Reduction In Intensity Research Articles

Comparing the effects and mechanisms of granular activated carbon and magnetite nanoparticles in dry anaerobic digestion: Focusing on microbial electron transfer and metagenomic evidence

Enhancing direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET) via granular activated carbon (GAC) and magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) to promote methanation performance in dry anaerobic digestion (AD) systems has been extensively studied in recent years. However, the underlying mechanisms, particularly how GAC and MNPs influence DIET and extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs), remain poorly understood. In this study, the different effects and mechanisms of GAC and MNPs on dry AD fed with pig manure (PM) and corn straw were compared, with additions of 10, 20, and 50% of the volatile solid (VS) of PM. The results indicated that GAC improved the cumulative specific methane yields (CSMYs) by 18.8–20.9%, while a high dose of MNPs (50% of the VSPM) decreased the CSMY and hydrolysis rate constant by 27.0 and 75.4%, respectively. GAC provided microorganism attachment sites and functional groups for electron transfer, improving hydrolysis by enriching fermenters such as Fastidiosipila and Rikenellaceae. Nevertheless, MNPs stimulated intense dissimilatory iron reduction by Clostridium sp. in the early stage, competing with methanogens for substrates. Low and medium GAC doses (10 and 20% of the VSPM) increased the utilization of redox-active substances (e.g., humic substances and proteins) in EPS, while the high MNP dose stimulated their secretion due to microbial self-protection, impairing electron transfer. Metagenomic evidence showed that the medium GAC dose improved four methanogenic pathways and DIET mediated by microbial nanowires, while a high MNP dose impeded the final step of methanogenesis. These results provide deeper insights into the mechanisms of different conductive materials on dry AD.

Does the digital economy really help reduce industrial carbon intensity? Empirical evidence from intermediate inputs of digital products in China.

The booming digital economy is promoting industrial upgrading and transformation, providing an opportunity for the industrial low-carbon development. Based on input-output analysis and panel data regression, the impact of the input of intermediate digital products on Chinese industrial carbon intensity from 1997 to 2017 has been evaluated. The results reveal that the input of China's intermediate digital products can significantly reduce industrial carbon intensity, and significantly reduce the carbon intensity of non-energy-intensive industries. It has also been discovered that the input of intermediate digital product manufacturing can significantly reduce the carbon intensity of different types of industries, while the input of the intermediate digital products services industry has no significant effect on the reduction of industrial carbon intensity. Channel analysis shows that the input of the intermediate digital products can reduce industrial carbon intensity by improving productive efficiency and promoting innovative technology. In the current climate, it is especially necessary to increase the input of the intermediate digital product manufacturing industry in industrial development.

Identification and analysis of low light responsive yield enhancing QTLs in rice

Rice is one of the major food crops grown globally. However, during the wet season, rice suffers significant yield loss due to reduced light intensity caused by overcast clouds when the light intensity is only around 450–500 µmol/m2/s, compared to 1400–1800 µmol/m2/s in summer. This reduction in light intensity leads to a decrease in seed yield, mainly by limiting tiller or panicle numbers. Yield and its attributing parameters were recorded in one hundred thirty RILs for four consecutive wet seasons in ambient light (AL) and low light (LL, 35% light-cut using white shade net). QTL analysis was performed using Inclusive Composite Interval Mapping (ICIM) with all the phenotypic data and 927 polymorphic SNPs identified by the 7 K Infinium chip. The study identified a large QTL influencing panicle numbers and yield exclusively in lowlight on chromosome 1 (qPNLL1.1, qGYLL1.1) in four consecutive seasons with LOD > 10 and PVE > 30%. The favourable alleles are from the tolerant parent, Swarnaprabha. Another grain yield improving QTL was identified on chromosome 6 (qGYLL6.1), with LOD > 3 in three consecutive seasons. In a diverse rice panel of one hundred seventeen genotypes with five different models, association analysis identified the associated marker for panicle numbers and grain yield in LL, which is also the left marker of the newly identified QTLs for the traits under LL condition. A shade-responsive gene, monoculm 2 (MOC2, LOC_Os01g64660) inside the QTL on chromosome 1, upregulated in the tolerant parent and its QTL-carrying RILs, whereas repressed in the susceptible one. Therefore, due to its significant additive effect and validation across various genotypes, the yield-improving QTL on chromosome 1 can be directly utilised in marker-assisted selection (MAS) for developing shade-tolerant rice. This can also help reduce the yield gap between wet and dry-season rice.

Chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus and quality of life with difelikefalin treatment: a post hoc analysis of phase 3 data using the Skindex-10 questionnaire.

Pruritus is a common condition in chronic kidney disease (CKD), especially for patients receiving haemodialysis. CKD-associated pruritus (CKD-aP) can be distressing and have a negative impact on quality of life (QoL). This post hoc analysis aimed to assess the relationship between pruritus relief and QoL. Data from phase 3 trials [(NCT03422653, NCT03636269 grouped), and NCT03998163] of the novel antipruritic difelikefalin (N=914) were used to assess the relationship between reductions in pruritus intensity at Week 12 (24-h Worst Itching Intensity Numeric Rating Scale; WI-NRS), perceived improvement in itch (Patient Global Impression of Change, PGI-C) and pruritus-related QoL (Skindex-10 questionnaire). Patients receiving difelikefalin had greater improvements in Skindex-10 total scores than those receiving placebo [LS mean treatment difference -3.4; 95% confidence interval (CI) -5.5, -1.3; P=.002] and greater improvements across Skindex-10 domains (disease, mood and social functioning) at Week 12. In patients receiving difelikefalin, those with clinically meaningful improvements in pruritus (≥3-point reduction in WI-NRS score) at Week 12 had a greater improvement in Skindex-10 total score (mean difference 14.2; 95% CI 11.0, 17.3; P<.001) and Skindex-10 domains than those with a <3-point reduction in WI-NRS score. Improvements in Skindex-10 total scores correlated with PGI-C. Improvements in pruritus intensity following 12 weeks of treatment with difelikefalin were associated with improvements in QoL. Larger improvements in Skindex-10 scores were seen in patients with a greater reduction in pruritus intensity, indicating that improvements in pruritus are associated with a range of factors, such as mood and social functioning, that affect pruritus-related QoL.

Multimodal optical detection, identification and reduction of Cr(VI) with carbon dots and its PVA/polyNIPAM spheres based 2D luminescent photonic structures

Multiple emissive carbon dots (CDs) were synthesized through a one-step solvothermal acid-assisted method using citric acid and urea. Three main emission bands were observed at ∼431 nm, ∼501 nm, and ∼622 nm, corresponding to excitation wavelengths of 360 nm, 430 nm, and 550 nm, respectively. Simultaneous detection through salient discernible features of three metal ions has been achieved. Emission of CDs with Fe(III) shows reduction in intensity at 360 nm and 550 nm wavelengths and an enhancement of photoluminescence (PL) intensity at an excitation wavelength of 430 nm. Al(III) revealed turn-on PL signals, along with a redshift when excited at 360 and 430 nm, and turn-off intensity at excitation of 550 nm. Under all the excitation wavelengths, Cr(VI) exhibits PL quenching accompanied with an additional red shift. This sensor enhances the accuracy and reliability of the probe through multiple distinctive and characteristic responses for all the three ions for which the probes were selective. Apart from the optical detection at a certain wavelength, the Cr(VI) reduction to the less toxic Cr(III) through as-prepared CDs could be monitored at three different excitation wavelengths. The Fe(III) and Cr(VI) detection in solid state has also been demonstrated through 2D luminescent photonic structures formed with CDs-PVA (poly-vinyl alcohol)-polyNIPAM (poly (N-isopropylacrylamide)) composites that can possibly be used for anticounterfeiting applications.

Process Evaluation of an Ambulance-Delivered Early Intensive Blood Pressure-Lowering Stroke Trial: Design, Rationale, and Reflection

Introduction: The fourth INTEnsive ambulance-delivered blood pressure Reduction in hyper-ACute stroke Trial (INTERACT4) is a large-scale, multicenter, prospective, randomized, open-label, blinded endpoint assessment trial, initiated in an ambulance in China, aiming at evaluating the effectiveness and safety of prehospital blood pressure (BP) lowering in patients with suspected acute stroke and elevated BP. A prespecified process evaluation is intended to explore the implementation of the trial intervention, provide support to interpret the trial outcomes and put forward suggestions to scale up the intervention in broader settings in the future. Methods: This process evaluation is a mixed-methods design, and follows the Normalization Process Theory (NPT) and the UK Medical Research Council (UK MRC) guidance. Fidelity, reach, acceptability, appropriateness, adoption, sustainability, and relevant contextual factors and mechanisms affecting the implementation of prehospital early intensive BP-lowering treatment will be analyzed. Semi-structured interviews with ambulance staff, ward and emergency department clinicians, and nurses are undertaken to explore perceptions of the intervention, contextual factors, and potential suggestions for future implementation in practice. Data from observational records, surveys, conventional monitoring data, on-site records, and case report forms will be analyzed to understand background care and context. Conclusion: The process evaluation of INTERACT4 will provide insights for the implementation of prehospital early intensive BP-lowering intervention in different health systems and help better explain the trial results for further scale up.

Effectiveness of Prenatal Gentle Yoga and Effleurage Massage in Low Back Pain Third Trimester Pregnant Women

Background: Pregnant women often complain of low back pain, typically becoming more intense as pregnancy progresses due to changes in posture, such as increased lordosis and a shift in the center of gravity. If not addressed, this pain can negatively impact the quality of life by interfering with daily activities. However, Prenatal gentle yoga and effleurage massage are effective ways to avoid back pain. Objective: To examine how women in their third trimester of pregnancy might manage their lower back discomfort using effleurage massage and gentle yoga. Methods: In the quasi-experimental design of this research, selective sampling approaches are used. Additionally, a two-group pretest-posttest design is utilized, and there is no control group provided. The research was conducted in the PMB Ika Winoto area, and forty expectant mothers with back pain who were in the third trimester were among them. The Effleurage treatment consisted of a 30-minute massage session, with each movement performed for about 10 minutes, administered twice to each participant. Prenatal yoga sessions were also conducted twice a week, with each session lasting 60 minutes. A numerical rating scale, also known as the NRS, was used to assess the amount of back pain that the patient was experiencing). To fully examine the data, a Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test was used. Results: P-values for the Effleurage massage group and the Prenatal Gentle Yoga group were 0.000 and 0.005, respectively, according to the analysis findings. The average reduction in low back pain intensity was 9.86 for the Effleurage massage group and 6.87 for the Prenatal Gentle Yoga group. Conclusion: Both pregnancy gentle yoga and effleurage massage work well to relieve low back pain. Regarding how pregnant women who are still in the third trimester of their pregnancy should be treated for low back pain, the effleurage massage method works better than prenatal yoga. Therefore, for expectant mothers who are suffering from low back discomfort, these techniques represent effective alternative medicines that are simple to use and have few adverse effects.

Study on the electrochemical and spectroscopic characteristics of holmium ion and its interaction with DNA

Metal ion-DNA interactions play a crucial role in modulating the structure and function of genetic material in the natural environment. In this study, we report on the favorable electrochemical activity of holmium(III) (Ho3+) on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) and its interaction with double-stranded DNA. The interaction between DNA and Ho3+ was investigated for the first time using cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry. The electrochemical behavior of Ho3+ ions on a GCE exhibited a reversible electron transfer process, indicative of its redox activity. A linear correlation between the peak current and the square root of the scan rate was observed, suggesting a diffusion-controlled kinetic regime for the electrochemical process. Additionally, fluorescence and absorption spectroscopy were employed to confirm the binding of Ho3+ to DNA. Our findings demonstrate that, at pH 7.2, specific DNA bases and phosphate groups can interact with Ho3+ ions. Moreover, electrochemical measurements suggest that Ho3+ ions bind to DNA via a groove binding mode, with a calculated binding ratio of 1:1 between Ho3+ and DNA. Notably, under optimal conditions, an increase in the amount of DNA leads to a significant reduction in the current intensity of Ho3+ ions.

Investigations of some elastic and shielding properties of barium zinc phosphate glass containing lead ions

The current research focuses on improving some of the physical and radiation properties of barium zinc phosphate glass containing lead oxide. The Makishima-Mackenzie model evaluates the elastic parameters. The XCOM database simulation predicts the shielding properties. Furthermore, the glass composition and the simulated X-ray or gamma-ray energy predict the shielding behavior. The optimal thickness for all glass samples to achieve a 90% reduction in intensity at an energy of 59.54 keV is 5.2 mm. These glasses have great potential as materials for shielding against gamma and X-rays.

Representation of Blowing Snow and Associated Visibility Reduction in an Operational High-Resolution Weather Model

Abstract Blowing snow is a hazard for motorists because it may rapidly reduce visibility. Numerical weather prediction models in the United States do not capture the movement of snow once it reaches the ground, but visibility reductions due to blowing snow can be diagnosed based on model-predicted land surface and environmental conditions that correlate with blowing snow occurrence. A recently developed diagnostic framework for forecasting blowing snow concentration and the associated visibility reduction is applied to High-Resolution Rapid Refresh (HRRR) and Rapid Refresh Forecast System (RRFS) model output including surface snow conditions to predict surface visibility reduction due to blowing snow. Twelve blowing snow events around Wyoming from 2018 to 2023 are examined. The analysis shows that visibility reductions due to blowing snow tend to be overpredicted, caused by the initial assumption of full driftability of the snowpack. This study refines the aging of the blowing snow reservoir with two methods. The first method estimates driftability based on time-varying snow density from the Rapid Update Cycle land surface model (RUC LSM) used in the HRRR and experimental RRFS models and is evaluated in a real-time context with the RRFS model. The second, complementary method diagnoses snowpack driftability using a process-based approach that requires data for recent snowfall, wind speed, and skin temperature. Compared to the full driftability assumption, this method shows limited improvements in forecasting skill. To improve model-based diagnosis of visibility reduction due to blowing snow, empirical work is needed to determine the relation between snowpack driftability and the recent history of snowfall and other weather conditions. Significance Statement Blowing snow presents a significant hazard to motorists and airport operations through sometimes very rapid and intense reductions in visibility, yet little predictive guidance exists for blowing snow. This study aims to improve the prediction of blowing snow occurrence and associated surface visibility reduction using diagnostics from an operational high-resolution weather model. One key challenge regards the question of driftability of the snowpack. This study evaluates two approaches to quantify driftability in terms of visibility reduction due to blowing snow and acknowledges that more measurements are needed to improve the representation of blowing snow physics in NWP models.

SERS Analysis Platform Based on Aptamer Recognition-Release Strategy for Efficient and Sensitive Diagnosis of Colorectal Precancerous Lesions.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) has become a significant global public health challenge, demanding immediate attention due to its high incidence and mortality rates. Regular CRC screening is essential for the early detection of precancerous lesions and CRC. : We developed a novel surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) analysis platform that employs high-throughput microarray chips as carriers and Au/SnO2 nanoring arrays (Au/SnO2 NRAs) as substrates. This platform utilizes an aptamer recognition-release strategy to achieve efficient and sensitive detection of protein tumor markers. In the detection process, the strong affinity and high specificity between the aptamer and the target protein result in competitive replacement of the SERS nanoprobes originally bound to the substrate surface. As a result, the SERS nanoprobes carrying Raman reporter genes are dislodged, leading to a reduction in the SERS signal intensity. The platform demonstrated excellent detection performance, with rapid detection completed within 15minutes and limits of detection (LOD) as low as 6.2×10-12 g/mL for hnRNP A1 and 6.51×10-12 g/mL for S100P. Clinical samples analyzed using the SERS platform showed high consistency with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) results. This platform offers strong support for the early detection, risk assessment, and treatment monitoring of colorectal cancer precancerous lesions, with broad potential for clinical applications.

Efficacy of Ultrasound-Guided Interscalene Brachial Plexus Block for Acute Post-Hepatectomy Shoulder Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

To investigate the efficacy of ultrasound-guided interscalene brachial plexus block in the treatment of shoulder pain following hepatectomy. A randomized controlled trial. We conducted a single-center, randomized controlled trial. Forty-four patients with shoulder pain scores of at least 5 were randomly assigned to two groups: the treatment group, which received 0.5% ropivacaine (5mL) combined with dexamethasone (5 mg) (n=22), and the control group, which received normal saline (5mL) (n=22). The intervention was performed in the postanesthesia care unit after shoulder pain was identified by using the visual analogue scale. The shoulder pain was re-evaluated 15minutes after intervention. The incidence of effective pain relief, defined as at least 75% reduction in pain intensity, was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included shoulder pain intensity within 2 days after surgery, the timing of the first rescue analgesia, total additional analgesic use, arterial oxygen saturation, intervention-related adverse reactions, and patient satisfaction regarding shoulder pain. The incidence of effective pain relief was significantly higher in the treatment group compared to the control group (15 (68.2%) vs 2 (9.1%), P<0.001). The interscalene brachial plexus block not only prolonged the time to first analgesic request (P <0.001), but also reduced the number of analgesic requests (P <0.001). In the comparison between groups, arterial oxygen saturation was lower in the control group than that in the treatment group, attributed to the use of sufentanil for remedial analgesia (92.4% vs 94.5%, P=0.014). Interscalene brachial plexus block can effectively relieve post-hepatectomy shoulder pain without clinically significant hypoxemia.

Imports and the CO2 emissions of firms

We explore how importing of intermediate goods affects the carbon intensity of firms in the Swedish manufacturing sector. By exploiting exogenous shocks to foreign export supply of intermediate goods, we estimate that a 10 percent increase in imports causes a 5.6 percent reduction in carbon intensity. Average carbon intensity among the firms in our sample between 2004 and 2016 decreased by around 50 percent, and our results suggest that import growth accounted for about a third of this decline. Exploring the mechanisms, we find evidence for both a technique effect and a product composition effect. Importing has a positive impact on productivity, scale of production, and abatement investments. It also encourages firms to focus more on their core products. We find no evidence for a pollution haven effect.

Effects of E-learning for Postural Education in Music Students (El-Poems): A Randomized Controlled Trial Among Iranian Adolescents.

Musculoskeletal (MSK) pain represents a major health problem facing music students worldwide. There is some evidence that posture education could be effective in reducing pain and disability among music students. The aim of this study was to assess the effective¬ness of E-learning for posture education in music students (El-Poems) on the presence of MSK pain, MSK pain intensity, as well as postural behavior. This was a matched-pair, two-arm parallel randomized controlled trial. Participants were music students (aged 12-18 yrs), randomized to intervention (n=134) and control (n=133) groups. The education program included four online sessions of the risks of incorrect posture and the necessary skill for correct postural behavior. A numeric rating scale (NRS) and the Nordic body map were used to evaluate the primary outcomes (MSK pain intensity, presence of MSK pain, and location). A secondary outcome (postural behavior) was assessed using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment checklist. Data were collected at two points, baseline and 6-month follow-up. ANOVA and Wilcoxon tests were performed to assess the time x group interaction effect. A total of 267 music students participated this study. Of these, 150 (56.2%) reported at least one symptomatic region over the previous week. A significant reduction was found from baseline to 6-month follow-up in mean scores in the intervention group for MSK pain prevalence (from 55.2% to 43.3%, Z=-2.71, P=0.004, etap2=0.07), MSK pain intensity (from 2.21±2.51 to 1.94±2.47, F263=32.27, P<0.001, etap2 = 0.11), and postural behavior (from 6.99±2.97 to 6.65±2.72, F263=27.35, P<0.001, etap2=0.09). The results demonstrated that the E-learning postural education program was associated with a decrease in the prevalence of MSK pain, a reduction in pain intensity, and improved postural behavior. Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials: reg. no. IRCT20180528039885N2, Nov-09-2021.

Maximal Analgesic Effect Attained by the Use of Objective Neurophysiological Measurements With Closed-Loop Spinal Cord Stimulation

ObjectivesSpinal cord stimulation (SCS) has been challenged by the lack of neurophysiologic data to guide therapy optimization. Current SCS programming by trial-and-error results in suboptimal and variable therapeutic effects. A novel system with a physiologic closed-loop feedback mechanism using evoked-compound action potentials enables the optimization of physiologic neural dose by consistently and accurately activating spinal cord fibers. We aimed to identify neurophysiologic dose metrics and their ranges that resulted in clinically meaningful treatment responses. Materials and MethodsSubjects from 3 clinical studies (n = 180) with baseline back and leg pain ≥60 mm visual analog scale and physical function in the severe to crippled category were included. Maximal analgesic effect (MAE) was operationally defined as the greatest percent reduction in pain intensity or as the greatest cumulative responder score (minimal clinically important differences [MCIDs]) obtained within the first 3 months of SCS implant. The physiologic metrics that produced the MAE were analyzed. ResultsWe showed that a neural dose regimen with a high neural dose accuracy of 2.8μV and dose ratio of 1.4 resulted in a profound clinical benefit to chronic pain patients (MAE of 79 ± 1% for pain reduction and 12.5 ± 0.4 MCIDs). No differences were observed for MAE or neurophysiological dose metrics between the trial phase and post-implant MAE visit. ConclusionFor the first time, an evidence-based neural dose regimen is available for a neurostimulation intervention as a starting point to enable optimization of clinical benefit, monitoring of adherence, and management of the therapy.

Effectiveness of a Single Intra-articular Injection of High-Molecular-Weight Hyaluronic Acid Versus NSAIDs on the Visual Analog Pain Scale and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index Scores in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis.

This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of a single intra-articular injection of high-molecular-weight (HMW) hyaluronic acid (HA) at a dose of 4 mL/60 mg to reduce pain in people with knee osteoarthritis (OA) over 12 months. This retrospective study was conducted after obtaining ethical approval from Dhaka Medical College and Hospital, Bangladesh. From July 2020 to June 2021, a medical professional conducted the investigation. The investigation encompassed patients aged 40 to 70 hospitalized at our facility and diagnosed with Grade 2 or Grade 3 knee OAaccording to the Kellgren-Lawrence grading method. We divided the patients into two categories based on the treatments they received. Patients in Group A received a single injection of HMW HA (60 mg/4 mL) into the joint, along with instructions on activities of daily living, exercise, and painkillers. Group B patients received conservative therapy, which involved the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, therapeutic exercises, and a knee brace during physical activity. This study compared the efficacy of a single injection of HMW HA in the joint versus NSAIDs for managing OA-related symptoms over 12 weeks. The HA group initially scored similarly to the comparison group. By week three, however, the group receiving HA had considerably higher Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores (p=0.019). This pattern continued through weeks 6 (p=0.044), 9 (p=0.016), and 12 (p<0.001). Similarly, by week 3 (p=0.029), the visual analog scale (VAS) scores, which were initially identical (p=0.120), demonstrated a significant preference for HA, and this preference persisted through weeks 6, 9, and 12 (all p<0.001). The results show that by the third week, HA is more effective than NSAIDs at relieving pain and improving symptoms. The study's results indicated that over 12 weeks, the use of HMW HA led to statistically significant reductions in pain intensity, as measured by the VAS. Furthermore, HMW HA demonstrated a more significant improvement in WOMAC ratings, which assess physical function, stiffness, and pain, compared to NSAIDs. The findings suggest that administering HMW HA injections can significantly reduce symptoms and improve functionality in individuals with knee OA.

The Relationships Between Psychosocial Factors and Short-Term Treatment Outcomes of Massage Therapy in Patients with Myogenic Temporomandibular Disorders: A Single-Arm Preliminary Study.

Massage therapy is included as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). However, it displayed varying degrees of success. Preexisting psychosocial impairments may be one of the possible factors affecting the treatment response. This preliminary study aimed to investigate the relationships between psychological factors and treatment outcomes of massage therapy in myogenous TMD patients. Twenty-two myogenous TMD patients were enrolled in this single-arm preliminary study. Baseline psychosocial assessment was done using self-report measures associated with chronic pain severity, depression, anxiety, and non-specific physical symptoms. Massage therapy including the intraoral and extraoral massage of the face and neck muscles was performed twice a week for 4 weeks. Pain intensity and quality of life related to oral health were evaluated as treatment outcomes before and immediately after eight sessions of massage therapy. Regression analyses showed a significant effect of depression on changes in the quality of life after massage (β = 0.35, p-value = 0.026). In addition, results showed a significant effect of chronic pain severity on changes in the pain intensity following massage (β = 1.50, p-value = 0.027). Our findings suggested that psychosocial characteristics of myogenous TMD patients should be considered as important factors that may adversely affect pain intensity reduction and quality-of-life improvement after short-term massage therapy.

DFT study of electron energy loss spectra of sulfur in Janus MoSSe, MoSTe, WSSe and WSTe monolayers

In this paper, electronic properties of Janus MSX monolayers (M = Mo, W; X = Se or Te), including electron energy loss near edge structures (ELNES), as K and [Formula: see text] edge spectra of sulfur atoms, have been calculated using a full potential scheme and the augmented plane wave plus local orbitals (APW+lo) method in the framework of density functional theory (DFT). Due to the lack of experimental results, the obtained spectra are compared with the corresponding spectra of MoS2 monolayer. The band structure analysis shows that the Janus MoSSe and WSSe monolayers are direct bandgap semiconductors, while the Janus MoSTe and WSTe monolayers are indirect bandgap semiconductors. In comparison to MoS2, the main structures of the K edge ELNES spectra of sulfur atoms in Janus monolayers occur at lower energies, due to the structural change and increased bond length. The relative reduction of intensities in the main structures predicts the possibility of reducing the number of partial densities of states (PDOS), that is, the reduced p PDOS for the K edge in the corresponding energy range. In the K ([Formula: see text] edge ELNES spectra of the sulfur atom in Janus monolayers and MoS2 monolayers, the main structures are due to the electron transfer to the unoccupied [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] states (3s of sulfur and 4d states of the transition metal).

Impact of mechanical activation and mechanochemical activation on microstructural changes, leaching rate and leachability of natural chalcopyrite

The influence of mechanical activation (MA) and mechanochemical activation (MCA) with Fe and Fe2O3 on the microstructural changes, leachability and leaching rate of natural chalcopyrite was investigated and compared. MCA pretreatments were carried out by chalcopyrite co-milling with Fe and Fe2O3 for 20 and 50 min. The XRD analysis indicated that even after 50 min MA and MCA, constituent phases of chalcopyrite, Fe and Fe2O3 could be detectable beside the newly formed bornite. Regarding the peak broadening and peak intensity reduction, MCA generally intensified the microstructural changes of chalcopyrite in comparison with MA. The microstructural study performed by the Rietveld method also proved that all microstructural parameters changed in favor of reactivity, such that the amorphization degree and microstrain were increased to 96 % and 0.164 (%), respectively, while crystallite size was reduced to 14.6 nm after 50 min MCA of chalcopyrite with Fe2O3. It could be concluded from the leaching tests that MCA along with Fe and Fe2O3 addition could promote the leachability and leaching rate of chalcopyrite, as compared to MA and nonactivated chalcopyrite. Although both the MCA of chalcopyrite with Fe and Fe2O3 could enhance copper extractions in the 1 M sulfuric acid leaching tests at 80 °C, Fe addition was slightly more effective than Fe2O3. The results obtained from the kinetic study also revealed that the leaching mechanism of nonactivated chalcopyrite, mechanically activated chalcopyrite and mechanochemically activated chalcopyrite with Fe2O3 changed from diffusion control to chemical control due to MCA with Fe. Finally, the combination of kinetic and microstructural studies proved that all microstructural parameters, except for the microstrain parameters of chalcopyrite MCA with Fe2O3, could be effective in chalcopyrite reactivity promotion.

Analysis of Synergistic Drivers of CO2 and NOX Emissions from Thermal Power Generating Units in Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei Region, 2010–2020

Synergistic control of the emissions of air pollutants and CO2 is critical to the dual challenges of air quality improvement and climate change in China. Based on the emission inventories of thermal power units in Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei, this study analyzes the CO2 and NOX emission characteristics of these units, and identifies and quantifies the synergistic drivers affecting these emission trends. The inventory data show that, between 2010 and 2020, NOX emissions were reduced by 86.1%, while CO2 emissions were reduced by only 29.8%. Although significant progress has been made in reducing NOX emissions through measures such as end-of-pipe treatment, controlling CO2 emissions remains a difficult task. The index decomposition analysis reveals that economic growth is the main driver of CO2 and NOX emission growth, energy intensity reduction is the main driver of CO2 emission reduction, and end-of-pipe treatment is the main driver of NOX emission reduction. Currently, coal occupies about 87% of the energy consumption of thermal power units in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region, and remains the main type of energy for synergistic emissions, and the potential for emission reduction in the energy structure remains huge. For NOX emissions, it is expected that 90% of the reduction potential can be achieved through energy restructuring and end-of-pipe treatment. In conclusion, this high-precision unit-by-unit emission study confirms the effectiveness of the control policy for thermal power units in the region and provides some scientific reference for future policy formulation.