Low-volume roads (LVRs) are an integral part of the rural transportation network providing access to remote rural areas and facilitating the movement of goods from farms to markets. These roads pose unique challenges ...Low-volume roads (LVRs) are an integral part of the rural transportation network providing access to remote rural areas and facilitating the movement of goods from farms to markets. These roads pose unique challenges for highway agencies including those related to safety management on the highway network. Specifically, traditional network screening methods using crash history can be effective in screening rural highways with higher traffic volumes and more frequent crashes. However, these traditional methods are often ineffective in screening LVR networks due to low traffic volumes and the sporadic nature of crash occurrence. Further, many of the LVRs are owned and operated by local agencies that may lack access to detailed crash, traffic and roadway data and the technical expertise within their staff. Therefore, there is a need for more efficient and practical network screening approaches to facilitate safety management programs on these roads. This study proposes one such approach which utilizes a heuristic scoring scheme in assessing the level of risk/safety for the purpose of network screening. The proposed scheme is developed based on the principles of US Highway Safety Manual (HSM) analysis procedures for rural highways and the fundamentals in safety science. The primary application of the proposed scheme is for ranking sites in network screening applications or for comparing multiple improvement alternatives at a specific site. The proposed approach does not require access to detailed databases, technical expertise, or exact information, making it an invaluable tool for small agencies and local governments (e.g. counties, townships, tribal governments, etc.).展开更多
AIM: To present a method of screening for irregular astigmatism with an autorefractor and its determinants compared to corneal topography. METHODS: This cross-sectional validity study was conducted in 2013 at an eye h...AIM: To present a method of screening for irregular astigmatism with an autorefractor and its determinants compared to corneal topography. METHODS: This cross-sectional validity study was conducted in 2013 at an eye hospital in Spain. A tabletop autorefractor(test 1) was used to measure the refractive status of the anterior surface of the cornea at two corneal meridians of each eye. Then corneal topography(test 2) and Bogan's classification was used to group eyes into those with regular or no astigmatism(GRI) and irregular astigmatism(GRII). Test 1 provided a single absolute value for the greatest cylinder difference(Vr). The receiver operating characteristic(ROC) were plotted for the Vr values measured by test 1 for GRI and GRII eyes. On the basis a Vr value of 1.25 D as cut off, sensitivity, specificity were also calculated. RESULTS: The study sample was comprised of 260 eyes(135 patients). The prevalence of irregular astigmatism was 42% [95% confidence interval(CI): 36, 48]. Based on test 2, there were 151 eyes in GRI and 109 eyes in GRII. The median Vr was 0.75 D(25% quartile, 0.5 D) for GRI and 1.75 D(25% quartile, 1.25 D) for GRII. The area under curve was 0.171 for GRI and 0.83 for GRII. The sensitivity of test I was 78.1% and the specificity was 76.1%.CONCLUSION: A conventional autorefractor can be effective as a first level screening method to detect irregular corneal astigmatism in places where corneal topography facilities are not available.展开更多
The prevalence of obesity and obesity related comorbidities including diabetes and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been rising globally. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is emerging as a common liver dise...The prevalence of obesity and obesity related comorbidities including diabetes and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been rising globally. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is emerging as a common liver disease among adults which can lead to the eventua development of complications including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. With the rise of obesity in children, the development of detection methods for the presence of NAFLD is becoming imperative. Although the gold standard for diagnosis is liver biopsy, practica issues limit pediatric use and warrant development of noninvasive or minimally invasive screening tools for the detection and staging of NAFLD. A variety of diagnostic methods have been studied including use aminotransferases, imaging studies and serologic markers which have some population-based limitations. Additional factors such as gender and ethnicity may also play a role in the screening of NAFLD in pediatric population studies.展开更多
Waterlogging strongly affects agronomic performance of maize (Zea mays L.). In order to investigate the suitable selection criteria of waterflooding tolerant genotypes, and identify the most susceptible stage and the ...Waterlogging strongly affects agronomic performance of maize (Zea mays L.). In order to investigate the suitable selection criteria of waterflooding tolerant genotypes, and identify the most susceptible stage and the best continuous treatment time to waterlogging, 20 common maize inbred lines were subjected to successive artificial waterflooding at seedling stage, and waterlogging tolerance coefficient (WTC) was used to screen waterflooding tolerant genotypes. In addition, peroxidase (POD) activities and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents were measured for 6 of 20 lines. The results showed that the second leaf stage (V2) was the most susceptible stage, and 6 d after waterflooding was the best continuous treatment time. Dry weight (DW) of both shoots and roots of all lines were significantly reduced at 6 d time-point of waterlogging, compared to control. POD activities and MDA contents were negatively and significantly correlated, and the correlation coefficient was -0.9686 (P < 0.0001). According to the results, WTC of shoot DW can be used for practical screening as a suitable index, which is significantly different from control and waterlogged plants happened 6 d earlier. Furthermore, leaf chlorosis, MDA content and POD activities could also be used as reference index for material screening. The implications of the results for waterlogging-tolerant material screening and waterlogging-tolerant breeding have been discussed in maize.展开更多
[Objective]The paper was to establish simple and effective method to screen marker gene in maize with kanamycin resistance.[Method]Using inbred line "Chang 7-2" and hybrid "Zhengdan 958" of maize a...[Objective]The paper was to establish simple and effective method to screen marker gene in maize with kanamycin resistance.[Method]Using inbred line "Chang 7-2" and hybrid "Zhengdan 958" of maize as test materials,their seeds were soaked with different concentrations and volumes of kanamycin for3 and 4 d,respectively,the rate of albino seedlings and average seedling height after sowing for10 d were investigated.[Result]The rate of albino seedlings not only was related to kanamycin concentration,but also had relationship with solution volume during soaking process.The difference between inbred line and hybrid was no significant.When 100 ml of kanamycin solution with concentration of 200 mg/L was used to soak seeds for 3 d,the rate of albino seedlings basically could reach 100%.When 100 ml of kanamycin solution with concentration of 100 mg/L was used to soak 20 seeds for 3 d to carry out resistance screening,the accuracy was up to 84.8% after verifying the screening test of T1 transgenic maize plants.[Conclusion]The method was feasible,which could be used as a simple method for screening transgenic gene maize with kanamycin resistance.展开更多
In this study,a high-throughput screening method was established through the 24-square deep-well microliter plate(MTP) fermentation and micro-plate detection for large-scale screening of the mutants.It was suitable fo...In this study,a high-throughput screening method was established through the 24-square deep-well microliter plate(MTP) fermentation and micro-plate detection for large-scale screening of the mutants.It was suitable for screening a large number of mutants and improving the breeding efficiency after heavy-ion beam irradiation.Seventeen strains showed higher cellulase activity compared with the initial strain after the screening of plate and MTP fermentation.The filter paper activity and β-glucosidase activity of Aspergillus niger H11201 had increased 38.74 and 63.23%separately compared with A.niger H11 by shaking flask fermentation,and it was genetically stable after being passaged to nine generations.The results indicate that the high-throughput screening method can be used for the quick breeding of A.niger with high cellulase activity.展开更多
AIM:To explore the DNA image cytometry (DNA-ICM) technique as a primary screening method for esopha-geal squamous precancerous lesions.METHODS:This study was designed as a population-based screening study.A total of 5...AIM:To explore the DNA image cytometry (DNA-ICM) technique as a primary screening method for esopha-geal squamous precancerous lesions.METHODS:This study was designed as a population-based screening study.A total of 582 local residents aged 40 years-69 years were recruited from Linzhou in Henan and Feicheng in Shandong.However,only 452 subjects had results of liquid-based cytology,DNA-ICM and pathology.The sensitivity and specificity of DNA-ICM were calculated and compared with liquid-based cytology in moderate dysplasia or worse.RESULTS:Sensitivities of DNA-ICM ranging from at least 1 to 4 aneuploid cells were 90.91%,86.36%,79.55% and 77.27%,respectively,which were better than that of liquid-based cytology (75%).Specifici-ties of DNA-ICM were 70.83%,84.07%,92.65% and 96.81%,but the specificity of liquid-based cytology was 91.91%.The sensitivity and specificity of a combination of liquid-based cytology and DNA-ICM were 84.09% and 85.78%,respectively.CONCLUSION:It is possible to use DNA-ICM tech-nique as a primary screening method for esophageal squamous precancerous lesions.展开更多
AIM: To evaluate dual Scheimpflug analyzer(Galilei) as a screening method for the diagnostic of gonioscopically narrow anterior chamber angles(ACA). METHODS: In 40 eyes of 40 patients with different ACA range, the ACA...AIM: To evaluate dual Scheimpflug analyzer(Galilei) as a screening method for the diagnostic of gonioscopically narrow anterior chamber angles(ACA). METHODS: In 40 eyes of 40 patients with different ACA range, the ACA, anterior chamber volume(ACV) and anterior chamber depth(ACD) were analyzed using the dual Scheimpflug analyzer(Galilei G6 system). Correspondence between these parameters and Shaffer's classification based on gonioscopy were studied. Receiving operator characteristic(ROC) curves and partition analysis were used to determine the efficacy of the Galilei system in screening for narrow angles. Agreement(Kappa statistics), sensitivity, and specificity for each eye, according to Galilei measures, were also assessed. RESULTS: Shaffer's grade(from 0 to 4) were significantly associated with each of the measurements(P<0.001). In screening eyes with narrow angles with the Galilei, the area under the ROC curve was largest(0.90) when ACD was used as the reference, and partition analysis demonstrated that those eyes were most adequately partitioned with an ACD of 2.86 mm with 100% sensitivity and 80% specificity. CONCLUSION: The Galilei is a secure, repeatable and noncontact screening method for narrow angles. However it does not provide sufficient information about the ACA anatomy to be considered a substitute for gonioscopy.展开更多
Objective To establish a reliable platform for screening glucokinase activators(GKAs)in vitro.Methods Pancreatic glucokinase(PGK)protein expressed in a prokaryotic expression system as a histidine-tagged fusion protei...Objective To establish a reliable platform for screening glucokinase activators(GKAs)in vitro.Methods Pancreatic glucokinase(PGK)protein expressed in a prokaryotic expression system as a histidine-tagged fusion protein from Homo sapiens was produced.Then,response surface methodology(RSM)was used to optimize the microplate-based GKA screening platform.In the first step of optimization with Plackett-Burman design(PBD).initial pH,reaction time and MgCl_2 were found to be important factors affecting the activity ratio of GKA(RO-28-1675)significantly.In the second step.a 2~3 full factorial central composite design(CCD) and RSM were applied to the optimal condition determination of each significant variable.A second-order polynomial was determined by a multiple regression analysis of the experimental data.Results The following optimal values for the critical factors were obtained:initial pH 0(7.0),reaction time-0.63(13.7 min)and MgCl_2 0.11(2.11 mmol/L) with a predicted value of the maximum activity ratio of 34.1%.Conclusion Under the optimal conditions,the practical activity ratio is 34.8%.The determination coefficient(R^2)is 0.9442,ensuring adequate credibility of the model. LLAE3.extracted from Folium nelumbinis in our laboratory,has prominently activated effects on PGK.展开更多
Objectives: To study the reliability of a transcutaneous bilirubinometer (Bilicheck) to determine bilirubin levels in neonates consulting for jaundice in a Paediatric Emergency Department (ED), and to evaluate its use...Objectives: To study the reliability of a transcutaneous bilirubinometer (Bilicheck) to determine bilirubin levels in neonates consulting for jaundice in a Paediatric Emergency Department (ED), and to evaluate its usefulness as a screening method. Methods: Prospective observational study realized between June of 2005 and December of2005 inneonates consulting at a paediatric emergency department for jaundice, in whom we realized both transcutaneous and total serum bilirubin measurements (TcB and TSB). We collected demographic variables, analytical variables (serum and transcutaneous bilirubin levels), length of stay in the ED, and need for treatment. Results: 66 children were included aged 2 to 31 days (81% of the sample were 2 to 7 days old). There was a close and statistically significant correlation between TcB and TSB (r = 0.81, p < 0.001). The area under the ROC curve was of 0.90, allowing detecting newborns with jaundice susceptible of treatment with TcB levels ≥ 13 mg/dL (sensitivity 92%, specificity 63, 5%, a positive predictive value 39% and a negative predictive value 97%). The number of venous punctures could be reduced in 50%. The medium stay in the ED was of 2 hours when performing serum measurements. Conclusions: A linear correlation exists between TcB-TSB. TcB measurement cannot replace that of TsB, however it could be used as a screening method in an ED to determine which neonates need confirmation by TsB measurement. The use of transcutaneous bilirubinometer would reduce both the number of painful interventions in neonates and the medium length of stay in ED, consequently reducing iatrogenesis.展开更多
The accelerating burn-in and screening method of processing 1 310 nm InGaAsP of laser diodes (LDs) is introduced. It is confirmed that the theory of burn-in and screening is based on the second derivative minimum of b...The accelerating burn-in and screening method of processing 1 310 nm InGaAsP of laser diodes (LDs) is introduced. It is confirmed that the theory of burn-in and screening is based on the second derivative minimum of burn-in curve, and the new testing method has been given, that is automatic current control (ACC) burn-in and automatic power control (APC) testing. This avoidably bring the errors of testing in only ACC or APC method, which need to monitor and control or test LDs power change by photo-detector (PD) at high temperature, and LDs or PDs must be into the same environment (PD will be burn-in at the same time). Through the experiment, the accelerating burn-in and screening condition of the devices has been confirmed: ACC, 200 mA,100 ℃, 8 h. This raise work efficiency 12 times than Bellcore standard and save testing fee.展开更多
Currently,colorectal cancer(CRC)represents the third most common malignancy and the second most deadly cancer worldwide,with a higher incidence in developed countries.Like other solid tumors,CRC is a heterogeneous gen...Currently,colorectal cancer(CRC)represents the third most common malignancy and the second most deadly cancer worldwide,with a higher incidence in developed countries.Like other solid tumors,CRC is a heterogeneous genomic disease in which various alterations,such as point mutations,genomic rearrangements,gene fusions or chromosomal copy number alterations,can contribute to the disease development.However,because of its orderly natural history,easily accessible onset location and high lifetime incidence,CRC is ideally suited for preventive intervention,but the many screening efforts of the last decades have been compromised by performance limitations and low penetrance of the standard screening tools.The advent of next-generation sequencing(NGS)has both facilitated the identification of previously unrecognized CRC features such as its relationship with gut microbial pathogens and revolutionized the speed and throughput of cataloguing CRC-related genomic alterations.Hence,in this review,we summarized the several diagnostic tools used for CRC screening in the past and the present,focusing on recent NGS approaches and their revolutionary role in the identification of novel genomic CRC characteristics,the advancement of understanding the CRC carcinogenesis and the screening of clinically actionable targets for personalized medicine.展开更多
The technology of drilling tests makes it possible to obtain the strength parameter of rock accurately in situ. In this paper, a new rock cutting analysis model that considers the influence of the rock crushing zone(R...The technology of drilling tests makes it possible to obtain the strength parameter of rock accurately in situ. In this paper, a new rock cutting analysis model that considers the influence of the rock crushing zone(RCZ) is built. The formula for an ultimate cutting force is established based on the limit equilibrium principle. The relationship between digital drilling parameters(DDP) and the c-φ parameter(DDP-cφ formula, where c refers to the cohesion and φ refers to the internal friction angle) is derived, and the response of drilling parameters and cutting ratio to the strength parameters is analyzed. The drillingbased measuring method for the c-φ parameter of rock is constructed. The laboratory verification test is then completed, and the difference in results between the drilling test and the compression test is less than 6%. On this basis, in-situ rock drilling tests in a traffic tunnel and a coal mine roadway are carried out, and the strength parameters of the surrounding rock are effectively tested. The average difference ratio of the results is less than 11%, which verifies the effectiveness of the proposed method for obtaining the strength parameters based on digital drilling. This study provides methodological support for field testing of rock strength parameters.展开更多
Cervical cancer is a serious public health issue worldwide, and early identification is crucial for better patient outcomes. Recent study has investigated how ML and DL approaches may be used to increase the accuracy ...Cervical cancer is a serious public health issue worldwide, and early identification is crucial for better patient outcomes. Recent study has investigated how ML and DL approaches may be used to increase the accuracy of vagina tests. In this piece, we conducted a thorough review of 50 research studies that applied these techniques. Our investigation compared the outcomes to well-known screening techniques and concentrated on the datasets used and performance measurements reported. According to the research, convolutional neural networks and other deep learning approaches have potential for lowering false positives and boosting screening precision. Although several research used small sample sizes or constrained datasets, this raises questions about how applicable the findings are. This paper discusses the advantages and disadvantages of the articles that were chosen, as well as prospective topics for future research, to further the application of ml and dl in cervical cancer screening. The development of cervical cancer screening technologies that are more precise, accessible, and can lead to better public health outcomes is significantly affected by these findings.展开更多
AIM:To evaluate the reliability of Photo-Hirschberg screening for global strabismus performed by non-specialized personnel.METHODS:Participants at three sites were enrolled.One person at each site was trained in visua...AIM:To evaluate the reliability of Photo-Hirschberg screening for global strabismus performed by non-specialized personnel.METHODS:Participants at three sites were enrolled.One person at each site was trained in visual acuity measurement and use of the computerized system.Visual acuity was measured,and strabismus testing was performed using two flash photographs.All data from the three primary observers were sent to an experienced assistant researcher,who was blinded to the primary results,for re-evaluation.The primary and re-evaluation results of the Photo-Hirschberg screenings using weighted kappa for agreement were compared.RESULTS:The study included 181 participants(88 males and 93 females)and the results for primary and re-evaluation screenings were corresponded.Ten participants with contrasting results presented with unclear corneal light reflex.Sensitivity and specificity were 100%[95%confidence interval(CI):29.0%-100%]and 99.4%(95%CI:96.6%-100%),respectively,based on the Agresti test of the primary evaluation,considering the re-evaluated classification as true.CONCLUSION:The computerized system can be used for primary strabismus screening by non-specialized personnel,with 98.8%agreement with specialists.However,it cannot be used as a substitute for professional examination.展开更多
Since the beginning of COVID-19 pandemics many countries were facing challenges with testing capacity recourse limitations. Throughout the waves of the pandemic countries were trying to address the existing constrains...Since the beginning of COVID-19 pandemics many countries were facing challenges with testing capacity recourse limitations. Throughout the waves of the pandemic countries were trying to address the existing constrains exploring solutions to increase the testing capacity with more cost-effective approaches. Pooled methodology was one of the methods which many have validated and used. It is evident that in case of pooled sample testing the sensitivity becomes lower, however the variation highly depends on the pool size as well as the incidence rate at the certain point. Armenia as well as many other countries has adopted regulations for mandatory COVID-19 PCR testing for all the travelers. Current study aimed to explore the efficiency of COVID-19 pooled PCR testing for nasopharyngeal swabs of individuals with no symptoms in a time period with good epidemiological state of the infection. Nasopharingeal swab samples from individuals were collected. The manual extraction of RNAs of samples was performed after pooling up to 5 samples. The pools with Cycle Threshold (CT) of < 37 were considered positive and were retested individually. In total 28,015 samples were grouped in 667 pools of which 57 were positive. The total number of positive samples was 65. The median difference (CT-pool–CT samples) was 2.4 (ranging from–3.0 to 8.9). The correlation of CT of pools and positive samples was positive. The correlation coefficient r = 0.84, P < 0.000, 95% CI range 0.7423 to 0.9243). The total economic saving when using pools compared to the individual testing was 72%. The minor difference between CT values of pools and samples can be explained by the dilution effect in the pool. However, the positive correlation between the values as well as the amount of cost saving demonstrate that pooling on nasopharyngeal samples for COVID-19 PCR testing can be a good method for efficient screening with significant resource saving. One of the most important advantages of the proposed method is the fact that samples are pooled prior extraction, which avoids the possibilities with misinterpretation of IC due to low yield of RNA in the extraction process.展开更多
Alzheimer's disease(AD)is a common cause of dementia,characterised by cerebral amyloid-βdeposition,pathological tau and neurodegeneration.The prodromal stage of AD(pAD)refers to patients with mild cognitive impai...Alzheimer's disease(AD)is a common cause of dementia,characterised by cerebral amyloid-βdeposition,pathological tau and neurodegeneration.The prodromal stage of AD(pAD)refers to patients with mild cognitive impairment(MCl)and evidence of AD's pathology.At this stage,disease-modifying interventions should be used to prevent the progression to dementia.Given the inherent heterogeneity of MCl,more specific biomarkers are needed to elucidate the underlying AD's pathology.Although the uses of cerebrospinal fluid and positron emission tomography are widely accepted methods for detecting AD's pathology,their clinical applications are limited by their high costs and invasiveness,particularly in low-income areas in China.Therefore,to improve the early detection of Alzheimer's disease(AD)pathology through cost-effective screening methods,a panel of 45neurologists,psychiatrists andgerontologistswas invited to establish a formal consensus on the screening of pAD in China.The supportive evidence and grades of recommendations are based on a systematic literature review andfocus group discussion.National meetings were held to allow participants to review,vote and provide their expert opinions to reach a consensus.A majority(two-thirds)decision was used for questions for which consensus could not be reached.Recommended screening methods are presented in this publication,including neuropsychological assessment,peripheral biomarkers and brain imaging.In addition,a general workflow for Screening pAD in China is established,which will help clinicians identify individuals at high risk and determine therapeutic targets.展开更多
Photocatalysis,a critical strategy for harvesting sunlight to address energy demand and environmental concerns,is underpinned by the discovery of high-performance photocatalysts,thereby how to design photocatalysts is...Photocatalysis,a critical strategy for harvesting sunlight to address energy demand and environmental concerns,is underpinned by the discovery of high-performance photocatalysts,thereby how to design photocatalysts is now generating widespread interest in boosting the conversion effi-ciency of solar energy.In the past decade,computational technologies and theoretical simulations have led to a major leap in the development of high-throughput computational screening strategies for novel high-efficiency photocatalysts.In this viewpoint,we started with introducing the challenges of photocatalysis from the view of experimental practice,especially the inefficiency of the traditional“trial and error”method.Sub-sequently,a cross-sectional comparison between experimental and high-throughput computational screening for photocatalysis is presented and discussed in detail.On the basis of the current experimental progress in photocatalysis,we also exemplified the various challenges associated with high-throughput computational screening strategies.Finally,we offered a preferred high-throughput computational screening procedure for pho-tocatalysts from an experimental practice perspective(model construction and screening,standardized experiments,assessment and revision),with the aim of a better correlation of high-throughput simulations and experimental practices,motivating to search for better descriptors.展开更多
文摘Low-volume roads (LVRs) are an integral part of the rural transportation network providing access to remote rural areas and facilitating the movement of goods from farms to markets. These roads pose unique challenges for highway agencies including those related to safety management on the highway network. Specifically, traditional network screening methods using crash history can be effective in screening rural highways with higher traffic volumes and more frequent crashes. However, these traditional methods are often ineffective in screening LVR networks due to low traffic volumes and the sporadic nature of crash occurrence. Further, many of the LVRs are owned and operated by local agencies that may lack access to detailed crash, traffic and roadway data and the technical expertise within their staff. Therefore, there is a need for more efficient and practical network screening approaches to facilitate safety management programs on these roads. This study proposes one such approach which utilizes a heuristic scoring scheme in assessing the level of risk/safety for the purpose of network screening. The proposed scheme is developed based on the principles of US Highway Safety Manual (HSM) analysis procedures for rural highways and the fundamentals in safety science. The primary application of the proposed scheme is for ranking sites in network screening applications or for comparing multiple improvement alternatives at a specific site. The proposed approach does not require access to detailed databases, technical expertise, or exact information, making it an invaluable tool for small agencies and local governments (e.g. counties, townships, tribal governments, etc.).
文摘AIM: To present a method of screening for irregular astigmatism with an autorefractor and its determinants compared to corneal topography. METHODS: This cross-sectional validity study was conducted in 2013 at an eye hospital in Spain. A tabletop autorefractor(test 1) was used to measure the refractive status of the anterior surface of the cornea at two corneal meridians of each eye. Then corneal topography(test 2) and Bogan's classification was used to group eyes into those with regular or no astigmatism(GRI) and irregular astigmatism(GRII). Test 1 provided a single absolute value for the greatest cylinder difference(Vr). The receiver operating characteristic(ROC) were plotted for the Vr values measured by test 1 for GRI and GRII eyes. On the basis a Vr value of 1.25 D as cut off, sensitivity, specificity were also calculated. RESULTS: The study sample was comprised of 260 eyes(135 patients). The prevalence of irregular astigmatism was 42% [95% confidence interval(CI): 36, 48]. Based on test 2, there were 151 eyes in GRI and 109 eyes in GRII. The median Vr was 0.75 D(25% quartile, 0.5 D) for GRI and 1.75 D(25% quartile, 1.25 D) for GRII. The area under curve was 0.171 for GRI and 0.83 for GRII. The sensitivity of test I was 78.1% and the specificity was 76.1%.CONCLUSION: A conventional autorefractor can be effective as a first level screening method to detect irregular corneal astigmatism in places where corneal topography facilities are not available.
文摘The prevalence of obesity and obesity related comorbidities including diabetes and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been rising globally. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is emerging as a common liver disease among adults which can lead to the eventua development of complications including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. With the rise of obesity in children, the development of detection methods for the presence of NAFLD is becoming imperative. Although the gold standard for diagnosis is liver biopsy, practica issues limit pediatric use and warrant development of noninvasive or minimally invasive screening tools for the detection and staging of NAFLD. A variety of diagnostic methods have been studied including use aminotransferases, imaging studies and serologic markers which have some population-based limitations. Additional factors such as gender and ethnicity may also play a role in the screening of NAFLD in pediatric population studies.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Hubei Province, China (2008CDB079)the National High Technology Research and Development Program of China (863 Program,2006AA100103)
文摘Waterlogging strongly affects agronomic performance of maize (Zea mays L.). In order to investigate the suitable selection criteria of waterflooding tolerant genotypes, and identify the most susceptible stage and the best continuous treatment time to waterlogging, 20 common maize inbred lines were subjected to successive artificial waterflooding at seedling stage, and waterlogging tolerance coefficient (WTC) was used to screen waterflooding tolerant genotypes. In addition, peroxidase (POD) activities and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents were measured for 6 of 20 lines. The results showed that the second leaf stage (V2) was the most susceptible stage, and 6 d after waterflooding was the best continuous treatment time. Dry weight (DW) of both shoots and roots of all lines were significantly reduced at 6 d time-point of waterlogging, compared to control. POD activities and MDA contents were negatively and significantly correlated, and the correlation coefficient was -0.9686 (P < 0.0001). According to the results, WTC of shoot DW can be used for practical screening as a suitable index, which is significantly different from control and waterlogged plants happened 6 d earlier. Furthermore, leaf chlorosis, MDA content and POD activities could also be used as reference index for material screening. The implications of the results for waterlogging-tolerant material screening and waterlogging-tolerant breeding have been discussed in maize.
基金Supported by Major Projects for Cultivation of New Varieties ofGenetically Modified Organisms (2009ZX08010-011B)
文摘[Objective]The paper was to establish simple and effective method to screen marker gene in maize with kanamycin resistance.[Method]Using inbred line "Chang 7-2" and hybrid "Zhengdan 958" of maize as test materials,their seeds were soaked with different concentrations and volumes of kanamycin for3 and 4 d,respectively,the rate of albino seedlings and average seedling height after sowing for10 d were investigated.[Result]The rate of albino seedlings not only was related to kanamycin concentration,but also had relationship with solution volume during soaking process.The difference between inbred line and hybrid was no significant.When 100 ml of kanamycin solution with concentration of 200 mg/L was used to soak seeds for 3 d,the rate of albino seedlings basically could reach 100%.When 100 ml of kanamycin solution with concentration of 100 mg/L was used to soak 20 seeds for 3 d to carry out resistance screening,the accuracy was up to 84.8% after verifying the screening test of T1 transgenic maize plants.[Conclusion]The method was feasible,which could be used as a simple method for screening transgenic gene maize with kanamycin resistance.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.11305225)the Science and Technology Service Network Initiative(KFJ-EW-STS-086)
文摘In this study,a high-throughput screening method was established through the 24-square deep-well microliter plate(MTP) fermentation and micro-plate detection for large-scale screening of the mutants.It was suitable for screening a large number of mutants and improving the breeding efficiency after heavy-ion beam irradiation.Seventeen strains showed higher cellulase activity compared with the initial strain after the screening of plate and MTP fermentation.The filter paper activity and β-glucosidase activity of Aspergillus niger H11201 had increased 38.74 and 63.23%separately compared with A.niger H11 by shaking flask fermentation,and it was genetically stable after being passaged to nine generations.The results indicate that the high-throughput screening method can be used for the quick breeding of A.niger with high cellulase activity.
基金Supported by Grants from the Ministry of Health of China,No.200902002-8Grants from Cancer Institute/Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College,No.2009YF50
文摘AIM:To explore the DNA image cytometry (DNA-ICM) technique as a primary screening method for esopha-geal squamous precancerous lesions.METHODS:This study was designed as a population-based screening study.A total of 582 local residents aged 40 years-69 years were recruited from Linzhou in Henan and Feicheng in Shandong.However,only 452 subjects had results of liquid-based cytology,DNA-ICM and pathology.The sensitivity and specificity of DNA-ICM were calculated and compared with liquid-based cytology in moderate dysplasia or worse.RESULTS:Sensitivities of DNA-ICM ranging from at least 1 to 4 aneuploid cells were 90.91%,86.36%,79.55% and 77.27%,respectively,which were better than that of liquid-based cytology (75%).Specifici-ties of DNA-ICM were 70.83%,84.07%,92.65% and 96.81%,but the specificity of liquid-based cytology was 91.91%.The sensitivity and specificity of a combination of liquid-based cytology and DNA-ICM were 84.09% and 85.78%,respectively.CONCLUSION:It is possible to use DNA-ICM tech-nique as a primary screening method for esophageal squamous precancerous lesions.
文摘AIM: To evaluate dual Scheimpflug analyzer(Galilei) as a screening method for the diagnostic of gonioscopically narrow anterior chamber angles(ACA). METHODS: In 40 eyes of 40 patients with different ACA range, the ACA, anterior chamber volume(ACV) and anterior chamber depth(ACD) were analyzed using the dual Scheimpflug analyzer(Galilei G6 system). Correspondence between these parameters and Shaffer's classification based on gonioscopy were studied. Receiving operator characteristic(ROC) curves and partition analysis were used to determine the efficacy of the Galilei system in screening for narrow angles. Agreement(Kappa statistics), sensitivity, and specificity for each eye, according to Galilei measures, were also assessed. RESULTS: Shaffer's grade(from 0 to 4) were significantly associated with each of the measurements(P<0.001). In screening eyes with narrow angles with the Galilei, the area under the ROC curve was largest(0.90) when ACD was used as the reference, and partition analysis demonstrated that those eyes were most adequately partitioned with an ACD of 2.86 mm with 100% sensitivity and 80% specificity. CONCLUSION: The Galilei is a secure, repeatable and noncontact screening method for narrow angles. However it does not provide sufficient information about the ACA anatomy to be considered a substitute for gonioscopy.
基金supported by the Program for Changjiang Scholars and Innovative Research Team in University,PCSERT(No.IRT0540).
文摘Objective To establish a reliable platform for screening glucokinase activators(GKAs)in vitro.Methods Pancreatic glucokinase(PGK)protein expressed in a prokaryotic expression system as a histidine-tagged fusion protein from Homo sapiens was produced.Then,response surface methodology(RSM)was used to optimize the microplate-based GKA screening platform.In the first step of optimization with Plackett-Burman design(PBD).initial pH,reaction time and MgCl_2 were found to be important factors affecting the activity ratio of GKA(RO-28-1675)significantly.In the second step.a 2~3 full factorial central composite design(CCD) and RSM were applied to the optimal condition determination of each significant variable.A second-order polynomial was determined by a multiple regression analysis of the experimental data.Results The following optimal values for the critical factors were obtained:initial pH 0(7.0),reaction time-0.63(13.7 min)and MgCl_2 0.11(2.11 mmol/L) with a predicted value of the maximum activity ratio of 34.1%.Conclusion Under the optimal conditions,the practical activity ratio is 34.8%.The determination coefficient(R^2)is 0.9442,ensuring adequate credibility of the model. LLAE3.extracted from Folium nelumbinis in our laboratory,has prominently activated effects on PGK.
文摘Objectives: To study the reliability of a transcutaneous bilirubinometer (Bilicheck) to determine bilirubin levels in neonates consulting for jaundice in a Paediatric Emergency Department (ED), and to evaluate its usefulness as a screening method. Methods: Prospective observational study realized between June of 2005 and December of2005 inneonates consulting at a paediatric emergency department for jaundice, in whom we realized both transcutaneous and total serum bilirubin measurements (TcB and TSB). We collected demographic variables, analytical variables (serum and transcutaneous bilirubin levels), length of stay in the ED, and need for treatment. Results: 66 children were included aged 2 to 31 days (81% of the sample were 2 to 7 days old). There was a close and statistically significant correlation between TcB and TSB (r = 0.81, p < 0.001). The area under the ROC curve was of 0.90, allowing detecting newborns with jaundice susceptible of treatment with TcB levels ≥ 13 mg/dL (sensitivity 92%, specificity 63, 5%, a positive predictive value 39% and a negative predictive value 97%). The number of venous punctures could be reduced in 50%. The medium stay in the ED was of 2 hours when performing serum measurements. Conclusions: A linear correlation exists between TcB-TSB. TcB measurement cannot replace that of TsB, however it could be used as a screening method in an ED to determine which neonates need confirmation by TsB measurement. The use of transcutaneous bilirubinometer would reduce both the number of painful interventions in neonates and the medium length of stay in ED, consequently reducing iatrogenesis.
文摘The accelerating burn-in and screening method of processing 1 310 nm InGaAsP of laser diodes (LDs) is introduced. It is confirmed that the theory of burn-in and screening is based on the second derivative minimum of burn-in curve, and the new testing method has been given, that is automatic current control (ACC) burn-in and automatic power control (APC) testing. This avoidably bring the errors of testing in only ACC or APC method, which need to monitor and control or test LDs power change by photo-detector (PD) at high temperature, and LDs or PDs must be into the same environment (PD will be burn-in at the same time). Through the experiment, the accelerating burn-in and screening condition of the devices has been confirmed: ACC, 200 mA,100 ℃, 8 h. This raise work efficiency 12 times than Bellcore standard and save testing fee.
基金Supported by MICAfrica Project,which is funded by The European Commission Programme 2020-WIDE SPREAD-05-2020-Twinning Grant Agreement,No.952583.
文摘Currently,colorectal cancer(CRC)represents the third most common malignancy and the second most deadly cancer worldwide,with a higher incidence in developed countries.Like other solid tumors,CRC is a heterogeneous genomic disease in which various alterations,such as point mutations,genomic rearrangements,gene fusions or chromosomal copy number alterations,can contribute to the disease development.However,because of its orderly natural history,easily accessible onset location and high lifetime incidence,CRC is ideally suited for preventive intervention,but the many screening efforts of the last decades have been compromised by performance limitations and low penetrance of the standard screening tools.The advent of next-generation sequencing(NGS)has both facilitated the identification of previously unrecognized CRC features such as its relationship with gut microbial pathogens and revolutionized the speed and throughput of cataloguing CRC-related genomic alterations.Hence,in this review,we summarized the several diagnostic tools used for CRC screening in the past and the present,focusing on recent NGS approaches and their revolutionary role in the identification of novel genomic CRC characteristics,the advancement of understanding the CRC carcinogenesis and the screening of clinically actionable targets for personalized medicine.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2023YFC2907600)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.42077267,42277174 and 52074164)+2 种基金the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province,China(No.ZR2020JQ23)the Opening Project of State Key Laboratory of Explosion Science and Technology,Beijing Institute of Technology(No.KFJJ21-02Z)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,China(No.2022JCCXSB03).
文摘The technology of drilling tests makes it possible to obtain the strength parameter of rock accurately in situ. In this paper, a new rock cutting analysis model that considers the influence of the rock crushing zone(RCZ) is built. The formula for an ultimate cutting force is established based on the limit equilibrium principle. The relationship between digital drilling parameters(DDP) and the c-φ parameter(DDP-cφ formula, where c refers to the cohesion and φ refers to the internal friction angle) is derived, and the response of drilling parameters and cutting ratio to the strength parameters is analyzed. The drillingbased measuring method for the c-φ parameter of rock is constructed. The laboratory verification test is then completed, and the difference in results between the drilling test and the compression test is less than 6%. On this basis, in-situ rock drilling tests in a traffic tunnel and a coal mine roadway are carried out, and the strength parameters of the surrounding rock are effectively tested. The average difference ratio of the results is less than 11%, which verifies the effectiveness of the proposed method for obtaining the strength parameters based on digital drilling. This study provides methodological support for field testing of rock strength parameters.
文摘Cervical cancer is a serious public health issue worldwide, and early identification is crucial for better patient outcomes. Recent study has investigated how ML and DL approaches may be used to increase the accuracy of vagina tests. In this piece, we conducted a thorough review of 50 research studies that applied these techniques. Our investigation compared the outcomes to well-known screening techniques and concentrated on the datasets used and performance measurements reported. According to the research, convolutional neural networks and other deep learning approaches have potential for lowering false positives and boosting screening precision. Although several research used small sample sizes or constrained datasets, this raises questions about how applicable the findings are. This paper discusses the advantages and disadvantages of the articles that were chosen, as well as prospective topics for future research, to further the application of ml and dl in cervical cancer screening. The development of cervical cancer screening technologies that are more precise, accessible, and can lead to better public health outcomes is significantly affected by these findings.
文摘AIM:To evaluate the reliability of Photo-Hirschberg screening for global strabismus performed by non-specialized personnel.METHODS:Participants at three sites were enrolled.One person at each site was trained in visual acuity measurement and use of the computerized system.Visual acuity was measured,and strabismus testing was performed using two flash photographs.All data from the three primary observers were sent to an experienced assistant researcher,who was blinded to the primary results,for re-evaluation.The primary and re-evaluation results of the Photo-Hirschberg screenings using weighted kappa for agreement were compared.RESULTS:The study included 181 participants(88 males and 93 females)and the results for primary and re-evaluation screenings were corresponded.Ten participants with contrasting results presented with unclear corneal light reflex.Sensitivity and specificity were 100%[95%confidence interval(CI):29.0%-100%]and 99.4%(95%CI:96.6%-100%),respectively,based on the Agresti test of the primary evaluation,considering the re-evaluated classification as true.CONCLUSION:The computerized system can be used for primary strabismus screening by non-specialized personnel,with 98.8%agreement with specialists.However,it cannot be used as a substitute for professional examination.
文摘Since the beginning of COVID-19 pandemics many countries were facing challenges with testing capacity recourse limitations. Throughout the waves of the pandemic countries were trying to address the existing constrains exploring solutions to increase the testing capacity with more cost-effective approaches. Pooled methodology was one of the methods which many have validated and used. It is evident that in case of pooled sample testing the sensitivity becomes lower, however the variation highly depends on the pool size as well as the incidence rate at the certain point. Armenia as well as many other countries has adopted regulations for mandatory COVID-19 PCR testing for all the travelers. Current study aimed to explore the efficiency of COVID-19 pooled PCR testing for nasopharyngeal swabs of individuals with no symptoms in a time period with good epidemiological state of the infection. Nasopharingeal swab samples from individuals were collected. The manual extraction of RNAs of samples was performed after pooling up to 5 samples. The pools with Cycle Threshold (CT) of < 37 were considered positive and were retested individually. In total 28,015 samples were grouped in 667 pools of which 57 were positive. The total number of positive samples was 65. The median difference (CT-pool–CT samples) was 2.4 (ranging from–3.0 to 8.9). The correlation of CT of pools and positive samples was positive. The correlation coefficient r = 0.84, P < 0.000, 95% CI range 0.7423 to 0.9243). The total economic saving when using pools compared to the individual testing was 72%. The minor difference between CT values of pools and samples can be explained by the dilution effect in the pool. However, the positive correlation between the values as well as the amount of cost saving demonstrate that pooling on nasopharyngeal samples for COVID-19 PCR testing can be a good method for efficient screening with significant resource saving. One of the most important advantages of the proposed method is the fact that samples are pooled prior extraction, which avoids the possibilities with misinterpretation of IC due to low yield of RNA in the extraction process.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82171198,U20A20354)the Sci-Tech Innovation 2030 Agenda of China(2022ZD0211603).
文摘Alzheimer's disease(AD)is a common cause of dementia,characterised by cerebral amyloid-βdeposition,pathological tau and neurodegeneration.The prodromal stage of AD(pAD)refers to patients with mild cognitive impairment(MCl)and evidence of AD's pathology.At this stage,disease-modifying interventions should be used to prevent the progression to dementia.Given the inherent heterogeneity of MCl,more specific biomarkers are needed to elucidate the underlying AD's pathology.Although the uses of cerebrospinal fluid and positron emission tomography are widely accepted methods for detecting AD's pathology,their clinical applications are limited by their high costs and invasiveness,particularly in low-income areas in China.Therefore,to improve the early detection of Alzheimer's disease(AD)pathology through cost-effective screening methods,a panel of 45neurologists,psychiatrists andgerontologistswas invited to establish a formal consensus on the screening of pAD in China.The supportive evidence and grades of recommendations are based on a systematic literature review andfocus group discussion.National meetings were held to allow participants to review,vote and provide their expert opinions to reach a consensus.A majority(two-thirds)decision was used for questions for which consensus could not be reached.Recommended screening methods are presented in this publication,including neuropsychological assessment,peripheral biomarkers and brain imaging.In addition,a general workflow for Screening pAD in China is established,which will help clinicians identify individuals at high risk and determine therapeutic targets.
基金The authors are grateful for financial support from the National Key Projects for Fundamental Research and Development of China(2021YFA1500803)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(51825205,52120105002,22102202,22088102,U22A20391)+1 种基金the DNL Cooperation Fund,CAS(DNL202016)the CAS Project for Young Scientists in Basic Research(YSBR-004).
文摘Photocatalysis,a critical strategy for harvesting sunlight to address energy demand and environmental concerns,is underpinned by the discovery of high-performance photocatalysts,thereby how to design photocatalysts is now generating widespread interest in boosting the conversion effi-ciency of solar energy.In the past decade,computational technologies and theoretical simulations have led to a major leap in the development of high-throughput computational screening strategies for novel high-efficiency photocatalysts.In this viewpoint,we started with introducing the challenges of photocatalysis from the view of experimental practice,especially the inefficiency of the traditional“trial and error”method.Sub-sequently,a cross-sectional comparison between experimental and high-throughput computational screening for photocatalysis is presented and discussed in detail.On the basis of the current experimental progress in photocatalysis,we also exemplified the various challenges associated with high-throughput computational screening strategies.Finally,we offered a preferred high-throughput computational screening procedure for pho-tocatalysts from an experimental practice perspective(model construction and screening,standardized experiments,assessment and revision),with the aim of a better correlation of high-throughput simulations and experimental practices,motivating to search for better descriptors.
