In this work,we aim to introduce some modifications to the Anam-Net deep neural network(DNN)model for segmenting optic cup(OC)and optic disc(OD)in retinal fundus images to estimate the cup-to-disc ratio(CDR).The CDR i...In this work,we aim to introduce some modifications to the Anam-Net deep neural network(DNN)model for segmenting optic cup(OC)and optic disc(OD)in retinal fundus images to estimate the cup-to-disc ratio(CDR).The CDR is a reliable measure for the early diagnosis of Glaucoma.In this study,we developed a lightweight DNN model for OC and OD segmentation in retinal fundus images.Our DNN model is based on modifications to Anam-Net,incorporating an anamorphic depth embedding block.To reduce computational complexity,we employ a fixed filter size for all convolution layers in the encoder and decoder stages as the network deepens.This modification significantly reduces the number of trainable parameters,making the model lightweight and suitable for resource-constrained applications.We evaluate the performance of the developed model using two publicly available retinal image databases,namely RIM-ONE and Drishti-GS.The results demonstrate promising OC segmentation performance across most standard evaluation metrics while achieving analogous results for OD segmentation.We used two retinal fundus image databases named RIM-ONE and Drishti-GS that contained 159 images and 101 retinal images,respectively.For OD segmentation using the RIM-ONE we obtain an f1-score(F1),Jaccard coefficient(JC),and overlapping error(OE)of 0.950,0.9219,and 0.0781,respectively.Similarly,for OC segmentation using the same databases,we achieve scores of 0.8481(F1),0.7428(JC),and 0.2572(OE).Based on these experimental results and the significantly lower number of trainable parameters,we conclude that the developed model is highly suitable for the early diagnosis of glaucoma by accurately estimating the CDR.展开更多
BACKGROUND The use of uncemented cups during total hip arthroplasty(THA)has gained popularity in recent years.The Robert Mathys(RM)pressfit cup,an uncemented monoblock implant is expected to preserve bone density due ...BACKGROUND The use of uncemented cups during total hip arthroplasty(THA)has gained popularity in recent years.The Robert Mathys(RM)pressfit cup,an uncemented monoblock implant is expected to preserve bone density due to its composition and external surface,while reducing backside wear with its monoblock construction.These factors should lead to a high survival rate of the implant.AIM To evaluate the mid-term survival and functional outcome of the RM Pressfit cup in a large study population.METHODS Between 2011 and 2020,we included 1324 patients receiving a primary THA using the RM pressfit cup.Final clinical follow-up was performed at 2 years postoperatively with the Dutch arthroplasty register used to assess implant status thereafter.Revision for acetabular failure and reason for revision were reported to evaluate implant survival,while the hip disability and osteoarthritis outcome score(HOOS)scores were used to assess functional outcome.RESULTS The mean age at surgery was 64.9 years.The mean follow-up was 4.6 years.Of the 1324 THAs performed,13 needed cup revisions within 5 years after index THA:5 due to aseptic loosening,6 due to infection,2 due to dislocation and 2 due to other causes.This resulted in a 5-year cup survival of 98.8%(95%CI:98.1-99.5).Nine of the cup revisions occurred within the first year after index THA.HOOS scores increased significantly in all domains during the first year and levelled out during the second year.CONCLUSION In the present study,the RM pressfit cup demonstrated excellent clinical outcomes at mid-term follow-up;however,future studies are needed to assess the long-term outcomes of this acetabular implant.展开更多
The composition of paper cups creates a challenge for the recycling industry,as the paperboard–plastic film composite is hard to separate.Therefore,paper cups are sent to landfills or waste incinerators.This study ex...The composition of paper cups creates a challenge for the recycling industry,as the paperboard–plastic film composite is hard to separate.Therefore,paper cups are sent to landfills or waste incinerators.This study explores the combined use of red worms(Eisenia fetida)and Greater wax moth(Galleria mellonella)in the biodegradation of paper cups.The study investigates the conditions and combinations that promote using Eisenia fetida and Galleria mellonella for degrading paper cups.The study considered the influence of environmental temperature,the presence of food waste,varying the number of Eisenia fetida worms,and the presence of a Galleria mellonella growth-slowing agent on the degradation process.To achieve the study objectives,the study followed a quantitative approach.The study monitored the degradation of paper cup cuts that were placed in jars containing different combinations of Eisenia fetida worms,Galleria mellonella larvae,food waste,bedding material,and Galleria mellonella growth-slowing agents.The study found that the best operating temperature is 30oC.The study found that using food waste improves the performance of Eisenia fetida worms and Galleria mellonella larvae significantly.The study found that adding a Galleria mellonella growth-slowing agent slightly enhances the degradation of the paper cup.Finally,a numerical model was obtained to simulate the paper cup degradation efficiency.展开更多
The North American genus Silphium is receiving global attention for its potential in the development of new food, forage, and industrial crops, including cellulosic biomass for biofuel. Little is known about the effec...The North American genus Silphium is receiving global attention for its potential in the development of new food, forage, and industrial crops, including cellulosic biomass for biofuel. Little is known about the effect of plant population density on biomass production in large, coarse perennial forbs. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of variation in plant density on biomass production and stand morphology of cup plant (Silphium perfoliatum L.). Plant population densities of 17,000, 34,000, and 68,000 plants ha-1 were evaluated for biomass production in a single-harvest per annum system for three years at Brookings, SD and Arlington, WI. Biomass increased linearly by 43% between the low and high density at Brookings;whereas, at Arlington, response to variation in plant density was year dependent. Shoots plant-1 was inversely related to plant density with linear regression explaining >95% of the variation. Our results strongly suggested that further studies of effects of plant population density on biomass production in cup plant should include evaluation of, in addition to, densities higher than 68,000 plants ha-1.展开更多
BACKGROUND Total hip arthroplasty(THA)is a common procedure for end stage osteoarthritis.The learning curve for THA is complex and challenging.One of the most difficult skills to master is acetabular reaming.We wish t...BACKGROUND Total hip arthroplasty(THA)is a common procedure for end stage osteoarthritis.The learning curve for THA is complex and challenging.One of the most difficult skills to master is acetabular reaming.We wish to identify if experience in arthroplasty leads to preservation of more bone stock.AIM To investigate if increasing surgeon experience will predict an ever decreasing acetabular cup size.METHODS A retrospective case series of four attending orthopaedic surgeons was completed.All uncemented elective total hip arthroplasties since appointment were selected for inclusion.The size of acetabular cup used was noted and logistic regression was used to identify if a trend to smaller cups existed.RESULTS A total of 1614 subjects were included with a mean age of 64 years.Overall cups were on average 0.18mm smaller per year(95%confidence interval-0.25 to-0.11,P<0.001).Individual surgeon trends showed cup sizes to decrease 0.27 mm/year for surgeon A,0.02 mm/year for surgeon B,0.15 mm/year for surgeon C and 0.29 mm/year for surgeon D.Three of the four surgeons had a more pronounced trend to smaller cups for male subjects than their female counterparts.CONCLUSION We found increasing surgeon experience to be associated with an ever-decreasing acetabular cup size.Smaller acetabular cup size may act as a surrogate marker of surgical proficiency by virtue of decreased acetabular reaming.展开更多
Coaxial plasma guns are a type of plasma source that produces plasma which propagates radially and axially controlled by the shape of the ground electrode, which has attracted much interest in several applications. In...Coaxial plasma guns are a type of plasma source that produces plasma which propagates radially and axially controlled by the shape of the ground electrode, which has attracted much interest in several applications. In this work, a 120° opening angle of CPG nozzle is used as a plasma gun configuration that operates at the energy of 150 J. The ionization of polyethylene insulator between the electrodes of the gun produces a cloud of hydrogen and carbon plasma.The triple Langmuir probe and Faraday cup are used to measure plasma density and plasma temperature. These methods are used to measure the on-axis and off-axis plasma divergence of the coaxial plasma gun. The peak values of ion densities measured at a distance of 25 mm on-axis from the plasma gun are(1.6±0.5)×10^(19)m^(-3)and(2.8±0.6)×10^(19)m^(-3)for hydrogen and carbon plasma respectively and the peak temperature is 3.02±0.5 eV. The mean propagation velocity of plasma is calculated using the transit times of plasma at different distances from the plasma gun and is found to be 4.54±0.25 cm/μs and 1.81±0.18 cm/μs for hydrogen and carbon plasma respectively. The Debye radius is obtained from the measured experimental data that satisfies the thin sheath approximation. The shot-to-shot stability of plasma parameters facilitates the use of plasma guns in laboratory experiments. These types of plasma sources can be used in many applications like plasma opening switches, plasma devices, and as plasma sources.展开更多
Background:The incidence of lumbar disc herniation(LDH)is notably high.Consensus among experts highlights non-surgical treatments as the primary therapeutic approach for LDH.Contemporary medicine frequently employs ph...Background:The incidence of lumbar disc herniation(LDH)is notably high.Consensus among experts highlights non-surgical treatments as the primary therapeutic approach for LDH.Contemporary medicine frequently employs pharmacotherapy and epidural injections in such treatments,which are associated with numerous adverse effects.Prolonged use can severely impair the liver and kidney functions of patients.Hence,the role of safe and effective traditional Chinese medicine techniques becomes pivotal.Among various traditional Chinese medicine approaches for treating LDH,fire dragon cupping,renowned for its remarkable efficacy,cost-effectiveness,and ease of application,is extensively utilised in clinical settings for managing LDH.Nonetheless,there is a scarcity of systematic and standardised evidence from evidence-based medicine studies.Therefore,conducting a meta-analysis is imperative.Methods:A comprehensive computerised search was conducted in databases including China National Knowledge Infrastructure,WanFang Data,VIP,China Biology Medicine disc,PubMed,EMbase,The Cochrane Library,Web of Science,and CINAHL.The search aimed to gather randomised controlled trials on fire dragon cupping therapy for LDH,spanning from the inception of these databases until December 2023.Two researchers independently screened the literature according to inclusion and exclusion criteria,extracted data,and assessed the methodological quality of the studies included,utilising RevMan 5.3 software for meta-analysis.Results:The results show that the fire dragon cupping therapy group had better clinical effectiveness(relative risk=1.23,95%confidence interval(CI)(1.14,1.33),P<0.00001),less pain(standardized mean difference=–1.33,95%CI(–1.49,–1.16),P<0.00001),and some improvement in lumbar function(Japanese Orthopaedic Association scores:mean difference=3.37,95%CI(2.31,4.43),P<0.00001.Conclusion:The fire dragon cupping therapy significantly alleviates LDH,warranting its extensive application.However,considering the limitations in the number and quality of studies included,the aforementioned conclusion necessitates further validation through more high-quality research.展开更多
Introduction:Cupping therapy is an integrative and complementary medicine therapy that practiced worldwide by several civilizations for thousands of years.Cupping therapy is reported to be a relatively safe practice e...Introduction:Cupping therapy is an integrative and complementary medicine therapy that practiced worldwide by several civilizations for thousands of years.Cupping therapy is reported to be a relatively safe practice especially if performed by qualified therapists.Subconjunctival hemorrhage(SCH)is a common cause of eye redness and can be classified into traumatic and spontaneous.Case presentation:This case report discussed an adverse event related to wet cupping therapy.The patient developed SCH one day after performing cupping therapy.He was completely recovered after 2 weeks.This case report should increase the knowledge of cupping therapists regarding increasing safety of patient when performing wet cupping therapy on specific body parts especially,head,neck and cervical areas.Furthermore,it highlighted the importance of conducting research regarding the mechanical and physiological effects of cupping therapy.Conclusion:Adverse events related to cupping therapy should be reported with every patient.Cupping therapists should be aware of this possible mild adverse event.To the best of our knowledge,this is the first published adult case of SCH related to wet cupping therapy session.More studies are critically needed for evaluation of cupping therapy effects and adverse events especially when performed on head and neck.展开更多
Among APETALA2 (AP2)-type plant specific transcription factor family, WRINKLED1 (WRI1), has appeared to be a master gene transcriptionally regulating a set of carbon metabolism- and fatty acid synthesis (FAS)-related ...Among APETALA2 (AP2)-type plant specific transcription factor family, WRINKLED1 (WRI1), has appeared to be a master gene transcriptionally regulating a set of carbon metabolism- and fatty acid synthesis (FAS)-related genes responsible for seed specific triacylglycerols (TAGs) storage in oil plants. B3 type transcription factors, such as ABI3 and FUS3, are known to be involved in seed development, such as seed storage protein synthesis and maturation. Based on the recent whole genome sequence data of castor bean (Ricinus communis L.), putative WRI1 homologs (RcWRI1, RcWRI2) specifically expressed in castor bean seed have been identified by comparing organ specific expression profiles among seed development-related transcription factors, seed storage specific genes (Ricin, RcOleosin) and a set of FAS genes including genes for sucrose synthase (RcSUS2), biotin carboxyl carrier protein (a subunit of acetyl-CoA carboxylase, RcBCCP2) and ketoacyl-acyl carrier protein synthase (RcKAS1). Immunoreactive signals with WRI1, FUS3 and ABI5-related polypeptides were also detected in seed specifically, consistent with the expression profiles of seed development-related genes. The WRI1 binding consensus sites, [CnTnG](n)(7)[CG], designated as the AW-box, were found at the promoter region of RcBCCP2 and RcKAS1. Thus, RcWRI1 possibly play a pivotal role in seed specific TAGs storage during seed development by directly activating FAS -related genes.展开更多
In this study, a homogeneous alkaline catalyst was used in the production of biodiesel from raw and refined castor oil feedstock. The effect of potassium hydroxide (KOH) as a catalyst between the two feedstocks, raw a...In this study, a homogeneous alkaline catalyst was used in the production of biodiesel from raw and refined castor oil feedstock. The effect of potassium hydroxide (KOH) as a catalyst between the two feedstocks, raw and refined castor oil was compared. The transesterification technique was utilized in this study, aiming to investigate the effect of different parameters, which include the reaction temperature, methanol-to-oil mole ratio, and catalyst concentration at a constant period of 90 minutes. The result revealed the performance of the KOH catalyst on raw castor oil yielded 98.49% FAME, which was higher than the refined castor oil which yielded 97.9% FAME. The optimal conditions obtained from refined castor oil were applied to raw castor oil because of the same properties. The fuel quality of castor oil and produced biodiesel were tested for physicochemical properties.展开更多
Rubber latex is an important economic resource. However, the residues from its harvesting are thrown away, even though they contain lipids that can be recycled. This recovery of the residues from the bottom of the cup...Rubber latex is an important economic resource. However, the residues from its harvesting are thrown away, even though they contain lipids that can be recycled. This recovery of the residues from the bottom of the cup requires first and foremost their characterization. The aim of this study is therefore to determine the main physical and chemical characteristics of rubber latex cup bottom oil. Oil’s physical parameters determination shows that it has a density of 951 kg∙m−3, a kinematic viscosity of 48.57 cSt and a water content of 0.0845%. Chemical parameters, meanwhile, indicate that this cup bottom residue has a fat content of 95.96%, an acid number of 2.805 mg KOH/g and an iodine number of 92.42 g I2/100g. Therefore, rubber latex cup bottom oil can be used in the formulation of biofuels, biolubricants, paints, varnishes, alkyd resins, polishing oils, soaps, and insecticides.展开更多
On June 15th,the one-month European Football Championship(hereinafter referred to as the European Cup)kicked off in Germany.In 2023,Germany’s GDP shrank by 0.3%,which was the worst performance among the world’s majo...On June 15th,the one-month European Football Championship(hereinafter referred to as the European Cup)kicked off in Germany.In 2023,Germany’s GDP shrank by 0.3%,which was the worst performance among the world’s major economies.This year,Germany is pinning its hopes on the European Championship to stimulate consumption and boost the economy.展开更多
基金funded byResearchers Supporting Project Number(RSPD2024R 553),King Saud University,Riyadh,Saudi Arabia.
文摘In this work,we aim to introduce some modifications to the Anam-Net deep neural network(DNN)model for segmenting optic cup(OC)and optic disc(OD)in retinal fundus images to estimate the cup-to-disc ratio(CDR).The CDR is a reliable measure for the early diagnosis of Glaucoma.In this study,we developed a lightweight DNN model for OC and OD segmentation in retinal fundus images.Our DNN model is based on modifications to Anam-Net,incorporating an anamorphic depth embedding block.To reduce computational complexity,we employ a fixed filter size for all convolution layers in the encoder and decoder stages as the network deepens.This modification significantly reduces the number of trainable parameters,making the model lightweight and suitable for resource-constrained applications.We evaluate the performance of the developed model using two publicly available retinal image databases,namely RIM-ONE and Drishti-GS.The results demonstrate promising OC segmentation performance across most standard evaluation metrics while achieving analogous results for OD segmentation.We used two retinal fundus image databases named RIM-ONE and Drishti-GS that contained 159 images and 101 retinal images,respectively.For OD segmentation using the RIM-ONE we obtain an f1-score(F1),Jaccard coefficient(JC),and overlapping error(OE)of 0.950,0.9219,and 0.0781,respectively.Similarly,for OC segmentation using the same databases,we achieve scores of 0.8481(F1),0.7428(JC),and 0.2572(OE).Based on these experimental results and the significantly lower number of trainable parameters,we conclude that the developed model is highly suitable for the early diagnosis of glaucoma by accurately estimating the CDR.
文摘BACKGROUND The use of uncemented cups during total hip arthroplasty(THA)has gained popularity in recent years.The Robert Mathys(RM)pressfit cup,an uncemented monoblock implant is expected to preserve bone density due to its composition and external surface,while reducing backside wear with its monoblock construction.These factors should lead to a high survival rate of the implant.AIM To evaluate the mid-term survival and functional outcome of the RM Pressfit cup in a large study population.METHODS Between 2011 and 2020,we included 1324 patients receiving a primary THA using the RM pressfit cup.Final clinical follow-up was performed at 2 years postoperatively with the Dutch arthroplasty register used to assess implant status thereafter.Revision for acetabular failure and reason for revision were reported to evaluate implant survival,while the hip disability and osteoarthritis outcome score(HOOS)scores were used to assess functional outcome.RESULTS The mean age at surgery was 64.9 years.The mean follow-up was 4.6 years.Of the 1324 THAs performed,13 needed cup revisions within 5 years after index THA:5 due to aseptic loosening,6 due to infection,2 due to dislocation and 2 due to other causes.This resulted in a 5-year cup survival of 98.8%(95%CI:98.1-99.5).Nine of the cup revisions occurred within the first year after index THA.HOOS scores increased significantly in all domains during the first year and levelled out during the second year.CONCLUSION In the present study,the RM pressfit cup demonstrated excellent clinical outcomes at mid-term follow-up;however,future studies are needed to assess the long-term outcomes of this acetabular implant.
基金funded by the Deanship of Scientific Research at the University of Jordan.
文摘The composition of paper cups creates a challenge for the recycling industry,as the paperboard–plastic film composite is hard to separate.Therefore,paper cups are sent to landfills or waste incinerators.This study explores the combined use of red worms(Eisenia fetida)and Greater wax moth(Galleria mellonella)in the biodegradation of paper cups.The study investigates the conditions and combinations that promote using Eisenia fetida and Galleria mellonella for degrading paper cups.The study considered the influence of environmental temperature,the presence of food waste,varying the number of Eisenia fetida worms,and the presence of a Galleria mellonella growth-slowing agent on the degradation process.To achieve the study objectives,the study followed a quantitative approach.The study monitored the degradation of paper cup cuts that were placed in jars containing different combinations of Eisenia fetida worms,Galleria mellonella larvae,food waste,bedding material,and Galleria mellonella growth-slowing agents.The study found that the best operating temperature is 30oC.The study found that using food waste improves the performance of Eisenia fetida worms and Galleria mellonella larvae significantly.The study found that adding a Galleria mellonella growth-slowing agent slightly enhances the degradation of the paper cup.Finally,a numerical model was obtained to simulate the paper cup degradation efficiency.
文摘The North American genus Silphium is receiving global attention for its potential in the development of new food, forage, and industrial crops, including cellulosic biomass for biofuel. Little is known about the effect of plant population density on biomass production in large, coarse perennial forbs. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of variation in plant density on biomass production and stand morphology of cup plant (Silphium perfoliatum L.). Plant population densities of 17,000, 34,000, and 68,000 plants ha-1 were evaluated for biomass production in a single-harvest per annum system for three years at Brookings, SD and Arlington, WI. Biomass increased linearly by 43% between the low and high density at Brookings;whereas, at Arlington, response to variation in plant density was year dependent. Shoots plant-1 was inversely related to plant density with linear regression explaining >95% of the variation. Our results strongly suggested that further studies of effects of plant population density on biomass production in cup plant should include evaluation of, in addition to, densities higher than 68,000 plants ha-1.
文摘BACKGROUND Total hip arthroplasty(THA)is a common procedure for end stage osteoarthritis.The learning curve for THA is complex and challenging.One of the most difficult skills to master is acetabular reaming.We wish to identify if experience in arthroplasty leads to preservation of more bone stock.AIM To investigate if increasing surgeon experience will predict an ever decreasing acetabular cup size.METHODS A retrospective case series of four attending orthopaedic surgeons was completed.All uncemented elective total hip arthroplasties since appointment were selected for inclusion.The size of acetabular cup used was noted and logistic regression was used to identify if a trend to smaller cups existed.RESULTS A total of 1614 subjects were included with a mean age of 64 years.Overall cups were on average 0.18mm smaller per year(95%confidence interval-0.25 to-0.11,P<0.001).Individual surgeon trends showed cup sizes to decrease 0.27 mm/year for surgeon A,0.02 mm/year for surgeon B,0.15 mm/year for surgeon C and 0.29 mm/year for surgeon D.Three of the four surgeons had a more pronounced trend to smaller cups for male subjects than their female counterparts.CONCLUSION We found increasing surgeon experience to be associated with an ever-decreasing acetabular cup size.Smaller acetabular cup size may act as a surrogate marker of surgical proficiency by virtue of decreased acetabular reaming.
基金supported by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Department of Atomic Energy, Government of IndiaDepartment of Atomic Energy, Government of India for financial assistance under DAE Doctoral Fellowship Scheme-2018。
文摘Coaxial plasma guns are a type of plasma source that produces plasma which propagates radially and axially controlled by the shape of the ground electrode, which has attracted much interest in several applications. In this work, a 120° opening angle of CPG nozzle is used as a plasma gun configuration that operates at the energy of 150 J. The ionization of polyethylene insulator between the electrodes of the gun produces a cloud of hydrogen and carbon plasma.The triple Langmuir probe and Faraday cup are used to measure plasma density and plasma temperature. These methods are used to measure the on-axis and off-axis plasma divergence of the coaxial plasma gun. The peak values of ion densities measured at a distance of 25 mm on-axis from the plasma gun are(1.6±0.5)×10^(19)m^(-3)and(2.8±0.6)×10^(19)m^(-3)for hydrogen and carbon plasma respectively and the peak temperature is 3.02±0.5 eV. The mean propagation velocity of plasma is calculated using the transit times of plasma at different distances from the plasma gun and is found to be 4.54±0.25 cm/μs and 1.81±0.18 cm/μs for hydrogen and carbon plasma respectively. The Debye radius is obtained from the measured experimental data that satisfies the thin sheath approximation. The shot-to-shot stability of plasma parameters facilitates the use of plasma guns in laboratory experiments. These types of plasma sources can be used in many applications like plasma opening switches, plasma devices, and as plasma sources.
基金supported by the 2022 study on the effectiveness of Fire Dragon Cupping in treating cold-dampness obstructive type shoulder stiffness,funded by the Bao'an District Healthcare Research Project in Shenzhen(Shen Bao Ke[2023]No.13,Project No.2022JD237)2023 study on the therapeutic observation and mechanism exploration of Fire Dragon Cupping in cold-dampness obstructive type acute gout,funded by the Guangdong Provincial Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine(Yue Zhong Yi Han[2023]No.205,Project No.20242077)+1 种基金National Clinical Key Specialty(Traditional Chinese Medicine)Construction Project(2013-239)Sanming Project of Medicine in Shenzhen(No.SZZYSM202206014).
文摘Background:The incidence of lumbar disc herniation(LDH)is notably high.Consensus among experts highlights non-surgical treatments as the primary therapeutic approach for LDH.Contemporary medicine frequently employs pharmacotherapy and epidural injections in such treatments,which are associated with numerous adverse effects.Prolonged use can severely impair the liver and kidney functions of patients.Hence,the role of safe and effective traditional Chinese medicine techniques becomes pivotal.Among various traditional Chinese medicine approaches for treating LDH,fire dragon cupping,renowned for its remarkable efficacy,cost-effectiveness,and ease of application,is extensively utilised in clinical settings for managing LDH.Nonetheless,there is a scarcity of systematic and standardised evidence from evidence-based medicine studies.Therefore,conducting a meta-analysis is imperative.Methods:A comprehensive computerised search was conducted in databases including China National Knowledge Infrastructure,WanFang Data,VIP,China Biology Medicine disc,PubMed,EMbase,The Cochrane Library,Web of Science,and CINAHL.The search aimed to gather randomised controlled trials on fire dragon cupping therapy for LDH,spanning from the inception of these databases until December 2023.Two researchers independently screened the literature according to inclusion and exclusion criteria,extracted data,and assessed the methodological quality of the studies included,utilising RevMan 5.3 software for meta-analysis.Results:The results show that the fire dragon cupping therapy group had better clinical effectiveness(relative risk=1.23,95%confidence interval(CI)(1.14,1.33),P<0.00001),less pain(standardized mean difference=–1.33,95%CI(–1.49,–1.16),P<0.00001),and some improvement in lumbar function(Japanese Orthopaedic Association scores:mean difference=3.37,95%CI(2.31,4.43),P<0.00001.Conclusion:The fire dragon cupping therapy significantly alleviates LDH,warranting its extensive application.However,considering the limitations in the number and quality of studies included,the aforementioned conclusion necessitates further validation through more high-quality research.
文摘Introduction:Cupping therapy is an integrative and complementary medicine therapy that practiced worldwide by several civilizations for thousands of years.Cupping therapy is reported to be a relatively safe practice especially if performed by qualified therapists.Subconjunctival hemorrhage(SCH)is a common cause of eye redness and can be classified into traumatic and spontaneous.Case presentation:This case report discussed an adverse event related to wet cupping therapy.The patient developed SCH one day after performing cupping therapy.He was completely recovered after 2 weeks.This case report should increase the knowledge of cupping therapists regarding increasing safety of patient when performing wet cupping therapy on specific body parts especially,head,neck and cervical areas.Furthermore,it highlighted the importance of conducting research regarding the mechanical and physiological effects of cupping therapy.Conclusion:Adverse events related to cupping therapy should be reported with every patient.Cupping therapists should be aware of this possible mild adverse event.To the best of our knowledge,this is the first published adult case of SCH related to wet cupping therapy session.More studies are critically needed for evaluation of cupping therapy effects and adverse events especially when performed on head and neck.
文摘Among APETALA2 (AP2)-type plant specific transcription factor family, WRINKLED1 (WRI1), has appeared to be a master gene transcriptionally regulating a set of carbon metabolism- and fatty acid synthesis (FAS)-related genes responsible for seed specific triacylglycerols (TAGs) storage in oil plants. B3 type transcription factors, such as ABI3 and FUS3, are known to be involved in seed development, such as seed storage protein synthesis and maturation. Based on the recent whole genome sequence data of castor bean (Ricinus communis L.), putative WRI1 homologs (RcWRI1, RcWRI2) specifically expressed in castor bean seed have been identified by comparing organ specific expression profiles among seed development-related transcription factors, seed storage specific genes (Ricin, RcOleosin) and a set of FAS genes including genes for sucrose synthase (RcSUS2), biotin carboxyl carrier protein (a subunit of acetyl-CoA carboxylase, RcBCCP2) and ketoacyl-acyl carrier protein synthase (RcKAS1). Immunoreactive signals with WRI1, FUS3 and ABI5-related polypeptides were also detected in seed specifically, consistent with the expression profiles of seed development-related genes. The WRI1 binding consensus sites, [CnTnG](n)(7)[CG], designated as the AW-box, were found at the promoter region of RcBCCP2 and RcKAS1. Thus, RcWRI1 possibly play a pivotal role in seed specific TAGs storage during seed development by directly activating FAS -related genes.
文摘In this study, a homogeneous alkaline catalyst was used in the production of biodiesel from raw and refined castor oil feedstock. The effect of potassium hydroxide (KOH) as a catalyst between the two feedstocks, raw and refined castor oil was compared. The transesterification technique was utilized in this study, aiming to investigate the effect of different parameters, which include the reaction temperature, methanol-to-oil mole ratio, and catalyst concentration at a constant period of 90 minutes. The result revealed the performance of the KOH catalyst on raw castor oil yielded 98.49% FAME, which was higher than the refined castor oil which yielded 97.9% FAME. The optimal conditions obtained from refined castor oil were applied to raw castor oil because of the same properties. The fuel quality of castor oil and produced biodiesel were tested for physicochemical properties.
文摘Rubber latex is an important economic resource. However, the residues from its harvesting are thrown away, even though they contain lipids that can be recycled. This recovery of the residues from the bottom of the cup requires first and foremost their characterization. The aim of this study is therefore to determine the main physical and chemical characteristics of rubber latex cup bottom oil. Oil’s physical parameters determination shows that it has a density of 951 kg∙m−3, a kinematic viscosity of 48.57 cSt and a water content of 0.0845%. Chemical parameters, meanwhile, indicate that this cup bottom residue has a fat content of 95.96%, an acid number of 2.805 mg KOH/g and an iodine number of 92.42 g I2/100g. Therefore, rubber latex cup bottom oil can be used in the formulation of biofuels, biolubricants, paints, varnishes, alkyd resins, polishing oils, soaps, and insecticides.
文摘On June 15th,the one-month European Football Championship(hereinafter referred to as the European Cup)kicked off in Germany.In 2023,Germany’s GDP shrank by 0.3%,which was the worst performance among the world’s major economies.This year,Germany is pinning its hopes on the European Championship to stimulate consumption and boost the economy.
