pH, electrical conductivity, total petroleum hydrocarbon content (TPH), 16S rDNA, functional genes of AlkB, Nah, and Phe, DGGE, and dehydrogenase activity in soil were measured. The physical-chemical indexes of the plant included the length, dry mass, and chlorophyll contents of the ryegrass. Results showed that EK-R removed 18.53 ± 0.53% of TPH, which was higher than that of other treatments (13.34-14.31%). Meanwhile, the values of 16S rDNA, AlkB, Nah, Phe, and dehydrogenase activity in the bulk soil of EK-R all increased. Further clustering analysis with numbers of genes and DGGE demonstrated that EK-R was similar to the ryegrass rhizosphere soils in both EK-R and CK-R, while the EK treatment of EK-NR was similar to that of CK-NR without EK and ryegrass. These results indicate that the PR-EK treatment used in this experiment successfully enlarged the existing scale of the rhizosphere microorganisms, improved microbial activity and enhanced degradation of TPH.

[An analysis of medical X-ray examination frequency in ten hospitals in Tianjin, China]

Objective: To investigate the usage frequency of radiological diagnosis devices in ten hospitals in Tianjin, China, and to provide a basis for the survey of medical radiation frequency in Tianjin. Methods: Ten hospitals from the ten districts in Tianjin were enrolled as subjects by a convenient sampling method. A survey was conducted to assess the general information and radiological diagnosis device information and usage frequency in those hospitals in 2016. The radiological examination frequency in Tianjin was estimated. Results: A total of 610 458 patients received radiological examinations in the sampled hospitals in 2016. In those patients, 371 882 received X-ray examinations for imaging and 238 576 for computed tomography (CT) ; there were slightly more female patients than male patients, suggesting a relatively equal gender distribution; patients older than 40 years accounted for 65.53%, which was the highest among all the age groups. Different types of radiological diagnosis devices were mostly used in tertiary and secondary hospitals. In Tianjin, the estimated frequency of X-ray examination for imaging and CT scanning was 451 and 188 per thousand people, respectively, in 2016. Conclusion: The frequency of radiological diagnosis is relatively high in the ten hospitals in Tianjin. The investigation of medical radiation in Tianjin needs to be improved.

Synthesis of novel waste batteries-sawdust-based adsorbent via a two-stage activation method for Pb2+ removal

The novel waste alkaline battery-sawdust-based adsorbents (WABAs) are prepared by a two-stage activation method with the negative electrode materials as activator and different doping ratio of the positive electrode materials and pine sawdust as raw materials. The characteristics of the WABAs are analyzed by SEM, XRD, FT-IR, and specific surface determination (S_BET). The Pb²⁺ adsorption properties of the WABAs are studied by changing the pH of solution, contact time, initial concentration, and temperature. It turns out that when the doping mass ratio is 1:4, the optimum performance of the WABAs is obtained, and comparing with the samples prepared by pure biomass, the iodine adsorption value, total acid groups, and cation exchange capacity (CEC) separately increased by 13, 106, and 22%, respectively. Kinetic studies show that the pseudo-second-order model is more suitable for describing the Pb²⁺ adsorption process and the Langmuir isotherm provides better fitting to the equilibrium data. The thermodynamic parameters indicate the adsorption process would be spontaneous and endothermic. Besides, the prepared WABAs could be reused for 5 cycles with high removal efficiency. This study provides an alternative route for waste alkaline battery treatment. Graphical abstract The schematic diagram of synthesis of waste batteries-sawdust-based adsorbent via a two-stage activation method for Pb²⁺ removal.

A study of biochemical route on construction of waste battery ferrite applying for nickel removal

Mn-Zn ferrite (Mn_1 - xZn_xFe₂O₄, x = 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8) nanomaterials were prepared by bioleaching and hydrothermal synthesis from waste Zn-Mn batteries. The materials were characterized by XRD, SEM, BET, VSM, CEC, and isoelectric point. It turned out when x = 0.4, synthesized Mn-Zn ferrite had best performance which was nanoferrite crystal structure with a specific surface area that reached 37.77 m²/g, the saturation magnetization was 62.85 emu/g, and isoelectric point and the CEC value were 7.33 and 43.51 mmol/100 g, respectively. In addition, the adsorption characteristics on Ni²⁺ were explored. The results of experiment suggested that data was more in line with the Freundlich model compared with Langmuir and Dubinin-Radushkevich isotherm models. Kinetics studies showed that pseudo-second-order kinetics was more suitable for describing the Ni²⁺ adsorption process where the maximum theoretical adsorption quantity was 52.99 mg/g. Thermodynamic parameters indicated the adsorption process can be spontaneous as an endothermic reaction, and warming was advantageous to adsorption. Besides, the adsorbent could be reused for six cycles with high removal efficiency. The magnetic and adsorptive properties of the adsorbent were promising, which had a high application value. Graphical abstract Fabrication process of nanometer ferrite by biological technology and hydrothermal synthesis for removal of Ni2.

Studies of Adsorbents for Hemoperfusion in Artificial Liver Support. I. Preparation and in Vitro Studies of Cross-Linked Agarose Beads Entrapped Activated Charcoal (CAAC)

A new method for the preparation of the cross-linked agarose beads entrapped activated charcoal (CAAC) is reported. Since the agarose-encapsulated adsorbents reported elsewhere cannot stand high temperature for sterilization, the CAAC has the advantage of thermal stability to withstand autoclave at 121°C. for ½ hour without breaking up or melting. A further advantage of CAAC is that the adsorbent has a much better consistency with good mechanical strength and elasticity, so that it can be formed into beads of a diameter less than 1 mm. This will not only give a better adsorption capacity than larger beads, but can also assure a better blood flow than soft beads which usually interfere in hemoperfusion due to compacting and sludging. Preliminary investigations indicate that the CAAC is relatively hemocompatible.

Rhabdomyolysis and fluctuating asymptomatic hyperCKemia associated with CACNA1S variant

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

CACNA1S encodes Ca_v 1.1, a voltage sensor for muscle excitation-contraction coupling, which activates the ryanodine receptor 1 (RYR1) leading to calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum. CACNA1S mutations cause hypokalemic periodic paralysis, malignant hyperthermia and congenital myopathy. RYR1 mutations result in congenital myopathy, malignant hyperthermia and rhabdomyolysis.

METHODS

The aim was to describe a novel phenotype associated with a CACNA1S variant at a site previously linked to hypokalemic periodic paralysis.

RESULTS

The patient presented with fluctuating asymptomatic creatine kinase elevation after an episode of rhabdomyolysis but has no history of periodic paralysis. His muscle biopsy showed core-like structures occurring mainly in type 2 fibers. He carries a novel Ca_v 1.1 variant (p.Arg528Leu) affecting a highly conserved amino acid. Different mutations at the same location cause hypokalemic periodic paralysis.

CONCLUSION

This case underscores the similarity between the phenotypes caused by mutations in two functionally linked proteins, RYR1 and Ca_v 1.1.

MiR-216b increases cisplatin sensitivity in ovarian cancer cells by targeting PARP1

Cisplatin resistance hinders the efficacy of chemotherapy in ovarian cancer. MicroRNAs (miRs) have been implicated in drug resistance in anti-cancer chemotherapy. We compared the expression profiles of miRs between cisplatin-resistant and cisplatin-sensitive ovarian cancer cells, and found that miR-216b was significantly downregulated in cisplatin-resistant ovarian cancer cells. To investigate its molecular mechanism, we performed cell viability and apoptosis assays in cisplatin-resistant ovarian cells, and found that miR-216b reduced cell viability and promoted apoptosis. Although 4 potential targets were obtained through bioinformatics, only the mRNA level of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP)-1 was significantly regulated by miR-216b. Disruption of the complementary binding sequence of miR-216b on the 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) of the PARP1 led to the loss of miR-216b targeting. Spearman's correlation coefficient of the levels of miR-216b and PARP1 mRNA from 51 human ovarian cancer specimens also showed a significantly negative correlation between them. Importantly, the improved cisplatin sensitivity induced by miR-216b was markedly reversed by PARP1 overexpression. Tumor formation assay in nude mice further provided an evidence on the suppressive role of miR-216b in tumor growth. Taken together, this study demonstrated that a new miRNA, miR-216b, was involved in cisplatin resistance in ovarian cancer, which could be regarded as a potential sensitizer in cisplatin chemotherapy.

High Free Fatty Acid Levels Are Associated with Stroke Recurrence and Poor Functional Outcome in Chinese Patients with Ischemic Stroke

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to investigate whether serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) free fatty acid (FFA) levels are associated with outcome and recurrence in a cohort of patients with an acute ischemic stroke (AIS).

METHODS

From December 2013 to May 2015, patients with first-ever AIS were included. FFA level and NIH stroke scale (NIHSS) were measured at the time of admission. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the stroke outcome and recurrence according to FFA level. Clinical follow-up was performed at 6 month.

RESULTS

In our study, we studied 296 patients (52.7% male). We have found a positive correlation between serum and CSF levels of FFA. Patients with a poor outcome and recurrence had significantly increased FFA serum and CSF levels on admission (all p<0.0001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis adjusted for common risk factors showed that FFA was an independent predictor of poor functional outcome and recurrence. Odds ratios (OR) values were more significant for the higher levels of FFA.

CONCLUSION

In summary, baseline serum and CSF FFA level were associated with stroke poor function outcome and recurrence, suggesting an effect of FFA on disease course in AIS.

Roles of Hippo signaling in lung cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the world, with more than 1 million deaths/year. Over the past years, lung cancer treatment has been based on cytotoxic agents and an improvement in the outcome and quality of life for patients has been observed. However, it has become clear that additional therapeutic strategies are urgently required to provide an improved survival benefit for patients. A major intracellular signaling pathway, the Hippo signaling pathways have been extensively studied in neoplasia, including lung cancer. Furthermore, the study of constitutively activated receptor and their downstream signaling mediators has become a promising new field of investigation for lung cancer treatment. Nevertheless for lung cancer, this approach has not been successful yet. Here, we will review the molecular basis of Hippo signaling in lung cancer and further discuss the therapeutic potential of multi-targeted strategies involving Yes-associated protein inhibitors.

Metallic ions catalysis for improving bioleaching yield of Zn and Mn from spent Zn-Mn batteries at high pulp density of 10

Bioleaching of spent batteries was often conducted at pulp density of 1.0% or lower. In this work, metallic ions catalytic bioleaching was used for release Zn and Mn from spent ZMBs at 10% of pulp density. The results showed only Cu(2+) improved mobilization of Zn and Mn from the spent batteries among tested four metallic ions. When Cu(2+) content increased from 0 to 0.8 g/L, the maximum release efficiency elevated from 47.7% to 62.5% for Zn and from 30.9% to 62.4% for Mn, respectively. The Cu(2+) catalysis boosted bioleaching of resistant hetaerolite through forming a possible intermediate CuMn2O4 which was subject to be attacked by Fe(3+) based on a cycle of Fe(3+)/Fe(2+). However, poor growth of cells, formation of KFe3(SO4)2(OH)6 and its possible blockage between cells and energy matters destroyed the cycle of Fe(3+)/Fe(2+), stopping bioleaching of hetaerolite. The chemical reaction controlled model fitted best for describing Cu(2+) catalytic bioleaching of spent ZMBs.

Ratiometric detection of oligonucleotide stoichiometry on multifunctional gold nanoparticles by whispering gallery mode biosensing

A label-free method is developed to ratiometrically determine the stoichiometry of oligonucleotides attached to the surface of gold nanoparticle (GNP) by whispering gallery mode biosensing. Utilizing this scheme, it is furthermore shown that the stoichiometric ratio of GNP attached oligonucleotide species can be controlled by varying the concentration ratio of thiolated oligonucleotides that are used to modify the GNP.

Process controls for improving bioleaching performance of both Li and Co from spent lithium ion batteries at high pulp density and its thermodynamics and kinetics exploration

Release of Co and Li from spent lithium ion batteries (LIBs) by bioleaching has attracted growing attentions. However, the pulp density was only 1% or lower, meaning that a huge quantity of media was required for bioleaching. In this work, bioleaching behavior of the spent LIBs at pulp densities ranging from 1% to 4% was investigated and process controls to improve bioleaching performance at pulp density of 2% were explored. The results showed that the pulp density exerted a considerable influence on leaching performance of Co and Li. The bioleaching efficiency decreased respectively from 52% to 10% for Co and from 80% to 37% for Li when pulp density rose from 1% to 4%. However, the maximum extraction efficiency of 89% for Li and 72% for Co was obtained at pulp density of 2% by process controls. Bioleaching of the spent LIBs has much greater potential to occur than traditional chemical leaching based on thermodynamics analysis. The product layer diffusion model described best bioleaching behavior of Co and Li.

Development and characterization of wheat lines carrying stem rust resistance gene Sr43 derived from Thinopyrum ponticum

Wheat lines carrying Ug99-effective stem rust resistance gene Sr43 on shortened alien chromosome segments were produced using chromosome engineering, and molecular markers linked to Sr43 were identified for marker-assisted selection. Stem rust resistance gene Sr43, transferred into common wheat (Triticum aestivum) from Thinopyrum ponticum, is an effective gene against stem rust Ug99 races. However, this gene has not been used in wheat breeding because it is located on a large Th. ponticum 7el(2) chromosome segment, which also harbors genes for undesirable traits. The objective of this study was to eliminate excessive Th. ponticum chromatin surrounding Sr43 to make it usable in wheat breeding. The two original translocation lines KS10-2 and KS24-1 carrying Sr43 were first analyzed using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers and florescent genomic in situ hybridization. Six SSR markers located on wheat chromosome arm 7DL were identified to be associated with the Th. ponticum chromatin in KS10-2 and KS24-1. The results confirmed that KS24-1 is a 7DS·7el(2)L Robertsonian translocation as previously reported. However, KS10-2, which was previously designated as a 7el(2)S·7el(2)L-7DL translocation, was identified as a 7DS-7el(2)S·7el(2)L translocation. To reduce the Th. ponticum chromatin carrying Sr43, a BC(2)F(1) population (Chinese Spring//Chinese Spring ph1bph1b*2/KS10-2) containing ph1b-induced homoeologous recombinants was developed, tested with stem rust, and genotyped with the six SSR markers identified above. Two new wheat lines (RWG33 and RWG34) carrying Sr43 on shortened alien chromosome segments (about 17.5 and 13.7 % of the translocation chromosomes, respectively) were obtained, and two molecular markers linked to Sr43 in these lines were identified. The new wheat lines with Sr43 and the closely linked markers provide new resources for improving resistance to Ug99 and other races of stem rust in wheat.

Regulatory interplay between NFIC and TGF-β1 in apical papilla-derived stem cells

While transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) can regulate odontoblast differentiation in tooth crown morphogenesis, its effects on cells including stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAPs) involved in root formation are unclear. Nuclear factor I-C (NFIC) has been implicated in the regulation of root development, and interplay with TGF-β1 signaling has been reported in some cell types. We hypothesize that NFIC and TGF-β1 are important to the behavior of SCAPs and that the interplay between these molecules controls the regulation of the odontogenic differentiation of SCAPs. TGF-β1 inhibited the proliferation of SCAPs and their mineralization. Real-time polymerase chain-reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blot results showed that TGF-β1 significantly decreased osteogenic/dentinogenic gene expression. The inhibition of TGF-β/Smad signaling (SIS3) attenuated the suppressive effect of TGF-β1 on SCAPs. Importantly, overexpression of NFIC antagonized the effects of TGF-β1 on SCAPs, while knockdown of NFIC enhanced these effects, demonstrating a key regulatory role for NFIC in modulating TGF-β1 signaling in SCAPs. We conclude that this interplay between NFIC and TGF-β1 regulates SCAPs behavior and can determine the differentiation of these cells. These signaling interactions help inform the development of regenerative strategies aimed at root growth and development in immature teeth for endodontic treatment.

Expression pattern of Ngn3 in dairy goat testis and its function in promoting meiosis by upregulating Stra8

OBJECTIVES

Ngn3 is a typical transcription factor and marker of differentiating spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) in mouse, belonging to the basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) family. Its gene is specifically expressed in A type spermatogonia in mouse testis, thus plays a critical role in controlling differentiation of SSCs. However, roles of Ngn3 and its protein in dairy goat testis remain unknown.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Testis development and expression patterns of Ngn3 were analysed by immunofluorescence and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (QRT-PCR) in the dairy goat. Furthermore, effects of its overexpression on male germline stem cells (mGSCs) were evaluated by QRT-PCR, immunofluorescence, luciferase reporter assay and western blotting.

RESULTS

Revealed that Ngn3 was expressed more highly during puberty and in the adult than in testis of other ages. Overexpression of Ngn3 promoted expression of meiosis-related gene Stra8 and stem-cell differentiation marker CD117, but suppressed expression of Plzf, a classical marker of SSCs. Furthermore, Ngn3 did not promote expression of Stra8 directly as shown in transcription and translation levels detected by luciferase reporter assay and western blotting.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, these results suggest that Ngn3 plays an important role in spermatogenesis and that overexpression of Ngn3 can promote meiosis in testis of the dairy goat.

Clinicopathological significance of mesothelin expression in invasive breast cancer

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluated the expression profile of the mesothelin (MSLN) gene and its prognostic significance in breast cancer.

METHODS

To evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic significance of mesothelin, immunohistochemistry was used to assess the level of mesothelin protein in surgically resected, formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded invasive breast carcinoma specimens. Associations between mesothelin and other biomarkers, including oestrogen receptor (OR), progesterone receptor (PR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2/neu), were also evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 182 breast carcinoma specimens were included. Mesothelin protein was present in the membrane of malignant cells. There was correlation between the presence of mesothelin in tumour cells and tumour infiltration of the lymph node. There was no correlation between the presence of mesothelin and HER2/neu protein, OR and PR in tumour cells. Mesothelin levels were significantly associated with decreased overall survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Lymph node status, tumour size, HER2/neu and mesothelin protein levels in breast cancer cells were independent prognostic factors. Mesothelin could be useful as a prognostic marker of overall survival in invasive breast cancer.