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Objective. Currently, the summaries of research on periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) are mainly reviews, and the systematic evaluation of all relevant studies is lacking. The aim of our study was to reveal the research status and developmental trends of PDLSCs using bibliometric analyses. Methods. Publications on PDLSC from 2004 to 2023 in the PubMed database were searched and then screened according to certain inclusion and exclusion criteria. Two researchers browsed the included papers and recorded information such as the research type and research model. The VOSviewer software was used to analyze the distribution of authors, journals, and institutions. The contents and directions of PDLSC research were summarized by analyzing high‐frequency keywords. The CiteSpace software was used to monitor burst words, determine hot factors, and indicate developmental trends. Results. During the past two decades, the number of studies on PDLSCs increased. China published the most related papers. The primary type of article was basic research. Among core journals, the Journal of Periodontal Research had the highest number of publications. The Fourth Military Medical University (China) was leading in the number of articles on PDLSCs. Research topics mainly included mechanism of periodontal diseases, tissue engineering and regeneration, biological characteristics of PDLSCs, and comparison with other stem cells. Infectious inflammation and mechanical stimulation were important pathological conditions and research topics. Conclusion. The research of PDLSCs is still in a rapid development stage. Our study provides new insights into the current research status and future trend in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: With cancer the second deadliest disease in the world, worry about cancer can have mental health or psychiatric implications. This study examines the prevalence, differences, and influence of cancer worry (CW), its interaction effect with age, and other confounders on self-reported depressive symptoms (SRDS) among adult males and females in the US. Methods: We utilized a nationally representative sample data of 2,950 individuals (males = 1,276; females = 1,674) from Cycle 4 of the Health Information National Trends Survey 5 (HINTS 5) 2020. Using frequencies, bivariate chi-square test, and multivariate logistic regression, we examined the prevalence, difference, and association of CW with SRDS, adjusting for confounders. Results: The prevalence rate of SRDS was found to be 32% among females and 23.5% among males. Among individuals with CW, females had a higher prevalence of SRDS compared to males (40.5% vs. 35.1%). However, there was a significant difference in the likelihood of experiencing SRDS between males and females with CW, with males having 84% increased risk compared to females. Across all age groups, the multivariate analysis of the relationship between CW and SRDS revealed that both males and females showed a significantly decreased likelihood of SRDS compared to those aged 18–34 years. However, males aged 35 years or older exhibited an even more pronounced decrease in likelihood compared to females in the same age group. Nonetheless, when examining the interaction of age and CW, we observed a significantly increased likelihood of SRDS across all age groups. Males, in particular, had a higher increased likelihood of SRDS compared to females across all ages, except for those aged 75 years and older. Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight the significant influence of CW on individuals' SRDS and the modifying effect of age, particularly among males. These results are important for a better understanding of the risk of CW on mental health, which can be a preventive strategy or control mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A standoff methane (CH4) sensor with actual hard topographic targets (usually called non-cooperative targets) is essential for natural gas pipeline leakage inspection and many other practical applications. To address this requirement, a miniaturized and low-power-consumption gas sensor was developed based on tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy for standoff CH4 detection with a non-cooperative target. Wavelength modulation spectroscopy with a 1 f normalized 2 f detection method was employed for calibration-free CH4 measurement. A Kalman filter algorithm was used to improve the precision of the detection. The performance of the standoff CH4 sensor was evaluated comprehensively under various conditions, including different incident angles, different hard topographic targets, and different standoff distances. The results show that the measurement precision is 0.107% and the sensitivity is 4.08 parts per million per meter (ppm·m) with a time resolution of 1 s and a standoff distance of 40 m. The detection limit can achieve 1.24 ppm·m at an optimal integration time of 70 s. This sensor can be easily integrated into mobile platforms, which lays the foundation for intelligent leak inspection. Graphical abstract This is a visual representation of the abstract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of groundwater on sandy dolomite stratum renders it highly susceptible to disasters, resulting in frequent water inrush accidents during tunnel construction. Advanced dewatering is crucial in enhancing tunnel face stability. It is found that sandy dolomite comprises a porous permeable medium consisting of dolomite sand and dolomite powder, characterized by low shear resistance and deformation resistance. Through the fluid–solid coupling model test device developed, it has been proven that the release of pore water pressure via advanced dewatering substantially enhances the stability of the tunnel face in water-rich sandy dolomite stratum prone to seepage failure. By conducting fluid–solid coupling analysis, the impact of drainage pipe length on the dewatering effect is investigated, and the improvement in tunnel face stability due to varying drainage pipe lengths is evaluated using the limit equilibrium analysis method. It is observed that drainage pipes reduce the range of slip body in front of the tunnel face and mitigate seepage forces by dissipating pore water pressure, consequently enhancing tunnel face stability and reducing extrusion deformation. However, there exists an efficiency limit regarding drainage pipe length. For initial water levels of 30, 50, 80, and 120 m, it is recommended to employ advanced drainage pipes of 20, 25, 30, and 40 m or more, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulsars with the Gigahertz-Peaked Spectra (GPS) are named GPS pulsars, which means that spectra of the pulsars in the radio band turn over near 1 GHz. These pulsars are also called high-frequency inversion spectra pulsars. There are total 33 GPS pulsars discovered so far. The reason causing the turned-over spectra may be due to the free–free absorption of radio emission by the interstellar medium. We carry out the statistical research on the peak frequencies of inversion spectra, spectral indices, dispersion measure, and magnetic fields of these GPS pulsars. We find that the peak frequencies of most GPS pulsars are mainly in 0.5–1.0 GHz, the spectral indices of these GPS pulsars seems to have a bimodal distribution, which means that these GPS pulsars are possibly composed by two types of pulsars. A strong positive correlation between the periods and dispersion measure (DM) of GPS pulsars is first found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The wavelength modulation‐active laser heterodyne spectroscopy (WM‐ALHS), which introduces wavelength modulation technique into active laser heterodyne spectroscopy, is reported to enhance the gas standoff detection capability of weak return optical power. The ALHS gas standoff detection system is developed using a 1.65 μm butterfly packaged distributed feedback laser with tail fiber and an all‐fiber structure, which successfully detects methane concentrations at a distance of 35 cm using an aluminum plate as the reflective surface. Allan variance analysis shows that the system has good stability, and the detection limit at 29.2 s integration time is 0.84 ppm m. Standoff detection experiments with direct absorption‐active laser heterodyne spectroscopy (DA‐ALHS) and wavelength modulation spectroscopy (WMS) are carried out on the basis of the WM‐ALHS system and the detection limits of 4.49 and 1.64 ppm m were achieved within integration times of 18.6 and 29 s for DA‐ALHS and WMS, respectively. The superiority of the WM‐ALHS method compared to these two spectral detection methods is demonstrated. Furthermore, the feasibility of applying WM‐ALHS to gas standoff detection has been verified, laying the foundation for the development of this spectroscopic technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simultaneous measurement of ammonia and ethylene is of great significance for atmospheric environmental monitoring, industrial process controlling and medical respiratory diagnosing. A wavelength modulation spectroscopy based on a 9.56 μm quantum cascade laser (QCL) and a hollow waveguide with a length of 5 m is reported for simultaneous gas sensing of ammonia (NH3) and ethylene (C2H4). The strong absorption lines of NH3 and C2H4 located at 1046.4 and 1045.97 cm−1, respectively, are selected, which can be covered by current tuning of the QCL. Based on the measured frequency modulation characteristics of the QCL, the modulation amplitude is optimized. The sensor performance evaluation shows that it has a sensitivity of 63.2 ppb and 0.775 ppm for NH3 and C2H4 respectively, with time resolution of 1 s. Furthermore, Allan variance analysis shows that the detection limit of NH3 and C2H4 can reach 7 ppb and 45 ppb, respectively, for about 100 s averaging time. The system is stable and robust, thus could be used in real‐time monitoring of atmospheric environment and extended to the field of exhaled breath analysis in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Simultaneous measurement of CO and H 2 S for fault detection of SF 6 insulated equipment using TDLAS. • Dynamic response, accuracy, sensitivity, and detection limit are evaluated in the laboratory. • Offering a solution for online fault detection of SF 6 insulation equipment. To address the issues of high detection limits, long response times, and susceptibility to cross-interference in the detection of characteristic gases CO and H 2 S produced by SF 6 electrical equipment failures, a dual-species laser sensor prototype for SF 6 decomposition products in electrical equipment was developed based on tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy (TDLAS). The absorption lines of 2334 nm and 1576 nm were selected for CO and H 2 S, respectively. The concentration inversion was performed using wavelength modulation spectroscopy (WMS) with first harmonic normalization of the second harmonic. The experimental results demonstrate that a rapid response time of ∼30 s is achieved and the sensor has detection accuracies of 0.59 % for CO and 2.09 % for H 2 S, with minimum detection limits of 0.46 ppb and 14.00 ppb, respectively. The dual-species laser sensor allows for convenient, rapid, and precise detection of CO and H 2 S, showing promising application prospects in electrical environment monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • FS-Hg-1 determined mercury ions rapidly with sterling selectivity and sensitivity. • High specificity of FS-Hg-1 effectively eliminated interference from most ions. • In contrast, FS-Hg-1 demonstrates strong visualization effects. • Satisfactory results were conducted with the excellent confidence interval. Mercury, one of the various harmful metals, is particularly significant in affecting aquatic organisms, currently gaining more attentions and sparking discussions. In response to the limitations of traditional detections, fluorescent probes have emerged as a promising solution with some advantages, such as weaker background interference, shorter processing time, higher accuracy. Thus, a novel fluorescent probe, FS-Hg-1 , has been developed for assessing mercury ion (Hg2+) concentrations in aquatic products. This probe displays specific recognition of mercury ions in fluorescence spectra. Notably, FS-Hg-1 exhibits a distinct color change to pink when combined with Hg2+ (with a 948-fold increase in absorption at 568 nm) and a substantial fluorescence change towards Hg2+ (361-fold increase, excitation at 562 nm, emission at 594 nm) in N, N-dimethylformamide. The probe boasts a detection limit of 0.14 μM and rapid reaction with Hg2+ within 10 s, showing an excellent linear correlation with [Hg2+] in the range of 0 to 10 μM. Through thorough analysis using FS-Hg-1 , the results align with those from the standard method (P > 0.05), with spiked recovery rates ranging from 108.4% to 113.2%. With its precise recognition, low detection limit, and remarkable sensitivity, this fluorescent assay proves effective in mercury concentration determination in aquatic samples without interference. The potential of FS-Hg-1 is promising for speedy detection of residual Hg2+ and holds significance in ensuring food safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A fragmented ophiolite mélange was found along the suture zone of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt. • The ophiolite mélange underwent late Permian metamorphism. • The metamorphic P and T conditions were 8.5–8.8 kbar and 700–725 ℃, respectively. • A strong collisional orogeny occurred after the closure of the Paleo-Asian Ocean. As the largest Phanerozoic accretionary orogenic belt, whether the Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB) experienced a strong collisional orogenic process after Paleo-Asian Ocean (PAO) closure remains controversial. The age and P-T conditions recorded by metamorphic rocks could be used to study the thermal and tectonic regimes during orogenic processes, providing constraints for orogenic evolution. In this paper, the geochronology and metamorphism of a newly discovered metamorphic ophiolite mélange in the Banlashan area near the Xar Moron River in the southeastern CAOB were studied. The association and age of the metamorphic ophiolite mélange protoliths are similar to those of the Xar Moron River ophiolite belt to the north. The metamorphic ages of different ophiolite mélange lithologies are all late Permian (250.2–256.5 Ma), indicating that the Siberian and Sino-Korean paleoplates collided during the late Permian. The metamorphic pressure and temperature recorded by the garnet amphibolite block in the ophiolite mélange could reach 8.5–8.8 kbar and 700–725 ℃. The core-to-rim zoning of garnet indicates that the garnet amphibolite underwent a clockwise P–T path, which is the typical metamorphic feature of collisional orogens. The ophiolite mélange metamorphic features, combined with regional magmatic, metamorphic, sedimentary and tectonic deformation data, indicate that a strong collisional orogeny occurred rather than a soft orogeny between the Siberian and Sino-Korean paleoplates after the PAO closure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• PtCu 3 alloy nanocrystals with an excavated rhombic dodecahedral shape were successfully fabricated by a hydrothermal method. • This material showed high peroxidase-like activity and could be used for UV–Vis and colorimetric detection. • Paper strips could be made for colorimetric detection of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and organophosphorus pesticides (OPs). • By simply attaching to the peel of apple, pear and peach, the paper strips can be successfully used for the determination of OPs. • This work can make a positive contribution to food safety warning. Nowadays, the widespread use of organophosphorus pesticides (OPs) in agricultural production leads to varying degrees of residues in crops, which pose a potential threat to human health. Conventional methods used in national standard for the detection of OPs in fruits and vegetables require expensive instruments or cumbersome sample pretreatment steps for the analysis. To address these challenges, in this work, we took advantage of the peroxidase-like activity of PtCu 3 alloy nanocrystals (NCs) for a colorimetric and smartphone assisted sensitive detection of OPs. With the assist of a smartphone, the concentration of OPs on the peel of fruits could be obtained by comparing the B/RG value (the brightness value of blue divided by those of red and green) of a test strip with a calibration curve. This work not only provides a facile and cost-effective method to detect pesticides but also makes a positive contribution to food safety warning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to realize real-time capnographic monitoring, a compact carbon dioxide sensor based on tunable diode laser spectroscopy technology was developed by means of a 2004 nm distributed feedback laser and a circular gas cell. The toroidal cell can achieve an optical path length of 3.49 m in a volume of 38 ml, which enables the tunable diode laser spectroscopy carbon dioxide sensor to achieve a detection limit of 175 ppm at a measurement rate of 12.5 Hz. The actual exhaled carbon dioxide gas detection experiments were implemented, including the breath analysis of a normal subject under different conditions and another subject with pneumothorax. It indicates that the sensor has good effectiveness and practicability for carbon dioxide metabolic monitoring and related disease diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To investigate the characteristics of dynamic electrocardiogram and their clinical implications in elderly patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation combined with long R-R intervals. Methods. Elderly patients diagnosed with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation who were admitted as an inpatient or attended the outpatient department from January 2015 to January 2020 were selected. Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence of a long R-R interval. The characteristics and therapeutic significance of dynamic electrocardiogram between the two groups were compared. Results. A total of 532 patients were included in our analyses. Of these, 399 patients were in the long R-R interval group and 133 in the nonlong R-R interval group. In 399 patients, there were 48,840 long R-R intervals manifested within 24 hours. The average, slowest, and fastest ventricular rates during sleep time were higher than those in nonsleep time, while the number of long R-R intervals in sleep time was significantly smaller than that in nonsleep time (P < 0.05). Clinical parameters including dizziness/syncope, cerebral infarction, ST-segment changes, platelet count, average hematocrit, prothrombin time (PT), left ventricular systolic function, end-diastolic diameter, pulmonary artery pressure, and left ventricular ejection fraction were comparable between the groups (P > 0.05). When compared with the nonlong R-R interval group, the level of C-reactive protein was slightly lower in the long R-R interval group (P < 0.05). In addition, the long R-R interval group had a higher incidence of atrial premature beats but a lower incidence of ventricular premature beats. Furthermore, the probability of long R-R interval combined with paroxysmal atrial tachycardia, transient ventricular arrest, second-degree atrioventricular block, and complete or incomplete right bundle branch block was higher than that of nonlong R-R interval (P < 0.05). In patients with long R-R interval >3 s, the risk of having second-degree atrioventricular block and complete or incomplete right bundle branch block was significantly lower, while the risk of having transient ventricular arrest was higher when compared to patients with long R-R intervals of 2-3 s (P < 0.05 P). Conclusions. Long R-R interval is a common electrocardiographic phenomenon among the elderly with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. The long R-R interval mostly occurs in nonsleeping time. The average ventricular rate, slowest ventricular rate, and fastest ventricular rate of sleep time are higher than nonsleeping time. Analysis of the characteristics of the dynamic electrocardiogram of these patients may shed light on the mechanisms for long R-R intervals, including the likelihood of concealed conduction and physiological interference in the atrioventricular node, overspeed inhibition, increased vagus nerve tension, or pathological atrioventricular block. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high-content salt rock stratum is a highly water-soluble, corrosive, and expansive stratum, and it is extremely difficult to construct tunnels in the stratum. The China-Laos cross-border railway friendship tunnel, which traverses the high-content salt rock stratum, sustained extremely serious damage during the construction. Therefore, studying the mechanisms by which the salt rock stratum tunnels are damaged is the key to ensuring the long-term service of the tunnel. In this paper, a comprehensive method system was used, such as on-site exploration, laboratory tests, and theoretical analysis, to identify the mechanisms by which the tunnels are damaged in the high-content salt rock stratum. Research has indicated that the main component of the rocks that surround the tunnel in the salt rock stratum is rock salt (NaCl and Na2SO4). Excavation in the salt rock stratum is prone to various catastrophes, such as the precipitation of salt crystals on the lining surface, the formation of a cavity at the bottom of the tunnel, cracking of the concrete lining, bulging and cracking of the inverted arch, and serious corrosion of the steel structure. Tunnels in salt rock stratum will undergo physical erosion and physicochemical erosion of the concrete lining in a water environment, and the precipitation of salt crystals and expansion will eventually damage the lining of the structure. Also, due to the accelerated corrosion effect of water and salt on the structure of the lining, cavities occur in the lining in a short time, and this results in a decrease of the bearing capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • LaFeO 3 with acid treatment (LFO-H) exhibited better CO oxidation performance to the raw material (LFO). • LFO-H possessed higher surface area, higher oxygen species concentration and better low-temperature reducibility. • LFO-H exhibited excellent thermal stability during the CO oxidation reaction. The rational design of low-cost catalysts with excellent catalytic activity is one of the most significant topics in heterogeneous catalysis. LaFeO 3 (LFO) perovskite was synthesized by the citrate sol-gel method and followed through a selective dissolution method by acid solutions. The surface element percentage, chemical states and pore structure of LFO were tuned. The acid-treated catalyst (LFO-H) showed higher activity in CO oxidation than the raw LFO. In terms of various characterizations, the exposed La ions of the LFO were slightly etched by dilute nitric acid, but the LFO-H still preserved the original perovskite framework. The corresponding surface area, surface oxygen vacancies and reducibility were also improved after acid treatment, accounting for its higher catalytic activity. Moreover, the LFO-H also exhibited excellent thermal stability because the perovskite structure remains after acid treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intelectin (ITLN) is a type of glycan-binding lectin involved in many physiological processes and some human diseases. Here we report a common carp intelectin (cITLN). Like other orthologs , cITLN also contains a conserved fibrinogen-related domain (FReD) and a unique intelectin domain, expresses in all the tissues tested with the highest level in the hindgut, and responds to bacterial challenge in the acute phase. We also expressed cITLN in Escherichia coli (E. coli) system, and the purified recombinant cITLN could neither affect the surface of bacteria nor inhibit the growth of bacteria, but it can agglutinate both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria in a calcium-dependent manner. The cITLN's ability of agglutination of gram-positive bacteria is stronger than that of gram-negative bacteria. This is probably because recombinant cITLN could binding peptidoglycan (PGN) with a higher degree to lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Our results of cITLN provided new insight into the function of intelectin in the intestinal mucosal immunity. • One homologue of intelectin named cITLN with a FReD and a unique intelectin domain was characterized in common carp. • The cITLN is expressed in all tissues we tested and upregulated after challenge of A. hydrophila. • The cITLN can bind to both LPS and PGN. Maybe it's the early step for cITLN to exert its bacterial binding and agglutinating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The petrology, geochronology and geochemistry of the mafic enclaves in the Mid‐Late Triassic Jiefangyingzi pluton from Chifeng area, southern Inner Mongolia, in China are studied to reveal their petrogenetic relationship with the host pluton. Furthermore, the coeval magmatic assemblage and its petrogenesis on the northern margin of the North China craton (NCC) are studied synthetically to elucidate their tectonic setting and the implications for the destruction of the NCC. Zircon U‐Pb dating reveals that the mafic enclaves formed at 230.4 ± 2.2 Ma, which is similar to the age of the host pluton. The most basic mafic enclaves belong to weak alkaline rocks, and they display rare earth element (REE) and trace element normalized patterns and trace element compositions similar to those of ocean island basalt (OIB). In addition, they have positive ∊Nd(t) values (+3.84 to +4.94) similar to those of the Cenozoic basalts on the northern margin of the NCC. All of these geochemical characteristics suggest that the basic mafic rocks originated from the asthenosphere. Petrological and geochemical studies suggest that the Jiefangyingzi pluton and the intermediate mafic enclaves were formed by the mixing of the asthenosphere‐derived and crust‐derived magmas in different degrees. The Mid‐Late Triassic magmatic rocks on the northern margin of the NCC could be classified into three assemblages according to their geochemical compositions: alkaline series, weak alkaline–sub‐alkaline series and sub‐alkaline series rocks. Petrogenetic analyses suggest that the upwelling of the asthenosphere played an important role in the formation of these Mid‐Late Triassic magmatic rocks. Basing on an analysis of regional geological data, we suggest that the northern margin of the NCC underwent destruction due to the upwelling of the asthenosphere during the Mid‐Late Triassic, which was induced by the delamination of the root of the collisional orogeny between Sino‐Korean and Siberian paleoplates in Late Permian. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intelectin (ITLN) is a new type of glycan‐binding lectin. It has been demonstrated to agglutinate bacteria probably due to its carbohydrate‐binding capacity, suggesting its role in an innate immune response. It is involved not only in many physiological processes but also in some human diseases such as asthma, heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cancer. Up to now, intelectin orthologs have been identified in placozoans, urochordatas, cephalochordates and several vertebrates, such as cyclostomata, fish, amphibians and mammals. Although the sequences of intelectins in different species are conserved, their expression patterns, quaternary structures and functions differ considerably among and within species. We summarize the evolution of the intelectin gene family, the tissue distribution, structure and functions of intelectins. We conclude that intelectin plays a role in innate immune response and there are still potential functions of intelectin awaiting discovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The dynamic process of NH 3 adsorption and desorption in an Ag/AgI-HWG was quantitatively analyzed. • The density of NH 3 adsorption was of the order of 1015 molecules/cm2 which indicates that the type of adsorption in the Ag/AgI-HWG is multilayer adsorption • Adsorption kinetic of ammonia on Ag/AgI-HWG was consistent with the pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order kinetic model, BET model and the differential heats of adsorption was determined quantitatively. The adsorption effect of ammonia gas molecules on the inner surface of silver and silver iodide-coated hollow waveguides (Ag/AgI-HWGs) was studied by using a direct absorption spectrometry system with a 9.56-µm quantum cascade laser as the light source. The dynamic changes in ammonia concentration in the Ag/AgI-HWG during the process of NH 3 influx and N 2 purge were measured with a high time resolution. The adsorption and desorption processes of ammonia were quantitatively analyzed. The results indicate that the density of ammonia molecules adsorbed on the inner wall surface of the Ag/AgI-HWG was 1015 molecules/cm2, characterized as multilayer adsorption, and the corresponding F value (a dimensionless number commonly used to characterize influence of the adsorption effect) was about 5.89. The adsorption capacity increased with the pressure and decreased with the temperature, which is consistent with Le Chatelier's principle. The differential heats of adsorption were deduced to be 7.6 and 6.1 kJ/mol for monolayer and multilayer adsorption, respectively, and the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller model was established and agreed well with our measurement results. The adsorption kinetic process also fit well to both the pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order kinetic model. This study fills in the gap in the research of Ag/AgI-HWGs adsorption and is meaningful for accurate gas detection using HWG-based spectroscopy systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Voluminous granitoids are widely distributed in the Langshan region, northeast of the Alxa block, and record the evolutionary processes of the southern Central Asian Orogenic Belt. The Dabashan pluton was emplaced into the Paleoproterozoic Diebusige complex. Early Carboniferous zircon LA‐ICP MS U‐Pb ages were from 327 Ma to 346 Ma. The Dabashan pluton can be classified as monzogranite and syenogranite, and exhibits high K2O contents and K2O/Na2O ratios, which reveal a high‐K calc‐alkaline nature. The samples display strongly fractionated REE patterns, and are enriched in large ion lithophile elements (LILE) relative to high field strength elements (HFSE). The Dabashan plutons display unusually high Ba (823–2817 ppm) and Sr (166–520 ppm) contents and K/Rb ratios (315–627), but low Rb/Ba ratios (0.02–0.14), and exhibit fertile zircon Hf isotopic compositions [εHf(t)=–14 to –20], which are comparable to those of typical high Ba–Sr granitoids. Based on the geochemical compositions of the samples, we suggest that subducted sediments and ancient crustal materials both played important roles in their generation. Basaltic melts were derived from partial melting of subcontinental lithophile mantle metasomatized by subducted sediment‐related melts with residual garnet in the source, which caused partial melting of ancient lower crust. Magmas derived from underplating ascended and emplaced in the middle–upper crust at different depths. The resultant magmas experienced some degree of fractional crystallization during their ascent. Given these geochemical characteristics, together with regional tectonic, magmatic, and structure analysis data, an active continental margin environment is proposed for the generation of these rocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: An analysis of some special factors was performed to further evaluate and discuss whether endoscopic surgery and traditional open surgery have similar therapeutic outcomes for differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC).Methods: A retrospective study was performed on 76 patients undergoing surgery to treat DTC. Forty patients were treated by endoscopic thyroidectomy via the chest-breast approach (endoscopic group) and thirty-six patients were treated by open surgery (open group). Serum thyroglobulin (sTg), radioactive iodine uptake (RAIU), radioactive technetium uptake (RATU), radionuclide imaging of the thyroid residual area (RITRA), radionuclide imaging of suspicious lymph nodes metastasis (RISLNM), and other general indexes were analyzed and compared between the two groups.Results: All surgeries were successfully completed in both groups. There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding gender (P = 0.120), postoperative hospital stay (P = 0.766), operation time (P = 0.065), intra-operative blood loss (P = 0.064), tumor diameter (P = 0.059), and overall complications (P = 0.828). Among these complications, there was no significant difference between the two approaches in transient hypoparathryoidism (P = 0.771), transient recurrent laryngeal injury (P = 0.474) and serious neck skin traction sensation (2.5 vs. 0%, P = 1.000). Age and body mass index were lower in the endoscopic group than the open group (P < 0.05). No significant difference was found in special factors between two groups concerning surgical range (P = 0.872), RAIU-2 h/24 h (P = 0.660/P = 0.955), RATU (P = 0.116), number of dissected lymph nodes (P = 0.157), sTg before radioiodine therapy (P = 0.188), sTg after radioiodine therapy (P = 0.159), RITRA at different time points (99mTc 15 min: P = 0.144; 131I 24 h: P = 0.243; 131I 72 h: P = 0.624) and RISLNM (none: P = 0.805; central: P = 0.744; lateral: P = 1.000; central + lateral: P = 0.958).Conclusion: Endoscopic total thyroidectomy and central lymph nodes dissection via a chest-breast approach are safe and effective. Through the detection of the postoperative special factors, a well-trained surgeon can achieve similar therapeutic results for selected patients with DTC, compared with open surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Beishan orogenic collage is an ideal setting for investigating the temporal and spatial relationships between extensional tectonics in the Central Asian Orogenic Belt and the rifting of Gondwana. This study presents new geochemical and geochronological data for Devonian igneous rocks and the Zhangfangshan ophiolitic mélange in the southern Beishan region. The Zhangfangshan ophiolitic mélange contains a Late Devonian gabbro block (ca. 369 Ma) with extremely depleted zircon Hf isotopic compositions (ε Hf [t] = +16.5 to +22.4). The Lucaogou diorites (ca. 367 Ma) have low MgO and compatible element contents, low Sr/Y and La/Yb ratios, and positive zircon ε Hf (t) values, indicative of derivation by dehydration melting of Mesoproterozoic mafic igneous rocks in a high-temperature and medium- to low-pressure environment. The Lucaogou K-feldspar granites (ca. 374 Ma) and Dundunshan silicic volcanic rocks (ca. 375 Ma) have A-type granite affinities, and were probably derived from magmas formed by mixing between Neoproterozoic orthogneiss-derived melts and depleted mantle-derived mafic magmas in a high-temperature shallow-crustal environment. Compiled geochronological data for subduction-related magmatism and supra-subduction zone-type ophiolites are consistent with protracted subduction–accretion until the early Carboniferous along the northern margin of the Dunhuang Block. Slab retreat in this long-lived subduction zone led to the generation of oceanic lithosphere in the southern Beishan region. Furthermore, Devonian extensional tectonics in the southern Beishan area coincided with the opening of the Paleo-Tethys Ocean, indicating that protracted subduction retreat caused the separation of the Dunhuang Block from East Gondwana. • Devonian igneous rocks were produced in an extensional setting in southern Beishan. • The slab rollback caused Devonian crustal extension in southern Beishan. • Retreating subduction caused the separation of Dunhuang Block from East Gondwana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Open-path standoff gas detection for atmospheric NO using WMS-2f/1f method and QCL. • Adaptive Kalman filter improves 33% in detection accuracy with a response time of 7 s. • Dynamic response, accuracy, sensitivity, and detection limit are evaluated in the laboratory. • Temporal evolution of NO in the atmosphere is measured by field experiments. Nitric oxide (NO) is one of the primary air pollutants, and open optical path detection of NO holds immense significance in safeguarding the ecological environment and human health. In this paper, a high precision and high sensitivity NO open optical path sensor based on mid-infrared laser absorption spectroscopy technology is developed. The average gas concentration inversion of the NO path is achieved by collecting the backscattered light from the cooperative target. The gas measurement deploys a wavelength modulation method to remove the effects from light intensity variations. Furthermore, a Kalman filter and a temperature–pressure sensor optimization software algorithm were utilized to reduce the effects of temperature–pressure variations during the measurement process, leading to a 33% improvement in detection accuracy. The performance of the sensor was evaluated in the laboratory environment in terms of accuracy, sensitivity, and detection limit. The atmospheric NO concentration was also measured under varying time periods and weather conditions in the field environment, thus laying a strong foundation for studying the spatial and temporal evolution of NO in the atmosphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel algorithm to fast deconvolve a molecular transition for its Gaussian and Lorentzian broadening was reported, and was further used to simultaneously measure multiple parameters, i.e. species concentration, temperature, and pressure, for combustion diagnostics. The proposed method was demonstrated by theory simulation and laboratory verification with combustion experiment. Direct absorption spectroscopy of H 2 O transition at 7185.6 cm −1 in premixed methane/air flames is used to verify the accuracy. The measurement temperature is agreement with that by two-line thermometry and thermocouple. The method is simple and feasible for non-intrusive simultaneous measurements of gas temperature, concentration, and pressure without calibration or other contact sensors. With an appropriately selected spectral line for analysis, the method can be applied to combustion diagnostics and industrial process control applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ages and origins of metasedimentary rocks, which were previously mapped as Precambrian, are critical in rebuilding the orogenic process and better understanding the Phanerozoic continental growth in the Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB). The Beishan Complex was widely distributed in the southern Beishan Orogenic Collage, southernmost CAOB, and their ages and tectonic affinities are still in controversy. The Beishan Complex was previously proposed as fragments drifted from the Tarim Craton, Neoproterozoic Block or Phanerozoic accretionary complex. In this study, we employ detrital zircon age spectra to constrain ages and provenances of metasedimentary sequences of the Beishan Complex in the Chuanshanxun area. The metasedimentary rocks here are dominated by zircons with Paleoproterozoic–Mesoproterozoic age (~1160–2070 Ma), and yield two peak ages at 1454 and 1760 Ma. One sample yielded a middle Permian peak age (269 Ma), which suggests that the metasedimentary sequences were deposited in the late Paleozoic. The granitoid and dioritic dykes, intruding into the metasedimentary sequences, exhibit zircon U–Pb ages of 268 and 261 Ma, respectively, which constrain the minimum deposit age of the metasedimentary sequences. Zircon U–Pb ages of amphibolite (274 and 216 Ma) indicate that they might be affected by multi-stage metamorphic events. The Beishan Complex was not a fragment drifted from the Tarim Block or Dunhuang Block, and none of cratons or blocks surrounding Beishan Orogenic Collage was the sole material source of the Beishan Complex due to obviously different age spectra. Instead, 1.4 Ga marginal accretionary zones of the Columbia supercontinent might have existed in the southern CAOB, and may provide the main source materials for the sedimentary sequences in the Beishan Complex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Detection of dimethyl sulfide (CH 3 SCH 3 ) is significant for protection of environmental atmosphere and safety of industrial and agricultural production. A tunable laser absorption spectroscopy (TLAS)-based dimethyl sulfide sensor, employing a 5 m hollow waveguide (HWG) as a gas cell and a 3.37 μm, continuous-wave, DFB, room temperature interband cascade laser (ICL), is reported. Wavelength modulation spectroscopy second harmonic normalized by the first harmonic (WMS 2f/1f) technique is used to retrieve the concentration of dimethyl sulfide with high sensitivity. The sensor has a mass of ∼5 kg and consumes ∼50 W of electrical power. The sensor performance evaluation shows that it has a sensitivity of 20 ppb with time resolution of 1s, a rapid rise time and fall time of ∼27 s and ∼25 s and a measurement precision of 21 ppb. Furthermore, an Allan deviation analysis shows that the detection limit can reach 2.8 ppb for a 125 s averaging time. Overall, the reported sensor can be applied to environmental monitoring, industrial production and the biomedicine field for dimethyl sulfide detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the power efficiency is affected by every aspect of a wind turbine and its blades, a 2D-computational investigation of several key parameters is proposed after which actual experiments are performed. Six parameters are examined in the computational investigation: installation angle; blade airfoil; chord length; number of blades; radius of an impellor; and wind speed. To find out the optimum performance of a Vertical Axis Wind Turbine or VAWT, one appropriate parameter is selected at each section of the simulation progression. Afterwards, an experimental prototype of wind turbine is fabricated and put into an air-dynamic test to ascertain the validity of the previous CFD simulation. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Anti-gamma-aminobutyric-acid-B receptor (GABAbR) encephalitis is a rare form of autoimmune encephalitis. Until now, there are few biomarkers that can indicate the severity and prognosis of patients with anti-GABAbR encephalitis. The objective of this study was to exam the changes of chitinase-3-like protein 1 (YKL-40) in patients with anti-GABAbR encephalitis. In addition, whether YKL-40 could indicate the disease severity was also evaluated. The clinical features of 14 patients with anti-GABAbR encephalitis and 21 patients with anti- N -methyl- d -aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis were retrospectively studied. YKL-40 levels in serum and cerebral fluid (CSF) of patients were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The correlation of modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of encephalitis patients and YKL40 levels were analyzed. YKL-40 levels in CSF were significantly higher in patients with anti-GABAbR encephalitis or anti-NMDAR encephalitis than those in controls. YKL-40 levels between these two encephalitis groups were not different. Moreover, YKL-40 levels in CSF from patients with anti-GABAbR encephalitis were positively correlated with the mRS score at admission and at 6-month follow-up. YKL-40 level is elevated in CSF from patients with anti-GABAbR encephalitis at early disease stage. YKL-40 may be a potential biomarker indicating the prognosis of patients with anti-GABAbR encephalitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Late Neoproterozoic ophiolite fragments were discovered in the Irshi area. • The early Paleozoic crust of the middle Great Xing'an Range is an orogenic belt. • Neoproterozoic–early Paleozoic lateral crustal growth occurred in the eastern CAOB. The tectonic affinity of the middle segment of the Great Xing'an Range (GXR) in NE China has become one of the focus issues about the Paleozoic crustal division and tectonic evolution of the eastern segment of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt. In this paper, we identified some ophiolite fragments from the early Paleozoic strata in the Irshi area of the middle segment of the GXR, which was previously thought to be the interior of the Precambrian Xing'an block. These ophiolite fragments and the surrounding deformed clastic rocks together constitute the Irshi ophiolite mélange (IOM). Zircon U-Pb dating reveals that the ophiolites formed during 603–608 Ma, which indicates that there was an oceanic basin during the late Neoproterozoic. The geochemical composition suggests that the ophiolites were formed in a back-arc setting. The youngest group of detrital zircons in the matrix ranges from 435 Ma to 480 Ma. In addition, the IOM was covered unconformably by late Silurian and Devonian strata, and it was thus likely emplaced during the early–middle Silurian. The identification of the IOM eliminated the possibility that the middle segment of the GXR was an independent Precambrian continental block. The spatial–temporal distribution of Proterozoic–early Paleozoic ophiolite, metamorphic complexes, and magmatic and sedimentary rocks in the middle segments of the GXR indicates that the tectonic affinity of the late Neoproterozoic–early Paleozoic crust in this area is an accretionary orogenic belt. The continuous subduction of the Paleo-Asian Ocean was responsible for the formation of the orogenic belt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to compare the efficacy of enhanced 3D T1-weighted black-blood fast-spin-echo vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging (eVW-MRI) and time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography (TOF MRA) for follow-up evaluation of aneurysms treated with flow diversion (FD). Methods: Our study enrolled 77 patients harboring 84 aneurysms treated with FD. Follow-up was by MRI (eVW-MRI and TOF MRA) and digital subtraction angiography (DSA). Two radiologists, blinded to DSA examination results, independently evaluated the images of aneurysm occlusion and parent artery patency using the Kamran-Byrne Scale. Interobserver diagnostic agreement and intermodality diagnostic agreement were acquired. Pretreatment and follow-up aneurysm wall enhancement (AWE) patterns were collected. Results: Based on the Kamran-Byrne Scale, the intermodality agreement between eVW-MRI and DSA was better than TOF MRA versus DSA for aneurysm remnant detection (weighted ĸ = 0.891 v. 0.553) and parent artery patency (ĸ = 0.950 v. 0.221). Even with the coil artifact, the consistency of eVW-MRI with DSA for aneurysm remnant detection was better than that of TOF MRA (weighted ĸ = 0.891 v. 0.511). The artifact of adjunctive coils might be more likely to affect the accuracy in evaluating parent artery patency with TOF MRA than with eVW-MRI (ĸ = 0.077 v. 0.788). The follow-up AWE patterns were not significantly associated with pretreatment AWE patterns and aneurysm occlusion. Conclusions: The eVW-MRI outperforms TOF MRA as a reliable noninvasive and nonionizing radioactive imaging method for evaluating aneurysm remnants and parent artery patency after FD. The significance of enhancement patterns on eVW-MRI sequences needs more exploration. Clinical relevance statement: The application of enhanced vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging has proven to be a promising tool to depict aneurysm remnant and parent artery stenosis in order to tailor the antiplatelet therapy strategy in patients after flow diversion. Key Points: • Enhanced vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging has an emerging role in depicting aneurysm remnant and parent artery patency after flow diversion. • With or without the artifact from adjunctive coils, enhanced vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging was better than TOF MRA in detecting aneurysm residual and parent artery stenosis by using DSA imaging as the standard. • Enhanced vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging holds potential to be used as an alternative to DSA for routine aneurysm follow-up after flow diversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a method examining static forces and moment of airfoil in steady solver. Aerodynamic stability is one subject that many scholars have begun to realize very crucial for design and daily operation. Fundamentals of aerodynamics were firstly scrutinized concerned about lift, drag and moment. Then steady simulation solver is set up instead of transient solver because we would like to examine airfoil without the effect of vortex motion, temporarily focus on static forces on airfoil. Dependent variable include cl, cd and cm of three airfoils, FLAT PLATE, NACA0012 and NACA23012 at TSR = 0, 2, 5 and 7. Stability is characterized by deviation and fluctuation at 360 degrees of azimuth position. We found that FLAT PLATE showed most deviation and fluctuation as an example of airfoil for VAWT. NACA0012 representing symmetric airfoil has more stable cm at whole time and cd just at TSR of 2 and 5. NACA23012 representing cambered airfoil has more stable cl all phases of running. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sensitive carbon disulfide (CS 2 ) sensor based on wavelength modulation spectroscopy (WMS) in the mid-infrared fingerprint region was reported. The strong band spectrum of carbon disulfide's combination band ( ν 1 + ν 3), near 2177.6 cm −1 , was used in the sensor. To enable WMS for wideband spectrum, a parameter of Spectral Discrimination ( SD ) was defined and used as a criterion for optimizing the modulation index, which was finally determined to be around 0.8 instead of 2.2 commonly used for an isolated line spectrum. And the second harmonic signal was processed with empirical mode decomposition (EMD) algorithm to distinguish and remove the optical fringes buried in the detected signal. The sensor performances were tested by implementing a set of CS 2 concentration experiments. The results showed that the sensor response linearity was 0.999 and the relative measuring error was less than 1%. The sensitivity, i. e. 3σ detection limit, was as low as 60 ppb with integration time of 240 s with optical path length of 5 m, corresponding to absorbance of 3 × 10 −5 . Overall, benefiting from strong fingerprint absorption and methods of applying WMS to wideband spectrum, the sensor is promising for both environmental and industrial CS 2 detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ultrahigh-resolution mid-infrared absorption spectrum of methyl mercaptan (CH 3 SH) was recorded and analyzed in the region of 2945–2953 cm -1 , where the strong ν 2 -band is located. Benefitting from the high-resolution of tunable laser absorption spectrometry (TLAS) with a distributed feedback interband cascade laser (DFB-ICL), 12-strong and 27-weak air-broadened absorption peaks belonging to the ν 2 -band of CH 3 SH were assigned with resolution of better than 2.24×10 -5 cm -1 (~26 fm/670 kHz) and absorption cross section precision of 2.0%, at temperature of 298.15 K and pressure of 1 atm. For further description of the assigned transitions, the spectral line parameters and cross sections of these absorption peaks versus pressure were investigated. These ultrahigh resolution air-broadened spectra can be used as reference data for CH 3 SH remote sensing and absolute spectral measurement applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Reoperative thyroid surgery is associated with a higher morbidity and has traditionally been done in conventional open approach. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of endoscopic areola approach for reoperative thyroid surgery.Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in 46 patients undergoing reoperative thyroid surgery with endoscopic areola approach (endoscopic group) and 70 patients with conventional open approach (open group). Perioperative and follow-up outcomes were compared between the two groups.Results: Baseline characteristics were comparable between the two groups. Except for two cases of the endoscopic group intraoperatively converted to open surgery, all the other surgery was successfully completed. No significant difference was found between two groups concerning operation time, drainage volume, drainage time and postoperative hospital stay (all P > 0.05). Estimated blood loss was more in the open group than the endoscopic group (P = 0.000). Although not statistically significant, the overall complication rate was less in the endoscopic group than in the open group (21.7 vs. 37.1 %, P = 0.079). Of these complications, transient hypocalcemia was the most common (endoscopic group, 17.4 %; open group, 21.4 %; P = 0.594). One patient of the endoscopic group and 7 patients of the open group suffered from transient recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) paralysis (P = 0.210). Moreover, 2 patients of open group experienced permanent RLN paralysis. During the follow-up period (range 1-6 years), no recurrent case was encountered, but the endoscopic group had a higher cosmetic score (9.0 ± 0.9 vs. 5.9 ± 0.9, P = 0.000).Conclusion: In high-volume centers, with strict operation indication, sufficient preoperative evaluation and careful surgical maneuvers, endoscopic areola approach is a safe and effective method for reoperative thyroid surgery, allowing to provide a better cosmetic result and reduce intraoperative blood loss compared with open approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose This paper aims to provide a sensor for fast, sensitive and selective ethylene (C2H4) concentration measurements.Design/methodology/approach The paper developed a sensor platform based on tunable laser absorption spectroscopy with a 3,266-nm interband cascade laser (ICL) as an optical source and a hollow waveguide (HWG) as a gas cell. The ICL wavelength was scanned across a C2H4 strong fundamental absorption band, and an interference-free C2H4 absorption line located at 3,060.76 cm−1 was selected. Wavelength modulation spectroscopy with the second harmonic detection (WMS-2f) technique was used to improve the sensitivity. Furthermore, the HWG gas cell can achieve a long optical path in a very small volume to improve the time response.Findings The results show excellent linearity of the measured 2f signal and the C2H4 concentration with a correlation coefficient of 0.9997. Also, the response time is as short as about 10 s. The Allan variance analysis indicates that the detection limit can achieve 53 ppb with an integration time of 24 s.Practical implications The ethylene sensor has many meaningful applications in environmental monitoring, industrial production, national security and the biomedicine field.Originality/value The paper provides a novel sensor architecture which can be a versatile sensor platform for fast and sensitive trace-gas detection in the mid-infrared region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Standoff detection of flammable and toxic gases simultaneously is important for leakage warning and safe production in oil and gas industries. A portable and robust single-ended laser sensor is developed to retrieve path-averaged gas concentrations of methane (CH 4) and hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) by collecting the backscattered light from a distant non-cooperative target. Time-division multiplexing of two semiconductor lasers with pigtails are employed to cover the absorption lines of CH 4 and H 2 S at 1653.73 nm and 1578.13 nm, respectively. Wavelength modulation spectroscopy with 1 f normalized 2 f detection (WMS-2 f /1 f) method is used for gas measurement to eliminate the change of return light intensity caused by different distances and different non cooperative targets. Kalman filter is developed as a post-processing method to reduce the output fluctuations during standoff gas measurement. The performance of the sensor is assessed, including signal noise ratio under different standoff distances and hard targets, measurement precision, time-response and the detection limit. The reported sensor allows for real-time non-contact standoff detection of CH 4 and H 2 S, with great potential for its application in oil and gas industries. [Display omitted] • Simultaneous standoff gas detection for CH 4 and H 2 S using WMS-2f/1f method. • Adaptive Kalman filter reduces the standard deviation to 30–75% with a response time of 3 s. • SNRs are evaluated under different standoff distances and common topographic hard targets. • It has great potential for multi-species remote sensing applications in the oil and gas industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The petrology, geochronology, and geochemistry of the early Permian volcanic rocks from Houtoumiao area, south Xiwuqi County in central Inner Mongolia of China, are studied to elucidate the early Permian tectonic setting of the region. The volcanic rocks, which are interbedded with sandstone, feature both mafic and felsic compositions and show a bimodal nature. Zircon U–Pb dating reveals that the volcanic rocks formed at 274–278 Ma, similar to the ages of bimodal magmatism in neighbouring areas. The mafic rocks are composed of tholeiitic basalt, basaltic andesite, basaltic trachyandesite, and trachyandesite. They are rich in Th, U, and LILEs, depleted in HFSEs Nb, Ta, and Ti, and have positive εNd(t) values (+3.6 to +7.9). Geochemical analyses indicate that the mafic rocks originated from metasomatized lithospheric mantle. The felsic volcanic rocks are mainly rhyolite, with minor trachyte and dacite. They have different evolutionary tendencies of major elements, chondrite-normalized REE patterns, and isotopic compositions from the mafic volcanic rocks, which preclude formation by fractional crystallization of mafic melts. The εNd(t) values of the felsic rocks are similar to those of the Carboniferous Baolidao arc rocks in the region. It is suggested that Permian felsic melts originated from the partial melting of Carboniferous juvenile arc-related rocks. By comparison with typical Cenozoic bimodal volcanism associated with several tectonic settings, including rift, post-collisional setting, back-arc basin, and the Basin and Range, USA, the bimodal volcanic rocks in central Inner Mongolia display similar petrological and geochemical characteristics to the rocks from back-arc basin and the Basin and Range, USA. Based on the analysis of regional geological data, it is inferred that the early Permian bimodal volcanic rocks in the study area formed on an extensional continental margin of the Siberian palaeoplate after late Carboniferous subduction–accretion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The frequency modulation (FM) efficiency and frequency modulation/intensity modulation (FM/IM) phase shift of mid-infrared interband cascade lasers (ICLs) are studied experimentally. The modulation parameters of 2997 and 3266 nm ICLs are characterized using tunable laser absorption spectroscopy (TLAS) with HO absorption lines located at 2998.8 and 3263.3 nm, respectively. The FM efficiency is determined by the distance between two zero crossings of the measured wavelength modulation spectrum with the second-harmonic (WMS-2 f) detection signal, whereas the FM/IM phase shift is extracted by measuring the time delay between the laser intensity and frequency response, using the HO absorption lines as markers. The results show that the FM efficiency is more than four times larger than that of conventional near-infrared distributed feedback lasers and that it decreases monotonically with increasing modulation frequency. The response of the FM/IM phase shift shows three distinct regions in its response to the increasing modulation frequency. The FM characteristics of ICLs are different from those of both conventional diode lasers and quantum cascade lasers because of the different semiconducting materials and working principles involved. This study can help to optimize wavelength modulation spectroscopy (WMS)-based sensor performance and improve simulation models for WMS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The controllable wire-fed laser cladding (WLC) on inclined surfaces is one of the most challenging issues to repair free-form surfaces of high-valued parts because of the gravity effect, and therefore has attracted substantial attentions. Numerical methods need large computational efforts and can only achieve indirect inter-relationship between processing parameters and cladding geometries. In this concern, analytical models can be a promising solution but the models of overlapped profiles on non-horizontal surfaces are still absent from the literature. To fill this gap, this paper investigates the overlapped wire-fed laser cladding on inclined surfaces by proposing an analytical model with the considerations of substantial physical phenomena (gravity, interfacial tension) and thermal behaviors (Marangoni flow, wetting). The model is then validated by experimental trials, followed by a real cladding application on non-horizontal surfaces to show the model ability. The findings in this paper are expected to be meaningful and helpful to not only academic research but also engineering applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammation is involved in regulation of cellular events in prostate carcinogenesis through control of the tumour micro-environment. A variety of bone marrow-derived cells, including CD4+ lymphocytes, macrophages and myeloid-derived suppressor cells, are integral components of the tumour micro-environment., On activation by inflammatory cytokines, NF-κ B complexes are capable of promoting tumour cell survival through anti-apoptotic signalling in prostate cancer ( PCa). Positive feedback loops are able to maintain NF-κ B activation., NF-κ B activation is also associated with the metastatic phenotype and PCa progression to castration-resistant prostate cancer ( CRPC)., A novel role for inhibitor of NF-κ B kinase ( IKK)-α in NF-κ B-independent PCa progression to metastasis and CRPC has recently been uncovered, providing a new mechanistic link between inflammation and PCa. Expansion of PCa progenitors by IKK-α may be involved in this process., In this review, we offer the latest evidence regarding the role of the NF-κ B pathway in PCa and discuss therapeutic attempts to target the NF-κ B pathways. We point out the need to further dissect inflammatory pathways in PCa in order to develop appropriate preventive measures and design novel therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Environmental and genetic aspects are reflected in the development of prostate cancer. In this context, there is growing evidence that chronic inflammation is involved in the regulation of cellular events in prostate carcinogenesis, including disruption of the immune response and regulation of the tumour microenvironment. • One of the best surrogates of chronic inflammation in prostate cancer is interleukin 6 (IL-6). Serum IL-6 levels are elevated in patients with untreated metastatic or castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) and correlate negatively with tumour survival and response to chemotherapy.Via multiple signal pathways including the Janus tyrosine family kinase (JAK)-signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathway, the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1/2)-mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3-K) pathway, IL-6 is able to promote prostate cancer cell proliferation and inhibit apoptosis in vitro and in vivo. • IL-6 is associated with aggressive prostate cancer phenotype and may be involved in the metastatic process through regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and homing of cancer cells to the bone. • A substantial body of evidence suggests that IL-6 plays a major role in the transition from hormone-dependent to CRPC, most notably through accessory activation of the androgen receptor. • Collectively, these data have stimulated the development of agents targeting IL-6 signalling pathways. A chimeric anti-IL-6 monoclonal antibody has been tested in clinical trials, with mixed results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Langshan region, northwestern China, marked multi-stage intraplate deformation events have occurred since the Mesozoic, including (1) northeast-striking ductile left-lateral strike slip during the Middle-Late Triassic, which is closely related to the collision between the North China and the Yangtze plates; (2) top-to-the-southeast thrust with northwest-southeast trending maximum compression during the Late Jurassic; (3) nearly eastward detachment during the Early Cretaceous; (4) top-to-the-northwest thrust with northwest-southeast trending maximum compression during the Late Cretaceous and Early Cenozoic; (5) northeast-striking brittle left-lateral strike slip with nearly north-south trending maximum compression; and (6) northwest-southeast extension during the Middle-Late Cenozoic. All these deformation events belong to the intraplate deformation across the entire Central Asian region and respond to the tectonic events along the plate boundaries or deep tectonics. The structures developed in early events in the crust were the most important factors controlling the later deformation styles, and few new structures have later developed. Based on previous research and our results, the paleostress inversion in the Langshan region shows that the Mesozoic intraplate deformations in the study region mainly resulted from the tectonic events from the Paleo-Pacific region and have no or a weak relation to the Tethys region. During the Late Jurassic, the maximum compression from the Mongolia-Okhotsk region cannot be excluded. The Langshan region is the bridge between southern Mongolia and the western Ordos tectonic belt and is thus important to understand the nature and relationship between both regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The NE-trending Bayanwula Shan–Lang Shan is an important tectonic belt lying between the North China Plate (NCP) to the east and the Alxa block to the west. An understanding of its nature and the timing of deformation are essential to understand the relationship between the NCP and the Alxa block. Two phases of ductile deformation have been observed in this belt. Large-scale top-to-the-west ductile thrusting characterized the early deformation in the Bayanwula Shan–Lang Shan. Nearly east–west trending quartz stretching lineations and lineations formed by amphibole and biotite are well developed. Different types of sheath and oblique folds with east–west trending fold hinges are also developed in the region. The shear strain of this ductile thrust is up to 17. The ductile deformation may have resulted from the top-to-the-west thrusting of the northern part of the NCP over the Alxa block, and may have occurred ca. 351 Ma (biotite 40Ar/39Ar age). Later ductile deformation was expressed as NE-trending sinistral shear along the entire Bayanwula Shan–Lang Shan and likely occurred ca. 250 Ma (biotite and muscovite 40Ar/39Ar ages); this shear may have resulted from the collision between the Yangtze and North China plates to the south during the Triassic. Combined with recently obtained detrital zircon U–Pb ages for the area, the ductile deformation events in the eastern Alxa block indicate that the block may not have been part of the NCP, at least before the end of the Devonian. Both blocks were located in the Paleo-Asian Ocean during the Paleozoic and collided or amalgamated with each other at the end of the Devonian. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A subduction–accretion complex is identified from previously defined late-Carboniferous and early-Permian strata in Daqing pasture, southern Xiwuqi, Inner Mongolia. The subduction–accretion complex is composed of a matrix of siltstone and exotic blocks of bioclastic limestone, pillow basalt, foliated basalt, chert and asbestos. The pillow basalt possesses the geochemical characteristics of mid-ocean ridge basalt (N-MORB), whereas the foliated basalt displays the geochemical characteristics of island arc basalt (IAB), indicating that these basalts are of different origins. U–Pb (zircon) dating indicates that the foliated basalt formed in the late-Carboniferous (314.5 to 318.4Ma) and the bioclastic limestone formed in the early early-Permian. Combined with regional geological data, the subduction–accretion complex and coeval calc-alkaline granitic belt to the north constitute the essential elements of the late-Carboniferous to early early-Permian subduction zone on the southern margin of the Siberian paleoplate. The zircon ε Hf(t) values of the foliated basalt are positive (+14.4 to +23.9), suggesting that this basalt originated directly from depleted mantle. The temporal–spatial distribution of the subduction–accretion complex and ophiolite belts in southeastern Inner Mongolia indicates that there was significant lateral crustal growth on the southern margin of the Siberian paleoplate in the late Paleozoic. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Secondary/minor structures occurring along the main fault surfaces are important indicators for judging the kinematic characteristics of faults. However, many factors can lead to the formation of these structures, which results in the difficulty for rapid judgment and application in the fields. A series of secondary faults/fractures developed due to the movement of main faults are the most important and widespread phenomena in the scope of brittle deformation. The morphology of the main fault surfaces is various, and former researchers mainly discussed the structures on the main even fault surfaces. However, the fluctuation of fault surfaces is the intrinsic character of the faults, and the intersection between the main fault and secondary faults/fractures can produce a series of kinematic indicators on the main fault surfaces. Based on previous studies and our observations, i.e. the structural traces of the P, R, R′, T and X shears/faults along the main faults, some indicators which are rarely reported previously, are described in the paper. Furthermore, their reliabilities are also discussed, and more practical and reliable criteria are brought forward. We suggest that the simple application of congruous and incongruous steps without knowing their exact origins should be abandoned in the fields, and several types of indicators along one fault surface should be checked with each other as much as possible. Meanwhile, the origins of some other arcuate indicators on the fault surfaces are also discussed, and new models are brought forward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Late Paleozoic tectonic evolution of the southeastern Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB) has long been controversial, and one of the most contentious issues has been whether there was a collisional orogenic event during the Middle Paleozoic. Here we report the discovery of a Late Devonian (373.5 ± 6.8 Ma) ophiolite fragment in the Diyanmiao mélange of southeastern Inner Mongolia. This fragment, coupled with previously reported Carboniferous ophiolites in the same region, confirm the former presence of a Late Devonian ocean basin that evolved into the Carboniferous basin. The geochemical characteristics of the Devonian and Carboniferous mafic rocks in the ophiolites are consistent with evolutionary trends from mid-ocean ridge (MOR)-like to supra-subduction zone (SSZ) compositions. The presence of a Late Devonian-Carboniferous trench-arc-basin system in the region, which is represented by the Daqing-Diyanmiao and Bayan'aobao-Hongger ophiolite belts, the Baolidao arc, and the Erenhot-Hegenshan Oceanic Basin (EHB), confirms the presence of a late Devonian-Carboniferous orogenic belt in the southeastern CAOB. The western segment of the Baolidao arc was developed on continental basement (the Xilin Gol complex), whereas the eastern segment was formed on oceanic basement. This tectonic configuration is similar to that of the modern Aleutian arc, Kamchatka-Kuril Islands and Japan-Ryukyu arc system in the northern and western Pacific Ocean. During the early Permian the oceanic basin represented by the Erenhot-Hegenshan basin closed, and the Baolidao arc was accreted onto the southern continental margin of the Southern Mongolian continental block. • Late Devonian ophiolite fragments are discovered in the Diyanmiao mélange. • The Diyanmiao ophiolites formed in a forearc setting. • The Paleo-Asian Ocean did not close before the Late Devonian. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Charitable crowdfunding provides a new channel for people and families suffering from unforeseen events, such as accidents, severe illness, and so on, to seek help from the public. Thus, finding the key determinants which drive the fundraising process of crowdfunding campaigns is of great importance, especially for those suffering. With a unique data set containing 210,907 crowdfunding projects covering a period from October 2015 to June 2020, from a famous charitable crowdfunding platform, specifically Qingsong Chou, we will reveal how many online donations are due to endogeneity, referring to the positive feedback process of attracting more people to donate through broadcasting campaigns in social networks by donors. For this aim, we calibrate three different Hawkes processes to the event data of online donations for each crowdfunding campaign on each day, which allows us to estimate the branching ratio, a measure of endogeneity. It is found that the online fundraising process works in a sub-critical state and nearly 70–90% of the online donations are endogenous. Furthermore, even though the fundraising amount, number of donations, and number of donors decrease rapidly after the crowdfunding project is created, the measure of endogeneity remains stable during the entire lifetime of crowdfunding projects. Our results not only deepen our understanding of online fundraising dynamics but also provide a quantitative framework to disentangle the endogenous and exogenous dynamics in complex systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a report of medical investigation of PTEN expression and loss of heterozygosity (LOH) of its epigenetic microsatellites in gastric carcinoma. The mRNA and protein expressions of PTEN gene were evaluated in normal mucosa, early and advanced carcinomas of the stomach using RT-PCR and immunohistochemoistry respectively. PTEN mRNA and protein expressions were compared with clinicopathological staging and lymph node metastasis of tumors. Based on results, it was assumed that down -regulated expression of PTEN and frequent LOH of its epigenetic microsatellites might play an important role in gastric carcinogenesis. Reduced PTEN mRNA expression was found closely associated with LOH of its epigenetic microsatellites.

• A new multi-layer intelligent monitoring system for inverted arch is proposed. • The early warning and feedback system for inverted arch are established. • The deformation characteristics and damage mechanism of the inverted arch are proved. • Provide new ideas for tunnel monitoring in salt rock stratum. In salt rock stratum, tunnels are prone to damages such as corrosion cavity in base or inverted arch bulging and cracking. However, the conventional monitoring system cannot accurately characterize the deformation mechanism of the inverted arch in this stratum. Therefore, this paper innovatively proposes a multi-layer deformation intelligent monitoring system for inverted arch of salt rock tunnel, which combines laser level deformation monitor and weak fiber Bragg grating, to monitor comprehensively the filling and internal deformation of tunnel inverted arch. At the same time, an early warning and feedback system is established through wireless transmission to ensure construction safety. By exploring the deformation characteristics and damage mechanism of tunnel base and inverted arch in strata with different salt contents, the relationship between the surrounding rock properties and structural stability is established, verified by the geological radar results. The monitoring system and feedback system have been successfully applied in the salt rock tunnel of China-Laos Railway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]