Clinical Observation of the Hot and Humid Compress Therapy of Traditional Chinese Medicine in the Treatment of Qi Stagnation and Blood Stasis Type of Lumbar Disc Herniation

Background: Although a number of studies have reported that the hot and humid compress from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is effective in treating lumbar disc herniation (LDH) with qi stagnation and blood stasis, clinical evidence is limited. Objective: The purpose of this study is to provide high-quality evidence to support the effectiveness of the traditional Chinese hot and humid compress in the treatment of LDH with qi stagnation and blood stasis. Methods: From October 2021 to November 2023, 86 patients with LDH of qi stagnation and blood stasis type were recruited in our hospital and divided into a control (n = 43) and an observation group (n = 43) according to the random number table method. The control group was given routine clinical treatment, and the observation group was treated with the hot and humid compress therapy for two weeks. The visual analogue scale (VAS) score, Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, TCM syndrome score, serum interleukin-6 (IL-6), serum interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were observed and compared between the two groups before and after treatment, and the clinical efficacy of the two groups was evaluated. Results: After treatment, the VAS score, TCM symptom score, and serum IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α levels decreased in both groups (P P P P P Conclusions: The hot and humid compress of traditional Chinese medicine can effectively relieve pain, restore lumbar function, improve TCM syndromes, reduce the level of inflammatory factors, and have a curative effect in treating LDH.

Understanding the Relationship Between Shrinking Cities and Land Prices:Spatial Pattern,Effectiveness,and Policy Implications

Urban shrinkage has emerged as a widespread phenomenon globally and has a significant impact on land,particularly in terms of land use and price.This study focuses on 2851 county-level cities in China in 2005–2018(excluding Hong Kong,Macao,Taiwan,and‘no data’areas in Qinhai-Tibet Plateau)as the fundamental units of analysis.By employing nighttime light(NTL)data to identify shrinking cities,the propensity score matching(PSM)model was used to quantitatively examine the impact of shrinking cities on land prices,and evaluate the magnitude of this influence.The findings demonstrate the following:1)there were 613 shrinking cities in China,with moderate shrinkage being the most prevalent and severe shrinkage being the least.2)Regional disparities are evident in the spatial distribution of shrinking cities,especially in areas with diverse terrain.3)The spatial pattern of land price exhibits a significant correlated to the economic and administrative levels.4)Shrinking cities significantly negatively impact on the overall land price(ATT=–0.1241,P<0.05).However,the extent of the effect varies significantly among different spatial regions.This study contributes novel insights into the investigation of land prices and shrinking cities,ultimately serving as a foundation for government efforts to promote the sustainable development of urban areas.

Loss of SHROOM3 affects neuroepithelial cell shape through regulating cytoskeleton proteins in cynomolgus monkey organoids

Neural tube defects(NTDs)are severe congenital neurodevelopmental disorders arising from incomplete neural tube closure.Although folate supplementation has been shown to mitigate the incidence of NTDs,some cases,often attributable to genetic factors,remain unpreventable.The SHROOM3 gene has been implicated in NTD cases that are unresponsive to folate supplementation;at present,however,the underlying mechanism remains unclear.Neural tube morphogenesis is a complex process involving the folding of the planar epithelium of the neural plate.To determine the role of SHROOM3 in early developmental morphogenesis,we established a neuroepithelial organoid culture system derived from cynomolgus monkeys to closely mimic the in vivo neural plate phase.Loss of SHROOM3 resulted in shorter neuroepithelial cells and smaller nuclei.These morphological changes were attributed to the insufficient recruitment of cytoskeletal proteins,namely fibrous actin(F-actin),myosin II,and phospho-myosin light chain(PMLC),to the apical side of the neuroepithelial cells.Notably,these defects were not rescued by folate supplementation.RNA sequencing revealed that differentially expressed genes were enriched in biological processes associated with cellular and organ morphogenesis.In summary,we established an authentic in vitro system to study NTDs and identified a novel mechanism for NTDs that are unresponsive to folate supplementation.

Deep Learning and Tensor-Based Multiple Clustering Approaches for Cyber-Physical-Social Applications

The study delves into the expanding role of network platforms in our daily lives, encompassing various mediums like blogs, forums, online chats, and prominent social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. While these platforms offer avenues for self-expression and community support, they concurrently harbor negative impacts, fostering antisocial behaviors like phishing, impersonation, hate speech, cyberbullying, cyberstalking, cyberterrorism, fake news propagation, spamming, and fraud. Notably, individuals also leverage these platforms to connect with authorities and seek aid during disasters. The overarching objective of this research is to address the dual nature of network platforms by proposing innovative methodologies aimed at enhancing their positive aspects and mitigating their negative repercussions. To achieve this, the study introduces a weight learning method grounded in multi-linear attribute ranking. This approach serves to evaluate the significance of attribute combinations across all feature spaces. Additionally, a novel clustering method based on tensors is proposed to elevate the quality of clustering while effectively distinguishing selected features. The methodology incorporates a weighted average similarity matrix and optionally integrates weighted Euclidean distance, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of attribute importance. The analysis of the proposed methods yields significant findings. The weight learning method proves instrumental in discerning the importance of attribute combinations, shedding light on key aspects within feature spaces. Simultaneously, the clustering method based on tensors exhibits improved efficacy in enhancing clustering quality and feature distinction. This not only advances our understanding of attribute importance but also paves the way for more nuanced data analysis methodologies. In conclusion, this research underscores the pivotal role of network platforms in contemporary society, emphasizing their potential for both positive contributions and adverse consequences. The proposed methodologies offer novel approaches to address these dualities, providing a foundation for future research and practical applications. Ultimately, this study contributes to the ongoing discourse on optimizing the utility of network platforms while minimizing their negative impacts.

Potential evaluation of saline aquifers for the geological storage of carbon dioxide: A case study of saline aquifers in the Qian-5 member in northeastern Ordos Basin

The well-developed coal electricity generation and coal chemical industries have led to huge carbon dioxide(CO_(2))emissions in the northeastern Ordos Basin.The geological storage of CO_(2) in saline aquifers is an effective backup way to achieve carbon neutrality.In this case,the potential of saline aquifers for CO_(2) storage serves as a critical basis for subsequent geological storage project.This study calculated the technical control capacities of CO_(2) of the saline aquifers in the fifth member of the Shiqianfeng Formation(the Qian-5 member)based on the statistical analysis of the logging and the drilling and core data from more than 200 wells in the northeastern Ordos Basin,as well as the sedimentary facies,formation lithology,and saline aquifer development patterns of the Qian-5 member.The results show that(1)the reservoirs of saline aquifers in the Qian-5 member,which comprise distributary channel sand bodies of deltaic plains,feature low porosities and permeabilities;(2)The study area hosts three NNE-directed saline aquifer zones,where saline aquifers generally have a single-layer thickness of 3‒8 m and a cumulative thickness of 8‒24 m;(3)The saline aquifers of the Qian-5 member have a total technical control capacity of CO_(2) of 119.25×10^(6) t.With the largest scale and the highest technical control capacity(accounting for 61%of the total technical control capacity),the Jinjie-Yulin saline aquifer zone is an important prospect area for the geological storage of CO_(2) in the saline aquifers of the Qian-5 member in the study area.

Preeminent energy storage properties and superior stability of(Ba_((1-x))Bi_(x))(Ti_((1-x))Mg_(2 x/3)Ta_(x/3))O_(3)relaxor ferroelectric ceramics via elongated rod-shaped grains and domain structural regulation

(Ba_((1-x))Bi_(x))(Ti_((1-x))Mg_(2 x/3)Ta_(x/3))O_(3)(BBTMT-x,x=0.075,0.1,0.125,and 0.15)ceramics were manufactured via a solid-phase reaction method.The pseudo-cubic BaTiO_(3)(BT)as the primary phase and Ba_(4)MgTi_(11)O_(27)as the secondary phase were detected in BBTMT-x ceramics.The elongated rod-shaped grains therein be-came numerous as x increased.The introduction of Bi/Mg/Ta(BMT)elements transformed BT ceramics from ferroelectrics to relaxor ferroelectrics and induced the formation of short-range order polar nanore-gions(PNRs),which were beneficial for the preeminent energy storage properties(ESPs).The highest ESPs(a giant recoverable energy-storage density W_(rec) of 5.97 J cm^(-3)with a high-efficiencyηof 87.4%)were achieved in BBTMT-0.1 ceramics at 710 kV cm^(-1).BBTMT-0.1 ceramics also possessed excellent fre-quency(1-500 Hz),temperature(30-150°C),and fatigue(cycle number of 1-100,000)stabilities.Finite element simulations(FES)demonstrated that elongated rod-shaped grains had stronger obstacles to the development of electrical branches,which was beneficial to improving the comprehensive ESPs.

Liquid metal in prohibiting polysulfides shuttling in metal sulfides anode for sodium-ion batteries

Metal sulfides are a class of promising anode materials for sodium-ion batteries(SIBs)owing to their high theoretical specific capacity.Nevertheless,the reactant products(polysulfides)could dissolve into electrolyte,shuttle across separator,and react with sodium anode,leading to severe capacity loss and safety concerns.Herein,for the first time,gallium(Ga)-based liquid metal(LM)alloy is incorporated with MoS_(2)nanosheets to work as an anode in SIBs.The electron-rich,ultrahigh electrical conductivity,and self-healing properties of LM endow the heterostructured MoS_(2)-LM with highly improved conductivity and electrode integrity.Moreover,LM is demonstrated to have excellent capability for the adsorption of polysulfides(e.g.,Na_(2)S,Na_(2)S_(6),and S_(8))and subsequent catalytic conversion of Na_(2)S.Consequently,the MoS_(2)-LM electrode exhibits superior ion diffusion kinetics and long cycling performance in SIBs and even in lithium/potassium-ion battery(LIB/PIB)systems,far better than those electrodes with conventional binders(polyvinylidene difluoride(PVDF)and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose(CMC)).This work provides a unique material design concept based on Ga-based liquid metal alloy for metal sulfide anodes in rechargeable battery systems and beyond.

Amplifying colorectal cancer progression: impact of a PDIA4/SP1 positive feedback loop by circPDIA4 sponging miR-9-5p

Objective:Colorectal cancer(CRC)is a prevalent malignant tumor with a high fatality rate.CircPDIA4 has been shown to have a vital role in cancer development by acting as a facilitator.Nevertheless,the impact of the circPDIA4/miR-9-5p/SP1 axis on development of CRC has not been studied.Methods:Western blot,immunohistochemistry,and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction assays were used to analyze gene expression.The CCK-8 assay was used to assess cell growth.The Transwell assay was used to detect invasion and migration of cells.The luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation tests were used to determine if miR-9-5p and circPDIA4(or SP1)bind to one another.An in vivo assay was used to measure tumor growth.Results:It was shown that circPDIA4 expression was greater in CRC cell lines and tissues than healthy cell lines and tissues.CircPDIA4 knockdown prevented the invasion,migration,and proliferation of cells in CRC.Additionally,the combination of circPDIA4 and miR-9-5p was confirmed,as well as miR-9-5p binding to SP1.Rescue experiments also showed that the circPDIA4/miR-9-5p/SP1 axis accelerated the development of CRC.In addition,SP1 combined with the promoter region of circPDIA4 and induced circPDIA4 transcription.CircPDIA4 was shown to facilitate tumor growth in an in vivo assay.Conclusions:The circPDIA4/miR-9-5p/SP1 feedback loop was shown to aggravate CRC progression.This finding suggests that the ceRNA axis may be a promising biomarker for CRC patient treatment.

Differences in and factors controlling organic matter enrichment in the Ziliujing Formation shale in the Sichuan Basin

Lacustrine shale oil and gas are important fields for unconventional exploration and development in China,and organic-rich shale deposition lays down the critical foundation for hydrocarbon generation.There are two sets of shale,the Dongyuemiao and Da’anzhai Members,in the Ziliujing Formation in the Sichuan Basin.To identify the differential enrichment characteristics of organic matter and clarify its controlling factors,geochemical analyses of organic and inorganic geochemical analyses were performed.The results showed that the total organic carbon content of the Dongyuemiao shale(1.36%)is slightly higher than that of the Da’anzhai shale(0.95%).The enrichment of organic matter in the two shales resulted from the comprehensive controls of paleoproductivity,paleoenvironment,and terrigenous input,but different factors have different effects.In addition,driven by climate,the change in the sulfate concentration in the bottom water further led to the different intensities of bacterial sulfate reduction in early diagenesis.This made a great difference regarding organic matter accumulation in the two members.In general,climate may have played a dominant role in organic matter enrichment in the two sets of shale.

Prediction and scheduling of multi-energy microgrid based on BiGRU self-attention mechanism and LQPSO

To predict renewable energy sources such as solar power in microgrids more accurately,a hybrid power prediction method is presented in this paper.First,the self-attention mechanism is introduced based on a bidirectional gated recurrent neural network(BiGRU)to explore the time-series characteristics of solar power output and consider the influence of different time nodes on the prediction results.Subsequently,an improved quantum particle swarm optimization(QPSO)algorithm is proposed to optimize the hyperparameters of the combined prediction model.The final proposed LQPSO-BiGRU-self-attention hybrid model can predict solar power more effectively.In addition,considering the coordinated utilization of various energy sources such as electricity,hydrogen,and renewable energy,a multi-objective optimization model that considers both economic and environmental costs was constructed.A two-stage adaptive multi-objective quantum particle swarm optimization algorithm aided by a Lévy flight,named MO-LQPSO,was proposed for the comprehensive optimal scheduling of a multi-energy microgrid system.This algorithm effectively balances the global and local search capabilities and enhances the solution of complex nonlinear problems.The effectiveness and superiority of the proposed scheme are verified through comparative simulations.

Comparative breakthrough: Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells vs bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in heart failure treatment

In this article,we evaluate the comparative efficacy and safety of mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)derived from bone marrow(BM-MSCs)and umbilical cord(UC-MSCs)in the treatment of heart failure and myocardial infarction.MSCs have gained importance as living bio drug due to their regenerative potential,with BM-MSCs being the most extensively studied.However,UC-MSCs offer unique advantages,such as noninvasive collection and fewer ethical concerns.This systematic review and meta-analysis summarizes data from 13 randomized controlled trials,which included a total of 693 patients.Their study shows that UC-MSCs significantly improved left ventricular ejection fraction by 5.08%at 6 months and 2.78%at 12 months compared with controls,while BM-MSCs showed no significant effect.Neither cell type showed significant changes in 6-minute walk distance.In addition,UC-MSCs and BM-MSCs had comparable safety profiles,with no significant differences in major adverse cardiac events,except for a lower rehospitalization rate observed with BM-MSCs.These results position UC-MSCs as a promising alternative in MSC-based therapies for cardiac disease,offering potential improvements in cardiac function while maintaining a favorable safety profile.Future research should focus on optimizing adminis-tration protocols and further exploring the long-term benefits and mechanisms of UC-MSCs in cardiac repair.

Classification of Oil-Gas-Water Three-Phase Flow in a Pipeline Based on BP Neural Network Analysis

The flow pattern in a pipeline is a very important topic in petroleum exploitation. This paper is to classify the flow pattern of oil-gas-water flow in a pipeline by using BP neural network. The effects of different parameter combinations are investigated to find the most important ones. It is shown that BP neural network can be used in the analysis of the flow pattern of three-phase flow in pipelines. In most cases, the mean square error is large for the horizontal pipes. The optimized neuron number of the middle layer changes with conditions. So, we must changes the neuron number of the middle layer in simulation for any conditions to seek the best results. These conclusions can be taken as references for further study of the flow pattern of oil-gas-water in a pipeline.

糖尿病早期视网膜神经变性研究新进展

糖尿病视网膜病变(DR)是由慢性高血糖引起的晚期微神经血管并发症,可导致血-视网膜屏障受损和视网膜功能障碍。近年来研究发现,糖尿病视网膜神经变性(DN)可能是糖尿病的视网膜改变最早事件之一,主要表现包括:新诊断糖尿病患者的视网膜电图反应缺陷;发病初期,小胶质细胞和Müller细胞在几周内自我激活并激活相关蛋白;神经递质(如DOPA/GABA)活性降低,损害神经节信号传递;早期线粒体功能障碍,如Drp1-Fis1持续裂变及mtDNA甲基化和碱基错配之间的潜在串扰等。探讨糖尿病早期视网膜神经变性的分子基础对于理解DN的发病机制及早期治疗至关重要。文章总结糖尿病早期视网膜感光功能及神经胶质细胞、神经递质、线粒体和其他因子的病理变化及机制,旨在为研究DN早期机制及靶向治疗提供理论依据。

Correlation between the rock mass properties and maximum horizontal stress:A case study of overcoring stress measurements

Understanding the mechanical properties of the lithologies is crucial to accurately determine the horizontal stress magnitude.To investigate the correlation between the rock mass properties and maximum horizontal stress,the three-dimensional(3D)stress tensors at 89 measuring points determined using an improved overcoring technique in nine mines in China were adopted,a newly defined characteristic parameter C_(ERP)was proposed as an indicator for evaluating the structural properties of rock masses,and a fuzzy relation matrix was established using the information distribution method.The results indicate that both the vertical stress and horizontal stress exhibit a good linear growth relationship with depth.There is no remarkable correlation between the elastic modulus,Poisson's ratio and depth,and the distribution of data points is scattered and messy.Moreover,there is no obvious relationship between the rock quality designation(RQD)and depth.The maximum horizontal stress σ_(H) is a function of rock properties,showing a certain linear relationship with the C_(ERP)at the same depth.In addition,the overall change trend of σ_(H) determined by the established fuzzy identification method is to increase with the increase of C_(ERP).The fuzzy identification method also demonstrates a relatively detailed local relationship betweenσ_H and C_(ERP),and the predicted curve rises in a fluctuating way,which is in accord well with the measured stress data.

Shh/Gli1信号通路在异氟醚后处理减轻大鼠脑缺血-再灌注损伤中的作用

目的评价Shh/Gli1信号通路在异氟醚后处理减轻大鼠脑缺血-再灌注损伤中的作用。方法清洁级健康雄性SD大鼠44只,6~8周龄,体重220~280 g,采用随机数字表法将其分为四组:假手术组(S组)、缺血-再灌注组(IR组)、缺血-再灌注+异氟醚后处理组(ISO组)和环巴胺+缺血-再灌注+异氟醚后处理组(CYC组),每组11只。采用线栓法栓塞大脑中动脉90 min、再灌注24 h制备脑缺血-再灌注损伤模型。ISO组大鼠在再灌注即刻吸入1.5%异氟醚。CYC组大鼠在缺血前30 min腹腔注射Shh/Gli1信号通路特异性抑制剂环巴胺10 mg/kg。再灌注24 h后,所有大鼠进行神经行为学评分,采用TTC法测定脑梗死体积,HE染色和尼氏染色观察病理学改变,TUNEL染色观察海马CA1区细胞凋亡,免疫荧光和Western blot法测定Shh和Gli1蛋白含量。结果与S组比较,IR组、ISO组和CYC组大鼠神经行为学评分明显升高,脑梗死体积明显增大,坏死和凋亡细胞明显增多,组织病理学损伤严重,Shh和Gli1蛋白含量明显增加(P<0.05)。与IR组比较,ISO组神经行为学评分和脑梗死体积明显降低,坏死和凋亡明显减少,组织病理学损伤明显减轻,Shh和Gli1蛋白含量明显增加(P<0.05)。与ISO组比较,CYC组神经行为学评分明显升高,脑梗死体积明显增大,坏死和凋亡细胞明显增多,组织病理学损伤明显加重,Shh和Gli1蛋白含量明显减少(P<0.05)。结论 Shh/Gli1信号通路激活参与了异氟醚后处理减轻大鼠脑缺血-再灌注损伤的过程。

Diagnostic value of glypican-3 in serum and liver for primary hepatocellular carcinoma

AIM:To evaluate the diagnostic value of glypican-3(GPC3) in serum and liver for primary hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).METHODS:Serum levels of GPC3 and α-fetoprotein(AFP) were measured in 75 patients with primary HCC and 32 patients with liver cirrhosis.Expression of GPC3 and AFP in 58 HCC and 12 cirrhotic specimens was detected with immunohistochemical staining.RESULTS:When the cut-off value of serum GPC3 was set at 300 ng/L,its sensitivity and specificity for HCC were 47.0% and 93.5%,respectively.Among the 14 patients with HCC at stage according to the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer staging system,the serum GPC3 level was higher than 300 ng/L in 50%(7/14) patients,the serum AFP level was not ≥ 400 μg/L in any patient.Combined serum AFP and GPC3 significantly increased the sensitivity to the diagnosis of HCC.The GPC3 expression was detected in cytoplasm of HCC cells but not in hepatocytes and bile ducts of benign tumors.Among the 58 HCC patients,the GPC3 was expressed in 100%(28/28) patients with their serum AFP level ≥ 400 μg/L,and in 90%(27/30) patients with their AFP level < 400 μg/L,respectively.The GPC3 was weakly or negatively expressed in all paracarcinomatous and cirrhotic tissue samples.AFP positive HCC cells were only found in 1 out of the 58 HCC patients.CONCLUSION:GPC3 protein is a sensitive and specific serum marker for diagnosis of early HCC.Its expression in liver tissues can be used to discriminate tumor cells from benign hepatic cells.

Clinical efficacy of tolvaptan for treatment of refractory ascites in liver cirrhosis patients

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of tolvaptan to treat refractory ascites in decompensated liver cirrhosis patients with or without further complications, such as hepatorenal syndrome and/or hepatocellular carcinoma.

Balloon dilation of Eustachian tube combined with tympanostomy tube insertion and middle ear pressure equalization therapy for recurrent secretory otitis media

Objective: To report outcomes of balloon dilation Eustachian tuboplasty combined with tympanostomy tube insertion and middle ear pressure equalization therapy in treatment of recurrent secretory otitis media. Methods: Fifty one patients with recurrent secretory otitis media (62 ears) underwent balloon dilation of Eustachian tube and tympanic tube insertion under general anesthesia, followed by long term middle ear pressure equalization therapies. The Eustachian tube score (ETS) and Eustachian tube function questionnaire (ETDQ-7) were used for pre- and postoperative (up to 12 months) evaluation of Eustachian tube functions. Results: The mean ETS score was 2.34 ± 0.97 preoperatively, and 6.17 ± 1.54, 7.23 ± 1.62, 8.24 ± 1.97, and 7.63 ± 1.86 at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months postoperatively, respectively (P < 0.05). The ETDQ-7 score was 4.82 ± 1.07 preoperatively, and 2.20 ± 0.54, 2.32 ± 0.68, 2.53 ± 0.79, and 2.67 ± 0.76 at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months postoperatively, respectively (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Balloon dilation of Eustachian tube combined with tympanostomy and catheterization resulted in significant improvement of subjective symptoms and objective evaluation of Eustachian tube functions in most patients with recurrent secretory otitis media, as indicated by the ETS and ETDQ-7 scores, demonstrating high levels of efficacy and patient satisfaction.

Spatio-temporal Pattern of Net Primary Productivity in Hengduan Mountains area, China： Impacts of Climate Change and Human Activities

Net primary productivity(NPP), a metric used to define and identify changes in plant communities, is greatly affected by climate change, human activities and other factors. Here, we used the Carnegie-Ames-Stanford Approach(CASA) model to estimate the NPP of plant communities in Hengduan Mountains area of China, and to explore the relationship between NPP and altitude in this region. We examined the mechanisms underlying vegetation growth responses to climate change and quantitatively assessed the effects of ecological protection measures by partitioning the contributions of climate change and human activities to NPP changes. The results demonstrated that: 1) the average total and annual NPP values over the years were 209.15 Tg C and 468.06 g C/(m2·yr), respectively. Their trend increasingly fluctuated, with spatial distribution strongly linked to altitude(i.e., lower and higher NPP in high altitude and low altitude areas, respectively) and 2400 m represented the marginal altitude for vegetation differentiation; 2) areas where climate was the main factor affecting NPP accounted for 18.2% of the total research area, whereas human activities were the primary factor influencing NPP in 81.8% of the total research area, which indicated that human activity was the main force driving changes in NPP. Areas where climatic factors(i.e., temperature and precipitation) were the main driving factors occupied 13.6%(temperature) and 6.0%(precipitation) of the total research area, respectively. Therefore, the effect of temperature on NPP changes was stronger than that of precipitation; and 3) the majority of NPP residuals from 2001 to 2014 were positive, with human activities playing an active role in determining regional vegetation growth, possibly due to the return of farmland back to forest and natural forest protection. However, this positive trend is decreasing. This clearly shows the periodical nature of ecological projects and a lack of long-term effectiveness.

Nab-paclitaxel(abraxane)-based chemotherapy to treat elderly patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer:a single center,randomized and open-label clinical trial

Background： The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of abraxane-based chemotherapy with/without nedaplatin in elderly patients with non-small-cell lung cancer （NSCLC）. Materials and methods： From October 2009 to January 2013, 48 elderly patients （≥65 years） with NSCLC were investigated in this clinical trial. The patients were randomized and equally allocated into arms A and AP- （A） abraxane （130 mg/m2, days 1, 8）; （B） abraxane ＋ nedaplatin （20 mg/m2 days 1-3, q3w）. The parameters of objective response rate （ORR）, disease control rate （DCR）, progression-free survival （PFS）, overall survival （OS） and side effects were evaluated between two arms. Results： Over 80% of the patients completed four cycles of chemotherapy. The total ORR was 21.3 %, DCR was 55.3%, PFS 4.5 months and OS 12.6 months. No significant difference was found between arms A and AP in terms of ORR （16.7% vs. 26.1%, P=0.665） or DCR （55.3% vs. 56.5%, P=0.871）. The median PFS in arm A was 3.3 months [25-75% confidence interval （CI）： 3.1-7.2] and 5.5 months （25-75% CI： 3.2-7.0） in arm AP with no statistical significance （P=0.640）. The median OS in arm A was 12.6 months （25-75% CI： 5.7-26.2） and 15.1 months （25-75% CI： 6.4-35.3） in arm AP with no statistical significance （P=0.770）. The side effects were mainly grade 1-2. The incidence of grade 3-4 toxicities was 29.1% in arm A and 62.5% in arm AP with a statistical significance （P=0.020）. Conclusions： Compared with combined therapy, abraxane alone chemotherapy was beneficial for elderly NSCLC patients with better tolerability and less adverse events, whereas did not significantly differ in terms of ORR, DCR, PFS or OS.