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• The effect mechanism of solution heating rate on grain structure of aviation Al-Li alloy was explained in detail. • The variation of texture intensity in aviation Al-Li alloy with various solution heating rates was revealed. • The mechanism of grain size on formation of dislocation structure and its effect on fatigue crack propagation behavior during fatigue loading were discussed in detail. • The linear relationship between the grain size and the initial ΔK entering the rapid propagation region was firstly revealed in aviation Al-Li alloy. In this study, the effects of grain structure on the fatigue crack propagation (FCP) behaviors in the aviation Al-Li alloy sheets prepared by varying solution heating rates are discussed systematically. The results reveal that both the intensity of Goss texture and grain dimensions are improved with the decreased solution heating rates. Upon an identical stress intensity factor range (ΔK), the increased Goss texture of the sample with a solution heating rate of 2 ℃/min (2HR) promotes crack deflection, causing a decrease in FCP rates compared to that of the sample with a solution heating rate of about 100 ℃/min (FHR). The dislocations clustered near grain boundaries are more significant with increasing grain size during cyclic loading, which intensifies the strain localization. The accumulation of dislocations increases the possibility of micro-voids formation and creates the conditions for crack deflection, which results in a decrease in FCP rate. Besides, based on the calculation of the reversible plastic zone (RPZ) size, the initial ΔK entering the rapid propagation region increases with decreasing solution heating rates and exhibits a strong linear relationship with grain size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The structures and electronic properties of K-PHI and H-PHI are compared. • A systematic theoretical study of the structure, electronic and optical properties and photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction activity of K-PHI and H-PHI loaded Pt cocatalysts was conducted. • The short-range induced dipole effect of K+ and the larger size of the Pt cocatalyst together promote the photocatalytic performance of carbon nitride. In the synthesis of highly crystalline carbon nitride, alkali metal halides are used as high-temperature solvents and structural guiding agents, but the effect of alkali metal ions on the catalytic activity of materials is still unclear. In addition, the shape and size of the cocatalyst also significantly affect the catalytic activity of the material. Therefore, we have carried out the density functional theory calculations to reveal the differences in the structure, electronic, and optical properties, as well as the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution performance of one kind of crystalline carbon nitride called potassium poly(heptazine imide) (K-PHI) and its proton-exchanged counterpart (H-PHI) loaded with different sizes of platinum cocatalysts. The results show that potassium ions have the effect of aggregation electrons in K-PHI, and potassium ions have short-range induced dipole effect on nearby Pt atoms, resulting in slightly better photocatalytic hydrogen evolution activity at these reaction sites. Additionally, Pt cocatalyst with larger load size has better photocatalytic hydrogen evolution activity than small size. This work provides a theoretical basis for the rational design of high-performance metal cocatalysts and exploration of the functionality of alkali metal ions in carbon nitrides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Bulky TPA is favorable for photochromism in the crystalline state. • Bulky TPA can help to form amorphous materials during fast precipitation procedure. • Excited-state intramolecular proton transfer is inhibited in the amorphous state for inactive photochromism. • Distinguished photochromism is utilized for bimodal encryption-decryption. Multimodal encryption-decryption with photochromism has been proved to ensure information security with great feasibility and operability. However, most of the photochromic materials are applied in single-mode encryption-decryption and highly dependent on crystallization, requiring long manufacturing time and lacking of controllability. Hence, amorphous materials with simple preparation and bimodal encryption-decryption are of good alternates. Herein, we have succeeded in developing an aggregation-induced emission-active and photochromic ATPA-SAB with crystalline form via introduction of the propeller-like and bulky triphenylamine (TPA). Expectedly, the amorphous materials can be obtained by fast precipitation. Examining its amorphous structures, the intramolecular N‧‧‧H distances of around 4.000 Å is largely over the normal intramolecular hydrogen bond of circa 1.800 Å, impeding the intrinsic excited-state intramolecular proton transfer process (ESIPT) for the first time, hence prohibiting photochromism. This work not only provides a strategy to construct amorphous materials and inhibit ESIPT process with TPA, but also applies both crystalline and amorphous materials for bimodal encryption-decryption to upgrade information security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The measurements of P v Tx properties of HFO-1234yf/HFC-32 binary mixture in the vapor phase were carried out by single-sinker magnetic suspension densimeter in the range of temperatures from 279.8 to 347.9 K, pressures from 0.10 to 2.66 MPa, densities from 2.30 to 66.02 kg m −3 , and mole fractions of HFO-1234yf from 0.062 to 0.610. The experimental expanded uncertainty ( k  = 2) in temperature, pressure, and mole fraction are estimated to be 12 mK, 1.4 kPa, and 0.0002, respectively. The relative expanded uncertainty ( k  = 2) in density is 0.029–0.104%. On the basis of the experimental PvTx properties data, a truncated virial equation of state was developed for the binary HFO-1234yf/HFC-32 system. It reproduces the experimental values with average absolute deviations of 0.10% and 0.11% for pressure and density, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A simplified skeleton method for coarse aggregates analysis of asphalt mixtures was proposed. • The stress transfer paths and load transfer efficiencies of three typical gradations were studied. • Eff skeleton reflected the load transfer efficiency of the coarse aggregate skeleton under no-load conditions. • The DisP value reflected the load transfer efficiency of the coarse aggregate skeleton under a specific load. Studies on asphalt mixture skeletons have primarily focused on the statistical skeleton morphology while neglecting internal stress transfer. This study therefore proposed a simplified reconstruction-based coarse aggregate skeleton method for analyzing asphalt mixes using the force chain concept from granular matter mechanics. The stress transfer paths and load transfer efficiencies were investigated for three typical aggregate gradations (AC-13, SMA-13, and OGFC-13) and an analysis of their correlation with uniaxial penetration test results was performed. The AC-13 mixture exhibited the largest uniaxial penetration strength (3.30 kN on average) at the lowest failure displacement (4.1 mm on average). As the characteristics of the simplified skeleton were shown to be related to the number of contact points provided between large aggregate particles, the force chain morphology was closely linked to the mixture gradation. The ratio of strong to weak force chains in the AC-13 mixture was approximately 0.77, whereas those of the SMA-13 and OGFC-13 mixtures were significantly different at 0.90 and 1.13, respectively. The transfer efficiencies of the AC-13, SMA-13, and OGFC-13 specimen skeletons considering morphology alone (i.e., under the no-load condition) were 20.94 %, 62.34 %, and 73.57 %, respectively. However, the correlation between the load transfer efficiency of the coarse aggregate skeleton under a specific load and the observed penetration strength reached 0.9. Thus, the simplified skeleton analysis method proposed herein was shown to satisfactorily retain the skeletal characteristics of the mixes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Because the rigid alicyclic ring of dehydroabietic acid has the effect of restricting the molecular motion, we obtained two rosin-based BioAIEgens by combining DA with large chromophoric triphenylamine. • DAA-TPA obtained by connecting TPA with the aliphatic ring of DA has TICT-AIE, while the DAMBA-TPA obtained by connecting TPA with the aromatic ring of DA shows an atypical AIE. • Based on the TICT-AIE performance of DAA-TPA, we applied it to the detection of trace water in organic solvents. Aggregation-induced emission (AIE) luminogens have been widely used in various fields. Among them, BioAIEgens (AIEgens from natural resources) have been highly concerned by researchers because of their unique advantages. However, the number of BioAIEgens directly derived from nature is limited. Therefore, chemical modification on natural resources may be an effective way to obtain more BioAIEgens. In this paper, because the rigid alicyclic ring of dehydroabietic acid (DA) has the effect of restricting molecular motion, we successfully obtained two rosin-based BioAIEgens (DAA-TPA and DAMBA-TPA) by combining DA with triphenylamine. Interestingly, DAA-TPA obtained by connecting TPA with the aliphatic ring of DA has TICT-AIE and strong solid-state emission properties, while DAMBA-TPA obtained by connecting TPA with the aromatic ring of DA shows an atypical AIE and weak solid emission effect. Two control molecules were designed to investigate the influence of the introduction of aliphatic ring and aromatic ring on the photophysical properties of TPA. The results showed that DA containing both aliphatic ring and aromatic ring may be used as a precursor to construct BioAIEgens with different AIE properties. In addition, based on the fluorescence performance of DAA-TPA, we applied it to the detection of trace water in acetonitrile (ACN). Two rosin-based BioAIEgens with distinct fluorescence properties have been obtained on account of our design strategy of introducing large chromophoric triphenylamine into rigid rosin. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Packing plays a bridging role on the material design. • Both photochromic and mechanochromic properties are closely related to the packing modes. • The photochromic properties can be utilized for application in encryption-decryption. Current research shows that photophysical behaviors of fluorescent materials are used to be regulated by molecular design, but in fact it remains elusive to directly correlate molecular structures with the macroscopic properties at aggregate state. Herein, a series of natural alicycle-incorporated salicylideneanilines with aggregation-induced emission activity as well as their corresponding simple ones have been synthesized to fill the gap between molecular and aggregate level. Unexpectedly, the largely stronger emission of the simple salicylideneaniline with Br substituent over its alicycle-fused compound contrasts the previous molecular design strategy of rigidification effect via structural incorporation of alicycles, suggesting the influential effect of packing, which can be further verified by quenched emission of the simple Cl-substituted salicylideneaniline due to its compact packing. Moreover, comprehensive stimuli-responsive chromic investigations prove that the packing modes correlate well with the excited-state intramolecular proton transfer and cis to trans isomerization processes, enabling the Me-substituted simple salicylideneaniline with loosest packing photochromic, while the one (Cl group) with most compact packing mechanochromic. Hence, this work helps to bridge the gap between molecular structures and macroscopic properties via molecular packing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanochromic materials have been attractive to researchers in recent years due to their wide applications. However, traditional petrochemical-based mechanochromic materials are probably faced with problems of non-renewability and poor sustainability. Hence, it is of great significance to develop mechanochromic materials from phytochemicals endowed with renewability and sustainability. Herein, after combining the tetraphenylethene motif with a rosin-originated phytochemical, dehydroabietic acid, two natural rosin-based aggregation-induced emission (BioAIE) luminogens, DAA-TPE and DAMBA-TPE , were separately obtained on distinct Schiff base reaction sites. Both compounds have AIE phenomena mainly due to the introduction of tetraphenylethene group. However, their other optical properties are totally different depending on the imine site. DAMBA-TPE (imine on the aromatic site of dehydroabietic acid) shows very weak fluorescence at aggregate state, while DAA-TPE (imine on the alkyl site of dehydroabietic acid) exhibits strong emission and high contrast mechanochromic behavior in the solid state. Via the introduction of naturally large alkyl substitution, the pristine powder can be illuminated with a red shift of 28 nm from blue (442 nm) to cyan (470 nm) upon grinding. While a structurally analogue with a small iso -butyl substitution does not possess mechanochromism. Moreover, the fluorescence of DAA-TPE can be reversibly switched, which is most probably attributed to the crystal form change before and after grinding. This property endows DAA-TPE with potential application in the manufacturing of rewritable paper. Last but not least, this work paves a way to the design of mechanochromic materials from naturally renewable resources via introduction of large alkyl groups on the TPE skeleton. Two rosin-derived BioAIEgens with distinct fluorescence and mechanochromic properties have been easily obtained via the introduction of naturally large DA moieties. [Display omitted] • Melding the large DA moiety on the TPE skeleton, two rosin-based BioAIEgens can be easily obtained. • DAA-TPE exhibits strong solid-state emission, while DAMBA-TPE is only weakly emissive in the aggregate state. • The introduction of DA can result in reversible mechanochromic property, leading to application as rewritable materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose To observe the safety of selective dose boost to the pre-treatment high 18 F-deoxyglucose (FDG) uptake areas of the esophageal GTV. Methods Patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma were treated with escalating radiation dose of 4 levels, with a simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) to the pre-treatment 50% SUVmax area of the primary tumor. Patients received 4 monthly cycles of cisplatin and fluorouracil. Dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) was defined as any Grade 3 or higher acute toxicities causing continuous interruption of radiation for over 1 week. Results From April 2012 to February 2014, dose has been escalated up to LEVEL 4 (70 Gy). All of the 25 patients finished the prescribed dose without DLT, and 10 of them developed Grade 3 acute esophagitis. One patient of LEVEL 2 died of esophageal hemorrhage within 1 month after completion of radiotherapy, which was not definitely correlated with treatment yet. Late toxicities remained under observation. With median follow up of 8.9 months, one-year overall survival and local control was 69.2% and 77.4%, respectively. Conclusions Dose escalation in esophageal cancer based on 18 FDG-PET/CT has been safely achieved up to 70 Gy using the SIB technique. Acute toxicities were well tolerated, whereas late toxicities and long-term outcomes deserved further observation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A three-dimensional (3D) multi-level architecture design (Cu@Cu NW@LDH) is achieved. • The introduction of Cu NWs provides abundant nucleation sites and high electron conductivity. • Cu@Cu NW@LDH shows strong alkaline resistance properties and excellent OER catalytic activity. • The zinc-air battery (ZAB) with Cu@Cu NW@LDH as air electrode delivers superior cycling stability. The sluggish oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and poor stability of oxygen electrocatalysts are main obstacles to the scale-up commercial application of rechargeable Zn-air battery. Herein, a three-dimensional (3D) multi-level architecture design is achieved by the confined growth of two-dimensional (2D) layer double hydroxides of nickel and iron (NiFe LDH) flakes on copper nanowires arrays (Cu NWs), which is epitaxially assembled on the surface of Cu foam (CF). The established Cu@Cu NW@LDH possesses stronger bonding strength between NiFe LDH and Cu NWs as well as Cu NWs and CF endowed by electroplating method. The introduction of Cu NWs not only provides abundant nucleation sites for the deposition of NiFe LDH flakes but also improves the electron conductivity of composite. The obtained Cu@Cu NW@LDH shows excellent OER catalytic activity with a potential of 1.44 V at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 and strong alkaline resistance properties in comparison with NiFe LDH on CF (Cu@LDH). As expected, the rechargeable zinc-air battery (ZAB) with Cu@Cu NW@LDH as air electrode delivers superior cycling stability (250 h at a current density of 10 mA cm−2). This work paves a new way to the design of 3D multi-level architecture catalysts for ZAB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] We theoretically analyze the rotor fault current of DFIG based on space vector. [•] The presented analysis is simple, easy to understand. [•] The analysis highlights the accuracy of the expression of the rotor fault currents. [•] The expression can be widely used to analyze the different levels of voltage symmetrical fault. [•] Simulation results show the accuracy of the expression of the rotor currents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The variation laws of mortar indicators were investigated by performance tests. • The correlation between mortar performance and mixture performance was analyzed. • Mixture with excellent anti-rutting and deformation performance was designed. • The design method can realize the coordination of rutting and crack resistance. The anti-rutting and anti-cracking performance of asphalt mixtures are a pair of contradictions that are difficult to coordinate. In order to ensure the rutting resistance of asphalt mixture to meet the requirements of the specification, while improving its deformation capacity and crack resistance. Based on the mortar performance, the Anti-rutting and High Ductility Asphalt Mixture with excellent anti-rutting performance and deformation performance was designed in this paper. With the filler-asphalt ratio as the control index, SBS modified asphalt and SHV modified asphalt was selected to design five asphalt mortars with different filler-asphalt ratios of 0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0. Variation laws of mortar technical indicators were investigated by rotational viscosity test, cone penetration test, and BBR test. Asphalt mixtures were prepared and a rutting test and small beam bending test were carried out to ensure the consistency of the mixture skeleton state by grouting molding. The influence of the mortar performance index on the road performance of the mixture was evaluated by conducting correlation analysis, and then an anti-rutting and high-ductility asphalt mixture was proposed based on mortar performance. The obtained results showed that the technical indicators of asphalt mortar had a good correlation with the filler-asphalt ratio, and the developed regression model could be used to determine the correlation and design of the mortars. The technical performance index of mortar was found to be directly correlated with the road performance index of the mixture. The developed anti-rutting and high-ductility asphalt mixture not only had good anti-rutting performance but also had good deformation capacity and cracking resistance. Its anti-rutting performance could meet the specification requirements, and the maximum flexural strain could reach 7161 με. The performance of asphalt mortar determines the road performance of the mixture. The rutting resistance and cracking resistance of the mixture could be coordinated by designing asphalt mortar to improve its comprehensive road performance. To guarantee that the dynamic stability of the mixture met the required specifications and the deformation ability was good, the critical value of each technical index of asphalt mortar was recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The influence of grid voltage dip on doubly fed induction generators (DFIGs), especially rotor current, has received much attention. So, in this paper, the rotor short-circuit current of based-DFIG wind turbines is considered in a generic way, which is suitable to analyze the cases under different levels of both voltage sag and voltage rise. A direct method is proposed to obtain accurate expression of rotor current. Firstly, the rotor open-circuit voltage in terms of stator flux is determined, and the dynamic equation of the rotor current reduces to a first-order differential equation under rotor short-circuit operation condition. Secondly, the expressions of the rotor open-circuit voltage before and after a fault are obtained, respectively. Finally, based on the obtained expression of rotor voltage, the rotor short circuit currents before and after a fault are obtained by solving the first-order differential equation. This analysis contributes to understand the causes of the problem, and as a result, it helps to adapt reasonable approaches to improve the capacity of the uninterrupted operation of wind power generation during a voltage fault. Simulation results evaluate the proposed analysis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Wind energy, as a reliable, natural and renewable electrical power supply, produces no emissions and so it is an excellent alternative to conventional, more heavily polluting fuels in the long term based on the worldwide concern about the environment and energy supply. Wind energy resources in China are affluent, but its distribution are uneven, centralized, and far from both the utility and the high electricity demand markets. This made China''s onshore wind power development have such characteristics as large scale, high centralization and far transmission, which is different with that in Europe, where the characteristics are even distribution, decentralized. In past two decades, considering the economic, technical and environmental benefits of wind power, China has given priority to its development. Besides the dramatic growth of large scale grid-connected wind power, household-scale wind power has been used most successfully in remote rural regions in China. Therefore, the development of wind power will be of great importance to alleviate the energy crisis and environmental pollution resulting from the rapid economic growth of China in the future. In this paper, the current development of wind energy utilization in China is investigated, and some critical barriers are discussed. Finally, the perspective of wind energy utilization is presented, where focuses are placed on seven wind power bases. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: He’s frequency formulation is used to obtain the relationship between the frequency and amplitude of a nonlinear oscillator. The general approach is to choose two linear oscillators; in this paper, however, one linear oscillator and the Duffing oscillator are chosen as trial equations. The solution procedure is of utter simplicity, while the result is of high accuracy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The stack of a residential fuel cell power generation system has low voltage and high current output characteristics. Therefore, a high step up DC–DC converter with high frequency transformer isolation is necessary to elevate the voltage to the DC link as inverter input. This paper deeply investigates the relationship between the DC link voltage and the converter efficiency. The calculation and simulation results reveal that the lower the DC link voltage is, the higher the converter efficiency is. Based on this conclusion, a DC link voltage optimized control scheme is proposed to improve the converter efficiency, further the power conditioning system efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To study whether radiation induces differential changes in plasma proteomics in patients with and without radiation-induced lung toxicity (RILT) of Grade ≥2 (RILT2). Methods and Materials: A total of 57 patients with NSCLC received radiation therapy (RT) were eligible. Twenty patients, 6 with RILT2 with tumor stage matched to 14 without RILT2, were enrolled for this analysis. Platelet-poor plasma was obtained before RT, at 2, 4, 6 weeks during RT, and 1 and 3 months after RT. Plasma proteomes were compared using a multiplexed quantitative proteomics approach involving ExacTag labeling, reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography and nano-LC electrospray tandem mass spectrometry. Variance components models were used to identify the differential protein expression between patients with and without RILT2. Results: More than 100 proteins were identified and quantified. After excluding proteins for which there were not at least 2 subjects with data for at least two time points, 76 proteins remained for this preliminary analysis. C4b-binding protein alpha chain, Complement C3, and Vitronectin had significantly higher expression levels in patients with RILT2 compared with patients without RILT2, based on both the data sets of RT start to 3 months post-RT (p < 0.01) and RT start to the end of RT (p < 0.01). The expression ratios of patients with RILT2 vs. without RILT2 were 1.60, 1.36, 1.46, and 1.66, 1.34, 1.46, for the above three proteins, respectively. Conclusions: This proteomic approach identified new plasma protein markers for future studies on RILT prediction. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Purpose: To compare the survival of postresection recurrent vs. newly diagnosed non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients treated with radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy. Methods and Materials: The study population consisted of 661 consecutive patients with NSCLC registered in the radiation oncology databases at two medical centers in the United States between 1992 and 2004. Of the 661 patients, 54 had postresection recurrent NSCLC and 607 had newly diagnosed NSCLC. Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression models were used for the survival analyses. Results: The distribution of relevant clinical factors between these two groups was similar. The median survival time and 5-year overall survival rates were 19.8 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 13.9–25.7) and 14.8% (95% confidence interval, 5.4–24.2%) vs. 12.2 months (95% CI, 10.8–13.6) and 11.0% (95% CI, 8.5–13.5%) for recurrent vs. newly diagnosed patients, respectively (p = .037). For Stage I-III patients, no significant difference was observed in the 5-year overall survival (p = .297) or progression-free survival (p = .935) between recurrent and newly diagnosed patients. For the 46 patients with Stage I-III recurrent disease, multivariate analysis showed that chemotherapy was a significant prognostic factor for 5-year progression-free survival (hazard ratio, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.224–0.914; p = .027). Conclusion: Our institutional data have shown that patients with postresection recurrent NSCLC achieved survival comparable to that of newly diagnosed NSCLC patients when they were both treated with radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy. These findings suggest that patients with postresection recurrent NSCLC should be treated as aggressively as those with newly diagnosed disease. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The existence of the Gödel rotation parameter in Gödel universe creates many interesting special features for Gödel-type black holes. In this Letter, motivated by the fact that these new features provide additional tests as to the robustness of the covariant anomaly cancellation method and the effective action technique, we attempt to adopt the analyses to study Hawking radiation from Kerr–Gödel black hole. The result is interesting and showing that the covariant anomaly cancellation method and the effective action technique applied to Kerr–Gödel black hole yield Hawking temperatures consistent with the previous results made via other methods. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• The tangential elastic stiffness of new-new, old-old and new-old interface contact types were obtained. • The ks regression model established has high accuracy. • The shear modulus model takes into account the classification of contact points in the skeleton and the mechanical characteristics of aggregate interface. • There is a good correlation between the calculated results of the shear modulus model and the laboratory test results. The mechanical characteristics, quantity, and distribution of contact interfaces in the composite skeleton of recycled asphalt mixture affect the consistency of deformation of new and old aggregate composite skeleton, further affecting the macroscopic mechanical properties of material. To quantitatively analyze the effect of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) content on the mechanical characteristics of contact interface and shear performance of recycled asphalt mixture, the tangential elastic stiffness of interface of new-new, new-old, and old-old contact types is defined as k s n e w - n e w , k s n e w - o l d , and k s o l d - o l d , respectively; interfacial shear tests were carried out for new-new, new-old, and old-old contact types. Digital image technology and statistical analysis were used to obtain the proportion distribution of α n e w - n e w , α n e w - o l d , α o l d - o l d of three aggregate contact types under different RAP contents. Combined with the calculation results of interface tangential elastic stiffness and shear modulus with different RAP contents, an interface tangential elastic stiffness estimation model and a shear modulus calculation model were established, and the rationality of the model was verified. The results show that different interface contact types significantly affected the shear test results. The tangential elastic stiffness of old-old contact type is the highest, 0.3416 × 106 N/m. The tangential elastic stiffness of new-old and new-new contact types are 0.2254 × 106 N/m and 0.0992 × 106 N/m, respectively. The results of contact interface shear test of recycled asphalt mixture with different RAP contents show that the overall trend of shear curve is similar, and the peak value and mean value of shear force do not change consistently with the increase of RAP content. Using the least square mathematical analysis method for overdetermined equation, the goodness-of-fit of k s regression model with different RAP contents is 0.85. There is a good correlation between the shear modulus calculation results and uniaxial penetration test results, and the correlation coefficient is 0.80. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Tissue factor (TF) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various thrombotic disorders. Monoclonal antibodies (mAb) that specifically target TF may have potential as antithrombotic therapy. We designed a unique TF peptide (TFP) that was specific for the binding site to factor X (FX). This peptide was used to develop TF mAb that block the coagulation cascade by interfering with the combination of FX with the TF/FVIIa complex. Chemically synthesized TFP coupled to polylysine matrix was used as multiple antigenic peptide (TF-MAP) and this was used to immunize Balb/c mice for the preparation of hybridomas. One hybridoma cell line released an antibody, named TF4A12, which had high anticoagulant potency (by dilute prothrombin time assay). Western blotting showed that TF4A12 could bind TF-MAP and the soluble TF extracellular domain (sTF1–219). Results of FX activation assay and amidolytic activity assay showed that the anticoagulant ability of TF4A12 is due to blocking FX, but not FVII, binding to TF. Our study identified an efficient method of developing TF mAb that could block the coagulation cascade. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The ground-state geometries of monolithium porphyrin (LiP) π-radical and its three reduced/oxidized species ([LiP]−, [LiP]2−, and [LiP]+) have been calculated with the density functional theory. The results show that LiP, [LiP]− and [LiP]+ have planar D4h structures while the [LiP]2− dianion has a rectangular distorted D2h structure due to the ground-state Jahn-Teller effect. LiTPP and LiOEP radicals were also studied to assess the effect of peripheral substitutions. The ground-state LiTPP has a normal porphyrin ring (D4h effective symmetry), while the ground-state LiOEP has a porphyrin ring with pronounced bond length alternation (C4h effective symmetry) due to the pseudo-Jahn-Teller (pJT) distortion along an A2g-like coordinate. The spin densities of LiP, LiTPP, and LiOEP were analyzed, showing evident effects of peripheral substitution. Electronic absorption spectrum of LiP radical was calculated with the time-dependent DFT and was compared with the experimental results of LiTPP. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• The thermal load could produce biaxial stress state and then reduce the load carrying capacity of stiffened panels. • The geometrical range of model is suggested extent half span/bay for reducing the influences of boundary conditions. • The ultimate strength of the stiffened panels would achieve during thermal load. • The residual thermal stress should be taken into account in the assessment of residual ultimate strength. The purpose of the present study is to investigate the influences of localised thermal stress on the load carrying capacity of stiffened panels under in-plane compression. The thermal loads and bending moment caused by extreme water wave seldom occur at the same time, hence, which are applied on ship structures in two load steps separately in the finite element (FE) analysis. Firstly, the stress state and structural responses of the stiffened panels under localised thermal loads with different heating zone ranges are discussed. Subsequently, the collapse behaviours of the stiffened panels under in-plane compression are simulated, in which the residual thermal stress due to the thermal loads is also included. The influences of residual thermal stress, areas of heating zone and boundary conditions on the collapse behaviours are investigated. It is found that the thermal loads could cause biaxial stress state that can reduce the load carrying capacity of the stiffened panels, which should be considered in the development of assessment formula of residual ultimate strength for ship structure design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An easily obtained derivative 1 from natural dehydroabietic acid was applied as a precursor in this work, which could further derivatize to its Schiff base ligands and corresponding zinc complexes with a high crystalline yield. • The larger dihedral angles of the ligands are indicative of strong molecular motion, resulting in their luminescence quenching. • When the ligands were structurally restricted via coordination to zinc ion, their fluorescence occurred, most probably due to the restriction of intramolecular motion. • This work not only discusses the relationship between their photophysical properties and molecular structures, but also provides a new natural resource for further research in fluorescent materials. Two Schiff base ligands (2a and 2b) and their zinc complexes (3a and 3b) have been designed and facilely synthesized through simple condensation reactions using compound 1 derived from natural dehydroabietic acid as the precursor. The larger dihedral angles of the ligands shown by the single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis indicate their stronger molecular motion, which is in consistence with their low fluorescence efficiency that is verified by the photophysical measurements. After coordination with zinc ions, the fluorescence intensity of the zinc complexes is larger, which might be explained by the structural rigidification via coordination, thereby reducing the energy loss from molecular motion. Furthermore, complex 3b exhibits a specific negative solvatochromic effect, and the absorption of its maximum wavelength shows a hypsochromic shift with increased polarity. Such solvatochromic phenomena can be explained by the synergy of intramolecular charge transfer and the proximity effect that may increase the energy difference between the ground state and the excited state in polar solvents. This work not only discusses their relationship between photophysical properties and structures, but also provides a new natural source for further research in fluorescent materials. Image, graphical abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A green and highly efficient extraction method for flavonoids from Malus hupehensis was established on deep eutectic solvents (DESs). • The DES-based HSCCC solvent systems was investigated, and developed for the separation of pure compounds for the first time. • Five flavonoids were isolated from the DES extract. • The DES-based HSCCC solvent system was prepared by using the recovered DES, and the HSCCC separation was re-operated. In the present experiment, a green and highly efficient extraction method for flavonoids established on deep eutectic solvents (DESs) was investigated by using the response surface methodology. The DES-based high-speed countercurrent chromatography (HSCCC) solvent systems were developed for the separation of high purity compounds from the DES extract of Malus hupehensis for the first time. Under the optimal conditions (liquid-to-solid ratio of 26.3 mL/g, water content of 25.5%, and extraction temperature of 77.5°C), the yield of flavonoids was 15.3 ± 0.1%, which was superior to that of the methanol extraction method. In accordance with the physical property of DES-based HSCCC solvent systems and K values of target compounds, DES-based HSCCC solvent systems composed of choline chloride/glucose-water-ethyl acetate (ChCl/Glu-H 2 O-EAC, 1:1:2, v/v) was selected for the HSCCC separation. Thus, five flavonoids (two novel compounds 1-2 , 6´´-O-coumaroyl-2´-O-glucopyranosylphloretin and 3´´´-methoxy-6´´-O-feruloy-2´-O-glucopyranosylphloretin; three know compounds 3-5 , namely, avicularin, phloridzin, and sieboldin) were efficiently separated from Malus hupehensis. DESs are the environment friendly and highly efficient solvents as the components of extraction solvent and HSCCC solvent system, and can be re-utilized many times. However, ethyl acetate can be soluble with a few hydrogen bond donors, such as urea, carboxylic acid and polyol, through the shake flask test. It is the great difficulty for the efficient and rapid separation of target compounds from the DESs extract because of the DESs residual in the HSCCC fractions. ChCl and Glu are the great choices of DESs without this problem. In addition, K values increased with the increase of the molar ratio of ChCl/Glu and the content of water, which could effectively guide us to choose the suitable DES-based HSCCC solvent system. The twice HSCCC separation results indicated that DES was the valuable and green solvent for the HSCCC separation of pure compounds from the extract for the first time, and showed the recycle superiority of DES-based HSCCC solvent system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The average polarity of multi-components and solvent system, the analyte retention factor were combined together at "sweet point". • The average polarity of multi-components was calculated by the polarity parameter model on HPLC analysis. • The proposed model is a valuable tool for selecting the appropriate solvent system. • Six antioxidant constituents were isolated from H.marmoreus by HSCCC for first time. For a successful high-speed countercurrent chromatography (HSCCC) separation of multiple components, the suitable solvent system selection is a critical operation. Despite the difference in separation mechanism between HSCCC and HPLC, K values of compounds in the solvent system and the retention factor of compounds in HPLC were connected with polarity, and the polarity mainly depended on the structure and chemical properties of compounds. On the basis of the concept of "like dissolves like", the average polarity of the solvent system is equal to the average polarity of multiple components at the "sweet point" log K = 0. The result of theoretical deduction showed a negative linear correlation between the polarity of each component and the logarithm of the gradient range of the organic phase. Therefore, the average polarity of unknown multiple components could be obtained through the polarity parameter model established in the HPLC analysis. The suitable solvent system composed of n-hexane–ethyl acetate–methanol–water (8:3:8:1, v/v) was selected through the average polarity of multi-components combining K values of the enriched samples. In the context of bioassay, an efficient HSCCC separation procedure was established, and two groups of analogue benzaldehyde derivatives (four main antioxidants, namely, isodihydroauroglaucin, isoaspergin, isotetrahydro-auroglaucin, and flavoglaucin; two minor antioxidants, namely, 6′-oxo-chaetopyranin and chaetopyranin) were obtained from Hypsizygus marmoreus. The predicted polarity values of multi-components were sufficient to meet the HSCCC experimental requirements. The HPLC analysis of reference compounds and multi-components showed a significant consistency with different chromatographic columns. Therefore, the polarity parameter model established in the HPLC analysis was a simple, rapid, and helpful tool for looking an appropriate solvent system, which was a forwarding step for the HSCCC separation of multiple components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

He’s perturbation method is applied to the search for periodic solutions of Jacobi elliptic equations, which are widely studied in connection with nonlinear wave equations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• An asphalt mixture shear modulus model is proposed based on granular mechanics theory. • The model was verified with an asphalt mixture analysis system and a pressure film. • Contact area, stress distribution, and total stress were measured accurately. • Our model quantified the binder and gradation effects on the asphalt's shear modulus. This study proposes a mechanical model for the shear modulus of asphalt mixtures based on granular mechanics theory. An aggregate interface shear test is conducted to validate the proposed model with the asphalt mixture particle shear analysis system and a pressure film. Results show that the pressure film can measure accurately the contact area, stress distribution, and total stress of the contact interface. It is demonstrated that more than 65% of the contact area bears only 37.5% of the total load, and the contact interface exhibits an uneven stress distribution. The binder type has a significant influence on the shear force at the contact interface. As the penetration of the asphalt decreases, the softening-point temperature increases; as the rutting factor increases, the tangential elastic stiffness also increases. The proposed mechanical model can distinguish the influences of the binder and gradation on the shear modulus of asphalt mixtures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A nonlinear model for GSS analysis is derived and verified by simulations. • Mechanisms of GSS under both balanced and unbalanced grid faults are revealed. • Numerical studies of the parameters' impacts on GSS are conducted and analyzed. Transient behavior and response of wind turbines have been extensively studied in the context of the low-voltage-ride-through (LVRT) for many years, in which the identified transients are mostly associated with circuit responses, whereas underlying stability issues relevant to converter control yet remain concealed. Recently, small-signal analyses of grid-tied converters have shown that the phase-locked-loop (PLL) may interact with other converter controls when synchronized to nonideal grids, if not properly treated, it may lead to oscillations. Enlightened by this, this paper will explore the PLL effects on the stability of a Type-IV wind turbine, however, from a large-signal analysis viewpoint. To achieve this, a nonlinear reduced-order model focusing on the transient interaction of PLL and the faulty grid is developed rigorously from the model assumption to verification. Based on this, the grid-synchronizing stability (GSS) provoked by grid faults is identified and the mechanism of which is revealed through the equal-area-principle (EAP). Then, impacts of system parameters (e.g. PLL bandwidth) on GSS margin are quantitatively evaluated by calculating the critical-clearing-time (CCT), and the acquired knowledge could be useful guidelines for PLL parameter design. Finally, all the analyses are verified by a switching model of the Type-IV wind turbine system in PSCAD/EMTDC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To determine heterogeneity of high-grade glioma (HGG) and its surrounding area and explore quantitative analysis of invasion of HGG using diffusion tensor imaging. Methods This study included 14 patients with HGG and preoperative magnetic resonance imaging and diffusion tensor imaging examinations. Three regions of interest were placed. Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and fractional anisotropy (FA) values of these regions of interest were measured, and specimens from the 3 regions of interest were obtained under navigation guidance. Postoperative examinations of specimens were carried out. Correlations between ADC and FA values and tumor cell density were evaluated. Results Median survival was 36.7 months. As distance from the tumor increased, the number of tumor cells significantly decreased. Regarding levels of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and Ki-67, only the differences between tumor and distances of 1 cm and 2 cm away from the tumor were statistically significant. For analysis of the relationship between tumor cell density and ADC and FA values, the discriminant formulas were as follows: G1 = −13.678 + 14984.791 (X) + 14443.847 (Y) (tumor cell density ≥10%); G2 = −11.649 + 14443.847 (X) + 33.285 (Y) (tumor cell density <10%). Conclusions We verified the heterogeneity of HGG and its surrounding area and found that patients with extensive resection may have longer survival. We also found a few formulas using FA and ADC values to predict tumor cell density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Analyzed interfacial bonding effect on SFP via silane solution soak of PAM. • Examined grouting's effect on SFP compressive strength through compression test. • Estimated grouting's contribution to SFP's low-temp splitting and shear strength. • Suggested cost-effective ways to improve SFP's mechanical properties. Semi-flexible pavement (SFP) materials, composed of porous asphalt mixture (PAM) and cement-based grouting material, are multiphase composites commonly used in roadway construction. However, damage frequently occurs at the composite interface of two-phase materials, and most SFP research has focused on the design of grouting material, with insufficient attention given to the composite interface. This paper aims to investigate the effect of bonding properties between organic PAM and inorganic grout on the mechanical properties of SFP. To investigate the different bonding properties of the SFP asphalt-grout interface, a simple method was employed, in which PAM specimens were immersed in a silane coupling agent solution to form a layer of coupling agent on the PAM surface. A series of SFP specimens were created using PAM with a porosity of 28–30%, and different strength grouting materials (40 MPa, 60 MPa, 70 MPa), and three laboratory tests were conducted to evaluate their mechanical properties. The results demonstrated that the interfacial bonding strength between asphalt and grouting material significantly influences the low-temperature splitting tensile strength, uniaxial penetration strength and uniaxial compression strength of SFP. Compared to specimens formed from high-strength grouting materials, SFP specimens immersed in a silane coupling agent solution exhibited superior low-temperature splitting tensile strength (2.06 MPa > 1.97 MPa, 2.63 MPa > 2.34 MPa) and shear strength (7.28 MPa > 6.46 MPa, 7.97 MPa > 7.26 MPa). As a result, this study highlights the importance of considering the bonding properties of the asphalt-grout interface in the design and preparation of SFP. The results of this study can be useful for enhancing the performance and durability of SFP materials in a more economically efficient way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this paper, He’s frequency formulation is used to solve the nonlinear differential equation that governs the oscillation of the relativistic oscillator. The obtained solution with high accuracy shows that He’s frequency formulation is a simple but promising method without any requirement for advanced calculus. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• A two-dimensional (2D) finite element model was developed to simulate uniaxial compression tests. • DIP technology was used to distinguish the virgin aggregate and RAP aggregate in recycled asphalt mixture. • The concept of force chain was introduced to evaluate the homogeneity of mixture. • A comparison of the two homogeneity assessment methods reveals different emphases. Numerous studies have demonstrated a direct link between the homogeneity of asphalt mixture and the rutting performance, water stability, tensile strength, and service life of the asphalt pavement. Due to the existence of RAP clusters, poor homogeneity of the recycled asphalt mixtures is more severe than natural ones. However, previous studies have mainly focused on analyzing the distribution of aggregates, ignoring the transfer of the internal stress in the mixture. This paper proposed a novel approach for the analysis of the homogeneity of recycled asphalt mixture using the efficiency of force chain transferring stress. Therefore, to prepare gyratory compacted samples, diabase in green color was used as the virgin aggregate and marble in white color as the RAP aggregate. Moreover, to obtain the vertical section images, the samples were cut and processed by digital image processing (DIP). This included distinguishing the virgin and RAP aggregates by global gray threshold segmentation, adding asphalt film around the aggregates, and constructing a force chain network relied on the aggregate contact information. Also, the intensity of the force chain was determined using the finite element method (FEM). In addition, the efficiency of force chain transferring vertical stress (ETVS) was introduced and the homogeneity index D of the recycled asphalt mixture was proposed based on the variation coefficient of ETVS. Furthermore, uniaxial compression tests were carried out to mathematically analyze the homogeneity index D proposed in this paper and the homogeneity index D ′ proposed based on the aggregate area ratio in previous studies. The obtained result showed that the homogeneity index D increased first and then decreased with the increase of RAP content. Moreover, the correlation analysis demonstrated the compressive performance of the mixture to be mainly reflected by the homogeneity index D. The correlation coefficients of the compressive strength and the compressive resilient modulus were found to be 0.9010 and 0.8464, respectively. Finally, the homogeneity index D ′ was observed to mainly reflect the stability of the compressive performance of the mixture, with the correlation coefficients of the variation coefficient of the compressive strength and the compressive resilient modulus of 0.8745 and 0.8869, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A decoupled mathematical model based on inner electromotive force (EMF) comprises comprehensive state variables of the MMC considering AC grid normal and asymmetric conditions are developed. • Considering that the established model can decouple the DC inner EMF from the SM-capacitor voltages, a novel DC-side voltage control technique is proposed to improve the voltage behavior. • The energy-based control method, which is only suitable for the PCMMC or VCMMC under short or medium DC transmission line conditions, is improved and extended to the entire HVDC system. Thus, both VCMMC and PCMMC can achieve full control of their inner dynamics regardless of DC line length. The interconnection of two non-synchronous AC grids is one of the promising applications in the modular multilevel converter (MMC) based high-voltage direct-current transmission system (MMC-HVDC). Due to the complicated internal dynamics of the MMC, energy-based control is becoming an emerging technique to guarantee the robust stability of the MMC. However, conventional energy-based control cannot be applied simultaneously to the power-controlled MMC (PCMMC) and voltage-controlled MMC (VCMMC) interconnected by short or medium DC transmission lines. To address this problem, this paper proposes an improved energy-based control for the MMC-HVDC system aiming to achieve full control of the inner dynamics of MMCs regardless of the DC line length. A completed decoupled mathematical modeling with comprehensive state variables of MMCs is established. Then, a unified control framework for the PCMMC and the VCMMC considering AC grid conditions is developed. A distinct advantage of the scheme is that direct and fast regulation of the DC-side voltage can be achieved to improve the voltage behavior. The other is that the dynamic performance of the submodule capacitor voltages of VCMMC and PCMMC can be conspicuously improved under normal, AC system fault and arm parameter asymmetry conditions. Comparative simulations and hardware-in-loop (HIL) experimental results validate the effectiveness of the proposed methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the plasma dynamics of 5 proinflammatory/fibrogenic cytokines, including interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-β1) to ascertain their value in predicting radiation-induced lung toxicity (RILT), both individually and in combination with physical dosimetric parameters. Methods and Materials: Treatments of patients receiving definitive conventionally fractionated radiation therapy (RT) on clinical trial for inoperable stages I-III lung cancer were prospectively evaluated. Circulating cytokine levels were measured prior to and at weeks 2 and 4 during RT. The primary endpoint was symptomatic RILT, defined as grade 2 and higher radiation pneumonitis or symptomatic pulmonary fibrosis. Minimum follow-up was 18 months. Results: Of 58 eligible patients, 10 (17.2%) patients developed RILT. Lower pretreatment IL-8 levels were significantly correlated with development of RILT, while radiation-induced elevations of TGF-ß1 were weakly correlated with RILT. Significant correlations were not found for any of the remaining 3 cytokines or for any clinical or dosimetric parameters. Using receiver operator characteristic curves for predictive risk assessment modeling, we found both individual cytokines and dosimetric parameters were poor independent predictors of RILT. However, combining IL-8, TGF-ß1, and mean lung dose into a single model yielded an improved predictive ability (P<.001) compared to either variable alone. Conclusions: Combining inflammatory cytokines with physical dosimetric factors may provide a more accurate model for RILT prediction. Future study with a larger number of cases and events is needed to validate such findings. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• A decision support framework was built to stratify pN2 NSCLC patients. • Patients at high LRR risk and without high-risk histology features benefit from PORT. • The use of PORT cannot improve survival for patients at low risk of LRR. • The benefit of PORT is limited in patients with high-risk histology features. Postoperative radiotherapy (PORT) plays a highly controversial role in pathological N2 (pN2) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) disease. Recent studies reveal that not all patients can benefit from PORT. Further research is needed to identify predictors of PORT. A total of 1044 pathologic stage T1-3N2M0 NSCLC patients were analyzed. Risk factors of distant metastasis were identified by the log-rank tests and the multivariable Cox models. We integrated risk factors of distant metastasis and our previously published loco-regional recurrence (LRR) related prognostic index into a decision support framework (DSF) to predict the outcomes of PORT. An independent cohort was used to validate the DSF. We defined patients with more than two of three identified LRR-related features (heavy cigarette smoking history, clinical N2 status, and more than four positive lymph nodes) as a high LRR risk group. We found the high-intermediate-risk histological type (with micropapillary and/or solid components) was associated with a higher risk of distant metastasis (HR = 1.207, 95 % CI 1.062 to 1.371, P = 0.0038), but not LRR. We built the DSF by combining these two types of features. Patients were stratified into four groups by using the DSF. PORT significantly improved OS only in the subgroup without high-risk histological features (without micropapillary or solid components) and with a high risk for LRR (three-year OS: 66.7 % in the PORT group vs 50.2 % in the non-PORT group; P = 0.023). A particular pN2 subgroup with a high risk of LRR and without micropapillary or solid components could benefit from PORT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Daily correlations among 322 S&P 500 constituent stocks are investigated by means of correlation-based (CB) network. By using the heterogeneous time scales, we identify global expansion and local clustering market behaviors during crises, which are mainly caused by community splits and inter-sector edge number decreases. The CB networks display distinctive community and sector structures. Graph edit distance is applied to capturing the dynamics of CB networks in which drastic structure reconfigurations can be observed during crisis periods. Edge statistics reveal the power-law nature of edges' duration time distribution. Despite the networks' strong structural changes during crises, we still find some long-duration edges that serve as the backbone of the stock market. Finally the dynamical change of network structure has shown its capability in predicting the implied volatility index (VIX). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

D101 macroporous resin combined with high speed counter-current chromatography (D101 MR–HSCCC) was used to separate gallic acid (GA) from Cornus officinalis , and GA was added to starch-based products to improve food quality. The interaction and action mechanism of corn starch (CS) with GA were investigated for prediction and thereby controlling the structure and functions of starch-based foods. Results show that GA with 98.72% purity was successfully obtained using the D101 MR–HSCCC technique. HSCCC solvent system was composed of n-hexane–ethyl acetate–methanol–water (1:5:1:5, v/v/v/v). GA inhibited CS dissolution and improved CS swelling. Based on the particle size distribution, GA could enlarge the size of CS-GA complexes. FT–IR spectra exhibit that the interactions between CS and GA may comprise the intermolecular hydrogen bond and non-covalent bond. The results of XRD, LF–NMR and AFM show that the presence of GA could increase the relative crystallinity of CS, decrease the spin relaxation time (T 2) , and change the surface morphology of CS via the modification of hydrogen bonds distribution. Finally, SEM analysis indicates that GA could change the microstructure of CS-GA complexes. These findings facilitate the development of CS-based products and utilization of CS. • D101–HSCCC method prepared GA with 97.13% purity from Cornus officinalis. • Interactions of CS-GA are likely to be the hydrogen bond and non-covalent bond. • GA enlarges particle size and improves microstructure of CS-GA complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose To prospectively investigate the efficacy and toxicity of accelerated hypofractionated thoracic radiation therapy (HypoTRT) combined with concurrent chemotherapy in the treatment of limited-stage small-cell lung cancer (LS-SCLC), with the hypothesis that both high radiation dose and short radiation time are important in this setting. Methods and Materials Patients with previously untreated LS-SCLC, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0 to 2, and adequate organ function were eligible. HypoTRT of 55 Gy at 2.5 Gy per fraction over 30 days was given on the first day of the second or third cycle of chemotherapy. An etoposide/cisplatin regimen was given to 4 to 6 cycles. Patients who had a good response to initial treatment were offered prophylactic cranial irradiation. The primary endpoint was the 2-year progression-free survival rate. Results Fifty-nine patients were enrolled from July 2007 through February 2012 (median age, 58 years; 86% male). The 2-year progression-free survival rate was 49.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] 35.3%-62.7%). Median survival time was 28.5 months (95% CI 9.0-48.0 months); the 2-year overall survival rate was 58.2% (95% CI 44.5%-71.9%). The 2-year local control rate was 76.4% (95% CI 63.7%-89.1%). The severe hematologic toxicities (grade 3 or 4) were leukopenia (32%), neutropenia (25%), and thrombocytopenia (15%). Acute esophagitis and pneumonitis of grade ≥3 occurred in 25% and 10% of the patients, respectively. Thirty-eight patients (64%) received prophylactic cranial irradiation. Conclusion Our study showed that HypoTRT of 55 Gy at 2.5 Gy per fraction daily concurrently with etoposide/cisplatin chemotherapy has favorable survival and acceptable toxicity. This radiation schedule deserves further investigation in LS-SCLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To analyze patterns of local-regional failure (LRF) for completely resected stage IIIA(N2) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients treated in our hospital and to propose a clinical target volume (CTV) for postoperative radiation therapy (PORT) in these patients. Methods and Materials: From 2005 to 2011, consecutive patients with pT1-3N2 NSCLC who underwent complete resection in our hospital but who did not receive PORT were identified. The patterns of first LRF were assessed and evaluated as to whether these areas would be encompassed by our proposed PORT CTV. Results: With a median follow-up of 24 months, 173 of 250 patients (69.2%) experienced disease recurrence. Of the 54 patients with LRF as the first event, 48 (89%) had recurrence within the proposed PORT CTV, and 6 (11%) had failures occurring both within and outside the proposed CTV (all of which occurred in patients with right-lung cancer). Ninety-three percent of failure sites (104 of 112) would have been contained within the proposed PORT CTV. For left-sided lung cancer, the most common lymph node station failure site was 4R, followed by 7, 4L, 6, 10L, and 5. For right-sided lung cancer, the most common site was station 2R, followed by 10R, 4R, and 7. Conclusions: LRF following complete surgery was an important and potentially preventable pattern of failure in stage IIIA(N2) patients. Ipsilateral superior mediastinal recurrences dominated for right-sided tumors, whereas left-sided tumors frequently involved the bilateral superior mediastinum. Most of the LRF sites would have been covered by the proposed PORT CTV. A prospective investigation of patterns of failure after PORT (following our proposed CTV delineation guideline) is presently underway and will be reported in a separate analysis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this paper, the dynamics of opinion formation is investigated based on a BA (Barabási–Albert) scale-free network, using a majority–minority rule governed by parameter . As the value of is smoothly varied, a phase transition occurs between an ordered phase and a disordered one. By performing extensive Monte Carlo simulations, we show that the phase transition is dependent on the system size, as well as on , the number of edges added at each time step during the growth of the BA scaling network. Additionally, some theoretical analysis is given based on mean-field theory, by neglecting fluctuations and correlations. It is observed that the theoretical results coincide with results from simulations, especially for very large . [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Exploring the thermal performance of phase change asphalt mixture. • Equal volume replacement of mineral filler and fine aggregate with CPCMs. • Exploring the mechanical strength of phase change asphalt mixture. Phase change materials (PCMs) have the capabilities of thermal energy storage and temperature regulation. However, the application of PCMs in asphalt pavements is still limited due to the severe leakage and low thermal performance problem. In this research work, the phase change asphalt mixture (PCAM) with Polyethylene glycol/hydrophobic fumed silica composite phase change material (PEG/HFS) and Polyethylene glycol/SiO 2 composite phase change material (PEG/SiO 2) replacing mineral filler and fine aggregate was prepared and tested. The leakage experiment illustrated that the PEG/HFS with PEG content of 45% (wt) and PEG/SiO 2 with PEG content of 70% (wt) had good thermal exudation stability. The results of XRD and FTIR showed that the preparation process of composite phase change materials (CPCMs) was a pure physical mixing process without chemical reactions. In addition, based on the results of the indoor radiation test, Marshall test, and rutting test, we found that when mineral filler and fine aggregate were replaced by 25% of the same volume of CPCMs, the PCAM exhibited a better cooling effect and relatively small decrease in mechanical strength. Therefore, the PCAM developed in this research has great potential for improving the thermal performance of asphalt steel bridge deck. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The review summarizes the traditional genetic, RNA, and protein biomarkers for esophageal cancer neoadjuvant chemoradiation treatment response prediction. • The review elaborated the potential immune, tumor microenvironment, and microbiome biomarkers for treatment response prediction. • The review suggested future directions for esophageal cancer neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy biomarker research. Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by surgery has been established as the standard treatment for locally advanced esophageal cancer. For patients with complete regression after neoadjuvant chemotherapy, active surveillance rather than planned surgery has been proposed as an organ preservation strategy. Reliable biomarkers to predict chemoradiation response is needed. We first summarized the previous reports of biomarkers with the potential to predict the treatment response of esophageal cancer neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. These traditional biomarkers are classified into three groups: genetic biomarkers, RNA biomarkers, and protein biomarkers. We then summarized some special types of biomarkers, including metabolites biomarkers, immune and tumor microenvironment biomarkers, and microbiome biomarkers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Most fractional factorial designs have no replicated points and thus do not provide a reliable estimate for experimental error. The objective of this paper is to study the issue of partially replicated two-level fractional factorial (FF) designs, thereby allowing for the unbiased estimation of the experimental error while maintaining the orthogonality of the main effects. Through the tool of indicator function and the idea of semifoldover, we propose two simple and effective techniques to produce designs with partially replicated points in general two-level FF designs, whether they are regular or not. The related properties of constructed partially replicated designs are investigated. Our results indicate that partially replicated FF are competitive in practice. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: One stage halogen-free flame retardant was prepared by poly(p-ethylene terephthalamide) (PETA) or poly(para-phenylene terephthanlamide) (PPTA) and ammonium polyphosphate (APP), the system had a good flame retardancy on acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) resin when loading was 30% or more, but once mass fraction decreased, the system did not maintain previous flame retardancy. To improve the efficiency of this kind of flame retardant, we mixed PETA with PPTA and introduced red phosphorus to play as the second acid source. This system had two charring process—swell and shrink. The flammability and thermal stability of IFR-ABS composites were investigated by limiting oxygen index (LOI), UL-94 vertical burning and thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA) test. Results showed that this IFR system had both good flame retardant and anti-dripping abilities for ABS, when the mass fractions of APP, PETA, PPTA and red phosphorus were only 12%, 4%, 1.33% and 2.66% respectively, the LOI of flame retardant ABS was 27 and UL-94 vertical burning test reached V-0. The TGA curves suggested that there was a distinct cooperation. Additionally, the structure and the mechanism of charring were studied by FTIR and SEM. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The ALICE calorimeters PHOS and EMCal (including its extension DCal) are based on Avalanche Photo-Diode (APD) photosensors with Charge Sensitive Preamplifiers (CSPs) for readout of the scintillating elements. A new CSP has been developed on the basis of the design of the PHOS CSP, but modified to meet the requirements of the EMCal and DCal. Modifications were made specifically for a different APD choice with different characteristics, and also with the goals of less noise, faster rise time, and reduced cost. This paper presents a detailed description of the new CSP features and the test results. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Purpose: To examine the pattern of failures in patients with limited-stage small-cell lung cancer (LS-SCLC) treated with involved-field radiotherapy (IFRT) and chemotherapy, with the aim of investigating the safety of IFRT. Methods and materials: Two consecutive clinical phase II trials in patients with LS-SCLC conducted in our center from 1997 to 2010 were reviewed retrospectively. Both trials had the same inclusion criteria. All patients (n =108) received combined chemotherapy and thoracic radiotherapy. Only the primary tumor and involved lymphatic regions based on computed tomography (CT) scan were irradiated. Isolated nodal failure (INF) was defined as a failure in an initially uninvolved lymph node region in the absence of local recurrence or distant metastasis. Results: With a median follow-up of 21months, 78 patients experienced treatment failures. Out of 28 patients with local–regional recurrences, 16 in-field, 10 out-of-field, and 2 both in-field and out-of-field recurrences were observed. INF occurred in 5 patients (4.6%), all in the ipsilateral supraclavicular area. Four patients developed simultaneously supraclavicular nodal failures and distant metastases. The median overall survival was 27months (95% confidence interval, 24–30months) and the median progression-free survival was 16months (95% confidence interval, 12–21months). For the 5 patients with INF, the median time to INF from the end of thoracic radiotherapy was 5months (range, 1–18months). Conclusions: IFRT based on CT scan in our patients resulted in a low rate of INF (4.6%), all in the ipsilateral supraclavicular area; but another four supraclavicular nodal failures with simultaneously distant metastases were also observed. The modern imaging with higher diagnostic capabilities of lymph node especially for supraclavicular area should be incorporated in the assessment of LS-SCLC when IFRT is being contemplated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: By testing 88 different funds of the Chinese fund market (CFM), we find fractal behavior and long-range correlations in the return series, which are insensitive to the kind of funds. Meanwhile, a power-law relationship between the deviation of prices and the Hurst exponent has been obtained, which may be useful for predicting the price time series. In addition, with funds being viewed as nodes, and the connections among the funds being determined by the cross-correlation coefficients, using a winner-takes-all approach, we investigate the topological properties of the fund network. Our analysis reveals that, during different time periods, the cumulative degree distributions of the fund network all obey the double power-law format. Moreover, the small-world property is also found for the fund network. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The exponential degree distribution has been found in many real world complex networks, based on which, the random growing process has been introduced to analyze the formation principle of such kinds of networks. Inspired from the non-equilibrium network theory, we construct the network according to two mechanisms: growing and adjacent random attachment. By using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov Test (KST), for the same number of nodes and edges, we find the simulation results are remarkably consistent with the predictions of the non-equilibrium network theory, and also surprisingly match the empirical databases, such as the Worldwide Marine Transportation Network (WMTN), the Email Network of University at Rovira i Virgili (ENURV) in Spain and the North American Power Grid Network (NAPGN). Our work may shed light on interpreting the exponential degree distribution and the evolution mechanism of the complex networks. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]