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To investigate the diagnostic value of golden-angle radial sparse parallel magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (GRASP) and R2∗ in predicting the prognostic factors of resectable rectal cancer. A total of 108 patients with rectal adenocarcinoma were included in this retrospective study. The volume transfer constant (Ktrans), rate constant (Kep), plasma volume fraction (Ve), and R2∗ were obtained. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were conducted. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the imaging parameters. The Ktrans was found to be significantly higher in rectal cancers with positive lymph node metastasis (LNM), higher tumour grade, positive lymphovascular invasion (LVI), and higher ki-67 (all p< 0.05). The Kep was also significantly higher in the LNM-positive group (p< 0.001), while the R2∗ was higher in rectal cancers with LNM-positive, higher tumour grade, LVI-positive, and higher ki-67 (all p< 0.05). Combining the Ktrans and R2∗ provided the highest area under the ROC curve (AUC) for LNM-positive and higher ki-67 tumours differentiation (0.790 and 0.823, respectively). Combining quantitative parameters of the Ktrans and R2∗ could be used to non-invasively predict pathological prognostic factors preoperatively. • Interobserver agreement was excellent for Ktrans, Kep, Ve and R2∗. • The Ktrans and R2∗ could predict pathological prognostic factors preoperatively. • The combination of Ktrans with R2∗ enhances diagnostic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study developed a set of custom made laser remanufacturing equipment for deep penetration laser cladding and remelting tailored to the particular demands of the TC4 alloy. The yield strength improved to 865 MPa after laser cladding and the strength should be a good approximation to substrate. The yield strength was increased to 878 MPa by deep penetration laser remelting in a modified atmosphere. The experimental results of this method demonstrate the effectiveness of deep penetration laser remelting in remanufacturing and its potential to adapt to a wide range of part defects. This study demonstrated that the mechanical strength of TC4 alloy could be enhanced by deep penetration laser cladding and remelting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Modern medicine has taken energy loss during cilia beating in the human stomach, which under some circumstances causes blood flow to become acidic, very seriously. In current report covering a whole advancement and results for the impact of Rabinowitsch model with cilia-driven flow analysis with the help of ciliary beating in a cylindrical tube. The fluid is incompressible, and layers of fluid do not mix. The fluid flow with heat and mass transfer is firstly modeled in wave and then transformed into fixed frame. Exact solutions for stresses, temperature velocity, and concentration profiles whereas numerical pressure rise is obtained subject to relevant boundary conditions. The behavior of incipient parameters is shown graphically (plotted in MATHEMATICA 13.0) in the results section. The key findings obtained from graphical results show that maximum magnitude for velocity and temperature is achieved in middle layer of fluid whereas in the outer layer concentration profile is maximum. The current study may help researchers to develop new treatments for diseases such as cystic fibrosis, in which impaired ciliary function leads to mucus accumulation in the lungs. The attained exact and numerical outcomes are novel and offered here for first time in literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate risk factors for poor prognosis in vocal fold leukoplakia. Methods: Clinical data were collected for 344 patients with vocal fold leukoplakia who received surgical treatment in our otolaryngology department from October 2010 to June 2019. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses of the relevant factors were conducted. Results: Among the 344 patients, 98 exhibited recurrence and 30 underwent a malignant change. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that size of the lesion (p = 0.03, odds ratio = 2.14), form of the lesion under white light (p < 0.001), surgical method (p < 0.001, odds ratio = 0.28) and pathological type (p < 0.001) were independent factors that affected the recurrence of vocal fold leukoplakia. In both univariate and multivariate analyses, the sole independent risk factor for malignant transformation of vocal fold leukoplakia was pathological type (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The outlook for vocal fold leukoplakia depends on several clinical factors, especially pathological type. The more severe the pathological type, the more likely it is to recur or become cancerous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work reports on a systematic investigation of the frequency comb enhancement in hybrid InAs/GaAs multisection quantum dot lasers on silicon. The colliding configuration provides an operating frequency at twice the fundamental frequency of the free-spectral range of the cold cavity. In particular, the contribution of the linewidth enhancement factor, or αH-factor, on the comb formation is investigated with respect to the reverse voltage and temperature conditions. When those parameters are varied, the formation of the combs is found to increase with respect to αH. In addition, we also demonstrate that this quantum dot laser exhibits a comb behavior, while the beatnote locking is not fully achieved. This effect is essentially due to the dispersion which is not fully compensated from the optical nonlinearities. These results bring further insights on comb and pulse formations in multisection quantum dot lasers, which is important for designing future light sources for on-chip and chip-to-chip optical interconnects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Angiopoietin-like protein 4 (ANGPTL4) is considered to be one of the important circulating mediators linking intestinal microorganisms and host lipid metabolism. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) on modulating ANGPTL4 synthesis in Caco-2 cells exposed to Clostridium butyricum. The viability of Caco-2 cells and the expression of PPARγ and ANGPTL4 in Caco-2 cells were detected after the Caco-2 cells were co-cultured with C. butyricum at the concentration of 1 × 106, 1 × 107 and 1 × 108 CFU/mL. The results showed that cell viability was enhanced by C. butyricum. Besides, PPARγ and ANGPTL4 expression and secretion in Caco-2 cells was significantly increased by 1 × 107 and 1 × 108 CFU/mL of C. butyricum. Furthermore, the effects of PPARγ on modulating ANGPTL4 synthesis in Caco-2 cells regulated by 1 × 108 CFU/mL of C. butyricum was also be expounded in PPARγ activation/inhibition model based on Caco-2 cells and via ChIP technique. It was found that C. butyricum promoted the binding of PPARγ to the PPAR binding site (chr19: 8362157-8362357, located upstream of the transcriptional start site of angptl4) of the angptl4 gene in Caco-2 cells. However, the PPARγ was not the only way for C. butyricum to stimulate ANGPTL4 production. Taken together, PPARγ played a role in the regulation of ANGPTL4 synthesis by C. butyricum in Caco-2 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquaporins are highly conserved water channel proteins involved in the transport of solutes across membranes. The few aquaporins identified to date play major roles in excretion in insects. Excretion is a major source of indoor allergens from the house dust mite species, but, to date, aquaporins have not been well studied in these species. We used RNA sequencing to study the transcriptome of the house dust mite Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus to identify putative aquaporin family members. RNA was isolated from more than 2000 mites for 5΄-RACE and 3΄-RACE. Putative aquaporins were identified through BLAST alignments, and primers were designed to amplify the five identified sequences. These cDNA fragments were then inserted into bacterial plasmids for molecular cloning and sequencing of DerpAQP1, DerpAQP2, DerpAQP3, DerpAQP4, and DerpAQP5 (GenBank accessions nos. KY305293, KY305294, KY305295, KY305296, and KY305298, respectively). Phylogenetic analysis of cloned sequences revealed the clustering of these putative aquaporins into two groups with human aquaporins (hAQPs): DerpAQP3 was clustered with hAQP8, hAQP11, and hAQP12; and DerpAQP1, DerpAQP2, DerpAQP4, DerpAQP5 were clustered with hAQP3, hAQP7 hAQP9, and hAQP10. This study provides a foundation for future studies of the importance of these proteins to dust mite functions and allergenicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We develop a ReaxFF reactive force field used for the molecular dynamics simulations of thermophysical properties of liquid Cu and Zr metals. The ReaxFF parameters are optimized by fitting to the first-principles density-functional calculations on the equations of state for bulk crystal structures and surface energies. To validate the force field, we compare the ReaxFF results with those from experiments and embedded-atom-method (EAM) potentials. We demonstrate that the present ReaxFF force field well represents structural characteristics and diffusion behaviors of elemental Cu and Zr up to high-temperature liquid regions. It reasonably reproduces the thermodynamic processes associated with crystal-liquid interface. In particular, the equilibrium melting temperatures show better agreement with experimental measurements than the results from EAM potentials. The ReaxFF reactive force field method exhibits a good transferability to the nonreactive processes of liquid systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanocrystalline alloy samples with the same chemistry (Fe86B13Cu1) but with a range of mean grain sizes were prepared in order to investigate the effect of the grain size (D) on the core losses in nanocrystalline alloys. The core loss was measured on an Epstein frame in a frequency range between 10 Hz and 30 kHz. The measured core loss was separated into 3 parts, i.e. the hysteresis loss, classical eddy current loss and the excess loss. The classical eddy current loss is only a minor component due to the small thickness and moderately high electrical resistivity of the samples. Both the coercivity and the cycle hysteresis loss are found to follow roughly a D3 dependence. The excess loss at the maximum polarization (Jm) between 0.6 and 1.0 T is described universally by a simple power dependence of (Jm·f)n with an exponent of about 1.4 over a wide frequency (f) range between 10 Hz to 30 kHz. The excess loss at low frequencies appears almost independent of the grain size. Thus, the grain size effect on the total loss at low frequencies is attributable to the change in the hysteresis loss which reflects the static coercivity. However, the excess loss at 30 kHz shows a clear increase with an increase in D, indicating that the excess loss also becomes influential to the grain size dependence of the total core loss at high frequencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Equilibrium traffic flow refers to the reasonable organization of traffic flow so that it is evenly distributed on the road network to avoid traffic congestion and congestion in local sections and periods. It is of great significance to control and regulate the traffic flow in different time and space to evenly clistribute on the road network and avoid traffic congestion and congestion. In order to overcome low allocation accuracy and long allocation time in traditional methods, an equilibrium assignment method of mixed traffic flow at intersections based on fuzzy ant colony algorithm is proposed. Firstly, the mixed traffic flow track data at the intersection is obtained through the monocular camera, and the data is preprocessed. Then, the characteristics of mixed traffic flow at the intersection are analyzed, and the hidden Markov model is used to distinguish the operation state of mixed traffic at the intersection. Finally, a multi-objective optimization function for the balanced distribution of mixed traffic flow at the intersection is established, and the ant colony algorithm is used to solve the multi-objective optimization function to obtain the balanced distribution strategy of traffic flow. The experimental results show that the proposed method has high accuracy and short allocation time for mixed traffic flow equilibrium allocation at intersections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have revealed that deleterious I ANKZF1 i mutations may disrupt mitochondrial integrity and play a pathogenic role in the development of IBD in human.[5] No other meaningful mutations related to IBD have been identified in the proband. Learning point for clinicians At present, only five mutations of I ANKZF1 i have been identified in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Our findings demonstrate the first case of IBD attributed to I ANKZF1 i heterozygous mutation (NM 018089.2: c.1243T>G; p.Leu415Val) in Asia, which expands our understanding of I ANKZF1 i mutations. [Extracted from the article]

The structural, electronic, half-metallic (HM), and elastic properties of the new quaternary Heusler (QH) CoCrYZ (Z = In, Sn, Tl, and Pb) were investigated using density functional theory (DFT). It is found that these materials have 100% spin polarization (SP) and satisfy the Slater-Pauling rule. The magnetic moments of the alloys CoCrYIn and CoCrYTl are 3.00 μB, and the magnetic moments of the materials CoCrYSn and CoCrYPb are 4.00 μB. The calculated Cauchy pressure (Cp), Pugh ratio (B/G), Poisson's ratio (v) indicate that the alloys CoCrYIn and CoCrYTl are brittle materials, while CoCrYSn and CoCrYPb are elastic ductile materials, and the anisotropy coefficient (A) indicate that the four alloys are anisotropic. The CoCrYZ (Z = In, Sn, Tl, and Pb) alloys exhibit mechanically stable and the phonon curve patterns indicate dynamic stability. The tetragonal deformation test shows that the cubic phases of the four alloys are their ground state. The total magnetic moments of the four alloys remain constant when stress is applied, indicating their more robust HM properties. These QH alloys were calculated theoretically and the results obtained, such as 100% SP, mechanical properties, thermodynamic properties, and stability of the half-metallicity, make this Heusler alloy a potential candidate material for spintronic and thermoelectric devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous compounds in pollen can affect the foraging decision‐making of bees. Clarification of phytochemical components and identification of key substances for bee foraging preference in pollen are essential steps for apiculture and developing a conservation strategy.Senna bicapsularis, a heterantherous plant that possesses three different stamen types in the same flower, among which bees forage selectively, provides us with an ideal research model for identification of potential substances of bee foraging preference. The lipid and protein compositions of pollen from the anthers of different stamens of S. bicapsularis were investigated and compared.The polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and monounsaturated FAs (MUFAs) were highest among lipid molecules in pollen from short (S) stamens than from long (L) and medium (M) stamens. This result is consistent with the FA content measurement, showing the highest FAs and UFAs content in S pollen, especially α‐linolenic acid. We inferred that α‐linolenic acid might be one of the key substances for bee foraging preference in pollen. Moreover, proteomic analysis showed that several differentially expressed proteins involved in lipid biosynthesis were highly accumulated in S pollen, such as choline kinase 2, 3‐oxoacyl‐ACP synthase‐like protein and choline/ethanolamine phosphotransferase 1, in line with the highest FA content of S pollen. Additionally, DEPs involved in 'starch and sucrose metabolism', 'phenylpropanoid biosynthesis' and 'cyanoamino acid metabolism' were more represented in S compared with L and M pollen.The study suggests that differences in proteomic and lipidomic profiling among the three different stamen types might affect foraging decision‐making of bumblebees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, numerical study on crack location and crack number on the responses of representative unit cell of unidirectional composites under tension is conducted by extended finite element method (XFEM). The composites studied here are single-crack composites, two-crack composites, and three-crack composites. Each of the composites is under tension in the fiber (x) direction. From the simulation results, the averaged strength decreases as the embedded crack number increases when composites are under tension. One interesting finding is that a crack could be a dominant crack but becomes inactive when other different cracks are in presence under the same loads. The responses of representative unit cell of composites depend upon crack location and the applied loading direction. The results from these simulations can also explain why there is discrepancy of strength prediction from the composites manufactured under the same conditions. The simulation method presented here in this paper can be used to model degree of defects (by modelling the number of cracks) and stochastic characteristics of ultimate strength (by modelling distribution of crack strength). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To maximize the space occupied by unknown objects in a narrow crate and handle uncertain situations, we propose a novel human-like system-level learning framework: sequential infiltration synthesis of combined learning (SISCL). This framework leverages the synergies between picking by grasping, three-dimensional modeling, preferable placement, and seamless arranging by pushing in a systematic perspective. Within SISCL, a closed-loop system organizes different designing methods including reinforcement learning, knowledge induction, and analytic methods. This integration trains the system to autonomously package unknown objects and accommodate for uncertainties in measurements or executions, combining efficiency and flexibility. Initially trained in simulations, the SISCL framework underwent comprehensive evaluation in the laboratory. Furthermore, an initial validation was conducted on an extraterrestrial test ground. The results demonstrate the adaptability of the proposed framework to different shapes, materials, and stiffness of objects, as well as the capacity for uncertainties, thereby considerably reducing the need for precision in each sub-procedure in a human-like manner, facilitating seamless operations and efficient utilization of limited space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rapid development of computer technology, numerical simulations of rock dynamics have been widely carried out. The accuracy of numerical simulations depends on the parameters of the constitutive model. In this paper, the parameters of a Johnson–Holmquist-II (JH-2) constitutive model for granite were determined. First, mechanical and penetration tests were carried out on granite specimens. The mechanical tests included a quasi-static compression test and Brazilian disc splitting test to obtain the basic mechanical parameters and failure modes of granite under impact loading. Then, using the experimental results combined with the existing literature data, the parameters of the JH-2 constitutive model were determined through theoretical derivation. Finally, by comparing the numerical simulation results with the test results, the validity of the parameters was verified. These parameters can better simulate the mechanical response and failure modes of granite under different loads. The material model parameters can provide references for subsequent experiments and related numerical simulations. Highlights: The parameters of a Johnson–Holmquist-II (JH-2) constitutive model for granite were obtained. Various mechanical tests and penetration tests were performed on granite. The model parameters have a wide range of applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A statistically steady phase of floc size occurs reflecting the stable equilibrium between aggregation and breakage; • Increase of the density ratio between particles and supercritical water accelerates flocculation; • An optimal temperature is around 750 K where the particles are most effectively dispersed by the supercritical water. Supercritical water gasification represents a promising technology for the clean conversion of coal to hydrogen, so that it is expected to replace the traditional use of coal by burning. However, the flocculation of cohesive coal particles significantly reduces the contact area between particles and supercritical water, which limits the chemical reaction that produces hydrogen. Based on Lifshitz theory, we propose a cellular flow model for numerically reproducing the flocculation of cohesive particles in supercritical fluid turbulence. Cohesion, lubrication, and direct contact forces between particles are fully accounted for, so that the model allows us to conduct a detailed analysis of the translation, rotation, growth, and breakage of flocs in supercritical fluid turbulence. The results show a transient flocculation phase of cohesive particles characterized by an increasing average floc size, followed by a statistically steady equilibrium phase. Increasing the density ratio between particles and supercritical water significantly accelerates the flocculation of dispersed cohesive particles. Higher temperature of the fluid yields faster flocculation and larger flocs when the temperature is below the critical value of 660 K. Upon raising the temperature above 660 K, the flocculation rate and floc size first decrease, and then increase again, yielding an optimal temperature around 750 K where the primary particles are most effectively dispersed by the supercritical water turbulence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the impact of saturation magnetostriction (λ s) on ac initial permeability (μ i) at 1 kHz for a range of Fe-based amorphous and nanocrystalline alloys with varying levels of λ s from close to 0 to + 38 ppm. Results demonstrate a negative correlation between λ s and μ i across the tested compositions, highlighting the importance of considering magnetostriction in the development of the exchange-softened magnetic alloys. It has also been found that μ i and core loss at 1 kHz and 1.0 T are negatively correlated, despite a large difference in the applied magnetic field. Thus, for a given frequency, high μ i is a good indicator of low core losses. The negative correlation between λ s and μ i suggests that the domain wall dynamics is influenced by magnetostriction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A binucleating Schiff base ligand 2-methoxy-6-(iminomethyl)phenol (HL) and two new M(II) complexes [Zn4L4(N3)4](H2O)2 (1) and [Co4L4Cl4] (2) are synthesized. These metal complexes are characterized using various physicochemical techniques, e.g. elemental analyses and single crystal X-ray diffraction. Furthermore, both CCK-8 assay and cell colony formation results indicate that the inhibitory activity of compound 1 against Y79 retinoblastoma cancer cells is stronger than that of compound 2. In addition to this, we also reveal that compound 1 can significantly increase the ROS accumulation in Y79 retinoblastoma cancer cells, which is higher than that in the group treated with compound 2. All the results above suggest a stronger anticancer activity of compound 1 compared to compound 2 and that it has the potential of being a novel candidate for retinoblastoma cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phase III CHAARTED trial established upfront androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) plus docetaxel (D) as a standard for metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) based on meaningful improvement in overall survival (OS). Biological prognostic markers of outcomes and predictors of chemotherapy benefit are undefined. Whole transcriptomic profiling was performed on primary PC tissue obtained from patients enrolled in CHAARTED prior to systemic therapy. We adopted an a priori analytical plan to test defined RNA signatures and their associations with HSPC clinical phenotypes and outcomes. Multivariable analyses (MVAs) were adjusted for age, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group status, de novo metastasis presentation, volume of disease, and treatment arm. The primary endpoint was OS; the secondary endpoint was time to castration-resistant PC. The analytic cohort of 160 patients demonstrated marked differences in transcriptional profile compared with localized PC, with a predominance of luminal B (50%) and basal (48%) subtypes, lower androgen receptor activity (AR-A), and high Decipher risk disease. Luminal B subtype was associated with poorer prognosis on ADT alone but benefited significantly from ADT + D [OS: hazard ratio (HR) 0.45; P = 0.007], in contrast to basal subtype which showed no OS benefit (HR 0.85; P = 0.58), even in those with high-volume disease. Higher Decipher risk and lower AR-A were significantly associated with poorer OS in MVA. In addition, higher Decipher risk showed greater improvements in OS with ADT + D (HR 0.41; P = 0.015). This study demonstrates the utility of transcriptomic subtyping to guide prognostication in mHSPC and potential selection of patients for chemohormonal therapy, and provides proof of concept for the possibility of biomarker-guided selection of established combination therapies in mHSPC. • Gene expression profiles of mHSPC show divergent prognoses and differential benefit from chemohormonal therapy. • High Decipher, luminal B and AR-low profiles define subgroups associated with shorter survival on androgen deprivation alone. • Expression profiling prior to therapy forms a basis for biomarker-guided selection of therapy combinations in mHSPC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel dsRNA virus was identified by high-throughput sequencing from tea oil trees in China. Its complete genome of 4714 bp contains two open reading frames (ORFs). ORF1 encodes a putative coat protein (CP) of 702 amino acids (aa), and ORF2 codes for an RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) of 855 aa. The virus shares the highest aa sequence identity of 45.21% in RdRp with taro-associated totivirus L (MN_119621), a member of the genus Totivirus in the family Totiviridae. Phylogenetic analysis of the aa sequences of the RdRp places the new virus in a group with other totiviruses, suggesting that this virus, which is provisionally named "tea-oil camellia-associated totivirus 1", should be considered a member of the genus Totivirus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ablation of silver (Ag) nanoparticles in the direction of laser polarization is achieved by utilizing femtosecond laser irradiation in air at laser fluence ranging from ~2 mJ/cm2 to ~14 mJ/cm2. This directional ablation is attributed to localized surface plasmon induced localized electric field enhancement. Scanning electron microscopy observations of the irradiated particles in different gases and at different pressures indicate that the ablation is further enhanced by oxygen in the air. This may be due to the external heating via the reactions of its dissociation product, atomic oxygen, with the surface of Ag particles, while the ablated Ag is not oxidized. Further experimental observations show that the ablated material re-deposits near the irradiated particles and results in the extension of the particles in laser polarization direction, facilitating the interconnection of two well-separated nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Muscle diseases are a heterogeneous group of disorders manifesting weakness and wasting of skeletal muscles. MRI is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that can evaluate the morphological change and distribution of muscle involvement in an intuitional way. However, a conventional axial view-based MRI is time consuming. We applied a coronal view-based muscle MRI in patients with inflammatory myopathy (IM) and hereditary myopathy (HM). The muscle edema and fatty change were evaluated via a modified validated visual scores by a single physician with good intra-rater reliability (ICC = 0.86 [95% CI = 0.74 – 0.93]). The correlations between the visual scores and clinical profiles were evaluated. In total, four limbs muscle MRI were applied in 50 patients with IM (n = 23) and HM (n = 27). The average image acquisition time of the coronal view-based muscle MRI is 39.95 ± 5.55 minutes, much shorter than the axial view-based muscle MRI. The edema visual scores were more prominent in IM (IM: 42.1 ± 24.7 vs HM: 23.3 ± 22.4, P = 0.005), while fatty change was similar in both groups (IM: 22.3 ± 13.4 vs HM: 25.3 ± 20.5, P = 0.838). In HM, the manual muscle power test-22 (MMT22) was negatively and significantly correlated to the fat infiltration (r: -0.988, P<0.001), but not correlated to the edema visual score. In IM, the MMT22 was not correlated to either fat infiltration or edema in MRI. Notably, the edema/fat ratio could differentiate the IM from HM, especially when the fat infiltration is not severe (Total: AUC: 0.735, P =0.007; fat infiltration score <20: AUC: 0.912, P=0.002). Our study demonstrated that coronal view-based muscle MRI is timesaving and the MRI visual scores of edematous change help differentiate IM from HM, especially in the scenario with low fat infiltration score. Furthermore, fat infiltration score may serve as a surrogate biomarker in the evaluation of disease severity in HM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Probabilistic hesitant fuzzy set represents the occurrence probabilities of elements. The probabilistic hesitant fuzzy preference relations can more effectively express the hesitant preference information of decision makers. But in the existing research, all of them are based on discrete probability distribution. In order to give decision maker more evaluation space, continuous probability distribution is necessary to be considered. Therefore, in this paper, the continuous probability-interval valued fuzzy set is defined and its probability is represented by a probability density function. A method of converting probabilistic hesitant fuzzy set into continuous probability-interval valued fuzzy set is developed to transform discrete data into continuous data. Then, the continuous probability-interval valued fuzzy preference relations is presented. In order to consider the consistency of continuous probability-interval valued fuzzy preference relations, the multiplication consistent expected preference relations is proposed. The individual consistency index and group consensus index are also presented to determine the consistency level. And then, an algorithm is introduced for checking and improving the individual consistency level and group consensus level. Finally, a numerical example is shown to the effectiveness of proposed algorithm, the comparative analysis is given with the existing methods to show the superiority of this algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We compiled five of the most common x-ray mass-attenuation coefficient (opacity) databases into a single program: NIST-XCOM (Hubbell), NIST-FFAST (Chantler), CXRO (Henke), SNL (Biggs) and LLNL (McMaster). For the first time the opacity values in these databases are compared for Z = 1–92 and a photon energy range from 1 to 30 keV. This effort revealed that the databases are consistent only to ∼10%, and sometimes far worse, even for common elements. To improve on this database, we constructed a tabletop instrument (known as 'Autoedge') capable of measuring the opacity of metal foils to ∼1%–2% accuracy for a photon energy range of 3–17 keV. We measured the opacity of Fe, Ni and Au using this new instrument resulting in approximately a 4–5× improvement in the accuracy to which the areal density of foils can be inferred from the data. We found significant disagreement in the shape of the opacity spectrum just above the K edge for Fe and Ni. Our new measurements disagree with previous tabulations by an amount in excess of 10% at 100 eV above the K-edge, with the discrepancy disappearing at about 1.5 keV above the edge. This shape above the edge agrees well with recent synchrotron data from the international initiative on x-ray fundamental parameters (IIFP) work group, but has been a challenge to model from a theoretical perspective. In contrast, there is no such disagreement above the Au L-edge. The newly measured opacity values were compiled into an improved opacity database and can be used to support ultra-high-accuracy high energy density (HED) target-certification and x-ray filter calibration activities when used in combination with Autoedge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The speciation of extracted chromium from ZSM-5 into an ionic liquid (IL) was studied using X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy. The main adsorbed chromium species in ZSM-5 were Cr(VI)–HA [Cr(VI) chelated with humic acids (HAs)] (57%), Cr(VI)ads (Cr(VI) adsorbed on ZSM-5) (33%), and Cr(III)–HA (Cr(III) chelated with HA) (10%). In this work, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([C4mim]Cl), was used as the IL to extract the chromium compounds from ZSM-5. Experimentally, approximately 75% of the chromium compounds were extracted within 30 min at 343 K. Combining the chromium extraction efficiency and component fitting results of the XANES spectra, almost all of Cr(VI)–HA was extracted into [C4mim]Cl. Following extraction, 34.5% of the Cr(VI) compounds were reduced to form Cr(III)–HA and Cr(III) ions. The Cr–O bond distance of Cr compounds was 1.69 Å in [C4mim]Cl as shown by X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectroscopy. 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) showed that the reduction and extraction of Cr(VI) compounds were affected by [C4mim]+. The nonextractable chromium species in ZSM-5 were Cr(VI)ads (9%), Cr(III)–HA (10.8%), and Cr(III)ads (5.2%). The fraction of Cr(VI) was decreased greatly because of the use of [C4mim]Cl as the extractant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report on the development of a high‐resolution and highly efficient beamline for soft X‐ray resonant inelastic X‐ray scattering (RIXS) located at the Taiwan Photon Source. This beamline adopts an optical design that uses an active grating monochromator (AGM) and an active grating spectrometer (AGS) to implement the energy compensation principle of grating dispersion. Active gratings are utilized to diminish defocus, coma and higher‐order aberrations, as well as to decrease the slope errors caused by thermal deformation and optical polishing. The AGS is mounted on a rotatable granite platform to enable momentum‐resolved RIXS measurements with scattering angles over a wide range. Several high‐precision instruments developed in‐house for this beamline are described briefly. The best energy resolution obtained from this AGM–AGS beamline was 12.4 meV at 530 eV, achieving a resolving power of 4.2 × 104, while the bandwidth of the incident soft X‐rays was kept at 0.5 eV. To demonstrate the scientific impact of high‐resolution RIXS, we present an example of momentum‐resolved RIXS measurements on a high‐temperature superconducting cuprate, i.e. La2–xSrxCuO4. The measurements reveal the A1g buckling phonons in superconducting cuprates, opening a new opportunity to investigate the coupling between these phonons and charge‐density waves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research article, explores the influence of an inclined magnetic field on the fluid flow over a permeable stretching/shrinking surface with heat transfer. The study use water as a conventional base fluid, with graphene oxide (GO) and Aluminum oxide (Al2O3) nanoparticles submerged to create a nanofluid, the system of governing nonlinear partial differential equations converted into ordinary differential equations via suitable similarity conversions. This allow for the unique solution for stretching sheet/shrinking sheets to be obtained, along with the corresponding temperature solution in terms of the hypergeometric function, several parameters are included in the investigation and their contribution is graphically explained to examine physical characteristics such as radiation, inclined magnetic field, solution domain, volume fraction parameter, and temperature jump. Increasing the volume fraction and thermal radiation increases the thermal boundary layer, increasing the magnetic field parameter and inverse Darcy number increases the temperature and decays the velocity profile. The present work has many useful applications in engineering, biological and physical sciences, as well as in cleaning engine lubricants and thrust-bearing technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lobectomy is not advocated for papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) with high-risk features, although there is no highlevel evidence showing that this is an inferior strategy. This study aimed to examine the association between the extent of surgery and survival of patients with PTC and high-risk features. Methods: Consecutive patients with PTC and at least one high-risk feature treated in 2000-2012 were included in the study. High-risk features were defined as: primary tumour larger than 4 cm, gross extrathyroidal extension, macroscopic multifocality, and confirmed nodal metastasis including pathological lateral neck metastasis (pN1b) or more than five central lymph node metastases. Cox proportional hazards models were employed to measure the association between the extent of surgery and disease-specific survival (DSS) in the whole cohort and in a matched-pair analysis. Results: Among a total of 2059 patients with high-risk features, 1224 underwent lobectomy and 835 had total thyroidectomy. Patients who underwent total thyroidectomy had significantly higher rates of bilateral cancer than those who had a lobectomy (79.4 versus 2.7 per cent respectively), macroscopic multifocality (80.8 versus 32.8 per cent) and bilateral neck metastasis (30.9 versus 3.3 per cent) (all P<0.001). With a median follow-up of 93 months, multivariable analysis showed that the extent of surgery was not associated with DSS in the whole cohort (hazard ratio 1.36, 95 per cent c.i. 0.75 to 2.48; P=0.310). After 1: 1 case-control matching of 528 patients, no significant difference between lobectomy and total thyroidectomy groups was observed with respect to the 10-year DSS rate (94.3 versus 95.2 per cent respectively; P=0.323) or 10-year recurrence-free survival rate (75.8 versus 79.2 per cent; P=0.784). Conclusion: Lobectomy was not associated with significantly worse outcomes for patients with PTC and high-risk features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural fragmentation of steel cylinders with different charge sizes is investigated, and the correlation of different cylinders is proposed. The Mott fragment distribution has some obvious shortcomings, including the difficulty of accurately determining the number of fragments. Besides, there is no unified and convenient method to describe the fragmentation behavior of shells with different structures. The results show that the fragmentation behavior of the cylinder is self-similar statistically and can be characterized by a new integrated linear formula . Due to the existence of the end face and the charge clearance, the fragmentation performance of the cylinder is reduced to a constant value, and the effect of the wall thickness is small. The influence of the end face and charge clearance on fragmentation is investigated by 3D simulations, and the numerical results ensure good validation of the experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current investigation scrutinized the incompressible steady flow with temperature-dependent viscosity of magnetohydrodynamics nanofluid through a vertically stretched porous sheet. The Reynolds exponential model is employed to formulate the mathematical modeling. The momentum equation is further devised utilizing the Darcy–Brinkman–Forchheimer model. Electrically conducting nanofluids encompass uniformly suspended nanoparticles in the viscous base fluid. The Buongiorno model is adopted that aspects the behavior of thermophoretic forces and Brownian motion. The momentum, mass conservative, energy, and nanoparticle concentration equations are defined with magnetic body force. The looming nonlinear coupled differential equations are resolved numerically by employing the spectral local linearization method (SLLM). The SLLM algorithm is straightforward to develop and apply, as it is based on a smooth univariant linearization of nonlinear functions. The numerical performance of SLLM is more impressive as it grows a set of equations; those are successively solved by operating the results from the one equation into the subsequent equation. To accelerate and improve the convergence for the SLLM scheme, the successive over relaxation scheme has been utilized. The accuracy of the SLLM will be confirmed through the known methods, and convergence analysis is also presented. Graphical conduct for all the emerging parameters across temperature, velocity, and concentration distributions, as well as the Nusselt number, skin friction, and Sherwood number, is presented and discussed in detail. A comparative study of the novel proposed technique along with the preceding explored literature is also granted. It is costly to affirm that the spectral local linearization scheme is uncovered to be much stable and adaptable to solve the nonlinear problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The physical properties of two new quaternary Heusler alloys CoMnVSn and CoMnVSb were systematically studied by using first-principles calculation. The results show that the type-1 structures of ferromagnetic phase for these two alloys are the most stable. They all exhibit half-metallic behavior at equilibrium, and their half-metallic characteristics are maintained in the lattice region of 5.73–6.19 Å for CoMnVSn and 5.82–6.18 Å for CoMnVSb. The calculated magnetic moment Mt of each molecular unit in the half-metal lattice region strictly follows the Slater–Pauling empirical rule Mt = Zt – 24, where Zt is the number of valence electrons. The elastic constants show that the mechanical properties of the two compounds are stable at equilibrium, and the anisotropy factor and three-dimensional Young's modulus confirm that they have anisotropy. It is expected that the CoMnVSn and CoMnVSb alloys are promising candidates in spintronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multilayer zirconia can improve the color and translucency of traditional zirconia. However, the difference in mechanical property and chemical composition among the layers of multilayer zirconia may affect the structural integrity and even the fracture properties of zirconia prostheses. Currently, literature on the fracture performance of multilayer zirconia is very limited. The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of aging treatment on the fracture properties of multilayer zirconia by using four-point bending and biaxial bending tests according to ISO 6872 specifications. Three kinds, including 3, 4, and 5 mol % of yittria, of monolayer zirconia and two kinds, including color gradient and translucency gradient, of multilayer zirconia were used in this study. The test samples were divided into two shapes: strip samples for the four-point bending test and disc samples for the biaxial bending tests. All samples were divided into three groups, including control group, 5-hour aging group, and 20-hour aging group. The aging treatment at 134°C and 0.2 MPa for 5 h was referred to ISO 13356. The four-point bending, and biaxial bending strengths of each group were analyzed statistically by one-way ANOVA. Weibull analysis was performed to calculate the Weibull modulus. Fracture surface morphology and crystalline structure were also analyzed, respectively, by using scanning electron microscope and X-ray diffractometer. The four-point bending strength of multilayer zirconia before and after the aging treatment was significantly lower than that of monolayer zirconia. The color gradient multilayer zirconia did not have a significant difference in bending strength after aging treatment; the translucency gradient multilayer zirconia had an increase in four-point bending strength after aging treatment, but a decrease in biaxial bending strength (Fig. 1). The Weibull modulus of multilayer zirconia was lower than that of monolayer zirconia; multilayer zirconia had more defects than monolayer zirconia, leading to its lower structural stability. The short (5 h) aging treatment did not significantly affect the crystalline structure of the test samples, but when the aging time increased to 20 h, a significant change in the crystalline structure and a decrease in fracture property were obtained. The aging treatment may affect the fracture properties of multilayer zirconia, depending on the aging time and the type (color gradient or translucency gradient) of multilayer zirconia. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electronic structures, magnetic properties and mechanical stability of three configurations of a promising half-metallic quaternary Heusler compound CoMnVTe were systematically and comprehensively studied by the first-principle calculations. The results show that type-I and type-II configurations present half-metallic behavior with 100% spin polarization. Especially the type-I configuration has the most stable structure among these three configurations. The type-I, type-II configurations can maintain the half-metallic character within the lattice constant 5.47–6.12 Å and 5.82–6.23 Å, respectively. Anisotropy factor and three-dimensional (3D) Young’s modulus indicate that these three configurations of CoMnVTe compound are anisotropic. The type-I and type-II configurations own stable mechanical properties in some and all half-metallic lattice constant regions, respectively. The test results of strong correlation correction show that the U value has a visible effect on the half-metallic properties of the title compound. The (001)@VTe and (111)@V surfaces of type-I configuration also have half-metallic properties. The robust half-metallic properties and mechanical stability make the quaternary Heusler compound CoMnVTe a promising candidate for spintronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the current-induced magnetization switching in a Heusler alloy Co2FeAl-based spin-valve nanopillar by using micromagnetic simulations. We demonstrated that the elimination of the intermediate state is originally resulted from the decease of effective magnetic anisotropy constant. The magnetization switching can be achieved at a small current density of 1.0×104 A/cm2 by increasing the demagnetization factors of x and y axes. Based on our simulation, we found magnetic anisotropy and demagnetization energies have different contributions to the magnetization switching. © 2014 AIP Publishing LLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Antibiotic adjuvants can give a second life to the antibiotics to which bacteria are highly resistant. We evaluated the antimicrobial effects of extracts from Pithecellobium clypearia against methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and also the potential for synergy with several antibiotics. Methods and Results: For this study, four extracts from P. clypearia were tested on MRSA using the broth microdilution method for activity assessment. The ethyl acetate fraction (S20b) had the strongest antibacterial activity against MRSA among the fractions tested. In all, 14 compounds such as gallic acid and luteolin in S20b were analysed by UFLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS/MS. S20b combined with erythromycin showed synergy effects against MRSA and combined with ceftriaxone sodium and levofloxacin showed additive effects against MRSA. Electron microscopy showed that extract S20b damaged the MRSA cell wall and K+ efflux measurements indicated that extract S20b increased cell membrane permeability. Moreover, S20b suppression of PBP2a expression was assessed by Western blot. Furthermore, an in vivo study was used to investigate the therapeutic potential of S20b based on a mouse pneumonia model. Conclusions: The in vitro study results have shown that S20b not only inhibits MRSA growth directly but also reduces the resistance of MRSA to the evaluated antibacterial agents. Based on the in vivo study, it can be concluded that S20b can treat pneumonia in the mouse model. Significance and Impact of the Study: This study is the first research to demonstrate that S20b can inhibit MRSA growth and reduce drug resistance of clinical isolates to antibiotics. S20b has the potential to be used as a therapeutic agent against MRSA and treatment for MRSA pneumonia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An important question of earthquake science is to what extent fluids such as water play an important role in modulating seismicity. While many models of earthquake rupture assume that fluids are critical for dynamic weakening during slip and evidence for fluids is well documented for shallow injection‐induced or hydrothermally induced earthquakes, there has been limited conclusive evidence for the role of fluids for tectonic earthquakes in the middle‐to‐lower crust. Here, we provide evidence for fluid migration during the 2016 Meinong, Taiwan, aftershock sequence, occurring at 10–20 km depth within a classic fold‐and‐thrust belt. We find high Vp/Vs ratios, characteristic of highly fluid saturated regions, in the Meinong aftershock region and that the Vp/Vs ratios in the central aftershock region change with time during the aftershock sequence. The central aftershock sequence distinguishes itself from other aftershocks by having a swarm‐like magnitude distribution and aftershock decay rate, as well as a slower migration rate that may be related to fluid diffusion. The estimated permeability (~3.8 × 10−15 m2) and temporal changes in Vp/Vs suggest that moderate earthquakes may be able to strongly affect permeabilities in the midcrust. The results also suggest that fluid processes play a critical role in regulating seismicity in a classic continental collision tectonic setting and may also have a role in modifying earthquake hazards more generally. Plain Language Summary: A long‐standing question is how fluids like water influence earthquakes. While the effect of fluids on earthquake rupture is widely observed for shallow injection‐induced or hydrothermally induced earthquakes, we know relatively less about their effect on deep earthquakes. Here, we provide evidence for fluid movement during the 2016 Meinong aftershock sequence in southwestern Taiwan. The analysis shows that seismic waves traveling through the aftershock region change their speed during the aftershock sequence, which is strongly suggestive of fluid movement. An estimate of the speed of fluid migration also suggests that the midcrust of southwestern Taiwan can easily transport fluids. These results suggest that fluids may generally play an important role for deep crustal earthquakes and affect earthquake hazards. Key Points: Temporal Vp/Vs changes and aftershock migration suggest that fluid migration occurred during the 2016 Meinong, Taiwan, earthquake sequenceSpatial correlation analysis suggests that seismic hazards may be higher around the fringes rather than at the center of fluid‐rich regionsMidcrustal permeability may vary temporally due to deep crustal earthquakes [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article is part of the Topical Collection on Infection and Inflammation Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic is in transition. Nuclear medicine patients Patients, being encouraged to follow proper hygiene procedures, are something that remains relevant during the transition phase and also in a post-COVID-19 world. Nuclear medicine imaging Currently, most nuclear medicine departments are reducing patient numbers by cutting down on the appointments given for routine, elective studies, and focusing on more urgent cases. [Extracted from the article]

We show that it is possible to tailor the gap separation and interface geometry between adjacent Ag nanoparticles (NPs) by controlling fluence when irradiating with pulses from a fs laser. Unirradiated samples extracted from aqueous solution consist of networks of Ag NPs coated with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). At low laser fluence, bonding between NPs occurs via the formation of an intervening hydrogenated amorphous carbon (α-C:H) layer resulting from the laser-induced decomposition of PVP. This occurs when electrons are emitted at hot-spots created by the trapping of plasmons. The thickness of the α-C:H layer determines the minimum separation between NPs. Ag NPs with different contact geometries can be produced by irradiation of the networks in solution at fluences exceeding the threshold for the formation of α-C:H. At fluences between 200 and 380 μJ/cm2, the α-C:H interface layer is replaced with a metallic neck. Surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) has been used to quantify the electromagnetic field enhancement in joined NP samples. We find that Ag NPs bonded by α-C:H and exhibiting a narrow gap possess the highest SERS enhancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00705-021-05101-2 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optical absorption spectra and spin-Hamiltonian parameters (g factors g||, g⊥, and hyperfine structure constants A||, A⊥) of vanadyl in zinc phosphate glass are investigated, using the high-order perturbation formulas for a 3d1 ion in tetragonally compressed octahedra. In the calculations, the required crystal-field parameters are estimated from the superposition model, and the optical absorption bands and spin-Hamiltonian parameters are linked with the tetragonal distortion (characterized by ΔR = R⊥ – R||, where R⊥ and R|| denote the bond lengths perpendicular and parallel to the C4 axis). Based on the calculations, the tetragonal distortion ΔR (≈1.795 Å) was obtained, and negative signs of the hyperfine structure constants A|| and A⊥ are suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A prediction model for evaluating the moisture content in dried Haiwan scallops was established using hyperspectral imaging (HSI) technology in a previously published study. The accuracy of such models is usually affected by differences in sample species, different environmental conditions such as temperature or humidity, and aging of instruments. In this study, the prediction ability of the RC-PLSR model is improved by correcting the spectra of the tested species of dried scallop (i.e., Xiayi) to solve the problem of model failure caused by sample differences. The results of model maintenance by direct standardization (DS) are compared with those of variety sensitive wavelength selection - piecewise direct standardization (VSWS-PDS). The results showed that after using VSWS-PDS to modify the spectral data of the dried scallop samples, the correlation coefficient of prediction (Rp) of the updated model increased from 0.0890 to 0.9190. However, the root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) also increased, indicating a need for improved precision. The RC-PLSR model based on DS correction showed Rp of 0.790 and RMSEP of 9.7481%. Model maintenance using the DS method is suggested because DS generally outperformed VSWS-PDS, even with a lower correlation coefficient. Future work on error reduction and sample input is suggested for VSWS-PDS optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]