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Despite numerous attempts to correct forward head posture (FHP), definitive evidence-based screening and diagnostic methods remain elusive. This study proposes a preliminary diagnostic methodology for FHP, utilizing a noninvasive body angle measurement system as a screening test for FHP and incorporating radiological parameters for sagittal alignment. We enrolled 145 adolescents for FHP screening. The forward neck tilt angle (FNTA), defined as the angle between the vertical line and the line connecting the participant's acromion and tragus, was measured using the POM-Checker (a noninvasive depth sensor-based body angle measurement system). A whole-spine standing lateral radiograph was obtained, and eight sagittal alignment parameters were measured. Statistical analyses of the association between the FNTA and eight sagittal alignment parameters were conducted. We used 70% of the participant data to establish a preliminary diagnostic model for FHP based on FNTA and each sagittal alignment parameter. The accuracy of the model was evaluated using the remaining 30% of the participant data. All radiological parameters of sagittal alignment showed weak statistical significance with respect to FNTA (best case: r = 0.16, p = 0.0500; cranial tilt). The proposed preliminary diagnostic model for FHP demonstrated 95.35% agreement. Notably, the model using FNTA without radiological parameters accurately identified (100%) participants who required radiographic scanning for FHP diagnosis. Owing to the weak statistical significance of the association between radiological parameters and external body angle, both factors must be considered for accurate FHP diagnosis. When a clear and severe angle variation is observed in an external body angle check, medical professionals should perform radiographic scanning for an accurate FHP diagnosis. In conclusion, FNTA assessment of FNTA through the proposed preliminary diagnostic model is a significant screening factor for selecting participants who must undergo radiographic scanning so that a diagnosis of FHP can be obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although numerous cathode materials with excellent properties have been developed for use in molten salt thermal batteries, similar progress is yet to be made with anode materials. Herein, a high-performance lithium-impregnated metal foam anode (LIMFA) is fabricated by impregnating molten lithium into a gold-coated iron–chrome–aluminium (FeCrAl) foam at 400 °C. A test cell employing the LIMFA FeCrAl anode exhibited a specific capacity of 2627 As g−1. For comparison, a cell with a conventional Li(Si) anode was also discharged, demonstrating a specific capacity of 982 As g−1. This significant improvement in performance can be attributed to the large amount (18 wt%) of lithium incorporated into the FeCrAl foam and the ability of the FeCrAl foam to absorb and immobilize molten lithium without adopting a cup system. For thermal batteries without a cup, the LIMFA FeCrAl provides the highest-reported specific capacity and a flat discharge voltage curve of molten lithium. After cell discharge, the FeCrAl foam exhibited no lithium leakage, surface damage, or structural collapse. Given these advantageous properties, in addition to its high specific capacity, LIMFA FeCrAl is expected to aid the development of thermal batteries with enhanced performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Case: We report the rare case of a double-layered lateral meniscus that was comprised of a normal meniscus and a ring-shaped accessory meniscus. An 11-year-old boy presented with left knee pain, and magnetic resonance imaging initially was interpreted as showing a horizontal meniscal tear. However, arthroscopic exploration revealed a double-layered meniscus. A superior accessory meniscus was fused with the inferior normal meniscus at the posterior horn and had more mobility compared with the normal meniscus. The symptoms improved substantially after resection of the superior accessory meniscus. The patient returned to sports at 4 months postoperatively; at 15 months postoperatively, radiographs demonstrated no evidence of degenerative changes. Conclusion: A double-layered lateral meniscus that includes a ring-shaped accessory meniscus is a rare abnormality that can be corrected arthroscopically by resection of the accessory meniscus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A mechanism describing the synergistic effect of ultrasonic melt treatment (UST) and subsequent fast cooling on the refinement of primary Si particles in a hypereutectic Al−Si alloy was investigated by examining inoculant particles via high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, serial sectioning, and melt filtration. The application of UST activated non-wetting MgAl 2 O 4 particles with diameters of ∼0.5 μm to nucleate the primary Si phase. The cavitation-enhanced wetting of MgAl 2 O 4 particles caused the formation of the AlP phase at the MgAl 2 O 4 interface, further improving the nucleation potential. The cavitation-enhanced wetting and dispersion of inclusions (such as MgAl 2 O 4 ) also resulted in the refinement and de-agglomeration of AlP particles. The UST-induced changes to the inoculant particles ultimately increased their number density, and the observed effects became more pronounced after increasing the degree of undercooling up to 20 K, leading to enhanced refinement of primary Si particles at higher cooling rates (up to 10 2 K s −1 ). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of aging temperature (25–220 °C) on precipitation behavior and the resulting alloy strength were characterized for the Al–6Mg–9Si–10Cu–10Zn–3Ni (wt%) natural composite. At an aging temperature of 25 °C, spherical and ellipsoidal Guinier–Preston (GP) zones (Zn clusters) are formed within the Al matrix. The fastest kinetics of Zn clustering is exhibited at 70 °C, which is caused by the combined effects of accelerated Zn diffusion and decreased phase thermal stability with increasing aging temperature. Thus, the Zn clusters and precipitates are formed prior to those of Cu (GPI and θ'') at 70 °C. As the precipitation kinetics of θ accelerates and Zn decelerates at above 70 °C, the precipitation sequence changes at 170 °C; clusters and precipitates of Cu are formed prior to those of Zn at this temperature. At an aging temperature of 220 °C (above the solvus of hcp Zn), θ'-Al 2 Cu and Q′-Al 4 CuMg 6 Si 6 phases are mainly precipitated instead of Zn clusters and precipitates. The matrix strengthening induced by the fine clusters and precipitates that form below 70 °C results in a significant improvement in the strength of the composite. However, high-temperature aging has only a small strengthening effect due to the lower matrix hardening caused by precipitate coarsening and the softening caused by the decreased volume fraction and spheroidization of the secondary phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The precipitation behavior of the multicomponent Al–6Mg–9Si–10Cu–10Zn–3Ni (wt%) alloy was investigated during artificial aging at 120 °C through complementary experimental methods including hardness and electrical resistivity measurements, compression testing, differential scanning calorimetry, and transmission electron microscopy. The solution treatment causes the dissolution of the preexisting θ-Al 2 Cu and hcp Zn phases, thereby increasing the concentrations of Zn and Cu species in the Al matrix. During aging, two resistivity peaks (I R , II R ) become visible followed by the appearance of the related hardness peaks (I H , II H ). Spherical Guinier-Preston (GP) zones are formed first and then subsequently transformed into ellipsoidal GP zones. The former process results in the appearance of the I R peak, while the latter process produces the I H peak. During transformation of the ellipsoidal GP zones to hcp Zn, GPI zones are additionally formed, leading to the appearance of II R . The following transformation of the GPI zones into the θ''-Al 3 Cu phase leads to the appearance of the II H peak. Both the ellipsoidal GP zones and hcp Zn phases contain large quantities of Cu atoms, while the θ''-Al 3 Cu phase does not have any Zn atoms. Based on these insights into the structural and chemical compositional evolution of complex precipitates, the strengthening mechanism of the multicomponent alloy during aging has been established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of ultrasonic melt treatment (UST) and solution treatment on the microstructure and mechanical properties of a low-density multicomponent Al 70 Mg 10 Si 10 Cu 5 Zn 5 alloy at room and elevated temperatures were investigated. The as-cast Al 70 Mg 10 Si 10 Cu 5 Zn 5 alloy was composed of an fcc Al solid-solution, coarse secondary phases (5–30 μm), fine Cu-containing precipitates (<1 μm), and Zn clusters (<20 nm). The UST significantly reduced the porosity and size of primary Mg 2 Si particles and grains, resulting in an improvement in the strength and ductility of the as-cast alloy at 25 and 350 °C. The solution treatment at 440 °C caused the dissolution of hcp Zn and fine Cu-containing precipitates. It also resulted in the formation of Zn and Cu clusters in the supersaturated Al solid-solution at 25 °C, which led to an improved room-temperature strength. A phase transformation from Mg 2 Si to Q-Al 5 Cu 2 Mg 8 Si 6 occurred during the solution treatment along with the spheroidization of coarse secondary phases and grain growth, which deteriorated the ultimate compressive strengths at 25 and 350 °C and improved the ductility. Unlike the commercial Al alloys, the Al 70 Mg 10 Si 10 Cu 5 Zn 5 alloy showed excellent strengths at temperatures below 200 °C. This is attributed to the combined strengthening by coarse secondary phases, fine precipitates, and clusters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrothermally synthesized homogeneous structures based on Ni, Mo, and S on Ni metal foam cathodes (NiMoSs) were characterized electrochemically. A NiMoS-containing cell exhibited a much higher specific capacity of 1534 A s g−1 than an FeS2 cathode, owing to its homogeneous structure, demonstrating promise for thermal battery applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Legionellosis outbreak is a major global health care problem. However, current Legionella risk assessments may be compromised by uncertainties in Legionella detection methods, infectious dose, and strain infectivity. These limitations may place public health at significant risk, leading to significant monetary losses in health care. However, there are still unmet needs for its rapid identification and monitoring of legionellae in water systems. Therefore, in the present study, a primer set was designed based on a LysR-type transcriptional regulator (LTTR) family protein gene of Legionella pneumophila subsp. pneumophila str. Philadelphia 1 because it was found that this gene is structurally diverse among species through BLAST searches. The specificity of the primer set was evaluated using genomic DNA from 6 strains of L. pneumophila, 5 type strains of other related Legionella species, and other 29 reference pathogenic bacteria. The primer set used in the PCR assay amplified a 264-bp product for only targeted six strains of L. pneumophila. The assay was also able to detect at least 1.39 × 10 copies/μl of cloned amplified target DNA using purified DNA or 7.4 × 10 colony-forming unit per reaction when using calibrated cell suspension. In addition, the sensitivity and specificity of this assay were confirmed by successful detection of Legionella pneumophila in environmental water samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crack propagation in high-Mn steel was investigated using in situ transmission electron microscopy. Preferential slips developed in the early stages of deformation on {1 1 1}, followed by the formation of a crack, which propagated along the pre-developed slip traces. A sharp corner was observed at the crack tip along two adjoining {1 1 1} planes. Surface ripples developed when the tip of the crack crossed pre-existing twins on the crack path, which was frequently observed in the surface during the final stage of fracture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a QR flyback converter using a self-driven active snubber (SDAS) was proposed to solve the problem of voltage surge in the switch of QR flyback converters. In the proposed converter, the SDAS consisting of a clamping capacitor and an active switch can be configured in parallel with the main switch or transformer to reduce the voltage surge in the switch. To confirm the steady-state characteristics of the QR flyback converter to which the proposed SDAS is applied, equivalent circuits for each state were constructed, and the equations and characteristics for each state were determined. A 60 W class small AC–DC adapter was constructed to confirm the effectiveness of the proposed converter and the control circuit method, and the experimental results were analyzed. The size of the experimental AC–DC adapter was 74 × 29 × 23   mm , and it had a high power density of 20   W / in 3 or more. The experimental circuit was limited to the high power conversion efficiency of up to 91.56%, and the maximum voltage surge in the switch was approximately 450 V. One of the reasons for such high efficiency is the SDAS circuit, which sufficiently reduces the voltage surge of the QR flyback switch, compared with the RCD clamp circuit, and does not consume power in principle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we propose the use of a short-distance and fixed-type wireless power transmission transformer via a half-bridge LLC resonant converter. A ceramic insulating layer was used instead of an air gap, meaning that the heat generated from the transformer core and the PCB winding was quickly transferred to the external metal case, with the ceramic insulating layer acting as a heat pipe. In order to stabilize the output voltage, we proposed the use of IR photo tunnel technology, and it was applied to two ceramic insulating layers so that the voltage error signal of the secondary output voltage could be transmitted as light to the primary side. As a result, it was possible to physically separate the primary and secondary sides of the power circuit centering on the ceramic insulating layer. The experiment was carried out with the input voltage of 400 V, the output voltage of 54 V, the maximum output power of 1 kW, and the switching frequency of 1.3 MHz or higher. As a result, the maximum operating frequency was 1.83 MHz, and the output voltage stability to the load was 0.49% or lower. The power density of the experimental circuit was 380 W / in 3 or higher, and the maximum power conversion efficiency was approximately 93% or higher. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a steady-state model of an LLC resonant half-bridge converter with internal loss resistance is proposed, in order to maximize power conversion efficiency, and steady-state characteristic equations of DC voltage gain and input impedance are derived for the optimal design of the converter. First, to confirm the validity of the steady-state characteristic equation and the optimal design process, a prototype converter with a maximum output of 2 kW was designed. Through comparison of simulation, calculation, and experimental results obtained from the prototype test, it is shown that the calculation results proposed in this paper were closer to the experimental results than the calculation results obtained under the lossless condition. In addition, the relationship between the switching frequency and the load current of the prototype was compared, in order to determine the operating range of the switching frequency, which is important in the converter design stage. In this case, it was confirmed that the calculated value reflecting the internal loss showed a close result. In conclusion, we confirm the usefulness of the analysis results reflecting the internal loss resistance proposed in this paper and the optimal design process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ammonium sulfide ((NH4)2S) was used for the passivation of an InP (100) substrate and its conditions were optimized. The capacitance–voltage (C–V) characteristics of InP metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) capacitors were analyzed by changing the concentration of and treatment time with (NH4)2S. It was found that a 10% (NH4)2S treatment for 10 min exhibits the best electrical properties in terms of hysteresis and frequency dispersions in the depletion or accumulation mode. After the InP substrate was passivated by the optimized (NH4)2S, the results of x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and the extracted interface trap density (Dit) proved that the growth of native oxide was suppressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aims to analyze the outcomes of subtalar distraction arthrodesis (SDA) for calcaneal malunion using structural freeze-dried iliac allograft (FDIA) compared to using autologous iliac bone (AIB).Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 57 consecutive cases (51 patients) of calcaneal malunion between March 2006 and December 2017. All patients were followed for an average of 22.8 months. All cases were treated by SDA using structural FDIA (17 cases, group 1), or AIB (40 cases, group 2). The outcome measures included the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot (AOFAS) scores, visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores, and radiographic measurements.Results: The mean postoperative 3, 6, and 12 months of AOFAS scores and VAS pain score were significantly better in group 2 than those in group 1 (p < 0.05, for all). There were 3 cases (17.6%) of nonunion in the group 1, whereas the group 2 had 2 cases (5.0%), which did not shown significant difference between two groups (p = 0.492). Although the mean pre-, postoperative, and final follow-up radiologic parameters in both groups were similar, (p > 0.05, for all) the difference of talocalcaneal height, talocalcaneal angle, and talar declination angle from postoperative to final follow-up were significantly bigger in the group 1. (p < 0.05, for all).Conclusion: Although union rate was not significantly different between the two groups, we obtained more favorable clinical and radiologic outcomes in the autologous iliac bone group. Using FDIA without any orthobiological agent for SDA, there were significant more loss of radiological parameters due to inferior incorporation and biomechanical properties. When considering the SDA for calcaneal malunion, routine use of FDIA without any orthobiological agents as an interpositional graft for SDA is not recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considerable research is being conducted on the use of FeF3 as a cathode replacement for FeS2 in thermal batteries. However, FeF3 alone is inefficient as a cathode active material because of its low electrical conductivity due to its wide bandgap (5.96 eV). Herein, acetylene black and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were combined with FeF3, and the ratio was optimized. When acetylene black and MWCNTs were added separately to FeF3, the electrical conductivity increased, but the mechanical strength decreased. When acetylene black and MWCNTs were both added to FeF3, the FeF3/M1AB4 sample (with 1 wt.% MWCNTs and 4% AB) afforded a discharge capacity of approximately 74% of the theoretical capacity (712 mAh/g) of FeF3. Considering the electrical conductivity and mechanical strength, this composition was confirmed to be the most suitable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Segmental fractures often result from high-energy or indirect trauma that causes bending or torsional forces with axial loading. We evaluated surgical outcomes of patients with forearm segmental diaphyseal fractures. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data from patients with forearm segmental fractures for which they underwent surgery at the Pusan National University Trauma Center from March 2013 to March 2022. We also analyzed accompanying injuries, injury severity score (ISS), injury mechanism, occurrence of open fracture, surgical technique, and treatment results. Results: Fifteen patients were identified, one with bilateral segmental diaphyseal forearm bone fracture, for a total of 16 cases. Nine of the patients were male. The overall mean age was 50 years, and the mean follow-up period was 16.2 months. Six cases who underwent surgery using plate osteosynthesis achieved bone union without length deformity at final follow-up. Three of seven patients who underwent intramedullary nailing alone underwent reoperation due to nonunion. Six cases achieved bone union at final follow-up, three of which showed length deformity. Three patients underwent surgery using a hybrid method of IM nailing, plates, and mini cables. One patient who underwent surgery with a plate and one patient who underwent surgery with IM nailing alone showed nonunion and were lost to follow-up. Conclusion: Plate osteosynthesis is considered the gold standard for treatment of adult forearm diaphyseal segmental fractures. In this study, IM nailing was associated with high rates of non-union and length deformity. However, the combination of IM nailing and a plate-cable system may be an acceptable alternative in segmental diaphyseal forearm fracture, achieving a union rate similar to that provided by plate fixation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The accuracy of distal femoral resection in intramedullary (IM) guided total knee arthroplasty (TKA) depends on femoral morphology and varies according to individual anatomy. This study aimed to characterise coronal plane femoral bowing in Far East Asians according to age, sex, and severity of varus deformity to identify optimal strategies for distal femoral resection in TKA. Method: Femoral anatomical parameters in 656 patients (M/F = 232:424) were assessed using standing long-leg anteroposterior radiography which was fulfilling strict standard. The femur was divided into three longitudinal segments to measure the segmental anatomical axial deviation from the mechanical axis and intersegmental bowing. Coronal plane femoral bowing pattern was categorised based on combined gross bowing and distal bowing. Results: Mean hip–knee–ankle angle; neck–shaft angle; proximal, middle, and distal segmental axial differences; mechanical lateral distal femoral angle; and femur length were 6.7 ± 6.8°, 125.0 ± 5.5°, 5.9 ± 1.7°, 6.1 ± 1.1°, 5.3 ± 1.6°, 88.4 ± 2.6°, and 432.3 ± 23.9 mm in male and 8.4 ± 5.5°, 126.4 ± 5.6°, 5.4 ± 1.5°, 6.6 ± 0.9°, 5.6 ± 1.6°, 89.3 ± 2.6°, and 410.6 ± 23.3 mm in female, respectively. Mean proximal, distal, and gross femoral bowing was 0.3 ± 1.8°, − 0.8 ± 1.8°, and − 0.5 ± 2.9° in male and 1.2 ± 1.6°, − 1.0 ± 1.6°, and 0.2 ± 2.7° in female, respectively. Conclusions: Grossly straight femur with a straight distal part was the most common femoral bowing pattern in Far East Asians. Distal bowing was proved to be a key factor to choose method for distal femoral resection in TKA. Using IM-guide to achieve accurate distal femoral resection in the femora with distal segmental axial deviation between 4–8° and distal bowing less than ± 1° is considered feasible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cr and Mo are known to be effective steel alloying elements for high-temperature applications, and they affect steel mechanical properties via carbide formation. Mechanical properties of Cr-Mo steels affected by the carbide evolution were investigated by performing heat treatments, and the treatment duration was determined by the Larson-Miller parameter fitting. The hardness value decreased after heat treatment at 690 °C for 10 h with the decomposition of the bainitic microstructure. The quantified chemical composition results for the carbides were plotted on the Fe-Cr-Mo ternary and Fe-Cr binary composition diagrams to classify the types of carbides formed. Most of the carbides were identified as Fe-rich M 3 C-type carbides at the initial stage of heat treatment. The Fe fraction in the carbides decreased with time while the Cr and Mo fractions increased. The Cr- and Mo-rich carbides were identified as M 23 C 6 - and M 2 C-type, respectively. An increase in the Cr and Mo fractions in the carbides resulted in the decrease in the alloying element concentration in the matrix, which in turn resulted in the deterioration of the solid solution strengthening. Further, it was determined that coarse carbides, observed on the grain boundaries after extended heat treatment, deteriorated the mechanical properties of the alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Escherichia coli serotype O157 is still a major global healthcare problem. However, only limited information is now available on the molecular and serological detection of pathogenic bacteria. Therefore, the development of appropriate strategies for their rapid identification and monitoring is still needed. In general, the sequence analysis based on stx, slt, eae, hlyA, rfb, and fliC genes is widely employed for the identification of E. coli serotype O157; but there have been critical defects in the diagnosis and identification of E. coli serotype O157, in that they are also present in other E. coli serogroups. In this study, NCBI-BLAST searches using the nucleotide sequences of the putative regulatory protein gene from E. coli O157:H7 str. Sakai found sequence difference at the serotype level. The specific primers from the putative regulatory protein gene were designed and investigated for their sensitivity and specificity for detecting the pathogen in environment water samples. The specificity of the primer set was evaluated using genomic DNA from 8 isolates of E. coli serotype O157 and 32 other reference strains. In addition, the sensitivity and specificity of this assay were confirmed by successful identification of E. coli serotype O157 in environmental water samples. In conclusion, this study showed that the newly developed quantitative serotype-specific PCR method is a highly specific and efficient tool for the surveillance and rapid detection of high-risk E. coli serotype O157. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Ti4O7 Magnéli phase was grown on a Pt substrate by reactive DC magnetron sputtering. Resistive switching of a Ti4O7 thin film was tested with the three different electrode materials of Ti, W, and Pt. The electrical characteristics revealed ohmic contact with a Ti or W top electrode on the Ti4O7/Pt, while the Pt/Ti4O7/Pt structure showed the characteristics of a diode in a pristine state and unipolar resistive switching behavior after a soft breakdown. The resistive switching behavior of Pt/Ti4O7/Pt was found to be related to the formation of an amorphous Ti-Pt-O layer which originated from the intermixing of Pt with Ti4O7. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Transverse acetabular fractures, although classified as elementary, have worse outcomes than other types of acetabular fractures. Prognostic factors for this fracture type are not clearly established. This study aimed to assess the surgical outcomes of transverse acetabular fractures and subtypes thereof and to investigate the prognostic factors.Methods: Between 2014 and 2019, 39 patients (39 hips) had transverse fractures or subtypes thereof. We reviewed the surgical outcomes and evaluated patient factors, injury factors, and surgical factors in relation to osteoarthritis (OA) and conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA). Additionally, we analyzed the cutoff values for postoperative residual gaps and steps.Results: Twenty-three male patients and sixteen female with a mean age of 41.7 years (range, 18-78 years) were included. There were 29 satisfactory reductions (74.4%). Eleven hips (28.2%) developed OA, and five (12.8%) of them underwent THA. Dome impaction (odds ratio [OR], 41.173; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.804-939.814; p = 0.020) and residual gaps (OR, 4.251; 95% CI, 1.248-14.479; p = 0.021) were correlated with poor outcomes. Residual gaps (≥3 mm) and residual steps (≥1 mm) were significantly associated with OA.Conclusions: Relatively poor reduction was found for transverse acetabular fractures and subtypes thereof. However, the rates of OA and conversion to THA were not high. Dome impaction and wide residual gaps were identified as risk factors for poor outcomes. The development of OA significantly increased if residual gap and step were more than 3 mm and 1 mm, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) can only detect high-degree hyperfibrinolysis (HF), despite being frequently used in trauma patients. We investigated whether considering FIBTEM HF (the presence of maximal lysis (ML) > 15%) could increase ROTEM-based HF detection's sensitivity. This observational cohort study was performed at a level 1 trauma centre. Trauma patients with an Injury Severity Score (ISS) > 15 who underwent ROTEM in the emergency department between 2016 and 2017 were included. EXTEM HF was defined as ML > 15% in EXTEM. We compared mortality rates between EXTEM HF, FIBTEM HF, and non-HF patient groups. Overall, 402 patients were included, of whom 45% were men (mean age, 52.5 years; mean ISS, 27). The EXTEM HF (n = 37), FIBTEM HF (n = 132), and non-HF (n = 233) groups had mortality rates of 81.1%, 22.3%, and 10.3%, respectively. The twofold difference in mortality rates between the FIBTEM HF and non-HF groups remained statistically significant after Bonferroni correction (P = 0.01). On multivariable Cox regression analysis, FIBTEM HF was independently associated with in-hospital mortality (adjusted hazard ratio 2.15, 95% confidence interval 1.21–3.84, P = 0.009). Here, trauma patients with FIBTEM HF had significantly higher mortality rates than those without HF. FIBTEM be a valuable diagnostic method to improve HF detection's sensitivity in trauma patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the microstructural evolution and precipitation behavior of a multicomponent Al 83 Zn 5 Cu 5 Mg 5 Li 2 alloy using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and atom-probe tomography (APT) during solution treatment, cooling, and natural aging. The as-cast alloy consisted of high volume fractions of V-Al 5 Cu 6 Mg 2 and η -Mg(Zn,Cu,Al) phases, which were partially dissolved during solution treatment at 450 °C. Slow furnace cooling (FC) after solution treatment resulted in the formation of polygonal V-phase, elongated η -phase, and platelet Y-phase precipitates. The Y-phase precipitates consisted of one Mg-rich central layer and three adjacent Zn/Cu-rich layers, both lying on the {111} Al planes. Instead of Y-phase precipitates, air cooling (AC) induced the formation of S- and Zn-phase precipitates with well-developed orientation relationships. No precipitation occurred during water quenching (WQ). The microhardness increased significantly during the natural aging of the AC and WQ alloys, whereas no hardening was observed in the FC alloy. TEM and APT analyses demonstrated that the natural aging induced the formation of fine solute clusters with a chemical composition of 52.3Al–21.3Li–18.3Zn–4.9Mg–3.1Cu (at%), contributing to the natural age-hardening of AC and FC alloys. The solute clusters were fully coherent with the Al matrix and exhibited an interfacial region rich in Zn and two central regions rich in Li and Zn. • Al 83 Zn 5 Cu 5 Mg 5 Li 2 cast alloy consists of highly interconnected V and η phases. • Cooling rate-dependent precipitation of V-, η-, Y-, S-, and Zn-phases is confirmed. • Y-phase comprises a Mg-rich layer and adjacent Zn/Cu-rich layers lying on {111} Al. • Li- and Zn-rich coherent solute clusters contribute to natural age-hardening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper shows that the addition of transition elements significantly influences the microstructure and tensile properties of Al–12Si alloy cast under ultrasonic melt treatment (UST). The alloys contained primary Si, eutectic Si and a variety of intermetallic compounds (IMCs); the addition of Mn and Ni changed the solidification sequence by forming primary α-Al 15 (Fe,Mn) 4 Si 2 and ε-Al 3 Ni prior to primary Si formation. The primary Si and primary IMCs competitively consumed the nucleation sites introduced by UST, thereby influencing their refining efficiencies; the efficiency of primary Si refinement by UST increased with increasing the fraction of primary Si formed prior to IMC formation, whereas it deteriorated with increasing primary IMC fraction. The refining efficiency of eutectic Si and eutectic IMCs was not affected by the type and fraction of the primary phase. Using a Ti sonotrode for UST caused Ti contamination, resulting in grain refinement by forming Ti(Al,Si) 3 particles and increasing the amount of Ti solutes. Regardless of transition elements content, the application of UST improved the tensile strength at 25 °C and 350 °C. The refinement of IMCs caused by UST allowed the alloy to contain more IMCs without deterioration of room-temperature tensile strength. This enhanced the increment of high-temperature tensile strength by IMCs. Ductility of heavily alloyed systems was also improved by UST. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Weissella koreensis is a psychrophilic bacterium that is the dominant species found in kimchi and exhibits anti-obesity effects via its production of ornithine. In this study, we mined the genome of W. koreensis KACC15510 to identify species-specific genes that can serve as new targets for the detection and quantification of W. koreensis in kimchi. A specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) primer set for the membrane protein-encoding gene of W. koreensis KACC15510 was designed and investigated to quantify its sensitivity and specificity for detecting the bacterium in kimchi. The specificity of the primer set was evaluated using genomic DNA from eight isolates of W. koreensis, 11 different species of Weissella and 13 other reference lactic acid bacterium (LAB) strains. In addition, red pepper powder was observed to strongly influence the density of W. koreensis during kimchi fermentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction The method of administration of oral phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors has been expanded to once-daily repeated administration with lower initial dosage than on-demand administration. Aim The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of once-daily udenafil as a treatment for erectile dysfunction ( ED) for intermediate-term period. Methods This multicenter, randomized, double-blind clinical trial included 346 ED patients (placebo, udenafil 50 mg, udenafil 75 mg). Subjects were treated with each medication once daily for 24 weeks. Main Outcome Measures Subjects were asked to complete the International Index of Erectile Function ( IIEF)-erectile function ( EF) domain at baseline, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks and the development of adverse drug reactions ( ADRs) was inspected. Results Both dosages of udenafil induced a significant increase in IIEF- EF compared with placebo at both 12 and 24 weeks. When patients were divided according to the severity of baseline EF score, significant improvement was observed only with udenafil 75 mg regardless of the degree of ED. At 24 weeks, the proportions of patients who reported a return to normal EF ( IIEF- EF over 26) were 39.1% for udenafil 50 mg and 47.0% for udenafil 75 mg. In terms of safety, ADRs were observed in 6.1%, 12.9%, and 17.9% for placebo, udenafil 50 mg, and 75 mg, respectively. Although a statistically higher rate of ADRs was observed in the udenafil 75 mg group ( P = 0.024), the majority were mild and recovered without treatment. Conclusions Once-daily administration of udenafil 50 mg and 75 mg for 24 weeks resulted in improvement of EF. In particular, udenafil 75 mg improves EF regardless of the baseline degree of ED. Moon KH, Ko YH, Kim SW, Moon DG, Kim JJ, Park NC, Lee SW, Paick J-S, Ahn TY, Chung WS, Min KS, Park JK, Yang DY, and Park K. Efficacy of once-daily administration of udenafil for 24 weeks on erectile dysfunction: Results from a randomized multicenter placebo-controlled clinical trial. J Sex Med 2015;12:1194-1201. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Althoughdifferent kinds of metal oxide nanoparticles continueto be proposed as anode materials for lithium ion batteries (LIBs),their cycle life and power density are still not suitable for commercialapplications. Metal oxide nanoparticles have a large storage capacity,but they suffer from the excessive generation of solid–electrolyteinterphase (SEI) on the surface, low electrical conductivity, andmechanical degradation and pulverization resulted from severe volumeexpansion during cycling. Herein we present the preparation of mesoporousiron oxide nanoparticle clusters (MIONCs) by a bottom-up self-assemblyapproach and demonstrate that they exhibit excellent cyclic stabilityand rate capability derived from their three-dimensional mesoporousnanostructure. By controlling the geometric configuration, we canachieve stable interfaces between the electrolyte and active materials,resulting in SEI formation confined on the outer surface of the MIONCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Septic arthritis of digits needs urgent treatment. When treatments delayed or insufficient, patients may be referred to the upper-level hospital due to uncontrolled infection. We reviewed the treatment history of referred patients and compared the microorganisms and the clinical course of both primary and referred patients as relevant studies are rare.Methods: In this retrospective review of consecutive case series, 45 patients (primary, n = 11; referred, n = 34) were treated with multiple irrigation and debridement. Cefazolin was used as empiric antibiotics, then changed according to microbiologic study. Previously used antibiotics, treatment delay, surgical history of the referred patients were reviewed. Identified microorganisms, required surgical intervention, hospital stay, radiologic outcome, functional outcomes were compared between both groups.Results: In the referred patients, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was commonly found and cefazolin was susceptible in only 15% of the cases. Longer hospital stay, prolonged antibiotic therapy, more surgical intervention including flap surgery was required to treat the referred patients. Postoperative pain was not severe in daily activities, but the final range of motion was significantly less in the referred patients compared to the primary patients.Conclusions: This study suggests that in the treatment of uncontrolled septic arthritis of the digits, antibiotic agents covering MRSA may shorten the duration of antibiotic therapy in areas of high MRSA incidence. Besides, more number of I & D including flap surgery may be required for the referred patients compared with the primary patients. These findings can help the surgeon in setting up a treatment plan or in counseling of referred patients with uncontrolled septic arthritis of the digits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]