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Weld seam detection is particularly crucial within industrial systems, as it promptly reflects the quality of product fabrication and performance, ensuring the final metallurgical product's quality while mitigating potential losses stemming from product quality issues. This paper proposed the InfoFPN Cross Refinement Network (InfoCRNet) for the weld seam detection, achieving an accuracy rate of 98,90% and F1 score of 98,85 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microchemical and microstructural origins of insulation-resistance degradation in BaTiO3-based capacitors are studied by complementary impedance spectroscopy and analytical transmission electron microscopy. The degradation under dc-field bias involves electromigration and accumulation of oxygen vacancies at interfaces. The nonstoichiometric BaTiO3-δ becomes locally more conducting through increased oxygen vacancy concentration and Ti ion reduction. The symmetry across the dielectric layer and locally across each grain is broken during the degradation process. Locally, the nonstoichiometry becomes so severe that metastable lattice structures are formed. The degradation in insulation resistance at the grain boundaries and electrode interfaces is associated with the double Schottky-barrier potential lowering and narrowing. This may correlate with an effective decrease in net acceptor charge density at the grain boundaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the surface of micro-punches is coated with a ceramic matrix composite, a graded diamond-likecarbon (DLC) film, in order to improve the micro-deep drawing formability. DLC coatings with Zr/ZrC/NZrC were prepared by magnetron sputtering. The effect of graded DLC films, such as surface textures and wear properties on the ability for the deep drawing of micro-cups based on laser diode copper alloy sheet was explored. In addition, the application of the DLC coated SKD11 substrate to the drawability was demonstrated and its applicability was explored in comparison with that of the other films such as SKD11, CrN and ZrN, and the size effect of friction on the formability of drawn circular cups is discussed according to the DLC films coated punch diameters. Experimental results showed that the graded DLC films significantly improved the surface textures and wear behaviors of the micro-punches. The DLC coated punches which dramatically decreased the stamping force and increased the drawing ratio was better than for other films, whose the drawing ratio yielded an increase of about 24% in the coated micro-punch diameter of 2.5 mm types. The applicability of the DLC films for the drawability of micro-cups was successfully demonstrated through the micro-deep drawing process. Accordingly, the DLC films prepared by magnetron sputtering are promising candidates for enhancing the drawability of micro-cups based on laser diode copper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports that laser-treated HVOF-spray coated surfaces of WC/Co composite were fabricated on 45 carbon substrates using laser treatment technology. The hardfacing coatings were applied by combining two different techniques of HVOF spraying and laser irradiation. Wear behavior of the coatings was systematically investigated, and microstructural evolution of the laser melted HVOF-sprayed coatings was characterized and compared with that of HVOF-sprayed coatings. Microstructural observation shows that both coatings exhibit similar phases, but there are differences in the formation of tungsten carbide, micro-hardness distribution, closely packed structures and wear behaviors of the coatings. Coatings with evenly distributed WC ceramic phases and a better bonding mechanism to the substrate alloy were obtained by laser-based HVOF spraying treatment. The results of this study indicate that the wear behaviors of the HVOF-sprayed WC/Co composite coatings prepared by laser irradiation are much better than those of the plain HVOF-sprayed coating. The wear volume loss of HVOF-sprayed WC/Co composite coating prepared by laser melting treatment is the lowest, only 50% of that of the HVOF-sprayed coating, thereby providing better wear resistant properties. Overall, the increase in wear resistance was attributed to the formation of dendritic-tungsten carbide, high micro-hardness distribution and to closely packed structures of the coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Describes a substrate material for depositing high-temperature superconducting YBa[sub2]Cu[sub3]O[sub7-δ] (YBCO) thin films. Preparation of the films; Method used to examine the structure of the deposited YBCO thin films.

Background: The Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS) was developed from a modified version of the Berg Balance Scale aiming to obtain a balance scale more appropriate for the child population. Objectives: To adapt the PBS into Brazilian-Portuguese and to evaluate the intra and inter-rater reliability of the Brazilian-Portuguese version of PBS. Methods: To perform the cross-cultural adaptation of the American version of PBS four translators were involved, who have performed two translations and their respective back-translations. Then, a review by a multidisciplinary committee and a subsequent an assessment of the equivalence of meaning between the back-translations and the original English scale were performed by 3 and 30 healthcare professionals respectively. The intra-rater reliability of the final version of the Brazilian-Portuguese PBS was evaluated using a test-retest design with one-week interval. The Brazilian-Portuguese version of the PBS was tested twice on the same day by two different raters to test the inter-rater reliability. The inter-rater reliability, which was measured from a video of the volunteers performance, was evaluated by comparing the score given by five raters independently. Reliability was evaluated by Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC). Fifteen volunteers (11±2.7 years) diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy (CP) classified at level I and II on the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) were assessed. Results: The reliability of the PBS total score for both intra-rater (ICC=0.85) and inter-rater (ICC=0.91) was excellent. The inter-rater reliability (measured from the video) for the total score was also classified as excellent (ICC=0.98). Conclusion: The results showed adequate reliability for the PBS for pediatric population with CP diagnostic classified at level I and II on the GMFCS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Convergent beam electron diffraction and geometric phase analysis were used to measure strain in the gate channel of a p-type strained silicon metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor. These measurements were made on exactly the same transmission electron microscopy specimen allowing for direct comparison of the relative advantages of each technique. The trends in the strain values show good agreement in both the [] and [001] directions, but the absolute strain values are offset from each other. This difference in the absolute strain measured using the two techniques is attributed to the way the reference strain is defined for each. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The previous results have proved that the phase-selective synthesis route is an effective method for preparing cubic boron nitride (cBN) from hydrothermal solutions. However, the experimental parameters are still required to be optimized in order to synthesize pure cBN at high yield. Here we report the results of investigating the effects of adding trimethylamine (N(CH3)3) and ammonia (NH3·H2O) (denoted as secondary nitrogen source) into the reacting solutions. It was found that the content of cBN could be increased by adding appropriate amount of N(CH3)3 and decreased with excess amount of it. On the contrary, hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) was always promoted by adding NH3·H2O into the reacting solutions. The samples were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectrum (FTIR) and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The experimental results were briefly discussed based on a reported model. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Somatostatin, a tetradecapeptide originally isolated from the hypothalamus, can exert an inhibitory effect on the secretion of growth hormone by the anterior pituitary gland. In addition to endocrine organs, somatostatin is also present in the digestive tract and immune organs. In lymphoid tissues, somatostatin appears to play a role in the modulation of the immune response. Cysteamine (CS) is a sulfhydryl reducing agent that is known as a depletory agent of somatostatin. To evaluate its effects on chicken mucosal immune responses, CS was administrated orally to 1-wk-old broilers (40 mg/kg) that were immunized orally with Newcastle disease attenuated vaccine (NDV). The number of IgA- positive cells and intestinal intraepithelial lymphocytes (iIEL) in duodenum and jejunum were examined at 3-, 5-, and 7-wk posttreatment and immunization. The number of somatostatin-positive cells and relative amounts of somatostatin mRNA were also examined in the duodenum. The number of somatostatin-positive cells in the duodenum was reduced (P < 0.05) after CS treatment. In broilers receiving CS and NDV treatment (CS+NDV) the level of IgA-positive cells and iIEL in the duodenum and jejunum was increased (P < 0.05) at 3 and 5 wk posttreatment. The expression of somatostatin mRNA increased (P < 0.05) compared with that of the control group at 5 wk after immunization in broilers receiving CS+NDV or NDV alone. The results suggest that CS can induce proliferation and differentiation of IgA-positive cells and iIEL in the intestinal mucosa of chickens by reducing the number of somatostatin-positive cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reports on the discussion of long-term safety of hormone therapy. Severity of the condition to be treated and the availability of alternative treatment; Effects of the alternatives; Offerings by hormone therapy on the protection against coronary heart disease.

Based on the dynamics of capillary flow in partially saturated-porous media, a finite element model is developed to predict the infiltration of water into porous biomaterials, taking into account anisotropy effects. The model is formulated on the physically-based constitutive relationships of water activity and conductivity. These constitutive properties depend on temperature, moisture, and microstructure. This is in contrast to the constant transfer properties used in previous models developed for food materials. Rehydration of black leaf tea Assam has been simulated. The prediction agreed well with the experimental data of NMR measurements. The hydration rate from cut-edges is 45 to 200 times faster than that from top to bottom surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structure and chemical composition of ZnSe/Ga[sub 1-x]Mn[sub x]As/ZnSe multilayers grown on (100) GaAs substrates are investigated by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy imaging and spectroscopy techniques. While all layers grow epitaxially and the Ga[sub 1-x]Mn[sub x]As layer is free of planar defects, a high density of stacking faults is observed in the ZnSe layer over Ga[sub 1-x]Mn[sub x]As. The composition of the ferromagnetic layer is measured to be Ga[sub 0.93]Mn[sub 0.07]As, and the Mn valence was determined to be 2[sup +]. Compositional profiles across the interfaces quantified by electron energy-loss spectroscopy show that the ZnSe/Ga[sub 1-x]Mn[sub x]As interfaces are wider than the ZnSe/ GaAs-substrate interface, which is mainly attributed to interfacial roughness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Body size in adult life is likely associated with risks of endometriosis and adenomyosis, yet little is known about associations with body size earlier in life. Aim: To examine whether birth weight, childhood body mass index (BMI) and height are associated with risks of endometriosis and adenomyosis. Subjects and methods: From the Copenhagen School Health Records Register, 171,447 girls born 1930–1996, with measured weights and heights at ages 7–13 were included. Outcomes were obtained from health registers. Cox regressions were performed to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: During follow-up, 2149 endometriosis cases and 1410 adenomyosis cases were diagnosed. Childhood BMI was inversely associated with endometriosis (HR = 0.92 [95% CI: 0.88–0.96] per z-score at age 7). In contrast, childhood height was positively associated with endometriosis (HR = 1.09 [95% CI: 1.05–1.14] per z-score at age 7). Associations with childhood body size did not differ by endometriosis location. Childhood BMI and height had limited associations with adenomyosis. Birth weight was not associated with endometriosis or adenomyosis. Conclusion: Lean and tall girls are more often diagnosed with endometriosis, but not adenomyosis. These findings suggest that indicators of endometriosis risk are already apparent at early ages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Studies of birth weight associations with ovarian and endometrial cancer risks are limited with inconsistent results, and none has evaluated associations by histologic subtype. We utilized prospectively collected birth weight information to investigate the association with risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers overall and by histologic subtype. Methods 162,559 girls, born from 1930 to 1989, from the Copenhagen School Health Records Register (CSHRR) were followed prospectively via linkage with the Danish health registers. Ovarian (n = 666) and endometrial (n = 694) cancers were identified from 1978 to 2014. Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results Women with lower (2.0–3.25 vs. 3.26–3.75 kg) and higher (3.75–5.5 vs. 3.26–3.75 kg) birth weights had increased risks of ovarian cancer overall [HR (95% CI): 1.27 (1.06–1.52); 1.51 (1.21–1.87), respectively] and serous ovarian cancers [1.54 (1.19–1.98); 1.98 (1.47–2.67), respectively]. A decreased risk of Type II endometrial tumors was suggested per kilogram increase in birth weight [HR (95% CI): 0.63 (0.40–1.00)]. Conclusions Our results suggest that both lower and higher birth weights were associated with increased ovarian cancer risk and associations were particularly strong for serous ovarian cancer, the most common subtype. Birth weight was not associated with most types of endometrial cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

JUNA measured the SP 19 sp F(p, ) SP 16 sp O channel down to the lowest energy of E SB c.m. sb 72 keV, and the JUNA rate deviates significantly from the previous expectations by a factor of 0.2-1.3 [[21]]. Thanks to the advantages provided by CJPL, the Jinping Underground Nuclear Astrophysics (JUNA) experiment collaboration has proposed to exploit the extremely low background and try to reach the Gamow region in CJPL-II A1 Hall (see Figure 1) [[9]]. Previously, this reaction was thought to be weak compared to the SP 19 sp F(p, ) SP 16 sp O reaction, so most of the SP 19 sp F produced by the CNO cycle would be recycled back into SP 16 sp O, with no substantial chemical abundance changes. The background mainly consists of the neutron-induced background from SP 13 sp C( ,n) SP 16 sp O reaction and the gamma background from other ( , ) reactions, making the analysis complicated. [Extracted from the article]

InAs quantum dots inserted at the middle of a GaAs quantum well structure have been investigated by transmission electron microscopy and scanning transmission electron microscopy. We find that the growth condition of the overlayer on the InAs dots can lead to drastic changes in the structure of the dots. We attribute the changes to a combination of factors such as preferential growth of the overlayer above the wetting layers because of the strained surfaces and to the thermal instability of the InAs dots at elevated temperature. The result suggests that controlled sublimation, through suitable manipulation of the overlayer growth conditions, can be an effective tool to improve the structure of the self-organized quantum dots and can help tailor their physical properties to any specific requirements of the device applications. © 1998 American Institute of Physics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Underground Nuclear Astrophysics Experiment in China (JUNA) takes the advantage of the ultra-low background in Jinping underground lab. High current mA level 400 KV accelerator with an ECR source, BGO and neutron detectors were commissioned. JUNA studies directly a number of nuclear reactions important to hydrostatic stellar evolution at their relevant stellar energies. In the first quarter of 2021, JUNA performed the direct measurements of 25 Mg (p , γ) 26 Al , 19 F (p , α) 16 O , 13 C (α , n) 16 O and 12 C( α , γ ) 16 O near the Gamow window. The experimental results reflect the potential of JUNA with higher statistics, precision and sensitivity of the data. The preliminary results of JUNA experiment and future plan are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of irradiation-resistant enriched 12C target is one of the key technologies in the direct measurement of the 12 C (α , γ) 16 O reaction at energies of astrophysical interest. In this work, we produced the enriched Ti 12 C targets on Ta substrates via the filter cathodic vacuum arc (FCVA) technology. The target stability under the bombardment of a high-intensity 4He beam was investigated by monitoring the γ -ray yields of the 12 C (p , γ) 13 N reaction regularly. A 25% deterioration of 12C in the target was observed after bombardment by a 740 keV, 500 μ A 4 He 2+ beam with a charge of 280 C, which is stronger than the implanted targets developed before. Furthermore, the 13 C / 12 C ratio in the Ti 12 C target was measured to be (1. 1 ± 0. 3) × 1 0 − 4 , which can meet the requirement of the 12 C (α , γ) 16 O measurement at the China JinPing underground Laboratory (CJPL). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the scaling of Al2O3 dielectric on graphene by atomic layer deposition (ALD) using ultra-thin, oxidized Ti and Al films as nucleation layers. We show that the nucleation layer significantly impacts the dielectric constant (k) and morphology of the ALD Al2O3, yielding k = 5.5 and k = 12.7 for Al and Ti nucleation layers, respectively. Transmission electron microscopy shows that Al2O3 grown using the Ti interface is partially crystalline, while Al2O3 grown on Al is amorphous. Using a spatially uniform 0.6 nm-thick Ti nucleation layer, we demonstrate graphene field-effect transistors with top dielectric stacks as thin as 2.6 nm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study which investigated the prevalence of endometrial hyperplasia and carcinoma after a 52-week treatment with ultra-low-dose 10-microgram 17Β-estradiol vaginal tablets. The study included 541 women with vaginal atrophy, who were given 17Β-estradiol vaginal tablets. Two cases of hyperplasia and carcinoma were reported in the women who underwent biopsy. Study authors concluded that ultra-low-dose vaginal estrogen is safe for the endometrium.

Abstract: The rehydration kinetics of dried foodstuffs is of critical importance to their sensory properties and delivery of flavour and functional molecules. Based on the dynamics of capillary flow in partially saturated porous media, a finite element model is developed to predict the infiltration of water into dried food products taking into account temperature effects. The finite element model is based on the mixed form of the mass conservation equation. The constitutive relationships of water retention and hydraulic conductivity are adopted from the fields of hydrology and soil science. The transfer properties of water in the porous medium depend on the moisture content and the microstructure. This is contrast to the constant transfer properties often used in the heat and mass transfer models developed for foods. Rehydration of green tea as a function of temperature has been simulated and results are compared with NMR measurements. There is good agreement. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A study is reported on the growth mechanism of YBa[sub 2]Cu[sub 3]O[sub 7] with different growth speeds by high resolution transmission microscopy (HRTEM) and analysis of the interface and thin film microstructure. Two thin films were synthesized by pulse laser deposition on [100], miscut 5°, SrTiO[sub 3] substrate at 820°C, one with a pulse laser frequency of 1Hz and one with 6Hz. Cross-sections were studied by an H-9000 NAR HRTEM along the [010] direction. The growth process of the sample made at 1Hz was as follows. First, distorted step flow growth occurred on a step-mediated substrate surface of 3–4 cells thickness. Second, about a 15nm thickness of island shape growth becomes superimposed on the area of the step flow layer. Finally, thin film growth occurred but with growth fluctuation. The sample made at 6Hz showed the characteristics of island growth; the growth area of island or ball shape was of small size and dense distribution, and seemed to be a confused mosaic stack. The influence of growth speed on YBCO epitaxial film microstructure was studied explicitly by HRTEM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We use time-resolved terahertz-pulse spectroscopy to study the ultrafast carrier dynamics in InGaAs/GaAs (311)A quantum wires. Anisotropy in the photoconductive dynamics is observed when aligning the terahertz probe polarization parallel versus perpendicular to the wire direction. The origin of this anisotropy is the carrier capture into localized quantum-wire states from delocalized wetting layer or barrier regions over time scales from 6 to 30 ps. The capture efficiency is found to be strongly temperature dependent, with thermal emission dominating above 125 K, while state-filling effects within the wires influence the capture rate below 125 K. Transient spectroscopy reveals a Drude-like carrier conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A systematic experimental evaluation of the thermal stability of Ru metal gate electrodes in direct contact with SiO2 and Hf-based dielectric layers was performed and correlated with electrical device measurements. The distinctly different interfacial reactions in the Ru/SiO2, Ru/HfO2, and Ru/HfSiOx film systems were observed through cross-sectional high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, high angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy with electron-energy-loss spectra, and energy dispersive x-ray spectra analysis. Ru interacted with SiO2, but remained stable on HfO2 at 1000 °C. The onset of Ru/SiO2 interfacial interactions is identified via silicon substrate pitting possibly from Ru diffusion into the dielectric in samples exposed to a 900 °C/10-s anneal. The dependence of capacitor device degradation with decreasing SiO2 thickness suggests Ru diffuses through SiO2, followed by an abrupt, rapid, nonuniform interaction of ruthenium silicide as Ru contacts the Si substrate. Local interdiffusion detected on Ru/HfSiOx samples may be due to phase separation of HfSiOx into HfO2 grains within a SiO2 matrix, suggesting that SiO2 provides a diffusion pathway for Ru. Detailed evidence consistent with a dual reaction mechanism for the Ru/SiO2 system at 1000 °C is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanism of the (d, p) reaction, which has been proven a powerful spectroscopic tool, is believed to be reasonably well understood. However, the 16O(d, p)17O reaction leading to the ground state in 17O seems to be a possible exception. It was found in the previous experiments that the 16O(d, p)17O angular distribution exhibits a rapid decline below the peak at the angle of 15 degrees. To date this abnormal behavior has not been reproduced by theoretical models. In this work we present a re-measurement of the 16O(d, p) O g. s. 17 angular distribution by using a high-precision magnetic spectrograph. Our new angular distribution shows a slower decline than the previous data do. A comparative analysis with the distorted Born approximation (DWBA), the adiabatic distorted wave approximation (ADWA) and the continuum discretized coupled channels (CDCC) method suggests that the drop of the differential cross sections at the forward angles is due to the deuteron breakup coupling effects. In addition, we extracted the spectroscopic factor (SF) and the asymptotic normalization coefficient (ANC) for the 17O ground state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It was found that by using the same α-Fe2O3 target in fabrication process, an oxygen-deficient and an oxygen-sufficient atmosphere facilitated the formation of Fe3O4 and α-Fe2O3, respectively. The Au/α-Fe2O3/Pt heterostructure showed a memristive bipolar resistance switching. A clear difference was observed in the transport and magnetic properties between the two resistance states. The enhanced conductivity and magnetization in the Au/α-Fe2O3/Pt heterostructure are believed to result from an enhanced electron hopping between Fe3+-Fe2+ pairs and Fe3+-O-Fe2+ double exchange coupling effect. The enhanced Fe2+ comes from a redox transition between two phases (one behaves like Fe3O4 and the other like α-Fe2O3), due to the electrochemical migration of oxygen vacancies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Salmonid alphaviruses (SAV) severely infect farmed salmonids and rainbow trout. Owing to the recent increase in fish import trade, several SAV unreported countries, such as China, may face serious threat of this infection. Thus, it is necessary to develop efficient detection methods for the prevention and diagnosis of SAV infection. In this study, we selected a conserved segment of the SAV E1 protein as a target immunogen for the preparation of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) specific to SAV. A sensitive indirect immunofluorescence (IF) method was developed using 26E9C2 mAb that detected E1 protein and identified subtypes 1, 2 and 5 of SAV. Thus, this assay provides a sensitive and specific detection method, and an improved technical support for the clinical diagnosis and epidemiological study of SAV. Significance and Impact of the Study: In this study, we successfully prepared two monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against three subtypes of salmonid alphavirus (SAV), and established an indirect immunofluorescence assay that can be used to diagnose and prevent SAV from entering SAV unreported countries, such as China, through international trade. The application of this method will contribute to controlling SAV infection and reducing economic losses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: In the process of hair treatment, various cationic actives contained in hair care products can be absorbed into hair fibre to modulate the physicochemical properties of hair such as colour, strength, style and volume. There have been very limited studies on the binding and partition properties of hair care actives to hair. This study aimed to investigate the pH effects on cationic solute absorption into hair and binding to keratin. Methods: The keratin binding and hair partition properties of three cationic solutes (theophylline, nortriptyline and amitriptyline) have been measured at different pH using fluorescence spectroscopy and equilibrium absorption experiment. The binding constants, thermodynamic parameters and hair‐water partition coefficients determined at different pH were compared and analysed. Results: Increasing the pH from 2.0 to 6.0 resulted in the net charge of hair keratin changed from positive to negative. As a consequence, the binding constants of the three cationic solutes with keratin increased with the increasing pH. This correlated with the variation of the electrostatic interaction between cationic solutes and keratin from repulsion to attraction. The positive ΔH and ΔS values indicated that hydrophobic interaction also played a major role in the binding of the three cationic solutes to keratin. There was a good correlation between solutes binding to keratin and hair–water partition of solutes. Conclusion: It appears that solute binding to hair keratin is driven first by hydrophobic interaction and then by electrostatic interaction. The fitted thermodynamic parameters suggested that hydrophobic interaction dominates for the binding of the three cationic solutes to keratin. That binding of cationic solutes to keratin correlates with the partition of the solutes to hair could provide theoretical guidance for further developing mathematical models of hair partition and penetration properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ongoing Jinping Underground Nuclear Astrophysics experiment (JUNA) will take the advantage of the ultralow background in China Jinping Underground Laboratory (CJPL), high current accelerator driven by on an ECR source and highly sensitive detector to study directly a number of important reactions for the first time within their relevant stellar energy range. A 2.45 GHz ECR ion source is one of its key components to provide 10 emA H + , 10 emA He + and 2.0 emA He 2+ beams for the study of ( p , γ ), ( p,α ), ( α , p ) and ( α , γ ) reactions in the first phase of the JUNA project. Ion beam is extracted from the source with energies up to 50 kV/q. The following low energy beam transport (LEBT) system transports and matches the ion beam from the exit of ion source to the acceleration tube (AT). The design status of the ECR ion source and LEBT system for the JUNA project are presented. The potential risks of the ion source are also discussed and analysed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The T = 3 / 2 isobaric analog state (IAS) in 53 Co is firmly established through a comprehensive measurement of β -delayed γ and proton decay of 53 Ni. The determined excitation energy of 53 Co IAS combined with the mass of 53 Co generates a precise mass excess of − 38 333.6 ( 27 ) keV for the 53 Co IAS, which is 70(18) keV lower than the previously adopted value. The new result solves a problem raised by incorrect assignments of the 53 Co IAS of unexpected deviation from the isobaric multiplet mass equation (IMME) at A = 53 , T = 3 / 2 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proton decay of53Com(3174.1 keV, 19/2-) was investigated via the fragmentation of a 58Ni primary beam. The proton-decay energy was determined with an improved precision to be 1558(8) keV. With this new result and the mass of 53Com, the 52Fe mass excess was derived to be - 48330(8)keV, which is in good agreement with the AMEI2 value. A new recommended value of - 48331.6(49) keV is given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background We aimed to characterize the localization and prognostic significance of tumour-associated macrophages (TAMS) in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Methods Tumour specimens from 70 patients with PDAC and inflammatory specimens from 13 patients with chronic pancreatitis were collected and analyzed for TAM and M2 macrophage counts by immunohistochemistry. Correlations between TAM distributions and clinicopathologic features were determined. Results Immunohistochemical analysis showed that TAM and M2 macrophage counts were higher in tissues from PDAC than from chronic pancreatitis. The TAMS and M2 macrophages both infiltrated more into peritumour. Both macrophage types were positively associated with lymph node metastasis (p = 0.041 for TAMS in peritumour, p = 0.013 for M2 macrophages in introtumour, p = 0.006 for M2 macrophage in peritumour). In addition, abdominal pain was significantly more frequent in PDAC patients with a greater TAMS count. The survival rate was much lower in patients having high infiltration by M2 macrophages than in those having low infiltration. Conclusions The TAM count might be associated with neural invasion in PDAC, and M2 macrophages might play an important role in lymph node metastasis. Higher counts of either macrophage type were associated with increased risk of lymph node metastasis, and the M2 macrophage count could potentially be a marker for evaluating prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The angular distributions of the 12C(11B,11B)12C and 12C(11B,12C)11B reactions have been measured at an incident energy of 50 MeV by using the high resolution Q3D magnetic spectrometer of the HI-13 tandem accelerator at China Institute of Atomic Energy, Beijing. The optical potential parameters of the 11B + 12C system are determined by fitting the angular distribution of the elastic scattering and then used to predict the cross sections of the elastic transfer reaction leading to the ground state in l 2C based on distorted-wave Born approximation (DWBA) analysis. Taking into account the interference between the elastic scattering and the elastic transfer processes, the proton spectroscopic factor of the, 12C ground state is extracted to be 2.15 ± 0.23 by constraining the geometrical parameters r0 and a using the rms radius of the valence proton in the 12C ground state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All the 16F levels are unbound by proton emission. To date the four low-lying 16F levels below 1 MeV have been experimentally identified with well established spin-parity values and excitation energies with an accuracy of 4 - 6 keV. However, there are still considerable discrepancies in their level widths. The present work aims to explore these level widths through an independent method. The angular distributions of the 15N(7Li,6Li)16N reaction leading to the first four states in 16N were measured using a high-precision Q3D magnetic spectrograph. The neutron spectroscopic factors and the asymptotic normalization coefficients for these states in 16N were then derived based on distorted wave Born approximation analysis. The proton widths of the four low-lying resonant states in 16F were obtained according to charge symmetry of strong interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fluorine is a key element for nucleosynthetic studies since it is extremely sensitive to the physical conditions within stars. The astrophysical site to produce fluorine is suggested to be asymptotic giant branch stars. In these stars the 15N(n,γ)16N reaction could affect the abundance of fluorine by competing with 15N(α,γ)F19. Purpose: The 15N(n,γ)16N reaction rate depends directly on the neutron spectroscopic factors of the low-lying states in 16N. Shell model calculations and two previous measurements of the (d,p) reaction yielded the spectroscopic factors with a discrepancy by a factor of ~2. The present work aims to explore these neutron spectroscopic factors through an independent transfer reaction and to determine the stellar rate of the 15N(n,γ)16N reaction. Methods: The angular distributions of the 15N(Li7,Li6)16N reaction populating the ground state and the first three excited states in 16N are measured using a Q3D magnetic spectrograph and are used to derive the spectroscopic factors of these states based on distorted wave Born approximation analysis. Results: The spectroscopic factors of these four states are extracted to be 0.96 ± 0.09, 0.69 ± 0.09, 0.84 ± 0.08, and 0.65 ± 0.08, respectively. Based on the new spectroscopic factors we derive the 15N(n,γ)16N reaction rate. Conclusions: The accuracy and precision of the spectroscopic factors are enhanced due to the first application of high-precision magnetic spectrograph for resolving the closely spaced 16N levels which cannot be achieved in most recent measurements. The present result demonstrates that two levels corresponding to neutron transfers to the 2s1/2 orbit in 16N are not good single-particle levels although 15N is a closed neutron-shell nucleus. This finding is contrary to the shell model expectation. The present work also provides an independent examination to shed some light on the existing discrepancies in the spectroscopic factors and the 15N(n,γ)16N rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The low-energy astrophysical S factors of the reaction have been investigated on a 320 kV platform at the Institute of Modern Physics in Lanzhou. The experimental S factor of this reaction shows an interesting sizable drop contrary to any existing theoretical expectations at energies below 200 keV. Such drop has not been fully understood yet and may reflect a novel reaction mechanism. The appearance of an interesting new positive-parity or resonance at is discussed. This study shows the danger of extrapolating experimental data over too large an energy range and demonstrates the need for careful direct experimental studies of reaction cross sections at or near stellar energies. In addition, our new results are discussed in the framework of a SUSY assisted Big-Bang Nucleosynthesis (BBN) model. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Introduction: Invasive as well as non-invasive methods are available for assessment of the endometrium. Aims: The purpose of this clinical guide is to provide evidence-based advice on endometrial assessment in peri and postmenopausal women. Material and methods: Literature review and consensus of expert opinion. Results and conclusions: Presuming speculum examination and cervical cytology are assessed, transvaginal ultrasound should be undertaken initially as it is non-invasive and will not only measure endometrial thickness, but will also detect other pelvic pathology such as leiomyomas and ovarian tumours. The main indication for invasive methods is to obtain endometrial tissue to diagnose or exclude the presence of endometrial cancer or pre-malignancies. Biopsy is mainly undertaken as an outpatient procedure, but sampling is ‘blind’. Hysteroscopy is used when focal lesions affecting the uterine cavity are suspected such as endometrial polyps or sub-mucous fibroids. None of the available methods are perfect. Ultrasound evaluation is dependent on the experience of the examiner, the equipment and the quality of visualization. Hysteroscopy too is dependent on the examiner and fibroids may obstruct visualization. Blind endometrial biopsy procedures often miss focal lesions. Thus re-examination is necessary when symptoms persist and no explanation for these has been identified. This clinical guide will evaluate the different methods of endometrial assessment, their indications and limitations. Guidance is also given about dealing with inconclusive investigations and persistent symptoms. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The 13C(9Be,8Li)14N angular distribution was measured with a 9Be beam of 40 MeV. The proton spectroscopic factor of the 9Be ground state was extracted to be 0.73 ± 0.15 by the normalization of the calculated differential cross sections with the distorted-wave Born approximation (DWBA) to the experimental data. The spectroscopic factor was compared to existing theoretical and experimental values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The C(Li, He) N reactions were measured at E (Li) = 34 MeV with the Q3D magnetic spectrometer of the HI-13 tandem accelerator, and the first peaks of the angular distributions were obtained for the first time. The N proton spectroscopic factors were extracted to be 0.67±0.09 and 0.73±0.10 , respectively. Using the C( p, γ) N direct capture S( E) factors derived by the spectroscopic factors, the direct measurement data for both 1 and 0 resonances were well fitted via updating the resonance parameters, and then the total astrophysical C( p, γ) N S( E) factors and reaction rates were determined at stellar energies. The present work offers an independent examination to the existing results of the C( p, γ) N reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The magnetostrictions of Sm2Fe17N3 and Sm2Fe17 were investigated using strain gauge rotating-sample methods. In a magnetic field of 8 T, the magnetostriction \lambda t\ (\lambda {\rm t} = \lambda // - \lambda \bot) of Sm2Fe17 is about -155 \times 10 ^-6 at 300 K. It becomes positive after nitrogenation [Sm2Fe17N3, \lambda t is about + 44 \times 10 ^-6 at 300 K (H = 8 T)] due to the crystal field effect and the exchange striction. It was noticed that inverse magnetostriction effect can be used to increase the magnetic alignment and remanence of the bonded magnets. As a result, transverse die-pressing (H \bot P) was very effective in increasing the degree of magnetic alignment of Sm2Fe17N3 powders, yielding remanence higher than that obtained by axial die-pressing (H//P). By increasing the degree of magnetic alignment of powders, the maximum energy product (BH)\max of Sm2Fe17N3 bonded magnet was improved by 15%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have studied ferromagnetism of Mn-implanted epitaxial Ge films on silicon. The Ge films were grown by ultrahigh vacuum chemical vapor deposition using a mixture of germane (GeH4) and methylgermane (CH3GeH3) gases with a carbon concentration of less than 1 at. %, and observed surface rms roughness of ∼0.5 nm, as measured by atomic force microscopy. Manganese ions were implanted in epitaxial Ge films grown on Si (100) wafers to an effective concentration of ∼16, 12, 6, and 2 at. %. Superconducting quantum interference device measurements showed that only the three highest Mn concentration samples are ferromagnetic, while the fourth sample, with [Mn] = 2 at. %, is paramagnetic. X-ray absorption spectroscopy and x-ray magnetic circular dichroism measurements indicate that localized Mn moments are ferromagnetically coupled below the Curie temperature. Isothermal annealing of Mn-implanted Ge films with [Mn] = 16 at. % at 300 ° C for up to 1200 s decreases the magnetization but does not change the Curie temperature, suggesting that the amount of the magnetic phase slowly decreases with time at this anneal temperature. Furthermore, transmission electron microscopy and synchrotron grazing incidence x-ray diffraction experiments show that the Mn-implanted region is amorphous, and we believe that it is this phase that is responsible for the ferromagnetism. This is supported by our observation that high-temperature annealing leads to recrystallization and transformation of the material into a paramagnetic phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]