Therapeutic efficacy of methylprednisolone sodium succinate via diverse administration routes for mid-to high-frequency sudden sensorineural hearing loss

BACKGROUND Sudden sensorineural hearing loss(SSNHL),characterized by a rapid and unexplained loss of hearing,particularly at moderate to high frequencies,presents a significant clinical challenge.The therapeutic use of methylprednisolone sodium succinate(MPSS)via different administration routes,in combination with conventional medications,remains a topic of interest.AIM To compare the therapeutic efficacy of MPSS administered via different routes in combination with conventional drugs for the treatment of mid-to high-frequency SSNHL.METHODS The medical records of 109 patients with mid-to high-frequency SSNHL were analyzed.The patients were divided into three groups based on the route of administration:Group A[intratympanic(IT)injection of MPSS combined with mecobalamin and Ginkgo biloba leaf extract injection],Group B(intravenous injection of MPSS combined with mecobalamin and Ginkgo biloba leaf extract injection),and Group C(single IT injection of MPSS).The intervention effects were compared and analyzed.RESULTS The posttreatment auditory thresholds in Group A(21.23±3.34)were significantly lower than those in Groups B(28.52±3.36)and C(30.23±4.21;P<0.05).Group A also exhibited a significantly greater speech recognition rate(92.23±5.34)than Groups B and C.The disappearance time of tinnitus,time to hearing recovery,and disappearance time of vertigo in Group A were significantly shorter than those in Groups B and C(P<0.05).The total effective rate in Group A(97.56%)was significantly greater than that in Groups B and C(77.14%and 78.79%,χ^(2)=7.898,P=0.019).Moreover,the incidence of adverse reactions in Groups A and C was significantly lower than that in Group B(4.88%,3.03%vs 2.57%,χ^(2)=11.443,P=0.003),and the recurrence rate in Group A was significantly lower than that in Groups B and C(2.44%vs 20.00%vs 21.21%,χ^(2)=7.120,P=0.028).CONCLUSION IT injection of MPSS combined with conventional treatment demonstrates superior efficacy and safety compared to systemic administration via intravenous infusion and a single IT injection of MPSS.This approach effectively improves patients'hearing and reduces the risk of disease recurrence.

Kinematic deformation and intensity assessment of the 2021 Maduo M_(S)7.4 earthquake in Qinghai revealed by high-frequency GNSS

Rapid acquisition of the kinematic deformation field and seismic intensity distribution of large earthquakes is crucial for postseismic emergency rescue,disaster assessment,and future seismic risk research.The advancement of GNSS observation and data processing makes it play an important role in this field,especially the high-frequency GNSS.We used the differential positioning method to calculate the 1 HZ GNSS data from 98 sites within 1000 km of the M_(S)7.4 Maduo earthquake epicenter.The kinematic deformation field and the distribution of the seismic intensity by using the peak ground velocity derived from displacement waveforms were obtained.The results show that:1)Horizontal coseismic response deformation levels ranging from 25 mm to 301 mm can be observed within a 1000 km radius from the epicenter.Coseismic response deformation on the east and west sides shows bilateral asymmetry,which markedly differs from the symmetry presented by surface rupture.2)The seismic intensity obtained through high-frequency GNSS and field investigations exhibits good consistency of the scope and orientation in the high seismic intensity area,although the former is generally slightly smaller than the latter.3)There may exist obstacles on the eastern side of the seismogenic fault.The Maduo earthquake induced a certain tectonic stress loading effect on the western Kunlun Pass-Jiangcuo fault(KPJF)and Maqin-Maqu segment,resulting in higher seismic risk in the future.

Dynamic Response of Foundations during Startup of High-Frequency Tunnel Equipment

The specialized equipment utilized in long-line tunnel engineering is evolving towards large-scale,multifunctional,and complex orientations.The vibration caused by the high-frequency units during regular operation is supported by the foundation of the units,and the magnitude of vibration and the operating frequency fluctuate in different engineering contexts,leading to variations in the dynamic response of the foundation.The high-frequency units yield significantly diverse outcomes under different startup conditions and times,resulting in failure to meet operational requirements,influencing the normal function of the tunnel,and causing harm to the foundation structure,personnel,and property in severe cases.This article formulates a finite element numerical computation model for solid elements using three-dimensional elastic body theory and integrates field measurements to substantiate and ascertain the crucial parameter configurations of the finite element model.By proposing a comprehensive startup timing function for high-frequency dynamic machines under different startup conditions,simulating the frequency andmagnitude variations during the startup process,and suggesting functions for changes in frequency and magnitude,a simulated startup schedule function for high-frequency machines is created through coupling.Taking into account the selection of the transient dynamic analysis step length,the dynamic response results for the lower dynamic foundation during its fundamental frequency crossing process are obtained.The validation checks if the structural magnitude surpasses the safety threshold during the critical phase of unit startup traversing the structural resonance region.The design recommendations for high-frequency units’dynamic foundations are provided,taking into account the startup process of the machine and ensuring the safe operation of the tunnel.

Review of the Analysis and Suppression for High-frequency Oscillations of the Grid-connected Wind Power Generation System

High-frequency oscillation(HFO)of gridconnected wind power generation systems(WPGS)is one of the most critical issues in recent years that threaten the safe access of WPGS to the grid.Ensuring the WPGS can damp HFO is becoming more and more vital for the development of wind power.The HFO phenomenon of wind turbines under different scenarios usually has different mechanisms.Hence,engineers need to acquire the working mechanisms of the different HFO damping technologies and select the appropriate one to ensure the effective implementation of oscillation damping in practical engineering.This paper introduces the general assumptions of WPGS when analyzing HFO,systematically summarizes the reasons for the occurrence of HFO in different scenarios,deeply analyses the key points and difficulties of HFO damping under different scenarios,and then compares the technical performances of various types of HFO suppression methods to provide adequate references for engineers in the application of technology.Finally,this paper discusses possible future research difficulties in the problem of HFO,as well as the possible future trends in the demand for HFO damping.

Dynamic analysis of a novel multilink-spring mechanism for vibration isolation and energy harvesting

Due to technical limitations,existing vibration isolation and energy harvesting(VIEH)devices have poor performance at low frequency.This paper proposes a new multilink-spring mechanism(MLSM)that can be used to solve this problem.The VIEH performance of the MLSM under harmonic excitation and Gaussian white noise was analyzed.It was found that the MLSM has good vibration isolation performance for low-frequency isolation and the frequency band can be widened by adjusting parameters to achieve a higher energy harvesting power.By comparison with two special cases,the results show that the MLSM is basically the same as the other two oscillators in terms of vibration isolation but has better energy harvesting performance under multistable characteristics.The MLSM is expected to reduce the impact of vibration on high-precision sensitive equipment in some special sites such as subways and mines,and at the same time supply power to structural health monitoring devices.

Seismic control of multi-degrees-of-freedom structures by vertical mass isolation method using MR dampers

Vertical mass isolation(VMI)is one of the novel methods for the seismic control of structures.In this method,the entire structure is assumed to consist of two mass and stiffness subsystems,and an isolated layer is located among them.In this study,the magnetorheological damper in three modes:passive-off,passive-on,and semi-active mode with variable voltage between zero and 9 volts was used as an isolated layer between two subsystems.Multi-degrees-of-freedom structures with 5,10,and 15 floors in two dimensions were examined under 11 pairs of near field earthquakes.On each level,the displacement of MR dampers was taken into account.The responses of maximum displacement,maximum inter-story drift,and maximum base shear in controlled and uncontrolled buildings were compared to assess the suggested approach for seismic control of the structures.According to the results,the semi-active control method can reduce the response by more than 12%compared to the uncontrolled mode in terms of maximum displacement of the mass subsystem of the structures.This method can reduce more than 16%and 20%of the responses compared to the uncontrolled mode in terms of maximum inter-story drift and base shear of the structure,respectively.

Efficient activation of the Co/SBA-15catalyst by high-frequency AC-DBD plasma thermal effects for toluene removal

Dielectric barrier discharge(DBD)plasma excited by a high-frequency alternating-current(AC)power supply is widely employed for the degradation of volatile organic compounds(VOCs).However,the thermal effect generated during the discharge process leads to energy waste and low energy utilization efficiency.In this work,an innovative DBD thermally-conducted catalysis(DBD-TCC)system,integrating high-frequency AC-DBD plasma and its generated thermal effects to activate the Co/SBA-15 catalyst,was employed for toluene removal.Specifically,Co/SBA-15 catalysts are closely positioned to the ground electrode of the plasma zone and can be heated and activated by the thermal effect when the voltage exceeds 10 k V.At12.4 k V,the temperature in the catalyst zone reached 261℃ in the DBD-TCC system,resulting in an increase in toluene degradation efficiency of 17%,CO_(2)selectivity of 21.2%,and energy efficiency of 27%,respectively,compared to the DBD system alone.In contrast,the DBD thermally-unconducted catalysis(DBD-TUC)system fails to enhance toluene degradation due to insufficient heat absorption and catalytic activation,highlighting the crucial role of AC-DBD generated heat in the activation of the catalyst.Furthermore,the degradation pathway and mechanism of toluene in the DBD-TCC system were hypothesized.This work is expected to provide an energy-efficient approach for high-frequency AC-DBD plasma removal of VOCs.

Impact of surface-reflected seismic waves on the seismic isolation performance of circular tunnel isolation layers

Seismic isolation is an effective strategy to mitigate the risk of seismic damage in tunnels.However,the impact of surface-reflected seismic waves on the effectiveness of tunnel isolation layers remains under explored.In this study,we employ the wave function expansion method to provide analytical solutions for the dynamic responses of linings in an elastic half-space and an infinite elastic space.By comparing the results of the two models,we investigate the seismic isolation effect of tunnel isolation layers induced by reflected seismic waves.Our findings reveal significant differences in the dynamic responses of the lining in the elastic half-space and the infinitely elastic space.Specifically,the dynamic stress concentration factor(DSCF)of the lining in the elastic half-space exhibits periodic fluctuations,influenced by the incident wave frequency and tunnel depth,while the DSCF in the infinitely elastic space remain stable.Overall,the seismic isolation application of the tunnel isolation layer is found to be less affected by surface-reflected seismic waves.Our results provide valuable insights for the design and assessment of the seismic isolation effect of tunnel isolation layers.

Effects of unilateral superimposed high-frequency jet ventilation on porcine hemodynamics and gas exchange during one-lung flooding

BACKGROUND Superimposed high-frequency jet ventilation(SHFJV)is suitable for respiratory motion reduction and essential for effective lung tumor ablation.Fluid filling of the target lung wing one-lung flooding(OLF)is necessary for therapeutic ultrasound applications.However,whether unilateral SHFJV allows adequate hemodynamics and gas exchange is unclear.AIM To compared SHFJV with pressure-controlled ventilation(PCV)during OLF by assessing hemodynamics and gas exchange in different animal positions.METHODS SHFJV or PCV was used alternatingly to ventilate the non-flooded lungs of the 12 anesthetized pigs during OLF.The animal positions were changed from left lateral position to supine position(SP)to right lateral position(RLP)every 30 min.In each position,ventilation was maintained for 15 min in both modalities.Hemodynamic variables and arterial blood gas levels were repeatedly measured.RESULTS Unilateral SHFJV led to lower carbon dioxide removal than PCV without abnormally elevated carbon dioxide levels.SHFJV slightly decreased oxygenation in SP and RLP compared with PCV;the lowest values of PaO_(2) and PaO_(2)/FiO_(2) ratio were found in SP[13.0;interquartile range(IQR):12.6-5.6 and 32.5(IQR:31.5-38.9)kPa].Conversely,during SHFJV,the shunt fraction was higher in all animal positions(highest in the RLP:0.30).CONCLUSION In porcine model,unilateral SHFJV may provide adequate ventilation in different animal positions during OLF.Lower oxygenation and CO_(2) removal rates compared to PCV did not lead to hypoxia or hypercapnia.SHFJV can be safely used for lung tumor ablation to minimize ventilation-induced lung motion.

Near resonance vibration isolation on a levered-dual response(LEDAR)Coulomb-damped system by differential preloads/offsets in linear springs

The levered-dual response(LEDAR)Coulomb-damped system attains near resonant vibration isolation by differential preloads/offsets in linear springs.It takes the advantages of both the preloads/offsets in linear springs and the guiderail friction for realizing different levels of vibration isolation.The isolation capacities are investigated on the strategies with both the horizontal and vertical guiderails,with the horizontal rail only,and without guiderails.The compressive preloads generally result in the consumption of most of the initial excitation energy so as to overcome the potential threshold.The isolation onsets at the frequency ratio of 1∓0.095 on the left-hand side(LHS)and the right-hand side(RHS)of the lever are relative to the load plate connector.The observed near resonant isolation thus makes the LEDAR system a candidate for the isolation of the mechanical systems about resonance while opening a path for simultaneous harvesterisolation functions and passive functions at extreme frequencies.

Actuator and sensor fault isolation in a class of nonlinear dynamical systems

Fault isolation in dynamical systems is a challenging task due to modeling uncertainty and measurement noise,interactive effects of multiple faults and fault propagation.This paper proposes a unified approach for isolation of multiple actuator or sensor faults in a class of nonlinear uncertain dynamical systems.Actuator and sensor fault isolation are accomplished in two independent modules,that monitor the system and are able to isolate the potential faulty actuator(s)or sensor(s).For the sensor fault isolation(SFI)case,a module is designed which monitors the system and utilizes an adaptive isolation threshold on the output residuals computed via a nonlinear estimation scheme that allows the isolation of single/multiple faulty sensor(s).For the actuator fault isolation(AFI)case,a second module is designed,which utilizes a learning-based scheme for adaptive approximation of faulty actuator(s)and,based on a reasoning decision logic and suitably designed AFI thresholds,the faulty actuator(s)set can be determined.The effectiveness of the proposed fault isolation approach developed in this paper is demonstrated through a simulation example.

Optimization of Cellulose Nanocrystal Isolation from Ayous Sawdust Using Response Surface Methodology

This study focuses on the extraction of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC), from microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), derived from Ayous sawdust. The process involves multiple steps and a large amount of chemical products. The objective of this research was to determine the effects of factors that impact the isolation process and to identify the optimal conditions for CNC isolation by using the response surface methodology. The factors that varied during the process were the quantity of MCC, the concentration of sulfuric acid, the hydrolysis time and temperature, and the ultrasonic treatment time. The response measured was the yield. The study found that with 5.80 g of microcrystalline cellulose, a sulfuric acid concentration of 63.50% (w/w), a hydrolysis time of 53 minutes, a hydrolysis temperature of 69˚C, and a sonication time of 19 minutes are the ideal conditions for isolation. The experimental yield achieved was (37.84 ± 0.99) %. The main factors influencing the process were the sulfuric acid concentration, hydrolysis time and temperature, with a significant influence (p < 0.05). Infrared characterization results showed that nanocrystals were indeed isolated. With a crystallinity of 35.23 and 79.74, respectively, for Ayous wood fiber and nanocrystalline cellulose were observed by X-ray diffraction, with the formation of type II cellulose, thermodynamically more stable than native cellulose type I.

Non-enzymatic methods for isolation of stromal vascular fraction and adipose-derived stem cells:A systematic review

BACKGROUND Adipose-derived stem cells(ADSCs)and the stromal vascular fraction(SVF)have garnered substantial interest in regenerative medicine due to their potential to treat a wide range of conditions.Traditional enzymatic methods for isolating these cells face challenges such as high costs,lengthy processing time,and regulatory complexities.AIM This systematic review aimed to assess the efficacy and practicality of nonenzymatic,mechanical methods for isolating SVF and ADSCs,comparing these to conventional enzymatic approaches.METHODS Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines,a comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases.Studies were selected based on inclusion criteria focused on non-enzymatic isolation methods for SVF and ADSCs from adipose tissue.The risk of bias was assessed,and a qualitative synthesis of findings was performed due to the methodological heterogeneity of the included studies.RESULTS Nineteen studies met the inclusion criteria,highlighting various mechanical techniques such as centrifugation,vortexing,and ultrasonic cavitation.The review identified significant variability in cell yield and viability,and the integrity of isolated cells across different non-enzymatic methods compared to enzymatic procedures.Despite some advantages of mechanical methods,including reduced processing time and avoidance of enzymatic reagents,the evidence suggests a need for optimization to match the cell quality and therapeutic efficacy achievable with enzymatic isolation.CONCLUSION Non-enzymatic,mechanical methods offer a promising alternative to enzymatic isolation of SVF and ADSCs,potentially simplifying the isolation process and reducing regulatory hurdles.However,further research is necessary to standardize these techniques and ensure consistent,high-quality cell yields for clinical applications.The development of efficient,safe,and reproducible non-enzymatic isolation methods could significantly advance the field of regenerative medicine.

Seismic Response Analysis of Steel Structure Isolation System Under Long-Period Seismic Motion

To analyze the seismic response of steel structure isolation systems under long-period seismic motion,a 9-story steel frame building was selected as the subject.Five steel structure finite element models were established using SAP2000.Response spectrum analysis was conducted on the seismic motion to determine if it adhered to the characteristics of long-period seismic motion.Modal analysis of each structural model revealed that the isolation structure significantly prolonged the structural natural vibration period and enhanced seismic performance.Base reactions and floor displacements of various structures notably increased under long-period seismic motion compared to regular seismic activity.Placing isolation bearings in the lower part of the structure proved more effective under long-period seismic motion.In seismic design engineering,it is essential to consider the impact of long-period seismic motion on structures and the potential failure of isolation bearings.

Analysis of the Current Situation and Influencing Factors of Social Isolation Among the Elderly in the Community

Objective: To investigate the current situation of social isolation among the elderly in the community, and to analyze its influencing factors. Methods: A total of 265 elderly people were selected to conduct the survey using the general information questionnaire and the Chinese version of the social isolation scale for the elderly. Results: The social isolation score of the elderly was (20.15 ± 0.23). Factors such as age, education level, economic status, and social participation ability influenced the social isolation score (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The social isolation of the elderly is more serious, and the social isolation can be alleviated by improving the level of education and the economic situation and strengthening social participation.

Seismic Reduction and Isolation Design Strategies for Bridges in High-Intensity Earthquake Areas

High-intensity earthquakes can cause severe damage to bridges,buildings,and ground surfaces,as well as disrupt human activities.Such earthquakes can create long-distance,high-intensity surface movements that negatively impact bridge structures.This article delves into the seismic reduction and isolation design strategies for bridges in high-intensity earthquake areas.It analyzes various seismic reduction and isolation technologies and provides case studies to help relevant units understand the design strategies of these technologies.The results of this article can be used as a guideline to effectively enhance the seismic performance of bridges in high-intensity earthquake areas.

Impact of Multidisciplinary Collaborative Intervention on Isolation Implementation in Prevention and Control of Multi-drug Resistance Infection

Objective Contact precautions,especially the initiation of isolation,are important measures to prevent and control multidrug-resistant organisms(MDROs).However,the implementation in clinical practice remains weak.This study aimed to analyze the impact of multidisciplinary collaborative intervention on isolation implementation in multidrug-resistant infection,and determine the factors that affect the implementation of isolation measures.Methods A multidisciplinary collaborative intervention related to isolation was conducted at a teaching tertiary hospital in central China on November 1,2018.The information of 1338 patients with MDRO infection and colonization at 10 months before and after the intervention was collected.Then,the issuance of isolation orders was retrospectively analyzed.Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to analyze the factors that affected the isolation implementation.Results The overall issuance rate of isolation orders was 61.21%,which increased from 33.12%to 75.88%(P<0.001)after the implementation of the multidisciplinary collaborative intervention.The intervention(P<0.001,OR=0.166)was a promoting factor for the issuance of isolation orders,in addition to the length of stay(P=0.004,OR=0.991),department(P=0.004),and microorganism(P=0.038).Conclusion The isolation implementation remains far lower than policy standards.Multidisciplinary collaborative interventions can effectively improve the compliance to isolation measures implemented by doctors,thereby promoting the standardized management of MDROs,and providing reference for further improving the quality of hospital infection management.

Radio-frequency measurements of energetic-electron-driven emissions using high-frequency magnetic probe on XuanLong-50 spherical torus

A high-frequency magnetic probe is designed and developed on the XuanL ong-50(EXL-50)spherical torus to measure high-frequency magnetic field fluctuation.The magnetic loop,radio filters,radio-frequency limiter,and data acquisition system of the probe are comprehensively examined.The fluctuation data from the EXL-50 plasma are analyzed in the time–frequency domain using fast Fourier transforms.Moreover,distinct high-frequency instabilities are detected using this diagnostic system.In particular,significant frequency chirping is observed,which is consistent with the bumpon-tail drive instability predicted using the Berk–Breizman model.

Isolation, Examination and Characterization of Actinomycetes as a Source of Antimicrobial Agents from Libyan Soil

The rapid increase of bacterial resistance strains to multiple antibiotics has become a global public health concern. In the present study, actinomycetes from different districts of Libyan soil were isolated and screened for their inhibitory activity against pathogenic bacteria and fungi. Three hundred soil samples were taken from 77 diverse ecosystems, including deserts, forests, pastureland, and cropland located in different climatic regions in Libya. A total of 164 actinomycetes were obtained. Of 164 isolates, 38 (23.2%) isolates were morphologically and microscopically characterized by spore chain and surface morphology, aerial and substrate mycelia and soluble pigments. The preliminary classification of the isolates illustrates that all isolates belong to the genus Streptomyces. These isolates were further examined for their antagonistic potential against nine pathogenic bacteria and fungi. Out of 38, 11 (28.9%) isolates showed their capability to produce inhibitory substances against at least two tested strains. Among bacterial strains, Staphylococcus aureus was susceptible to almost all eleven isolates (90.9%), while Streptococcus pyogenes was found to be resistant to most selected isolates (18.2%). The isolate, 063 (Wadan soil-desert zone) was the only isolate that exhibited broad spectrum antimicrobial activity against all tested pathogenic microbes, and hence was selected for further study. According to its cultural, morphological, physiological, and biochemical characteristics, the isolate 063 was identified as Streptomyces rochei. The results obtained indicate that the Libyan soil, particularly in extreme environments, could be a potent source of bioactive metabolites with antimicrobial potency against a wide variety of microbial pathogens. Thus, this investigation suggested that exploring new habitats in unexplored and untapped regions of Libya could provide a promising source of biologically active compounds for therapeutic applications.

Validation of the Portuguese version of the social isolation scale with a sample of community-dwelling older adults

Objectives The aim of this study was to analyze the psychometric properties(reliability and validity)of the Social Isolation Scale(SIS)in a sample of Portuguese community-dwelling older adults.Methods A transversal descriptive study was carried out with a convenience sample of 250 community-dwelling older adults(≥65 years).The survey comprised a sociodemographic questionnaire,SIS,Geriatric Depression Scale-4(GDS-4),6-item Lubben Social Network Scale(LSNS-6),a loneliness self-assessment question,and Satisfaction with Life Scale(SWLS).Construct validity(confirmatory factor analysis)and convergent validity were analyzed,and ISI internal reliability(composite reliability),external reliability(test-retest,intraclass correlation coefficient)and inter-rater reliability(Cohen’s kappa coefficient)were evaluated.Results Confirmatory factor analysis showed a two-factor model with an excellent index of fit.The SIS showed significant correlations with LSNS-6(rs=0.47),SWLS(rs=0.26),the loneliness self-assessment question(rs=0.35),and GDS-4(rs=−0.16).SIS composite reliability was good(0.708).The inter-class correlation coefficient varied from 0.84 to 0.98.The Cohen’s kappa coefficient ranged from 0.936 to 1.Conclusions SIS has been shown to be a valid and reliable instrument for assessing social isolation among Portuguese community-dwelling older adults.Healthcare professionals,particularly nurses working in community settings,can use SIS to assess social isolation in older adults to design,implement,and evaluate interventions.