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The induction of functional memory cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) is a major goal of vaccination against intracellular pathogens. Interleukin (IL)-12 is critical for the generation of memory CTLs, and inhibition of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) by rapamycin can effectively enhance the memory CTL response. Yet, the role of IL-12 in mTOR's regulation of memory CTL is unknown. Here we hypothesized that the immunostimulatory effects of mTOR on memory CTLs requires IL-12 signaling. Our results revealed that rapamycin increased the generation of memory CTLs in vaccinia virus infection, and this enhancement was dependent upon the IL-12 signal. Furthermore, IL-12 receptor deficiency diminished the secondary expansion of rapamycin-regulated memory and resultant secondary memory CTLs were abolished. Rapamycin enhanced IL-12 signaling by upregulating IL-12 receptor β2 expression and signal transducer and activator of transcription factor 4 phosphorylation in CTLs during early infection. In addition, rapamycin continually suppressed T-bet expression in both wild-type and IL-12 receptor knockout CTLs. These results indicate an essential role for IL-12 in the regulation of memory CTLs by mTOR and highlight the importance of considering the interplay between cytokines and adjuvants during vaccine design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cross section for one-proton knockout from 14O on a carbon target at 305 MeV/nucleon was measured to be σ-p(14O → 13N) = 35(5) mb. The one-proton one-neutron (pn) removal cross section σ-p-n(14O → 12N) = 30(6) mb and two-proton one-neutron (2pn) removal cross section σ-2p-n(14O → 11C) = 41(6) mb were also obtained. The deduced reduction factor, the ratio of the experimental and theoretical cross sections, is close to unity for one-proton knockout from 14O, consistent with the systematics as well as the result obtained at a much lower beam energy. The indirect reaction process, which involves a one-neutron knockout plus proton(s) evaporation mechanism, is expected to contribute much to the pn and 2pn removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

GaN is an excellent host for erbium (Er) to provide optical emission in the technologically important as well as eye-safe 1540 nm wavelength window. Er doped GaN (GaN:Er) epilayers were synthesized on c-plane sapphire substrates using metal organic chemical vapor deposition. By employing a pulsed growth scheme, the crystalline quality of GaN:Er epilayers was significantly improved over those obtained by conventional growth method of continuous flow of reaction precursors. X-ray diffraction rocking curve linewidths of less than 300 arc sec were achieved for the GaN (0002) diffraction peak, which is comparable to the typical results of undoped high quality GaN epilayers and represents a major improvement over previously reported results for GaN:Er. Spectroscopic ellipsometry was used to determine the refractive index of the GaN:Er epilayers in the 1540 nm wavelength window and a linear dependence on Er concentration was found. The observed refractive index increase with Er incorporation and the improved crystalline quality of the GaN:Er epilayers indicate that low loss GaN:Er optical waveguiding structures are feasible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Most traditional skin histological analysis methods are based on the light microscopy images, which can only provide limited information and low contrast results for pathology evaluation. Molecular hyperspectral imaging technology can provide both spatial and spectral information of skin sections, which is a new method for histological skin analysis. Methods: The molecular hyperspectral imaging system was developed by coupling an acousto-optic tunable filters adapter to microscopy and the molecular hyperspectral images were analyzed by home-written software with image processing algorithms. Then, the histological structures in skin sections were investigated in several locations to evaluate the potential application of the molecular hyperspectral imaging technique to dermatology. Results: Molecular hyperspectral images of skin sections were obtained. Single-band images, false color images, virtual 3D surface view images, and color-coded spectral clustering results were produced to highlight the skin structures for histological evaluation. Conclusion: Unlike traditional histological analysis with light microscopy, the molecular hyperspectral imaging technology can enhance the visualization of skin structures using their spectral signatures and their gray values. This technology has potential for the diagnosis and histopathologic characterization of different kind of skin cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study included data from 185 consecutively treated patients, 16 years of age or older, who underwent myeloablative transplantation using unrelated umbilical cord blood (UCB) (UCB transplantation (UCBT), n=70) or HLA-identical sibling donor peripheral blood stem cells alone or combined with bone marrow (BMT/PBSCT, n=115) from October 2001 to December 2012. All patients received myeloablative regimens, cyclosporin A plus mycophenolate mofetil as prophylaxis for GVHD, and similar supportive care. Although hematopoietic recovery was significantly delayed after UCBT, the rate of neutrophil engraftment was comparable. The median follow-up was 53 months (range, 15-136 months) for BMT/peripheral blood SCT (PBSCT) recipients and 35 months (range, 10-123 months) for UCBT recipients. There were no significant differences in the cumulative incidence of grades III to IV acute GVHD, relapse rate, or 3-year probabilities of disease-free survival between patients receiving UCBT and those receiving BMT/PBSCT. However, the cumulative incidence of chronic and extensive chronic GVHD was lower in UCBT recipients. The rates of long-term survivors returning to school or work and off immunosuppressive therapy were significantly higher after UCBT, which indicated that long-term survivors who underwent UCBT had a higher quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a basis selection method for truncated shell-model calculations. In this method, the correlated basis is constructed with the eigenvectors of the Hamiltonian that is diagonalized in each partition of the shell model. A truncation scheme is established by naturally taking the low-lying correlated-basis vectors in different partitions, which is equivalent to the j j -coupling scheme of the shell model when all the correlated-basis vectors are considered. The results are compared with standard shell-model calculations. The convergence properties of the correlated-basis method are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The author discusses a basis selection method for the truncated shell-model calculations. Topics discussed include construction of correlated basis with eigenvectors of the Hamiltonian, establishment of truncation scheme by taking the low-lying correlated-basis vectors, and analysis of the convergence of wave functions. It adds that the correlated-basis scheme is equivalent to J J-coupling scheme.

The article discusses a study to determine a basis selection method for truncated nuclear shell-model calculations which is constructed using the eigenvectors of the Hamiltonian system. Topics discussed include application of interacting shell model in other quantum many-body systems such as quantum chemistry and atomic and molecular physics, calculation of wave function amplitudes, and determination of excitation energies for the study.

The article offers information on a study related to the use of correlated-basis selection method (CBSM) for calculation of truncated shell-model. Topics discussed include diagonal matrix elements of Hamiltonian matrix, convergence properties of CBSM and challenges of developing practical computational approaches. The study highlights the role of SBSM approach for description of other quantum body systems including quantum chemistry and molecular physics.

The article discusses the Correlated method for shell-model calculations. Topics discussed include constructing the wave function as a linear superposition of all possible antisymmetric Slater determinants , presenting a basis selection method for the nuclear shell model, and diagonalizing the Hamiltonian in each partition.

The article presents brief information on correlated-basis method for shell-model calculations. It discussed that the correlated basis is constructed with the eigenvectors of the Hamiltonian that is diagonalized in each part of the nuclear shell model. Information on amplitude distributions of the ground-state wave function of Silicon isotopes is also offered.

To address the excessive formation of brittle compounds when brazing TiAl alloys, a TiZrHfCoNiCu high-entropy brazed filler was developed to realize the brazing of TiAl/Ti 2 AlNb couples. The TiAl/Ti 2 AlNb brazed joints can be divided into 4 zones, i.e., 2 diffusion zones at the TiAl/braze filler, Ti 2 AlNb/braze filler interfaces and 2 zones divided inside the brazed seam. α 2 + γ-TiAl were the main reaction products formed at the TiAl/braze filler interface and α 2 + Ti 0.5 Al 0.12 Nb 0.38 were the main reaction products at the Ti 2 AlNb/braze filler interface. Effects of brazing temperatures on the interfacial microstructure and mechanical properties of the TiAl/Ti 2 AlNb brazed joints were investigated. When brazing at 1100°C/15 min, the highest shear strength can reach 157 MPa (room temperature), and 123 MPa (650°C) respectively. The relationship between the microstructure and the corresponding mechanical response were discussed in detail. This research can offer new insights on developing desirable brazing filler when joining TiAl and TiAl based alloys. • A TiZrHfCoNiCu high-entropy alloy braze filler was developed to realize the brazing of TiAl/Ti2AlNb couples. • Ti 0.5 Al 0.12 Nb 0.38 and α 2 + γ-TiAl formed at the braze filler/base metal interfaces were the key to realize the joining. • The α 2 + γ-TiAl at the TiAl/braze filler interface was preferential to crack for the strongest brazed joints. • Highest shear strength of 157 MPa (room temperature) and 123 MPa (650°C) were achieved at 1100°C/15 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new alternative to achieve fast transient response while inherently managing the in‐rush current during DC/DC switching converter start‐up is proposed. An AC coupled feedback (ACCF) is introduced using a capacitor multiplier from the output of the converter to the output of the error amplifier. With this additional feedback, the transient response, which used to be limited by the compensator mid‐band gain has been significantly improved. Meanwhile, the ACCF circuit can help to control the converter output ramping speed during power‐up, thus eliminating the bulky soft‐start circuit. The simplified circuit design means the new controller can be realised by a tiny on‐chip circuit, thereby minimising the footprint and the cost. A buck converter with the proposed technique is designed using 0.18 μm CMOS process and simulated across different process corners. Simulation shows that the output voltage increases linearly with the designed slope despite the variations of the input voltage, inductor or output capacitor values. An excellent load transient response of 0.021 mV/mA is achieved for a load current variation from 50 μA to 1 A in 1 μs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of pressure treatment at room temperature on the microstructure and corrosion resistance in seawater solution of the as spun RE65Co25Al10 (RE = Ce, La, Pr, Sm and Gd) metallic glass ribbons have been investigated using X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, scanning electron microscopy and electrochemical workstation. The results indicate that the pressure treatment causes the changes of microstructure, which results in the variation of the glass transition temperature and supercooled liquid region of the RE65Co25Al10 metallic glass. The RE65Co25Al10 metallic glass treated by pressure in 16 kN exhibits low self-corrosion current density and distinct passive region, indicating the higher seawater corrosion resistance. However, the corrosion resistance of the RE65Co25Al10 metallic glass becomes poor with increasing pressure to 30 kN. The discussion of the corrosion mechanism has been made based upon the structural relaxation and bonding force of the matrix elements and oxygen during the electrochemical corrosion process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A unified macro- and micromechanics constitutive model of fully coupled electro-magneto-thermo-elastic multiphase functional composites is developed. The model is based on the hypothesis of periods, the theory of uniformity, and the finite-volume direct averaging micromechanics (FVDAM). By introducing quadratic displacements and electric and magnetic potentials into the constitutive model, its accuracy is improved. The efficiency of the model is also raised by adopting surface-averaged quantities to be the primary variables of the original FVDAM. A numerical example is presented, and a relation between material constants and the fiber volume fraction is obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The vibration noise of the fan is a critical weakness of the 4ZTL-1800 pneumatic conveying combine stripper harvester. The objectives of the present study were to ascertain the causes of the fan noise by analyzing its vibration characteristics and to propose some measures to solve the problem. To achieve these aims, we combined finite element modal analysis with experimental modal analysis to obtain the fan's principal natural frequencies at ten different orders and typical mode shapes to investigate the fan's natural vibration characteristics. The results indicated that, within the frequency range of 22.13 Hz ≥ f ≥ 141.99 Hz, the vibration mode shapes of the fan were the axis' mode shapes, which showed torsional and bending vibrations, and the distortion at the higher frequency was greater than that at the lower frequency. The position of maximum distortion on the housing was at the joint with the impeller. The mode shapes of the impeller chassis showed rotating vibration and bending vibration alternately, but the blades' mode shapes showed only bending vibration. When the fan ran at the rated rotational speed, at a frequency off = 189.23 Hz, the mode shape of the fan was outward vibration of the fan housing's inlet plate, and resonance occurred, which was the cause of the fan noise. Experimental tests on the natural frequencies of the fan housing verified the validity of the finite element modal analysis. In order to decrease the vibration noise of the fan, we studied changing the rotational speed of the fan and using a resonant muffler at the outlet of the fan. From the test results, we found that changing the rotational speed of the fan was not feasible for achieving noise reduction of this agricultural fan. The resonant muffler was feasible, and the fan noise was decreased to 79.1 dB. This study will be helpful in decreasing the vibration noise of fans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thechemical dissolution of lime particles in molten CaO–Al2O3–SiO2-based slags was observedby using a confocal scanning laser microscope (CSLM) in a temperaturerange from 1450 to 1600 °C. The dissolution behavior was foundto be largely dependent on temperature and slag chemistry. A considerableincrease in the dissolution rate was observed at elevated temperatures.The in situobservations revealed that the dissolutionprocess in the slags containing MgO was controlled by chemical reactionsat the interface. For slags without MgO, the dissolution could bedivided into three stages when an interfacial reaction (IR) layerformed at the interface. The dissolution was limited by chemical reactionsduring the early stage, a mixed control of product layer and boundarylayer diffusion during the intermediate stage, and boundary layerdiffusion control in the final stage. The IR layer formed during dissolutionat the interface between the lime particles, and the liquid slag freeof MgO was clearly a kinetic barrier for dissolution. A dissolutionfactor was defined to evaluate the dissolution mechanisms quantitativelyby coupling the resistance and the driving forces of dissolution indifferent slags. This factor provided direct evidence that the additionof MgO in CaO–Al2O3–SiO2slags is beneficial for lime dissolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, different accelerating voltages were applied in the ion-milling process to fabricate CoPt nanopillar arrays in order to investigate the influence of ion damage to magnetic properties. Nanopillar arrays fabricated at a higher accelerating voltage give a lower value of coercivity and ion damage does not broaden the switching field distribution (SFD). The ‘edge damage’ model was employed in micromagnetic simulations to investigate the reversal mechanism and SFD. The results shows that the edge damage can change the switching mode from coherent rotation to nucleation followed by rapid domain wall motion, and the broad SFD mainly comes from the intrinsic anisotropy distribution, rather than size distribution. In addition, the angle dependence of the switching field measurement shows that nanopillars with damaged edges have Stoner–Wohlfarth behaviour, which indicates that fitting the Stoner–Wohlfarth curve does not necessarily mean coherent rotation. It is the comparison between the field for domain wall motion and the nucleation field that determines the location of angle dependence curves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] M50NiL steel is nitrocarburized with and without rare earth (RE) addition. [•] RE addition can increase the surface hardness and layer thickness. [•] RE can increase C, N contents and proportion of iron nitrides in treated layers. [•] Plasma nitrocarburizing can significantly improve the wear resistance of M50NiL steel. [•] RE addition could further improve the wear properties of the treated layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To investigate the expression of CX3 CL1 and its receptor, CX3 CR1, in the development of periapical lesions induced in rats and explore the possible role of these substances in the pathogenesis of periapical lesions. Methodology Periapical lesions in mandibular first molar teeth were established in 30 rats following pulp exposure to the oral environment. The animals were killed 0, 7, 14, 21, 28 and 42 days after lesion induction. The development of periapical lesions was investigated by histological and enzyme histochemical examination. The distributions of CX3 CL1 and CX3 CR1 in the periapical tissue were examined by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining. Osteoclasts and CX3 CL1-positive cells were counted in each specimen. The data were then analysed by one-way anova using the SPSS 13.0 statistical package. Results The lesions expanded from days 0 to 14 and stabilized thereafter. Where expansion of the periapical lesion was most evident, numerous CX3 CL1-positive cells were observed around the apical foramen and adjacent periapical areas. From days 21 to 42, subjacent connective tissues presented intense CX3 CL1 immunostaining in inflammatory cells with different morphologies, such as round, oval and fibroblastic. The number of CX3 CL1-positive cells increased from days 7 to 28, but decreased on day 42 post-operation. Double immunofluorescence staining showed CX3 CL1- and CX3 CR1-positive cells around periapical lesions surrounding the apical foramen. Most CX3 CL1-positive cells were mononuclear in nature, which suggests the presence of macrophages, infiltrating neutrophils and lymphocytes, and overlapped with CX3 CR1-positive cells. Conclusions CX3 CL1 and CX3 CR1 are related to the development of periapical lesions. The chemokine and its receptor may be involved in the progression of tissue destruction, including bone resorption, during periapical inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deinococcus radiodurans strain R1 utilizes multiple antioxidants including a unique carotenoid, deinoxanthin, to fight again oxidative stress. Most of the enzymes involved in the deinoxanthin biosynthetic pathway have been identified. However, the enzyme catalysing the synthesis of geranylgeranyl diphosphate ( GGPP), which is a precursor of carotenoid biosynthesis, has yet to be identified. Two putative isoprenyl diphosphate synthases ( IPPS) homologues ( DR1395 and DR932) were screened out by analysis of conserved amino acid regions, and their biochemical functions were investigated. Gene mutation, gene expression in Escherichia coli and analysis of carotenoid products were used to investigate the functions of these candidates. The results suggested that DR1395 encodes the protein for GGPP synthesis. Site-directed mutant analysis indicated that the amino acid composition of and around the first aspartate-rich motif is vital for GGPP synthase function. Significance and Impact of the Study Deinococcus radiodurans strain R1 produces a unique carotenoid product, deinoxanthin, as an antioxidant. In this study, DR1395 was identified as the gene encoding geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthase ( GGPPS) for entrance to deinoxanthin biosynthesis in D. radiodurans. Moreover, site-directed mutagenesis studies on DR1395 identified the effect of amino acid composition of the aspartate-rich motif on the production of this carotenoid. This study demonstrated the entrance step in the deinoxanthin biosynthetic pathway. These results can be useful in genetic engineering strategies for deinoxanthin production including enhancement of GGPPS gene expression in D. radiodurans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The wakes resulting from micro-ramps immersed in a supersonic turbulent boundary layer at Ma=2.0 are investigated by means of particle image velocimetry. Twomicroramps are investigated with height of 60% and 80% of the undisturbed boundary layer, respectively. The measurement domain is placed at the symmetry plane of the ramp and encompasses the range from 10 to 32 ramp heights downstream of the ramp. The decay of the flow field properties is evaluated in terms of time-averaged and rootmean- square (RMS) statistics. In the time-averaged flow field, the recovery from the imparted momentum deficit and the decay of upwash motion are analyzed. The RMS fluctuations of the velocity components exhibit strong anisotropy at the most upstream location and develop into a more isotropic regime downstream. The selfsimilarity properties of velocity components and fluctuation components along wallnormal direction are followed. The investigation of the unsteady large scale motion is carried out by means of snapshot analysis and by a statistical approach based on the spatial auto-correlation function. The Kelvin-Helmholtz (K-H) instability at the upper shear layer is observed to develop further with the onset of vortex pairing. The average distance between vortices is statistically estimated using the spatial autocorrelation. A marked transition with the wavelength increase is observed across the pairing regime. The K-H instability, initially observed only at the upper shear layer also begins to appear in the lower shear layer as soon as the wake is elevated sufficiently off the wall. The auto-correlation statistics confirm the coherence of counter-rotating vortices from the upper and lower sides, indicating the formation of vortex rings downstream of the pairing region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Grain boundary decohesion is included in a new transition rule for polycrystals. [•] Homogenized behaviour of a copper alloy under intergranular cracking is predicted. [•] A single tensile fracture test can be used to identify grain boundary parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted to evaluate the effects of varying dietary vitamin D3 and stocking den-sity on growing performance, carcass characteristics, bone biomechanical properties, and welfare responses in Ross (308) broilers. Experimental diets, containing 1, 10, or 20 times the NRC recommended level of vitamin D3 (200 IU/kg), were formulated with low, medium, or high vitamin D3 levels for 3 growing phases. Two stocking densities were 10 and 16 birds/m². One-day-old hatchlings (1,872 males) were randomly assigned to 6 pens in each treatment. Results showed that high stocking density decreased the feed intake, BW gain (P < 0.01), breast muscle yield (P = 0.010), and tibial development (P < 0.01), whereas increasing feed conver-sion ratio (P < 0.001), and the scores of gait, footpad and hock burn, and abdominal plumage damage (P < 0.01), particularly toward the age when birds attained their market size. Increasing dietary vitamin D3 im-proved the birds' walking ability and tibial quality (P < 0.05), and reduced the development of footpad or hock dermatitis and abdominal plumage damage (P < 0.01), some aspects of which were age-dependent and appeared to vary with stocking density. These data in-dicate that increasing supplemental vitamin D3 has a favorable effect on walking ability and welfare status of high stocking density birds, but not on performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The singularity of quantum correlation has been widely regarded as a valuable indicator for quantum phase transition (QPT) in low-dimensional quantum systems. In this paper, in a two-leg spin ladder with ring exchange, the critical points of the system cannot be detected by analyzing the singularity of the quantum discord (a kind of quantum correlation). Instead, the discord exhibits a novel odd-even effect in the symmetry-breaking (SB) regions, which can be used to detect the two critical points between the SB regions and the non-SB regions. The underlying mechanism of the odd-even effect is explained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the feasibility and image quality of intravoxel incoherent motion diffusion-weighted imaging (IVIM) using gradient- and spin-echo (GRASE) in solitary pulmonary lesions (SPLs) compared to echo planar imaging (EPI) and turbo spin-echo (TSE) at 3 T. Forty-two patients with SPLs underwent lung magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using TSE-IVIM, GRASE-IVIM, and EPI-IVIM at 3 T. Signal ratio (SR), contrast ratio (CR), and image distortion ratio (DR) of three sequences were compared. The reproducibility and repeatability of the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and IVIM-derived parameters were assessed using the interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and coefficient of variation (CV). The repeatability of the ADC and IVIM-derived parameters between all sequences was evaluated using the Bland–Altman method. EPI-IVIM had a higher SR, lower CR, and higher DR (p <0.05); however, there was no significant difference between TSE-IVIM and GRASE-IVIM (p >0.05). Compared to the D and f values of TSE-IVIM (ICC lower limit >0.90), GRASE-IVIM and EPI-IVIM showed poor reproducibility (ICC lower limit<0.90). The repeatability of the ADC and D values obtained by TSE-IVIM (CV, 1.93–2.96% and 2.44–3.18%, respectively) and GRASE-IVIM (CV, 2.56–3.12% and 3.21–3.51%, respectively) were superior to those of EPI-IVIM (CV, 10.03–10.2% and 11.30–11.57%). The repeatability of D∗ and f values for all sequences was poor. Bland–Altman analysis showed wide limits of agreement between the ADC and IVIM-derived parameters for all sequences. GRASE-IVIM reduced the DR, improved the stability of the ADC and D values on repeated scans, and had the shortest scanning time. • TSE-IVIM and GRASE-IVIM reduced the image distortion rate. • TSE-IVIM and GRASE-IVIM improved the stability of repeated scanning of ADC values. • TSE-IVIM and GRASE-IVIM improved the stability of repeated scanning of D values. • The acquisition time of GRASE-IVIM was shorter than TSE-IVIM. • GRASE could be a new alternative technology in lung IVIM imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Auricular pseudocysts are rare, painless, benign intracartilaginous cysts of the auricle that are not lined by epithelium and have no known aetiology. Method: This was a prospective study conducted in an ENT department from January 2020 to June 2022. In 21 patients, complete aspiration of the pseudocyst with enhanced negative drainage was performed. They were followed for a minimum of six months. Results: All patients completely responded to the negative drainage treatment. No cases of recurrence or obvious deformities were observed. Conclusion: Aspiration with intensified negative drainage was associated with a positive response in patients with auricular pseudocysts. Complete resolution of the swelling can be achieved without any serious complications. Thus, it appears to be a simple and effective method for managing the condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Thermal–mechanical fatigue model is developed, based on cohesive zone method. [•] Mixed-mode loadings and effects of temperature and of strain rate are accounted for. [•] FE life prediction of solder joint in power electronics under passive cycling is given. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Photon activation analysis (PAA) is a multi-elemental radioanalytical technique in trace elements analysis with high accuracy and precision. Researchers at the Idaho accelerator center performed PAA analysis on coffee samples from several locations around the world as an initial step in assessing the relationship between trace elements in illicit drugs and the soils in which they were grown. The preliminary results show coffees from different locations have different concentrations of trace elements. In the three cases where we have soil samples, the matrices of elements in the coffee samples are closely related to the matrices of the elements of the local soil samples. The majority of trace elemental content is similar to that of the local soil sample in which the coffee is planted. It may be that coffee assimilates numerous elements from the soil where it is grown in similar ratios as is found in the soil. Thus, it is conceivable that the elemental content could serve as 'fingerprint' to trace the origins of the coffee. To verify our analytical results we applied X-ray fluorescence (XRF) methods as well. Our PAA results are consistent with XRF experimental data. The future of tracing the origin of illicit drugs with the PAA technique is promising. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A Cohesive zone model (CZM) is developed for simulating the thermo-mechanical fatigue of solders in electronic chip packages subjected to active power cycling. Repeated on–off switching of the device is the source of thermal strains, resulting in the initiation and the propagation of a fatigue crack in the solder joint. The fatigue failure in the solder material may cause local intensification of the temperature gradient due to partial or total degradation of the thermal conductance in the cracked region. In this paper, the coupling between fatigue cracking and crack heat transfer is accounted for by using a thermo-mechanically coupled cohesive zone element. Thus, the quantity of heat flux transferred across the interface will be dependent on the degradation level of the interface thermal conductance. Typically, the cohesive zone conductance is taken as a function of the separation between the cohesive surfaces, meaning that the thermal conductance can be restored across the interface during crack closure. It may alternately be chosen as being dependent on the damage’s level of the cohesive zone element, describing in this way an irreversible thermal degradation in the solder joint. Simulations are carried out in order to analyze and predict the solder fatigue under active power cyclic loading. The numerical results reproduce qualitatively the desired behavior for the cracked interface and demonstrate how the temperature field and the heat transfer in the system are radically changed. Then, the evolution of the average damage level in the cohesive layer, reflecting the crack propagation level during power cycling, is used to estimate the number of cycles to failure at which the device becomes faulty. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ferritic alloys strengthened with NiAl precipitates are being developed for elevated-temperature applications. Due to the high concentration of Al in these alloys, they feature a relatively low density of ∼7gcm−3. In this paper, the high-temperature mechanical behavior of NiAl-strengthened ferritic alloys is reviewed. Further, we discuss another related class of alloys, where the precipitate strengthening is provided by Ni2TiAl-type precipitates rather than NiAl. These relatively unexplored alloys may enhance the creep resistance of precipitate-strengthened ferritic alloys. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective:There have been few reports of lingual dermoid cysts with a congenital discharging fistula. We report such a case, which mimicked lipoma on computed tomography, and we discuss relevant clinical and radiological features.Method:We present a case report and a review of the English language literature concerning lingual dermoid cysts either mimicking lipoma or with a congenital discharging sinus.Results:A 35-year-old man presented with a lingual mass associated with a congenital fistula in the midline of the tongue dorsum, which discharged abnormal secretions. Computed tomography images showed that the lesion was well defined and contained homogeneous fatty tissue giving computed tomography attenuation values of −120 Hounsfield units.Conclusion:Lingual dermoid cysts may develop with a midline discharging fistula, and may exhibit radiological similarity to lipomas on computed tomography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quantum phase crossover in a spin ladder model with four-spin exchange is investigated. Previous studies show that the crossover cannot be detected by the singularity or finite-size analysis of ground-state observables for finite ladders. In this work, we find that the first-excited-state fidelity shows a sudden drop exactly at the crossover point, regardless of the length of the ladder. It suggests that the excited-state fidelity for finite systems is very effective in detecting the crossover in infinite systems. The underlying mechanism is understood through the analysis of re-construction of the low-lying energy levels of the systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With mycobacteriosis increasing, the study of non-tuberculous mycobacteria is imperative for clinical therapy and management. Non-tuberculous mycobacteria are naturally resistant to most anti-tuberculosis drugs. Accordingly, it is important to decipher the biology of the novel non-tuberculous mycobacteria through complete genomic analysis of novel pathogenic mycobacteria. We describe Mycobacterium sinense JDM601, a novel, slow-growing mycobacterium of the Mycobacterium terrae complex resistant to nine antibiotics, by clinical presentation, cultural and biochemical characteristics, minimal inhibitory concentrations, and genome-sequencing analysis. JDM601 is closest to Mycobacterium nonchromogenicum according to mycolic acid composition, but closest to Mycobacterium algericum sp. nov according to 16S rDNA. JDM601 is resistant to isoniazid, streptomycin, rifampin, euteropas, protionamide, capromycin, ciprofloxacin, amikacin and levofloxacin but not ethambutol. The clinical information, mycolic acid composition, and virulence genes indicate that JDM601 is an opportunistic pathogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under 980-nm laser diode excitation, a phenomenon on an over-2-slope in log( I)-versus-log( P) plot for red upconversion (UC) luminescence in Er-doped nanopowders is usually observed. Due to the existence of many energy-trapping centers on their surfaces, the laser heating effect is shown very prominently in these nanopowders. In this submission, the influence of laser heating on the power dependence of UC luminescence in NaGdF:Er/Yb@Citrate nanopowders is investigated. In the experimental works, sub-20-nm β-NaGdF:Er/Yb@Citrate nanoparticles were synthesized at 185 °C through a solvothermal route. Then we found that UC luminescence at 524 and 657 nm displayed an over-2-slope in log( I)-versus-log( P) plot. The over-2-slope for 524-nm UC luminescence can be well explained from the greater proportion of population at the H level, which is thermally populated from the S level, with increase of the excitation power. Cross relaxation of H + I → F + I is proposed to feed F from H levels, which explains the over-2-slope in log( I)-versus-log( P) plot for red two-photon UC luminescence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maternal malnutrition can have temporary or long-lasting effects on development and physiological function of offspring. Our objective was to investigate whether maternal protein or energy restriction in late gestation affects the antioxidant status of plasma, immune organs (thymus and spleen), and natural barrier organs (jejunum) in neonatal goats and whether the effects could be reversed after nutritional recovery. Forty-five pregnant goats (Liuyang Blacks) of similar age (2.0 ± 0.3 yr) and BW (22.2 ± 1.5 kg at d 90 of gestation) were assigned to 3 dietary treatments during late gestation: control (ME = 9.34 MJ/kg and CP = 12.5%, DM basis), 40% protein restricted (PR), and 40% energy restricted (ER) until parturition, after which offspring received the normal diet for nutritional recovery. Plasma and tissues of kids were sampled to determine antioxidant enzymes [superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), and catalase (CAT)] and gene expression of antioxidant enzymes (Cu/Zn-SOD [SOD1], CAT, and peroxiredoxin 2 [PRDX2]). Maternal protein or energy restriction decreased (P < 0.05) SOD activities in plasma, liver, thymus, and spleen and SODI expression in thymus, and maternal energy restriction also decreased (P < 0.05) plasma GSH-Px activity and expressions of SODI and CAT in liver at birth. After nutritional recovery of 6 wk, SOD activities in thymus (both in PR and ER) and spleen (only in PR) were greater (P < 0.05), but CAT activity of thymus (both in PR and ER) and CAT expression (only in ER) were less (P < 0.01) than those in control. After nutritional recovery of 22 wk, SODI and PRDX2 expression in thymus (both in PR and ER) and SODI expression in liver (only in ER) were greater (P < 0.05) whereas CAT expression in thymus (both in PR and ER) was less (P < 0.001) than in control. The current results indicate that maternal protein or energy restriction can decrease the antioxidant capacity of the neonatal kids and result in an imbalance of SOD and hydrogen peroxide-inactivating systems in thymus, even after 6 or 22 wk of nutritional recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy, we have measured La2-2xSr1+2xMn2O7 over a wide doping range to study the correlation between Fermi surface nesting and stripes of charge and orbital degrees of freedom. We found that the Fermi surface nesting deviates from band calculations with a nonmonotonic behavior, and that one type of stripe is exclusively linked to long flat portions of nested Fermi surface, while the other type prefers to be commensurate with the real-space lattice but also may be driven away from this by the Fermi surface. Complementarily, for certain doping levels pressure from the stripe ordering also may drive the Fermi surface away from its preferred trend. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aspergillus fumigatus ( A. fumigatus) is the most common pathogen of invasive aspergillosis (IA), a life-threatening infection in immunocompromised patients. Recent findings revealed that CD8+ T cells can mediate cytotoxic activity against A. fumigatus. Here, we bioinformatically identified three HLA-A*0201-restricted peptides from Asp f16, an A. fumigatus antigen which was previously shown to be involved in T cell immunity. Our immunological results demonstrated that these peptides can potently induce cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response in CD8+ T cells, thus, damaging the conidia and hyphae of A. fumigatus. Moreover, the Asp f16 peptides can also raise Th1 cell-like response, as measured by interferon-γ (IFN-γ) enzyme-linked immunosorbent spot (ELISPOT). Furthermore, we established an invasive pulmonary aspergillosis model in HLA-A*0201 transgenic mice. Adoptive transfer of Asp f16 peptides-specific CTL significantly extended the overall survival time in the A. fumigatus-infected immunocompromised mice. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that the Asp f16 peptides might provide immunity against invasive A. fumigatus infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of computed tomography (CT) of the parotid gland for Sjögren's syndrome in comparison with conventional X-ray sialography. Methods: CT scans and X-ray sialography were performed in 34 patients with confirmed Sjögren's syndrome and 22 symptomatic controls without the disease. CT data from 57 asymptomatic controls were included for quantitative analysis. The CT findings of heterogeneity, abnormal diffuse fat tissue deposition, diffuse punctate calcification, swelling or atrophy, nodularity or cystic changes of the parotid gland were analyzed by two independent blinded readers. The correlation between CT and X-ray sialography findings was evaluated. Diagnostic performance and receiver operating characteristics curves were calculated. Results: On CT, heterogeneity of the parotid gland was seen in 30/31 (reader 1/reader 2) Sjögren's syndrome patients by the two readers (sensitivity 88.2%/91.2%; specificity 100%/90.9%). Abnormal diffuse fat tissue deposition was seen in 28/28 SS patients by the readers (sensitivity 82.3%/82.3%; specificity 100%/90.9%). Diffuse punctate calcification was seen in 10/12 Sjögren's syndrome patients (sensitivity 29.4%/35.2%; specificity 100%/100%). Stagings of CT findings correlate positively with sialography. The areas under the receiver operating characteristics curves were 0.887 (P=0.000) and 0.908 (P=0.000) for the maximum and standard deviation (SD) of the CT value. Conclusions: Parotid CT is accurate and reliable in the diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome. Heterogeneity, abnormal diffuse fat tissue deposition, and diffuse punctate calcification are specific for Sjögren's syndrome. CT attenuation analysis is helpful in diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a single-center experience in treating 18 consecutive patients with severe aplastic anemia (SAA) who received unrelated cord blood transplantation (CBT). The median age was 17 years (range 5-61 years). Sixteen cases received a reduced-intensity regimen composed of CY (total dose1200 mg/m2), rabbit antithymocyte globulin (ATG, total dose 30 mg/kg) and fludarabine (FLU, total dose 120 mg/m2). CYA and mycophenolate mofetil were used as GVHD prophylaxis. Two patients were not evaluable for engraftment because of early death on day +21 and +22. Only one of the sixteen cases achieved engraftment, but experienced secondary graft failure 3 months post transplantation. Fifteen patients experienced primary graft rejection, but all of them acquired autologous recovery. The 3-month and 6-month cumulative incidence of response was 56% and 81%, respectively. So far, 16 patients have survived for 330-1913 days (median, 750 days) after transplantation. The probability of OS at 2 years was 88.9%. Our data indicate that CBT for newly diagnosed SAA using no irradiation but FLU and ATG-based conditioning still seems to inevitably lead to the high risk of rejection, but may facilitate autologous recovery and improve survival with low risk of transplant-related mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study that examined possible neurotoxicity of intrathecal injection of ropivacaine in rats. An overview is provided on local anaesthetics (LA), ropivacaine in continuous spinal anaesthesia, and the adverse effects of LAs in spinal anaesthesia. Methods are described including surgical procedure for intrathecal catheterization, neurological function tests, and perfusion fixation and tissue preparation. Results are discussed showing induced neurotoxicity with ropivacaine.

Root architecture is a major factor influencing root lodging, which limits greater yield stability at high planting density. Total brace root tier number (TBRTN) and effective brace root tier number (EBRTN) are the two most important root architecture traits influencing root lodging. However, the genetic mechanisms that underlie these traits remain poorly understood. In this study, quantitative trait loci (QTL) for TBRTN and EBRTN were mapped using a set of 201 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) and 278 immortalized F2 (IF2) populations derived from these RILs, which were evaluated in three environments. Ten QTL in the RILs and 15 QTL in the IF2 population were detected. In the two populations, we identified two coincident major QTL for TBRTN and a single identical major QTL for EBRTN. The QTL for TBRTN showed the largest additive effect, accounting for 16.36 and 17.88% of the phenotypic variance in the RILs and IF2 population, respectively. Additional epistatic effects were identified for all the maize chromosomes, except for chromosome 4. Most epistatic effects involved pairs of loci that were on different chromosomes. At the same time, we found loci that interacted simultaneously with several other loci to affect expression of the traits, which was particularly evident in the IF2 population. For example, qTAR1- 2 interacted simultaneously with qTAR2- 1, qTAR3- 1, qTAR5- 1, and qITAR8- 2 to affect the expression of TBRTN. Therefore, a complex network controlling the traits was found in maize. These results provide useful information for understanding the molecular mechanisms controlling root architecture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]