BACKGROUND Patients with ankylosing spondylitis(AS)frequently suffer from comorbid sleep disorders,exacerbating the burden of the disease and affecting their quality of life.AIM To investigate the clinical significanc...BACKGROUND Patients with ankylosing spondylitis(AS)frequently suffer from comorbid sleep disorders,exacerbating the burden of the disease and affecting their quality of life.AIM To investigate the clinical significance of serum inflammatory factors,health index and disease activity scores in patients with AS complicated by sleep disorders.METHODS A total of 106 AS patients with comorbid sleep disorders were included in the study.The patients were grouped into the desirable and undesirable prognosis groups in accordance with their clinical outcomes.The serum levels of inflammatory factors,including C-reactive protein,erythrocyte sedimentation rate,interleukin(IL)-6,tumour necrosis factor-αand IL-1β,were measured.Disease activity scores,such as the Bath AS functional index,Bath AS disease activity index,Bath AS metrology index and AS disease activity score,were assessed.The health index was obtained through the Short Form-36 questionnaire.RESULTS The study found significant associations amongst serum inflammatory factors,health index and disease activity scores in AS patients with comorbid sleep disorders.Positive correlations were found between serum inflammatory factors and disease activity scores,indicating the influence of heightened systemic inflammation on disease severity and functional impairment.Conversely,negative correlations were found between disease activity scores and health index parameters,highlighting the effect of disease activity on various aspects of healthrelated quality of life.Logistic regression analysis further confirmed the predictive value of these factors on patient outcomes,underscoring their potential utility in risk assessment and prognostication.CONCLUSION The findings demonstrate the intricate interplay amongst disease activity,systemic inflammation and patientreported health outcomes in AS patients complicated by sleep disorders.The results emphasise the need for comprehensive care strategies that address the diverse needs and challenges faced by these patients and underscore the potential relevance of serum inflammatory factors,health index and disease activity scores as prognostic markers in this patient population.展开更多
Human activities in a transborder watershed are complex under the influence of domestic policies,international relations,and global events.Understanding the forces driving human activity change is important for the de...Human activities in a transborder watershed are complex under the influence of domestic policies,international relations,and global events.Understanding the forces driving human activity change is important for the development of transborder watershed.In this study,we used global historical land cover data,the hemeroby index model,and synthesized major historical events to analyze how human activity intensity changed in the Heilongjiang River(Amur River in Russia)watershed(HLRW).The results showed that there was a strong spatial heterogeneity in the variation of human activity intensity in the HLRW over the past century(1900-2016).On the Chinese side,the human activity intensity change shifted from the plain areas for agricultural reclamation to the mountainous areas for timber extraction.On the Russian side,human activity intensity changes mostly concentrated along the Trans-Siberian Railway and the Baikal-Amur Mainline.Localized variation of human activity intensity tended to respond to regional events while regionalized variation tends to reflect national policy change or broad international events.The similarities and differences between China and Russia in policies and positions in international events resulted in synchronous and asynchronous changes in human activity intensity.Meanwhile,policy shifts were often confined by the natural features of the watershed.These results reveal the historical origins and fundamental connotations of watershed development and contribute to formulating regional management policies that coordinate population,eco-nomic,social,and environmental activities.展开更多
BACKGROUND Perianal fistulas pose dual challenges to Crohn's disease(CD)patients.Low patient compliance due to the complexity of existing examination methods plagues the treatment and follow-up management of peria...BACKGROUND Perianal fistulas pose dual challenges to Crohn's disease(CD)patients.Low patient compliance due to the complexity of existing examination methods plagues the treatment and follow-up management of perianal CD.AIM To determine the accuracy of endoanal ultrasound(EUS)and shear wave elastography(SWE)for evaluating perianal fistulizing CD(PFCD)activity.METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study.A total of 67 patients from August 2022 to December 2023 diagnosed with CD were divided into three groups:Non-anal fistula group(n=23),low-activity perianal fistulas[n=19,perianal disease activity index(PDAI)≤4],high-activity perianal fistulas(n=25,PDAI>4)based on the PDAI.All patients underwent assessments including EUS+SWE,pelvic magnetic resonance[pelvic magnetic resonance imaging(MRI)],C-reactive protein,fecal calprotectin,CD activity index,PDAI.RESULTS The percentage of fistulas indicated by pelvic MRI and EUS was consistent at 82%,and there was good consistency in the classification of perianal fistulas(Kappa=0.752,P<0.001).Significant differences were observed in the blood flow Limberg score(χ^(2)=8.903,P<0.05)and shear wave velocity(t=2.467,P<0.05)between group 2 and 3.Shear wave velocity showed a strong negative correlation with magnetic resonance novel index for fistula imaging in CD(Magnifi-CD)score(r=-0.676,P<0.001),a weak negative correlation with the PDAI score(r=-0.386,P<0.05),and a weak correlation between the Limberg score and the PDAI score(r=0.368,P<0.05).CONCLUSION EUS combined with SWE offers a superior method for detecting and quantitating the activity of perianal fistulas in CD patients.It may be the ideal tool to assess PFCD activity objectively for management strategies.展开更多
In this special issue of the Journal of Sport and Health Science, analyses of the most recent national prevalence esti- mates from the 2016 Physical Activity and Fimess in China-- The Youth Study (PAFCTYS) are prese...In this special issue of the Journal of Sport and Health Science, analyses of the most recent national prevalence esti- mates from the 2016 Physical Activity and Fimess in China-- The Youth Study (PAFCTYS) are presented. These include the prevalence of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA).展开更多
BACKGROUND The inverse association between systemic immune-inammation index(SII)and overall survival in tumors has been studied.AIM To evaluate the hematological indexes for assessing the activity of ulcerative colit...BACKGROUND The inverse association between systemic immune-inammation index(SII)and overall survival in tumors has been studied.AIM To evaluate the hematological indexes for assessing the activity of ulcerative colitis(UC).METHODS In this case-control study,172 UC patients and healthy participants were included.Comparisons were made among groups of white blood cells,hemoglobin,platelets,neutrophils,lymphocytes,monocytes,SII,neutrophil-tolymphocyte ratio(NLR),and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio(PLR).The relationship with hematological inflammation was verified by Spearman correlation analyses.The efficiency of SII,NLR,and PLR for distinguishing between UC and severe disease status was assessed by the receiver operator curve and logistic regression analyses.RESULTS The values of SII,NLR,and PLR were higher in UC patients than in controls(P<0.001)and were positively correlated with the Mayo endoscopic score,extent,Degree of Ulcerative Colitis Burden of Luminal Inflammation(DUBLIN)score,and Ulcerative Colitis Endoscopic Index of Severity(UCEIS).The cut-off NLR value of 562.22 predicted UC with a sensitivity of 79.65%and a specificity of 76.16%.Logistic regression analysis revealed that patients with SII and NLR levels above the median had a significantly higher risk of UC(P<0.05).Risk factors independently associated with DUBLIN≥3 included SII≥1776.80[odds ratio(OR)=11.53,P=0.027]and NLR value of 2.67-4.23(OR=2.96,P=0.047)on multivariate analysis.Compared with the first quartile,SII≥1776.80 was an independent predictor of UCEIS≥5(OR=18.46,P=0.012).CONCLUSION SII has a certain value in confirming UC and identifying its activity.展开更多
To investigate of pediatric ulcerative colitis activity index (PUCAI) in ulcerative colitis correlate with mucosal inflammation and endoscopic assessment of disease activity (Mayo endoscopic score).METHODSWe reviewed ...To investigate of pediatric ulcerative colitis activity index (PUCAI) in ulcerative colitis correlate with mucosal inflammation and endoscopic assessment of disease activity (Mayo endoscopic score).METHODSWe reviewed charts from ulcerative colitis patients who had undergone both colonoscopy over 3 years. Clinical assessment of disease severity within 35 d (either before or after) the colonoscopy were included. Patients were excluded if they had significant therapeutic interventions (such as the start of corticosteroids or immunosuppressive agents) between the colonoscopy and the clinical assessment. Mayo endoscopic score of the rectum and sigmoid were done by two gastroenterologists. Inter-observer variability in Mayo score was assessed.RESULTSWe identified 99 patients (53% female, 74% pancolitis) that met inclusion criteria. The indications for colonoscopy included ongoing disease activity (62%), consideration of medication change (10%), assessment of medication efficacy (14%), and cancer screening (14%). Based on PUCAI scores, 33% of patients were in remission, 39% had mild disease, 23% had moderate disease, and 4% had severe disease. There was “moderate-substantial” agreement between the two reviewers in assessing rectal Mayo scores (kappa = 0.54, 95%CI: 0.41-0.68).CONCLUSIONEndoscopic disease severity (Mayo score) assessed by reviewing photographs of pediatric colonoscopy has moderate inter-rater reliability, and agreement was less robust in assessing patients with mild disease activity. Endoscopic disease severity generally correlates with clinical disease severity as measured by PUCAI score. However, children with inflamed colons can have significant variation in their reported clinical symptoms. Thus, assessment of both clinical symptoms and endoscopic disease severity may be required in future clinical studies.展开更多
BACKGROUND The pediatric Crohn’s disease activity index(PCDAI)is used as a standard tool to assess disease activity in clinical trials for pediatric Crohn’s disease.AIM To examine which items on the PCDAI drive asse...BACKGROUND The pediatric Crohn’s disease activity index(PCDAI)is used as a standard tool to assess disease activity in clinical trials for pediatric Crohn’s disease.AIM To examine which items on the PCDAI drive assessment of disease activity,and how subgroups of subjective and objective items reflect change in disease state over time.METHODS Selective raw data from three prospectively collected datasets were combined,including 703 children with full PCDAI data at baseline,at 3-mo(Q1,n=670),and 1-year(Q4,n=474).Change in individual PCDAI scores from baseline to Q1 and to Q4 were examined using the non-weighted PCDAI.RESULTS Abdominal pain,well-being,weight,and stooling had the highest change scores over time.Objective indicators including albumin,abdominal exam,and height velocity followed.Change scores for well-being and abdominal exam did not explain significant variance at Q1 but were significant predictors at Q4(P<0.001 and P<0.05).Subjective and objective subgroups of items predicted less variance(18%and 22%)on total PCDAI scores at Q1 and Q4 compared to the full PCDAI,or a composite scale(both 32%)containing significant predictors.CONCLUSION Although subjective items on the PCDAI change the most over time,the full PCDAI or a smaller composite of items including a combination of subjective and objective components classifies disease activity better than a subgroup of either subjective or objective items alone.Reliance on subjective or objective items as stand-alone proxies for disease activity measurement could result in misclassification of disease state.展开更多
The Crohn's disease activity index (CDAI) has been commonly used to assess the effects of treatment with different agents in Crohn's disease (CD). However, these studies may be compromised, if the results compar...The Crohn's disease activity index (CDAI) has been commonly used to assess the effects of treatment with different agents in Crohn's disease (CD). However, these studies may be compromised, if the results compared to a placebo or standard therapy group (in the absence of a placebo) substantially differ from the expected response. In addition, significant concerns have been raised regarding the reliability and validity of the CDAI. Reproducibility of the CDAI may be limited as significant inter-observer error has been recorded, even if measurements are done by experienced clinicians with expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of CD. Finally, many CDAI endpoints are open to subjective interpretation and have the potential for manipulation. This is worrisome as there is the potential for significant financial gain, if the results of a clinical trial appear to provide a positive result. Physicians caring for patients should be concerned about the positive results in clinical trials that are sponsored by industry, even if the trials involve respected centers and the results appear in highly ranked medical journals.展开更多
The driving effects of climate change and human activities on vegetation change have always been a focal point of research.However,the coupling mechanisms of these driving factors across different temporal and spatial...The driving effects of climate change and human activities on vegetation change have always been a focal point of research.However,the coupling mechanisms of these driving factors across different temporal and spatial scales remain controversial.The Southwestern Alpine Canyon Region of China(SACR),as an ecologically fragile area,is highly sensitive to the impacts of climate change and human activities.This study constructed a vegetation cover dataset for the SACR based on the Enhanced Vegetation Index(EVI)from 2000 to 2020.Spatial autocorrelation,Theil-Sen trend,and Mann-Kendall tests were used to analyze the spatiotemporal characteristics of vegetation cover changes.The main drivers of spatial heterogeneity in vegetation cover were identified using the optimal parameter geographic detector,and an improved residual analysis model was employed to quantify the relative contributions of climate change and human activities to interannual vegetation cover changes.The main findings are as follows:Spatially,vegetation cover exceeds 60%in most areas,especially in the southern part of the study area.However,the border area between Linzhi and Changdu exhibits lower vegetation cover.Climate factors are the primary drivers of spatial heterogeneity in vegetation cover,with temperature having the most significant influence,as indicated by its q-value,which far exceeds that of other factors.Additionally,the interaction q-value between the two factors significantly increases,showing a relationship of bivariate enhancement and nonlinear enhancement.In terms of temporal changes,vegetation cover shows an overall improving trend from 2000 to 2020,with significant increases observed in 68.93%of the study area.Among these,human activities are the main factors driving vegetation cover change,with a relative contribution rate of 41.31%,while climate change and residual factors contribute 35.66%and 23.53%,respectively.By thoroughly exploring the coupled mechanisms of vegetation change,this study provides important references for the sustainable management and conservation of the vegetation ecosystem in the SACR.展开更多
The Mongolian Plateau in East Asia is one of the largest contingent arid and semi-arid areas of the world.Under the impacts of climate change and human activities,desertification is becoming increasingly severe on the...The Mongolian Plateau in East Asia is one of the largest contingent arid and semi-arid areas of the world.Under the impacts of climate change and human activities,desertification is becoming increasingly severe on the Mongolian Plateau.Understanding the vegetation dynamics in this region can better characterize its ecological changes.In this study,based on Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer(MODIS)images,we calculated the kernel normalized difference vegetation index(kNDVI)on the Mongolian Plateau from 2000 to 2023,and analyzed the changes in kNDVI using the Theil-Sen median trend analysis and Mann-Kendall significance test.We further investigated the impact of climate change on kNDVI change using partial correlation analysis and composite correlation analysis,and quantified the effects of climate change and human activities on kNDVI change by residual analysis.The results showed that kNDVI on the Mongolian Plateau was increasing overall,and the vegetation recovery area in the southern region was significantly larger than that in the northern region.About 50.99%of the plateau showed dominant climate-driven effects of temperature,precipitation,and wind speed on kNDVI change.Residual analysis showed that climate change and human activities together contributed to 94.79%of the areas with vegetation improvement.Appropriate human activities promoted the recovery of local vegetation,and climate change inhibited vegetation growth in the northern part of the Mongolian Plateau.This study provides scientific data for understanding the regional ecological environment status and future changes and developing effective ecological protection measures on the Mongolian Plateau.展开更多
Morphometry status of tectonic active areas around the Beshagard mountain is as a result of the interaction of neotectonic movements, erosion and subsidence processes. Bashagard mountain contains two attached mountain...Morphometry status of tectonic active areas around the Beshagard mountain is as a result of the interaction of neotectonic movements, erosion and subsidence processes. Bashagard mountain contains two attached mountains (GhaleTohi imountain and Bashagard mountain) with an altitude of 2000 meters at the south of the Jazmurian subsidence surrounded by Quaternary and Neogene. The boundary between the north Makran and Jazmurian subsidence is a fault that located between Band-e-Ziarat unit and western alluvial fan and units of Ganj, Mokhtarabad and Rameshk in the south. Tectonic activity has a significant impact on their morphometry status and drainage basin system. We studied geomorphological patterns of drainage and mountain fronts features for clear changes and high style of mountain. In this study, we studied seven geomorphological indicators for each basin including Vf, Bs, Smf, Sl, Af, RA, Hi between west and south mountain front of Jazmurian. Morphometric indexes were divided in three categories. The average of seven indicators is an index of relative tectonic activity (IRAT). The level of tectonic activity of each IRAT category was determined. Finally, tectonic activity was evaluated for each drainage basin. Results show good similarity between IRAT category and ratio of tectonic activity of the number of drainage basins. The streams profile shows the uplift movement in the western part of subsidence Jazmurian. Thus, the achievements obtained from the analysis of topographic indices, the region’s river system and geomorphological evidence show the movements of uplift and movement of right-lateral strike-slip of Jiroft fault in the west and reverse faulting of Kranj and Jazmurian faults at east of subsidence Jazmurian that all indicates the diagonal tectonic movements.展开更多
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory disease associated with high morbidity and increased cardiovascular disease, and Metabolic Syndrome (MS) is understood as a set of metabolic disorders that correlates with ...Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory disease associated with high morbidity and increased cardiovascular disease, and Metabolic Syndrome (MS) is understood as a set of metabolic disorders that correlates with obesity and sedentary lifestyle. The aim of this study is to evaluate the prevalence of MS in a cohort of patients with RA and its correlation to specific factors of the disease. A retrospective cohort study was conducted with 283 patients with RA, followed at the Rheumatology Outpatient Clinic of the Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA) between 2008 and 2016;187 continued to be followed and agreed to be reevaluated between January and November 2016. MS was defined according to the National Cholesterol Education Program and disease activity was assessed using the Disease Activity Score (DAS28). Clinical, biochemical, and anthropometric evaluations were conducted. The prevalence of MS in the first evaluation was 43.9% and, after 8 years, 59.4%. Increased waist circumference and blood pressures, elevated triglycerides and low High-Density Lipoprotein were the most frequent features of MS. The DAS28 was significantly lower in the reevaluation (p = 0.006). The prevalence of MS was higher at the end of 8 years;disease activity, as well as blood pressure, decreased during this period. Steroid use had also decreased at the end of follow-up. There was an increase of 15% of cases with MS in an 8-year follow-up cohort of patients, which was in agreement with the current literature and showed how the inflammatory process in RA is correlated to MS. The parameters of MS that varied the most were blood pressure, cholesterol and triglycerides. Ultimately, these parameters and disease activity must be observed closely in order to improve the prognosis of patients with RA.展开更多
To investigate the effects of different vegetable growing regions and planting modes on soil quality,soils in high,medium and low altitude areas of Guizhou were respectively sampled under different vegetable efficient...To investigate the effects of different vegetable growing regions and planting modes on soil quality,soils in high,medium and low altitude areas of Guizhou were respectively sampled under different vegetable efficient planting modes,and the variations of soil microbial flora and enzyme activities were analyzed. The soil microbial count and total bacteria of the vegetable efficient cultivation mode were significantly higher than that of the control (traditional planting mode) in each planting area,and the microbial diversity index was also improved to varying de- grees.The soil phosphatase,catalase and urease activities of the vegetable efficient planting mode were higher than that of the control.The soil catalase and urease activities were higher than that of the control by 1.37-1.44 and 1.51-2.80 times. Application of vegetable efficient planting mode in different regions will help to im- prove the soil quality in a given period.展开更多
The taiga vegetation in Western Siberia has been seriously threatened by climate warming in recent decades.However,how vegetation in different growing states and climate conditions responds to climate changes differen...The taiga vegetation in Western Siberia has been seriously threatened by climate warming in recent decades.However,how vegetation in different growing states and climate conditions responds to climate changes differently is still unclear.Here we explore the vegetation activity trends in Western Siberia taiga forests using the annual rate of change in leaf area index(LAI)during 1982–2018 so as to answer two questions:(1)how did climate warming affect taiga vegetation activity in the recent last decades?(2)Did the growing state of taiga forest affect its response to climate warming?Our results revealed that climate warming promoted taiga vegetation activity in Western Siberia before 2000.However,continuous warming caused excessive evapotranspiration and led to decreased vegetation activity after 2000.Moreover,the intensity of vegetation growth response to warming was positively related to canopy height and LAI,indicating that both the positive and negative effects of warming were more significant in taiga forests in better growing state.Since these forests generally have higher productivity and play more important roles in ecosystem functioning(e.g.,carbon sink and biodiversity conservation),our results highlight their vulnerability to future climate change that need more research attention.展开更多
By replacing leaf area index (LAI) with effective leaf area index (ELAI) through introduction of leaf rolling index (LRI), the distributions of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) in the canopies of thre...By replacing leaf area index (LAI) with effective leaf area index (ELAI) through introduction of leaf rolling index (LRI), the distributions of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) in the canopies of three hybrid rice combinations, Liangyou E32 with high LRI, Liangyoupeijiu with moderate LRI and Shanyou 63 with non-rolling leaves (normal), were simulated. The model based on ELAI could predict more accurately than that based on LAI. The PAR interception, conversion and utilization efficiency in the three combinations were studied to evaluate their optimal LRI and LAI. The PAR utilization efficiency of Liangyou E32 was lower due to excessive rolling leaves and less ELAI, and that of Shanyou 63 was also lower because of the faulty PAR interception and lower photosynthetic rate and saturation point at lower layer in canopy. Compared with the above two combinations, Liangyoupeijiu showed more appropriate distribution of PAR interception and conversion efficiency in canopy, and higher PAR utilization efficiency. The optimal LRI and LAI for Liangyoupeijiu were 0.11 and 7.6, respectively, which were close to the observed value, 0.11 and 7.9, respectively. However, the optimum LAI was 9.8 for Liangyou E32 and 6.2 for Shanyou 63, larger or smaller than those under the current plant density, which led to lower efficiency of PAR utilization. Besides, the optimum LRI for Liangyou E32 and Shanyou 63 were 0.12 and 0.08, respectively, which were close to the actual LRI for Liangyoupeijiu (0.11).展开更多
Objective:To explore the immunomodulatory properties of 80% ethanol extract and butanol fraction of Gentiana olivieri(G. olivieri) Griseb on Balb/C mice.Methods:The study was performed with basic models of immunomodul...Objective:To explore the immunomodulatory properties of 80% ethanol extract and butanol fraction of Gentiana olivieri(G. olivieri) Griseb on Balb/C mice.Methods:The study was performed with basic models of immunomodulation such as the humoral antibody response(hemoglutination antibody titres), cell mediated immune response(delayed type hypersensitivity and in vivocarbon clearance or phagocytosis). Ethanol(80%) extract of flowering aerial parts of G.olivieriand its butanol fraction were administered p.o.(orally) to the mice. Levamisole, 2.5 mg/kg was used as standard drug.Results:There was a potentiation of immune response to sheep red blood cells by cellular and humoral mediated mechanisms comparable to levamisole(2.5 mg/kg) by both 80% ethanol extract and the butanol fraction at doses of 50-200 mg/kg in male Balb/C mice. Both significantly(P<0.01) potentiated the humoral immune response in cyclophosphamide(250 mg/kg)immunosupressed mice at 100 and 200 mg/kg of each extract and fraction as compared to control.The potentiation of delayed type hypersensitivity response was statistically significant(P<0.01) at200 mg/kg of ethanol extract and 100, 200 mg/kg of butanol fraction as compared to control. The phagocytosis was significant at 200 mg/kg with butanol fraction ofG. olivieri.Conclusions:The results reveal the immunostimulant effects of plantG. olivieriin mice by acting through cellular and humoral immunity in experimental models of immunity in mice. Butanol fraction is the most effective at a dose level of 200 mg/kg.展开更多
The activity concentrations of the natural radionuclides namely 238U, 232Th, 40K and 137Cs are measured for soil samples collected from different locations of Tulkarem district in West Back-Palestine. High-resolution ...The activity concentrations of the natural radionuclides namely 238U, 232Th, 40K and 137Cs are measured for soil samples collected from different locations of Tulkarem district in West Back-Palestine. High-resolution gamma spectrometry (HPGe detector) was used to determine the activity concentration of these radionuclides in 72 surface soil samples taken from areas in and surrounding Tulkarem city. The concentration of 238U varied in the range 9.7 - 83.5 Bq kg–1 with an average value of 34.5 Bq kg–1, 232Th in the range 5.3 - 44.8 Bq kg–1 with an average value of 23.8 Bq kg–1, 40K in the range 10.2 - 404.0 Bq kg–1 with an average value of 120.0 Bq kg–1 and 137Cs in the range 1.0 - 24.5 Bq kg–1 with an average value of 7.8 Bq kg–1. The results have been compared with those of different countries of the world and Palestine. To assess the radiological hazard of the natural radioactivity, the absorbed dose rate (Dr), the radium equivalent activity (Raeq), the effective dose rate (Eeff), the annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE), Excess Lifetime Cancer Risk (ELCR), the radioactivity level index (Iγ), and the external (Hex) and internal (Hin) hazard indices were calculated .It can be concluded that no risk may threat the residents around and center of Tulkarem city except some areas which activity due to fallout 137Cs were high concentration levels. Hence the probability of occurrence of any of the health effects of radiation is low. Hence, measurements have been taken as representing baseline values of these radionuclides in the soil in studying area.展开更多
AIMTo isolate and identify the molds involved in mycotic keratitis; to isolate corresponding species from soil samples; to compare the extracellular enzyme activity indices of the molds isolated from keratitis cases a...AIMTo isolate and identify the molds involved in mycotic keratitis; to isolate corresponding species from soil samples; to compare the extracellular enzyme activity indices of the molds isolated from keratitis cases and the corresponding soil isolates.展开更多
Storms that occur at the Bay of Bengal(Bo B) are of a bimodal pattern, which is different from that of the other sea areas. By using the NCEP, SST and JTWC data, the causes of the bimodal pattern storm activity of the...Storms that occur at the Bay of Bengal(Bo B) are of a bimodal pattern, which is different from that of the other sea areas. By using the NCEP, SST and JTWC data, the causes of the bimodal pattern storm activity of the Bo B are diagnosed and analyzed in this paper. The result shows that the seasonal variation of general atmosphere circulation in East Asia has a regulating and controlling impact on the Bo B storm activity, and the "bimodal period" of the storm activity corresponds exactly to the seasonal conversion period of atmospheric circulation. The minor wind speed of shear spring and autumn contributed to the storm, which was a crucial factor for the generation and occurrence of the"bimodal pattern"storm activity in the Bo B. The analysis on sea surface temperature(SST) shows that the SSTs of all the year around in the Bo B area meet the conditions required for the generation of tropical cyclones(TCs). However,the SSTs in the central area of the bay are higher than that of the surrounding areas in spring and autumn, which facilitates the occurrence of a "two-peak"storm activity pattern. The genesis potential index(GPI) quantifies and reflects the environmental conditions for the generation of the Bo B storms. For GPI, the intense low-level vortex disturbance in the troposphere and high-humidity atmosphere are the sufficient conditions for storms, while large maximum wind velocity of the ground vortex radius and small vertical wind shear are the necessary conditions of storms.展开更多
In this research, Tabas area, which is located in central Iran, was selected as the study area and three geomorphic indices were calculated for its structural fronts. Through averaging these three indices, we obtained...In this research, Tabas area, which is located in central Iran, was selected as the study area and three geomorphic indices were calculated for its structural fronts. Through averaging these three indices, we obtained index of active tectonics (IAT). The values of the index were divided into classes to define the degree of active tectonics. Therefore, relative tectonic activity was calculated and their values were classified and analyzed in two groups. Regions were identified as high and moderate levels. In analyzing data and combining them with tectonic setting, the results were often associated and justified with regional geology. Our results show that the highest value is located along Shoutori fault, which shows 2 class of relative tectonic activity (high level). Also, moderate values are located along Ereshk, Ezmeighan and Jamal faults (moderate level). According to these results, Shoutori fault is the most active fault in the study area and this situation is compatible with its position as a mountain front fault.展开更多
基金Supported by the Immuno Inflammatory Diseases Research Support Project,No.J202301E036.
文摘BACKGROUND Patients with ankylosing spondylitis(AS)frequently suffer from comorbid sleep disorders,exacerbating the burden of the disease and affecting their quality of life.AIM To investigate the clinical significance of serum inflammatory factors,health index and disease activity scores in patients with AS complicated by sleep disorders.METHODS A total of 106 AS patients with comorbid sleep disorders were included in the study.The patients were grouped into the desirable and undesirable prognosis groups in accordance with their clinical outcomes.The serum levels of inflammatory factors,including C-reactive protein,erythrocyte sedimentation rate,interleukin(IL)-6,tumour necrosis factor-αand IL-1β,were measured.Disease activity scores,such as the Bath AS functional index,Bath AS disease activity index,Bath AS metrology index and AS disease activity score,were assessed.The health index was obtained through the Short Form-36 questionnaire.RESULTS The study found significant associations amongst serum inflammatory factors,health index and disease activity scores in AS patients with comorbid sleep disorders.Positive correlations were found between serum inflammatory factors and disease activity scores,indicating the influence of heightened systemic inflammation on disease severity and functional impairment.Conversely,negative correlations were found between disease activity scores and health index parameters,highlighting the effect of disease activity on various aspects of healthrelated quality of life.Logistic regression analysis further confirmed the predictive value of these factors on patient outcomes,underscoring their potential utility in risk assessment and prognostication.CONCLUSION The findings demonstrate the intricate interplay amongst disease activity,systemic inflammation and patientreported health outcomes in AS patients complicated by sleep disorders.The results emphasise the need for comprehensive care strategies that address the diverse needs and challenges faced by these patients and underscore the potential relevance of serum inflammatory factors,health index and disease activity scores as prognostic markers in this patient population.
基金Under the auspices of National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2017YFA0604403)National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.41801108)。
文摘Human activities in a transborder watershed are complex under the influence of domestic policies,international relations,and global events.Understanding the forces driving human activity change is important for the development of transborder watershed.In this study,we used global historical land cover data,the hemeroby index model,and synthesized major historical events to analyze how human activity intensity changed in the Heilongjiang River(Amur River in Russia)watershed(HLRW).The results showed that there was a strong spatial heterogeneity in the variation of human activity intensity in the HLRW over the past century(1900-2016).On the Chinese side,the human activity intensity change shifted from the plain areas for agricultural reclamation to the mountainous areas for timber extraction.On the Russian side,human activity intensity changes mostly concentrated along the Trans-Siberian Railway and the Baikal-Amur Mainline.Localized variation of human activity intensity tended to respond to regional events while regionalized variation tends to reflect national policy change or broad international events.The similarities and differences between China and Russia in policies and positions in international events resulted in synchronous and asynchronous changes in human activity intensity.Meanwhile,policy shifts were often confined by the natural features of the watershed.These results reveal the historical origins and fundamental connotations of watershed development and contribute to formulating regional management policies that coordinate population,eco-nomic,social,and environmental activities.
基金the Major Project of Department of Education of Anhui Province of China,No.2023AH040396.
文摘BACKGROUND Perianal fistulas pose dual challenges to Crohn's disease(CD)patients.Low patient compliance due to the complexity of existing examination methods plagues the treatment and follow-up management of perianal CD.AIM To determine the accuracy of endoanal ultrasound(EUS)and shear wave elastography(SWE)for evaluating perianal fistulizing CD(PFCD)activity.METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study.A total of 67 patients from August 2022 to December 2023 diagnosed with CD were divided into three groups:Non-anal fistula group(n=23),low-activity perianal fistulas[n=19,perianal disease activity index(PDAI)≤4],high-activity perianal fistulas(n=25,PDAI>4)based on the PDAI.All patients underwent assessments including EUS+SWE,pelvic magnetic resonance[pelvic magnetic resonance imaging(MRI)],C-reactive protein,fecal calprotectin,CD activity index,PDAI.RESULTS The percentage of fistulas indicated by pelvic MRI and EUS was consistent at 82%,and there was good consistency in the classification of perianal fistulas(Kappa=0.752,P<0.001).Significant differences were observed in the blood flow Limberg score(χ^(2)=8.903,P<0.05)and shear wave velocity(t=2.467,P<0.05)between group 2 and 3.Shear wave velocity showed a strong negative correlation with magnetic resonance novel index for fistula imaging in CD(Magnifi-CD)score(r=-0.676,P<0.001),a weak negative correlation with the PDAI score(r=-0.386,P<0.05),and a weak correlation between the Limberg score and the PDAI score(r=0.368,P<0.05).CONCLUSION EUS combined with SWE offers a superior method for detecting and quantitating the activity of perianal fistulas in CD patients.It may be the ideal tool to assess PFCD activity objectively for management strategies.
文摘In this special issue of the Journal of Sport and Health Science, analyses of the most recent national prevalence esti- mates from the 2016 Physical Activity and Fimess in China-- The Youth Study (PAFCTYS) are presented. These include the prevalence of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA).
文摘BACKGROUND The inverse association between systemic immune-inammation index(SII)and overall survival in tumors has been studied.AIM To evaluate the hematological indexes for assessing the activity of ulcerative colitis(UC).METHODS In this case-control study,172 UC patients and healthy participants were included.Comparisons were made among groups of white blood cells,hemoglobin,platelets,neutrophils,lymphocytes,monocytes,SII,neutrophil-tolymphocyte ratio(NLR),and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio(PLR).The relationship with hematological inflammation was verified by Spearman correlation analyses.The efficiency of SII,NLR,and PLR for distinguishing between UC and severe disease status was assessed by the receiver operator curve and logistic regression analyses.RESULTS The values of SII,NLR,and PLR were higher in UC patients than in controls(P<0.001)and were positively correlated with the Mayo endoscopic score,extent,Degree of Ulcerative Colitis Burden of Luminal Inflammation(DUBLIN)score,and Ulcerative Colitis Endoscopic Index of Severity(UCEIS).The cut-off NLR value of 562.22 predicted UC with a sensitivity of 79.65%and a specificity of 76.16%.Logistic regression analysis revealed that patients with SII and NLR levels above the median had a significantly higher risk of UC(P<0.05).Risk factors independently associated with DUBLIN≥3 included SII≥1776.80[odds ratio(OR)=11.53,P=0.027]and NLR value of 2.67-4.23(OR=2.96,P=0.047)on multivariate analysis.Compared with the first quartile,SII≥1776.80 was an independent predictor of UCEIS≥5(OR=18.46,P=0.012).CONCLUSION SII has a certain value in confirming UC and identifying its activity.
文摘To investigate of pediatric ulcerative colitis activity index (PUCAI) in ulcerative colitis correlate with mucosal inflammation and endoscopic assessment of disease activity (Mayo endoscopic score).METHODSWe reviewed charts from ulcerative colitis patients who had undergone both colonoscopy over 3 years. Clinical assessment of disease severity within 35 d (either before or after) the colonoscopy were included. Patients were excluded if they had significant therapeutic interventions (such as the start of corticosteroids or immunosuppressive agents) between the colonoscopy and the clinical assessment. Mayo endoscopic score of the rectum and sigmoid were done by two gastroenterologists. Inter-observer variability in Mayo score was assessed.RESULTSWe identified 99 patients (53% female, 74% pancolitis) that met inclusion criteria. The indications for colonoscopy included ongoing disease activity (62%), consideration of medication change (10%), assessment of medication efficacy (14%), and cancer screening (14%). Based on PUCAI scores, 33% of patients were in remission, 39% had mild disease, 23% had moderate disease, and 4% had severe disease. There was “moderate-substantial” agreement between the two reviewers in assessing rectal Mayo scores (kappa = 0.54, 95%CI: 0.41-0.68).CONCLUSIONEndoscopic disease severity (Mayo score) assessed by reviewing photographs of pediatric colonoscopy has moderate inter-rater reliability, and agreement was less robust in assessing patients with mild disease activity. Endoscopic disease severity generally correlates with clinical disease severity as measured by PUCAI score. However, children with inflamed colons can have significant variation in their reported clinical symptoms. Thus, assessment of both clinical symptoms and endoscopic disease severity may be required in future clinical studies.
文摘BACKGROUND The pediatric Crohn’s disease activity index(PCDAI)is used as a standard tool to assess disease activity in clinical trials for pediatric Crohn’s disease.AIM To examine which items on the PCDAI drive assessment of disease activity,and how subgroups of subjective and objective items reflect change in disease state over time.METHODS Selective raw data from three prospectively collected datasets were combined,including 703 children with full PCDAI data at baseline,at 3-mo(Q1,n=670),and 1-year(Q4,n=474).Change in individual PCDAI scores from baseline to Q1 and to Q4 were examined using the non-weighted PCDAI.RESULTS Abdominal pain,well-being,weight,and stooling had the highest change scores over time.Objective indicators including albumin,abdominal exam,and height velocity followed.Change scores for well-being and abdominal exam did not explain significant variance at Q1 but were significant predictors at Q4(P<0.001 and P<0.05).Subjective and objective subgroups of items predicted less variance(18%and 22%)on total PCDAI scores at Q1 and Q4 compared to the full PCDAI,or a composite scale(both 32%)containing significant predictors.CONCLUSION Although subjective items on the PCDAI change the most over time,the full PCDAI or a smaller composite of items including a combination of subjective and objective components classifies disease activity better than a subgroup of either subjective or objective items alone.Reliance on subjective or objective items as stand-alone proxies for disease activity measurement could result in misclassification of disease state.
文摘The Crohn's disease activity index (CDAI) has been commonly used to assess the effects of treatment with different agents in Crohn's disease (CD). However, these studies may be compromised, if the results compared to a placebo or standard therapy group (in the absence of a placebo) substantially differ from the expected response. In addition, significant concerns have been raised regarding the reliability and validity of the CDAI. Reproducibility of the CDAI may be limited as significant inter-observer error has been recorded, even if measurements are done by experienced clinicians with expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of CD. Finally, many CDAI endpoints are open to subjective interpretation and have the potential for manipulation. This is worrisome as there is the potential for significant financial gain, if the results of a clinical trial appear to provide a positive result. Physicians caring for patients should be concerned about the positive results in clinical trials that are sponsored by industry, even if the trials involve respected centers and the results appear in highly ranked medical journals.
基金funded by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(Grant No.2022YFF1302903).
文摘The driving effects of climate change and human activities on vegetation change have always been a focal point of research.However,the coupling mechanisms of these driving factors across different temporal and spatial scales remain controversial.The Southwestern Alpine Canyon Region of China(SACR),as an ecologically fragile area,is highly sensitive to the impacts of climate change and human activities.This study constructed a vegetation cover dataset for the SACR based on the Enhanced Vegetation Index(EVI)from 2000 to 2020.Spatial autocorrelation,Theil-Sen trend,and Mann-Kendall tests were used to analyze the spatiotemporal characteristics of vegetation cover changes.The main drivers of spatial heterogeneity in vegetation cover were identified using the optimal parameter geographic detector,and an improved residual analysis model was employed to quantify the relative contributions of climate change and human activities to interannual vegetation cover changes.The main findings are as follows:Spatially,vegetation cover exceeds 60%in most areas,especially in the southern part of the study area.However,the border area between Linzhi and Changdu exhibits lower vegetation cover.Climate factors are the primary drivers of spatial heterogeneity in vegetation cover,with temperature having the most significant influence,as indicated by its q-value,which far exceeds that of other factors.Additionally,the interaction q-value between the two factors significantly increases,showing a relationship of bivariate enhancement and nonlinear enhancement.In terms of temporal changes,vegetation cover shows an overall improving trend from 2000 to 2020,with significant increases observed in 68.93%of the study area.Among these,human activities are the main factors driving vegetation cover change,with a relative contribution rate of 41.31%,while climate change and residual factors contribute 35.66%and 23.53%,respectively.By thoroughly exploring the coupled mechanisms of vegetation change,this study provides important references for the sustainable management and conservation of the vegetation ecosystem in the SACR.
基金National Key Research and Development Program on Enhancement of Soil and Water Ecological Security and Guarantee Technology in Desert Oasis Areas(2023YFF130420103)Three North Project of Xinhua Forestry Highland Demonstration Science and Technology Construction Project,the Technology and Demonstration of Near-Natural Modification of Artificial Protective Forest Structures and Enhancement of Soil and Water Conservation Functions in Ecological Protection Belt(2023YFF1305201)+2 种基金Multi-dimensional Coupled Soil-surface-groundwater Hydrological Processes and Vegetation Regulation Mechanism in Loess Area of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(U2243202)Hot Tracking Program of Beijing Forestry University"Planting a Billion Trees"Program and China-Mongolia Cooperation on Desertification in China(2023BLRD04)Research on Ecological Photovoltaic Vegetation Configuration Model and Restoration Technology(AMKJ2023-17).
文摘The Mongolian Plateau in East Asia is one of the largest contingent arid and semi-arid areas of the world.Under the impacts of climate change and human activities,desertification is becoming increasingly severe on the Mongolian Plateau.Understanding the vegetation dynamics in this region can better characterize its ecological changes.In this study,based on Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer(MODIS)images,we calculated the kernel normalized difference vegetation index(kNDVI)on the Mongolian Plateau from 2000 to 2023,and analyzed the changes in kNDVI using the Theil-Sen median trend analysis and Mann-Kendall significance test.We further investigated the impact of climate change on kNDVI change using partial correlation analysis and composite correlation analysis,and quantified the effects of climate change and human activities on kNDVI change by residual analysis.The results showed that kNDVI on the Mongolian Plateau was increasing overall,and the vegetation recovery area in the southern region was significantly larger than that in the northern region.About 50.99%of the plateau showed dominant climate-driven effects of temperature,precipitation,and wind speed on kNDVI change.Residual analysis showed that climate change and human activities together contributed to 94.79%of the areas with vegetation improvement.Appropriate human activities promoted the recovery of local vegetation,and climate change inhibited vegetation growth in the northern part of the Mongolian Plateau.This study provides scientific data for understanding the regional ecological environment status and future changes and developing effective ecological protection measures on the Mongolian Plateau.
文摘Morphometry status of tectonic active areas around the Beshagard mountain is as a result of the interaction of neotectonic movements, erosion and subsidence processes. Bashagard mountain contains two attached mountains (GhaleTohi imountain and Bashagard mountain) with an altitude of 2000 meters at the south of the Jazmurian subsidence surrounded by Quaternary and Neogene. The boundary between the north Makran and Jazmurian subsidence is a fault that located between Band-e-Ziarat unit and western alluvial fan and units of Ganj, Mokhtarabad and Rameshk in the south. Tectonic activity has a significant impact on their morphometry status and drainage basin system. We studied geomorphological patterns of drainage and mountain fronts features for clear changes and high style of mountain. In this study, we studied seven geomorphological indicators for each basin including Vf, Bs, Smf, Sl, Af, RA, Hi between west and south mountain front of Jazmurian. Morphometric indexes were divided in three categories. The average of seven indicators is an index of relative tectonic activity (IRAT). The level of tectonic activity of each IRAT category was determined. Finally, tectonic activity was evaluated for each drainage basin. Results show good similarity between IRAT category and ratio of tectonic activity of the number of drainage basins. The streams profile shows the uplift movement in the western part of subsidence Jazmurian. Thus, the achievements obtained from the analysis of topographic indices, the region’s river system and geomorphological evidence show the movements of uplift and movement of right-lateral strike-slip of Jiroft fault in the west and reverse faulting of Kranj and Jazmurian faults at east of subsidence Jazmurian that all indicates the diagonal tectonic movements.
文摘Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory disease associated with high morbidity and increased cardiovascular disease, and Metabolic Syndrome (MS) is understood as a set of metabolic disorders that correlates with obesity and sedentary lifestyle. The aim of this study is to evaluate the prevalence of MS in a cohort of patients with RA and its correlation to specific factors of the disease. A retrospective cohort study was conducted with 283 patients with RA, followed at the Rheumatology Outpatient Clinic of the Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA) between 2008 and 2016;187 continued to be followed and agreed to be reevaluated between January and November 2016. MS was defined according to the National Cholesterol Education Program and disease activity was assessed using the Disease Activity Score (DAS28). Clinical, biochemical, and anthropometric evaluations were conducted. The prevalence of MS in the first evaluation was 43.9% and, after 8 years, 59.4%. Increased waist circumference and blood pressures, elevated triglycerides and low High-Density Lipoprotein were the most frequent features of MS. The DAS28 was significantly lower in the reevaluation (p = 0.006). The prevalence of MS was higher at the end of 8 years;disease activity, as well as blood pressure, decreased during this period. Steroid use had also decreased at the end of follow-up. There was an increase of 15% of cases with MS in an 8-year follow-up cohort of patients, which was in agreement with the current literature and showed how the inflammatory process in RA is correlated to MS. The parameters of MS that varied the most were blood pressure, cholesterol and triglycerides. Ultimately, these parameters and disease activity must be observed closely in order to improve the prognosis of patients with RA.
基金Supported by Key Project from National Spark Plan,China(2012GA820001)Special Project of Guizhou Provincial Science and Technology,China[Qiankehe Special Project(2011)6001)]+1 种基金"321"Efficient Planting Technique Integration and Demonstration of Vegetable from Technology Ombudsman,China[(2013)6061-1)]Guizhou Vegetable Industry Technique System Construction Program,China(GZCYTX2011-0101)~~
文摘To investigate the effects of different vegetable growing regions and planting modes on soil quality,soils in high,medium and low altitude areas of Guizhou were respectively sampled under different vegetable efficient planting modes,and the variations of soil microbial flora and enzyme activities were analyzed. The soil microbial count and total bacteria of the vegetable efficient cultivation mode were significantly higher than that of the control (traditional planting mode) in each planting area,and the microbial diversity index was also improved to varying de- grees.The soil phosphatase,catalase and urease activities of the vegetable efficient planting mode were higher than that of the control.The soil catalase and urease activities were higher than that of the control by 1.37-1.44 and 1.51-2.80 times. Application of vegetable efficient planting mode in different regions will help to im- prove the soil quality in a given period.
基金The Third Xinjiang Scientific Expedition Program,No.2021xjkk0603,No.2022xjkk1205National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.32201258,No.32271652。
文摘The taiga vegetation in Western Siberia has been seriously threatened by climate warming in recent decades.However,how vegetation in different growing states and climate conditions responds to climate changes differently is still unclear.Here we explore the vegetation activity trends in Western Siberia taiga forests using the annual rate of change in leaf area index(LAI)during 1982–2018 so as to answer two questions:(1)how did climate warming affect taiga vegetation activity in the recent last decades?(2)Did the growing state of taiga forest affect its response to climate warming?Our results revealed that climate warming promoted taiga vegetation activity in Western Siberia before 2000.However,continuous warming caused excessive evapotranspiration and led to decreased vegetation activity after 2000.Moreover,the intensity of vegetation growth response to warming was positively related to canopy height and LAI,indicating that both the positive and negative effects of warming were more significant in taiga forests in better growing state.Since these forests generally have higher productivity and play more important roles in ecosystem functioning(e.g.,carbon sink and biodiversity conservation),our results highlight their vulnerability to future climate change that need more research attention.
基金supported by the National High-tech Research and Development Program of China (Grant No.2003AA212040 and No.2006AA100101)
文摘By replacing leaf area index (LAI) with effective leaf area index (ELAI) through introduction of leaf rolling index (LRI), the distributions of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) in the canopies of three hybrid rice combinations, Liangyou E32 with high LRI, Liangyoupeijiu with moderate LRI and Shanyou 63 with non-rolling leaves (normal), were simulated. The model based on ELAI could predict more accurately than that based on LAI. The PAR interception, conversion and utilization efficiency in the three combinations were studied to evaluate their optimal LRI and LAI. The PAR utilization efficiency of Liangyou E32 was lower due to excessive rolling leaves and less ELAI, and that of Shanyou 63 was also lower because of the faulty PAR interception and lower photosynthetic rate and saturation point at lower layer in canopy. Compared with the above two combinations, Liangyoupeijiu showed more appropriate distribution of PAR interception and conversion efficiency in canopy, and higher PAR utilization efficiency. The optimal LRI and LAI for Liangyoupeijiu were 0.11 and 7.6, respectively, which were close to the observed value, 0.11 and 7.9, respectively. However, the optimum LAI was 9.8 for Liangyou E32 and 6.2 for Shanyou 63, larger or smaller than those under the current plant density, which led to lower efficiency of PAR utilization. Besides, the optimum LRI for Liangyou E32 and Shanyou 63 were 0.12 and 0.08, respectively, which were close to the actual LRI for Liangyoupeijiu (0.11).
基金financially supported by Goverment of India(grant No.SR/FT/LS-0083/2008)
文摘Objective:To explore the immunomodulatory properties of 80% ethanol extract and butanol fraction of Gentiana olivieri(G. olivieri) Griseb on Balb/C mice.Methods:The study was performed with basic models of immunomodulation such as the humoral antibody response(hemoglutination antibody titres), cell mediated immune response(delayed type hypersensitivity and in vivocarbon clearance or phagocytosis). Ethanol(80%) extract of flowering aerial parts of G.olivieriand its butanol fraction were administered p.o.(orally) to the mice. Levamisole, 2.5 mg/kg was used as standard drug.Results:There was a potentiation of immune response to sheep red blood cells by cellular and humoral mediated mechanisms comparable to levamisole(2.5 mg/kg) by both 80% ethanol extract and the butanol fraction at doses of 50-200 mg/kg in male Balb/C mice. Both significantly(P<0.01) potentiated the humoral immune response in cyclophosphamide(250 mg/kg)immunosupressed mice at 100 and 200 mg/kg of each extract and fraction as compared to control.The potentiation of delayed type hypersensitivity response was statistically significant(P<0.01) at200 mg/kg of ethanol extract and 100, 200 mg/kg of butanol fraction as compared to control. The phagocytosis was significant at 200 mg/kg with butanol fraction ofG. olivieri.Conclusions:The results reveal the immunostimulant effects of plantG. olivieriin mice by acting through cellular and humoral immunity in experimental models of immunity in mice. Butanol fraction is the most effective at a dose level of 200 mg/kg.
文摘The activity concentrations of the natural radionuclides namely 238U, 232Th, 40K and 137Cs are measured for soil samples collected from different locations of Tulkarem district in West Back-Palestine. High-resolution gamma spectrometry (HPGe detector) was used to determine the activity concentration of these radionuclides in 72 surface soil samples taken from areas in and surrounding Tulkarem city. The concentration of 238U varied in the range 9.7 - 83.5 Bq kg–1 with an average value of 34.5 Bq kg–1, 232Th in the range 5.3 - 44.8 Bq kg–1 with an average value of 23.8 Bq kg–1, 40K in the range 10.2 - 404.0 Bq kg–1 with an average value of 120.0 Bq kg–1 and 137Cs in the range 1.0 - 24.5 Bq kg–1 with an average value of 7.8 Bq kg–1. The results have been compared with those of different countries of the world and Palestine. To assess the radiological hazard of the natural radioactivity, the absorbed dose rate (Dr), the radium equivalent activity (Raeq), the effective dose rate (Eeff), the annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE), Excess Lifetime Cancer Risk (ELCR), the radioactivity level index (Iγ), and the external (Hex) and internal (Hin) hazard indices were calculated .It can be concluded that no risk may threat the residents around and center of Tulkarem city except some areas which activity due to fallout 137Cs were high concentration levels. Hence the probability of occurrence of any of the health effects of radiation is low. Hence, measurements have been taken as representing baseline values of these radionuclides in the soil in studying area.
基金Partially supported by the University Grants Commission(UGC),Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg,New Delhi-110 002,India[F.No.42-469/2013(SR)]
文摘AIMTo isolate and identify the molds involved in mycotic keratitis; to isolate corresponding species from soil samples; to compare the extracellular enzyme activity indices of the molds isolated from keratitis cases and the corresponding soil isolates.
基金Meteorological Administration Special Public Welfare Research Fund of China(GYHY201106005)National Natural Science Foundation of China(41665004,41205067)
文摘Storms that occur at the Bay of Bengal(Bo B) are of a bimodal pattern, which is different from that of the other sea areas. By using the NCEP, SST and JTWC data, the causes of the bimodal pattern storm activity of the Bo B are diagnosed and analyzed in this paper. The result shows that the seasonal variation of general atmosphere circulation in East Asia has a regulating and controlling impact on the Bo B storm activity, and the "bimodal period" of the storm activity corresponds exactly to the seasonal conversion period of atmospheric circulation. The minor wind speed of shear spring and autumn contributed to the storm, which was a crucial factor for the generation and occurrence of the"bimodal pattern"storm activity in the Bo B. The analysis on sea surface temperature(SST) shows that the SSTs of all the year around in the Bo B area meet the conditions required for the generation of tropical cyclones(TCs). However,the SSTs in the central area of the bay are higher than that of the surrounding areas in spring and autumn, which facilitates the occurrence of a "two-peak"storm activity pattern. The genesis potential index(GPI) quantifies and reflects the environmental conditions for the generation of the Bo B storms. For GPI, the intense low-level vortex disturbance in the troposphere and high-humidity atmosphere are the sufficient conditions for storms, while large maximum wind velocity of the ground vortex radius and small vertical wind shear are the necessary conditions of storms.
文摘In this research, Tabas area, which is located in central Iran, was selected as the study area and three geomorphic indices were calculated for its structural fronts. Through averaging these three indices, we obtained index of active tectonics (IAT). The values of the index were divided into classes to define the degree of active tectonics. Therefore, relative tectonic activity was calculated and their values were classified and analyzed in two groups. Regions were identified as high and moderate levels. In analyzing data and combining them with tectonic setting, the results were often associated and justified with regional geology. Our results show that the highest value is located along Shoutori fault, which shows 2 class of relative tectonic activity (high level). Also, moderate values are located along Ereshk, Ezmeighan and Jamal faults (moderate level). According to these results, Shoutori fault is the most active fault in the study area and this situation is compatible with its position as a mountain front fault.