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Background: To explore the diagnosis and evaluation efficacy of liver iron concentration (LIC) based on magnetic resonance quantitative technique in liver iron overload in patients with long-term transfusion. Materials and Methods: From November 2021 to January 2023, 30 chronic aplastic anemia (CAA) patients with longterm blood transfusion admitted to our hospital were included as the study group. Simultaneously, 20 healthy volunteers with matched gender and age were included in the control group. The serum ferritin (SF), serum iron, total iron binding capacity and transferrin saturation (TSAT) between the two groups was calculated and compared. LIC was evaluated using Liver Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-R2* map imaging. The correlation between LIC and SF and TSAT was analyzed, and the diagnosis value of LIC in hepatic iron overload was calculated. Low-risk patients (n=22) diagnosed with iron overload received continuous regular iron removal treatment and the SF, TSAT and LIC were measured after 6 months. Results: SF, TSAT and LIC were higher in CAA patients relative to the healthy controls (P<0.05). LIC was positively correlated with SF (r=0.74, P<0.001) and TSAT (r=0.67, P<0.001). The sensitivity and specificity of LIC in the diagnosis of hepatic iron overload were 80.00% and 100% based on SF, and 76.0% and 100% based on TSAT, respectively. Additionally, SF, TSAT and LIC were all declined after 6 months of treatment (P<0.05). Conclusion: The detection of LIC based on MRIR2* is an effective and non-invasive means for the assessment of liver iron load in patients with long-term transfusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The onset of shear thinning and the transition from Newtonian to non-Newtonian behavior in the viscous flow of select chalcogenide and oxide network glass-forming liquids in the deeply supercooled regime and its temperature dependence are studied using parallel plate rheometry. In all cases, the onset occurs at a shear rate γ ̇ c that is several orders of magnitude lower than the shear relaxation rate τ 0 − 1 and the former increases with increasing temperature. These results are in good qualitative agreement with the predictions of the existing models of shear relaxation and shear thinning based on the nonlinear Langevin equation theory, random first order transition theory, and the free volume model. However, in contrast to the theoretical predictions, the reduced shear rate W0 (= τ 0 γ ̇ c ) at the onset is found to range between 10−3 and 10−5 and decrease with increasing temperature. This temperature dependence becomes stronger with increasing fragility of the liquid. These results likely indicate that the shear thinning mechanism in network liquids could be fundamentally different from those in molecular, metallic, or polymeric glass-formers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a study conducted to improve the diagnostic rate of congenital heart disease (CHD) in the first trimester of pregnancy. The study investigated the effectiveness of a new combined method that uses slowflow to display outflow coronal section blood flow images in addition to conventional screening methods. The study analyzed fetal ultrasound images collected from 2020 to 2023 and found that the new method had a high screening and diagnostic value for fetal cardiac macrovascular malformations. The authors suggest that this new combined diagnostic method could be used for cardiac screening in the first trimester and as a new diagnostic mode for CHD. [Extracted from the article]

This article, published in the journal Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology, discusses a case study of a severe congenital heart disease diagnosed in the first trimester of pregnancy. The fetus exhibited abnormalities in the four-chamber heart and outflow tract, making diagnosis challenging. The authors emphasize the importance of transvaginal ultrasound and various blood flow display modes in making an accurate diagnosis. The article concludes by stating that only time will determine the accuracy of early diagnosis. [Extracted from the article]

Aircraft joystick pipe is the key part of aircraft hard control system. In this paper, a hollow necking rod pipe made of aluminum alloy 2A12 is taken as the research object. The tapered roller with extrusion cone on one side of the roller surface is designed. Simufact. Forming14.0 was used to analyze. It was found that the radial rolling force at the end of the thickening section in the second pass increased sharply. At this time, the retaining part inhibited the axial extension of the metal and realized the accumulation in the thickness direction. The thickening rate and effect were favorable at 120 rpm, which provide a theoretical basis to realize integrated forming of aeronautical thin-walled aluminum alloy tube. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To reveal the consistency and discrepancy in the gut microbial structure and function in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients from different regions. Methods and Results: Gut microbes, antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and virulence factors genes (VFGs) were analysed using metagenome data from three cohorts. The abundance of Escherichia coli extensively increased in IBD patients, whereas Subdoligranulum unclassified decreased dramatically in IBD patients from three countries. Escherichia coli showed a positive correlation with multiple ARGs and VFGs in cohorts from China and the United States, including multidrug‐related resistance genes and Capsule and LOS‐related virulence factors genes. Escherichia coli biofilm synthesis pathways significantly enriched in IBD patients from three different regions. Notably, Subdoligranulum unclassified and Eubacterium hallii were negatively related to ARGs and VFGs. Conclusions: Consistent changes of microbiome structure and function were observed in IBD patients from three different regions. As pathogenic bacteria, E. coli may accelerate IBD progression through encapsulation in biofilms by upregulating antibiotic resistance in Crohn's disease patients. Subdoligranulum unclassified and E. hallii may be beneficial for IBD patients and could serve as potential probiotics for IBD treatment. Significance and Impact of the Study: This work dispels worries about the regional differences in gut microbial changes in IBD patients and provides useful guidance for more rational microbiome‐based therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a 30 L reactor, acetone (9.5 L) was placed, and B 2 b (1.90 kg, 6.27 mol), B 3 b (1.35 kg, 6.92 mol) and potassium carbonate (1.04 kg, 7.53 mol) were added with stirring. I Bepotastine besilate i ( B 1 b , Figure 1, synonymous with bepotastine besylate), is a non-sedative highly selective histamine receptor antagonist, which has a stabilizing effect on mast cells. According to the literature,[8] B 2 b , B 3 b and potassium carbonate were loaded into acetone at room temperature and then heated to reflux for 7 hours. If dimethylformamide (DMF) or an acetone-water system was used as solvent, the reaction could be complete, but the waste solvent was difficult to recover. [Extracted from the article]

An analysis is represented for investigating the performance of the hydrodynamic wedge-platform thrust slider bearing, where the interfacial slippage occurs on the stationary surface in the inlet zone and on the whole moving surface, based on the limiting interfacial shear strength model. The calculation results show that under the same operating condition, this bearing has a significantly higher load-carrying capacity but a much lower friction coefficient than the classical mode of the bearing (without any interfacial slippage). The study shows the benefits of the introduced interfacial slippage in improving the overall performance of the bering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: In this study, size‐selected platinum (Pt) nanoclusters were imaged with aberration‐corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy in high‐angle annular dark field (HAADF) mode. For image analysis, a relatively simple macro program was developed by making the use of existing ImageJ plug‐ins. The macro allows effectively for assessing criterions chosen for intensity threshold and filter blurring factors. It can extract the integrated HAADF intensity, peak intensity and projected area of the clusters. Here, the effects of magnification and objective lens defocus on nanocluster measurement were investigated. It was found that the integrated HAADF intensity of Pt clusters is a more robust sample descriptor than the peak intensity and the projected area. The macro program developed is freely available. Lay Description: Measuring precisely the size of nanoclusters plays an important role in the investigation of nanocluster‐based material systems. Aberration‐corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) is one of the most powerful tools to extract the size of clusters directly from their images. In this study, we developed a macro program based on existing ImageJ plug‐ins, allowing easy‐assessment of criterions chosen for image intensity threshold and filter blurring factors. It can be used to extract the integrated intensity, peak intensity, and projected area of the clusters for size determination. Using the program, we investigated the effects of magnification and objective lens defocus on measurements performed on size‐selected platinum (Pt) nanoclusters, and found that the integrated intensity of Pt clusters is a more robust sample descriptor than the peak intensity and the projected area. The macro developed allows a rapid assessment of factors affecting the accuracy with which size information can be obtained from clusters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Factors contributing to diminishing quality of life (QOL) of migrants have been examined, but little is known about the impact of relative deprivation. This study aimed to clarify the effects of relative deprivation on QOL and mediating effects of social exclusion among Chinese internal migrants. This is a secondary data analysis of a nationally representative survey. We obtained data from 14,816 internal immigrants, aged 15–59 years, throughout China using the 2014 China Migrants Dynamic Survey (CMDS). We measured relative deprivation via a modified Yitzhaki Index, social exclusion using a four-point Likert scale, and QOL using the Kessler Psychological Distress Short Scale, the Satisfaction with Life Scale, and a subscale of the 36-item Short-Form Health Survey. Survey data of 15,996 local residents were also retrieved and analyzed to make possible comparisons between the local and migrant population. Furthermore, we used descriptive and statistical analyses with data from the CMDS to identify relative deprivation and social exclusion. The results show relative deprivation both directly and indirectly influences Chinese internal migrants' QOL. Specifically, compared with the local population, relative deprivation triggers serious social exclusion (β = 0.008, P < 0.001), ultimately deteriorating QOL. Social exclusion partially mediated the total effects of relative deprivation on mental illness (β = 0.004, P < 0.001), self-rated health (β = −0.285, P < 0.001), and life satisfaction (β = −0.020, P < 0.001) among Chinese internal migrants. Relative deprivation significantly impacts QOL by exacerbating mental illness, eroding self-rated health, and inhibiting life satisfaction. Relative deprivation is significantly directly associated with various indicators of QOL and indirectly affects QOL through social exclusion. In addition, our results demonstrate that the relative deprivation theoretical approach and the modified Yitzhaki Index are worthy of future investigation in studies of migrants' health. • Relative deprivation both directly and indirectly influences Chinese internal migrants' quality of life. • Social exclusion partially mediated the total effects of relative deprivation on quality of life. • The modified Yitzhaki Index is noteworthy of future investigation in migrants' health studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of the addition of rare earth cerium on the cast microstructure and mechanical properties of 2024-T6 aluminum alloy were investigated in this work. The specimens for room-temperature tensile tests were prepared with a T6 heat treatment. Experimental results indicated that the cerium modified alloys showed refined grains, higher hardness, and strength values at room temperature. The hardness and the strength of the cerium modified alloys initially increased and then decreased as the cerium content increased. The maximum tensile strength was obtained at the 0.6 wt.% cerium modified 2024 aluminum alloy. This was improved from 464 MPa to 612 MPa. Simultaneous increases in the tensile strength and hardness were proposed to result from the refined α-aluminum dendrites, the formation of aluminum-rare earth intermetallic compounds at the grain boundaries and the grains, the more homogeneously distributed nano-scale S precipitates, and the smaller T diffusion phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colloidal quantum dots are promising materials for near infrared light emitting diodes (NIR QLEDs) owing to the widely tunable wavelength of emitted light, high quantum efficiency, and full integration with solution processing techniques. However, the imbalance of charge carriers in NIR QLEDs greatly limits their performance, which in turn narrows the scope of their application. Here, we propose an approach for improving the brightness and stability of NIR PbS QLEDs through balancing the device current by an ultra-thin inorganic aluminum oxide (Al2O3) electron suppressing layer. This modification resulted in a 7.42 W/sr/m2 peak radiance at 1.3 μm wavelength. Moreover, the halide-capped PbS-based NIR QLEDs remained stable under constant current drive for over 144 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-quality MnxTi1-xN thin films were grown on MgO(001) substrates using plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy. Magnetic measurements evidence the presence of ferromagnetism with Curie temperature exceeding 380 K. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy indicates that the Mn ions are in a divalent state and uniformly substitute on Ti cation sites, consistent with the ferromagnetism that correlates with Mn substitution on Ti sites. The origin of the ferromagnetism might be attributed to itinerant-carrier mediated Rudermann-Kittel-Kasuya-Yosida (RKKY)-type long-range coupling which allows for arbitrary itinerant-carrier spin polarization and dynamic correlations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As potential high-k gate dielectric material for metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistor, the TiO2 incorporated Al2O3 [(TiO2)x(Al2O3)1-x (TAO)] films have been prepared by pulsed laser deposition. The thermal stability and electrical properties of the TAO films annealed at different temperatures have been systematically investigated by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, and capacitance-voltage measurements. These results show that the TAO films keep amorphous state after annealed at 900 °C, and the interfacial reaction between the TAO film and silicon substrate is closely related to the deposition and postannealing temperatures. The dielectric constant of the film is about 30. For a 5 nm TAO film after annealed at 400 °C, the thickness between interfacial layer and the silicon substrate is only two atomic layers (about 0.6 nm) and a small equivalent oxide thickness (1.2 nm) is achieved. A possible explanation for interfacial interaction has been proposed. By virtue of the leakage behaviors, Schottky emission is considered as the leakage mechanism of the TAO films. The advantages and disadvantages of the high-k gate dielectric material for future metal-oxide-semiconductor transistors have been discussed, which are useful for future practical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examines the thermoelectric properties of semimetallic (Zr,Hf)CoSb half-Heusler phases. Effect of substituting the copper and antimony sites with platinum and tin; Thermal conductivity obtained in the substituted alloys; Methods of reducing thermal conductivity in the chemically complex phases.

Postoperative renal failure has been shown to be an important predictor of adverse outcomes after many surgical procedures. The purpose of this study was to examine the incidence of renal failure after lung transplantation and determine predictors and outcomes of renal failure in lung transplant recipients. We performed a retrospective cohort study of all adult patients undergoing lung transplantation from 2005 to 2022 using the United Network for Organ Sharing database. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with postoperative renal failure requiring dialysis. Postoperative complications and mortality were compared between patients experiencing postoperative renal failure and those without renal failure. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to evaluate differences in survival between groups. Overall, 33,614 patients underwent lung transplantation during the study period, with 2,406 (7%) experiencing postoperative renal failure. Following adjustment, recipient factors associated with increased odds of renal failure included female sex (odds ratio, OR 1.10, 95% CI 1.00-1.21), black race (OR 1.59 (white reference), 95% CI 1.39-1.1.82), diabetes (OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.07-1.36), pre-operative dialysis (OR 9.45, 95% CI 6.18-14.44), higher lung allocation score (OR 1.01, 95% CI 1.01-1.01), ventilator use (OR 1.65, 95% CI 1.38-1.97) and ECMO use (OR 1.71, 95% CI 1.41-2.08). Patients with postoperative renal failure were more likely to experience acute rejection (14% vs 8%, P<0.001), had higher 30-day mortality and lower survival at 1- and 5-years following transplantation compared to those without renal failure (Figure). Renal failure after lung transplantation portends a grave prognosis, with limited modifiable risk factors. Further studies are needed to determine if renal sparing strategies in the peri-operative period may help alleviate this complication, and to identify patients who may benefit from lung-kidney transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advent of direct acting antivirals has allowed for utilization of HCV NAT+ donors with good short-term outcomes. The goal of this study was to compare clinical outcomes among heart transplant recipients who received hearts from HCV NAT+ donors to those from NAT- donors. We examined the UNOS registry of all primary orthotopic adult heart transplants from March 15, 2015 to August 31, 2021 and identified their donors as HCV NAT+ or NAT-. Those with multiorgan transplants or waitlisted for other organs were excluded. Baseline characteristics, three-year survival, and treatment for rejection at one year were compared between the two groups. Of 16,491 heart transplants meeting study criteria, 729(4%) hearts came from HCV NAT+ donors. HCV NAT+ donors were older (34±8 vs 32±11 years, p<0.01), more likely males(75% vs 70%, p<0.01), white race(83% vs 63%, p<0.01), and blood group O(60% vs 50%, p<0.01). They were more likely to have drug use as cause of death(59% vs 18%, p<0.01) and classified as CDC high risk (87% vs 29%, p<0.01). Recipients were more likely blood group O(48% vs 39%, p<0.01) and have positive hepatitis C serologies(5% vs 2%, p<0.01). They were less likely Status 1A (58% vs 67%, p<0.01) or Status 1 (4% vs 9%, p<0.01) or 2 (36% vs 48%, p<0.01). Distance traveled (241 vs 139 nautical miles, p<0.01) and ischemia times (3.48 vs 3.23 hours, p<0.01) were greater in the HCV NAT+ group, while wait list duration was similar (69 vs 69 days, p=0.20). Three-year survival (87% vs 85%,Figure; log-rank p=0.26) and treatment for rejection in first year post transplant (19% vs 18%, p=0.72) were not significantly different between the two groups. HCV NAT+ donors are being increasingly used for heart transplantation, particularly for lower status recipients with otherwise longer wait times. Three-year survival and treatment for rejection at one year are comparable to those from HCV NAT- donors. Therefore, HCV NAT+ donor hearts should continue to be utilized with monitoring of long-term outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiming at the aerospace aircraft tie rod pipe fittings with indented riveted threaded bushing manufacturing, there are problems such as low connection strength, manufacturing cost and high weight, this paper innovates a new process of three-roll reduction and end extrusion thickening to form the aerospace thin-walled tie rods, and adopts the simufact finite element analysis (FEA) software to numerically analyse the forming process of the thin-walled fittings of A6061 aluminium alloy and analyse the equivalent plastic strain distribution, the change rule of the force-energy parameter, as well as the uniformity of the wall thickness in the process of rolling and squeezing, so that we can get the principle of rolling and squeezing forming and deformation rules of the thin-walled tie rods, and the results of the research provide the theoretical foundation for the domestic forming of the thin-walled tie rod pipe fittings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selection of key descriptors is very important in QSPR analysis. Presence of noise in the subset of descriptors reduces the quality of predictions. A complete set is considered as perfect when it does not include irrelevant or redundant elements. This paper reports complete sets of descriptors used to develop QSPR models for 1786 13C NMR chemical shifts (δC parameters) of carbon atoms in 125 diverse chemical compounds. PBE1PBE/6-311G(2d,2p) and B3LYP/6-31G(d) basis sets were used for quantum chemistry calculations after the molecular structures were optimized with semi-empirical AM1 and B3LYP/6-31G(d). The two complete sets consisting of magnetic shielding elements (σXX, σYY, σZZ) and the chemical shift principal values (σ11, σ22, σ33) were used as the inputs for support vector machine (SVM) models of δC parameters. The four SVM models obtained have the mean root mean square (rms) errors of about 4.5–4.6 ppm. The results suggest that SVM models are accurate and acceptable compared with previous models, although our models are based on a relatively large set of compounds. Our approach is valuable in the selection of important descriptors for QSPR studies of δC parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • A 3D network GPE composed of PVDF-HFP and PETT-Ester is successfully fabricated. • The GPE exhibits a wide electrochemical window of 5.05 V (vs. Li/Li+). • The GPE effectively suppresses the extension of lithium dendrite. • The Li/GPE/S cell shows a high specific capacity retention. Abstract A UV-light polymerized three-dimensional (3D) network gel polymer electrolyte (GPE) is designed and fabricated for solid-state lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries. The GPE exhibits wide electrochemical window up to 5.05 V (vs. Li+/Li), outstanding thermostability and mechanical property. Besides, the GPE effectively suppresses the extension of lithium dendrite and the electron-donating groups in GPE inhibit the shuttle of lithium polysulfides. The assembled solid-state Li-S batteries with the 3D network GPE show high specific capacity retention of 69.1% after 300 cycles at 0.5 C. With the consideration of these, the GPE in this report undoubtedly provides an effective technique to design high performance solid-state Li-S batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A compositive synthesis of gel polymer electrolytes by blending poly(propylene carbonate) (PPC) into poly(vinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-HFP) as a polymer host is proposed. The blending polymer is produced by a facile solution casting method and ester groups of PPC are successful introduced into PVDF-HFP. The gel polymer electrolyte displays an excellent ion conductivity of 1.18 × 10−3 S cm−1, broad electrochemical window up to 4.8 V (vs. Li/Li+) and outstanding electrochemical stability within rechargeable lithium batteries at room temperature. The improvement of ion conductivity is attributed to the decrease of polymer crystallizability and the increase of micro pores. The strategy of blending is promising for the modification of PVDF-HFP electrolyte and foreground application in next-generation solid energy conversion devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this work, cohesive and adhesive properties of Ti thin films on polyimide substrates were studied systematically as a function of grain size by in situ optical microscopy, resistance measurements and synchrotron X-ray diffraction under uniaxial tensile testing. The characteristic of cohesive and adhesive behavior can be well reflected in the stress-strain curves determined by synchrotron X-ray diffraction. Generally, the yield strength decreases while the cracking strain increases with increasing grain size, due to the constraint effect of grain size on dislocation activity. Different from the yield strength, the fracture strength is almost unchanged with grain size. The fracture toughness is found to increase as the grain size increases, which is attributed to the enhanced plasticity during fracture process. Additionally, the interfacial adhesion energy is determined to be 3.8 J m−2. The buckling strain increases with increasing grain size as a result of enhanced plastic dissipation. The formation of patches, instead of buckles, in Ti film with smaller grain size is ascribed to the low deformation capability of the film. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Early stage irradiation effects on incipient plasticity are quantitatively investigated in single-crystalline molybdenum using nanoindentation pop-in tests. Defects produced under low-dose ion irradiations, even when they are hardly detected by ion-channeling technique, can significantly reduce the critical stress for the elastic-plastic transition, through acting as heterogeneous dislocation nucleation sources. The density and strength of defects are derived using a unified model convoluting homogeneous and heterogeneous mechanisms. In addition to the increased defect density, defect strength is found to decrease with increasing irradiation dose, suggesting a growth in defect size, which is further evidenced by combined analyses between pop-in and hardness tests. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focused ion beam (FIB) microscopy was used to obtain the time dependent transformation fraction and positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) was employed to analyze the vacancy-type defects in electroplated copper (Cu) during room-temperature microstructrual evolution. It was found that PALS is more sensitive than FIB to show the room-temperature microstructual evolution of electroplated Cu at the first stage of self-annealing. The majority of defects in electroplated Cu are dislocation-bound vacancies and vacancy clusters. Both the size and the concentration of the defects are similar for the two samples at the completion of electroplating. During the incubation time, the mean size of vacancy-type defects increases. After the onset of visible grain growth, the size of vacancy-type defects decreases. The detail evolutions of defects differ with the two samples. The role of the evolution of codeposited species was also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: α‐Mangostin is a dietary xanthone that displays various biological activities, and numerous reports have shown its efficacy in cancer prevention and inhibition. As most agents have been shown to be ineffective as single‐agent therapy for malignant melanoma (MM), the principle of targeted chemotherapy for MM is to use effective inhibitors and combination methods. In this study, we tested the cytotoxicity of several kinase inhibitors, including the glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)‐3 inhibitor CHIR99021, and rapamycin, in combination with a dietary xanthone, α‐mangostin, by screening from a kinase inhibitor library for melanogenesis in SK‐MEL‐2 MM cells, and verified these by clone formation efficiency, terminal dUTP nick end labelling, and expression of apoptosis‐related proteins. We also explored the molecular mechanisms for the apoptosis‐inducing effects reported. We found a marked synergistic effect of CHIR99021 or rapamycin in combination with α‐mangostin, which we verified through apoptosis‐related methods. These data provide a strong rationale for the use of α‐mangostin as an adjunct to GSK‐3 inhibitor or mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor treatment. The intrinsic mechanism behind α‐mangostin might be inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase/AKT signalling and autophagy, and induction of reactive oxygen species generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Characteristics of a water-on-air free impinging jets atomizer is investigated in this study by means of flow visualization using high speed photography with Phase Doppler Anemometry (PDA) to measure the droplet size and velocity. Spray structures and breakup process are illustrated with the aid of images captured for the water and air jets impinging at 45°. The breakup length of the water jet decreases with the increase of the air to liquid jet momentum flux ratio ( ALMFR ) and remains constant for values of ALMFR larger than 1. Divergence and deflection spray angles increase rapidly with the air to liquid momentum ratio ( ALMR ) and then remain constant for values of ALMR larger than 4. A larger impinging angle leads to a smaller breakup length and larger spray angles. PDA results indicate that the planar distribution of droplet size is symmetrical around the Y-axis, but not around the X-axis. Smaller droplets are located near the spray center, but their location varies for different experimental conditions, with the minimum value of D 32  = 50 µm and increasing to around 120 µm at the outer region of the spray for conditions Q  L  = 100 mL/min, m ˙ g  = 13.5 g/min and θ = 45°. The spatially-averaged Sauter mean diameter (SMD), representing the average size of droplets over a cross section plane of a spray, is defined and it remains the same at any cross section of the spray operating with the same experimental conditions. Spatially-averaged SMD is found to decrease with the increase of ALMR . Droplet mean velocity is the largest at the position downstream of the air jet exit (14 m/s at a plane of z = 75 mm in the spray with Q  L  = 100 mL/min, m ˙ g  = 13.5 g/min and θ = 45°) and decreases gradually with increasing distance from the point where droplets with the maximum velocity are located. The study makes up for the spray visualization of the study of a single water jet impinging on a single air jet externally, and provides more information on the spray characteristics of this injector, which will contribute to the evaluation of improved computational models and improved injector design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A labyrinth microstructure interconnected by micron and submicron acicular structures was successfully prepared by immersing nickel-aluminum bronze in 9 wt% FeCl3·6H2O solution at room temperature for 40 min. After being modified with 1H, 1H, 2H, 2H-perfluorodecyltriethoxysilane (FAS-17), the microstructure surface displays robustly low-adhesion superhydrophobicity, and the water contact angle is above 160 ° on it. In addition, the superhydrophobic surface exhibits excellent corrosion resistance and stability in 3.5wt % NaCl aqueous solution and corrosion solution with different pH values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Locally resonant metamaterials are characterized by bandgaps at wavelengths that are much larger than the lattice size, enabling low-frequency vibration attenuation. Typically, bandgap analyses and predictions rely on the assumption of traveling waves in an infinite medium, and do not take advantage of modal representations typically used for the analysis of the dynamic behavior of finite structures. Recently, we developed a method for understanding the locally resonant bandgap in uniform finite metamaterial beams using modal analysis. Here we extend that framework to general locally resonant 1D and 2D metastructures (i.e. locally resonant metamaterial-based finite structures) with specified boundary conditions using a general operator formulation. Using this approach, along with the assumption of an infinite number of resonators tuned to the same frequency, the frequency range of the locally resonant bandgap is easily derived in closed form. Furthermore, the bandgap expression is shown to be the same regardless of the type of vibration problem under consideration, depending only on the added mass ratio and target frequency. For practical designs with a finite number of resonators, it is shown that the number of resonators required for the bandgap to appear increases with increased target frequency, i.e. more resonators are required for higher vibration modes. Additionally, it is observed that there is an optimal, finite number of resonators which gives a bandgap that is wider than the infinite-resonator bandgap, and that the optimal number of resonators increases with target frequency and added mass ratio. As the number of resonators becomes sufficiently large, the bandgap converges to the derived infinite-resonator bandgap. Furthermore, the derived bandgap edge frequencies are shown to agree with results from dispersion analysis using the plane wave expansion method. The model is validated experimentally for a locally resonant cantilever beam under base excitation. Numerical and experimental investigations are performed regarding the effects of mass ratio, non-uniform spacing of resonators, and parameter variations among the resonators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A water-air impinging jets atomizer is investigated in this study, which consists of flow visualization using high speed photography and mean droplet size and velocity distribution measurements of the spray using Phase Doppler Anemometry (PDA). Topological structures and break up details of the generated spray in the far and near fields are presented with and without air jet and for an impinging angle of 90°. Spray angle increases with the water jet velocity, air flow rate and impinging angle. PDA results indicate that droplet size is smallest in the spray center, with minimum value of Sauter mean diameter (SMD) of 50 µm at the air flow rate of Q m = 13.50 g/min. SMD of droplets increases towards the spray outer region gradually to about 120 µm. The mean droplet velocity component W along the air-jet axis is highest in the spray center and decreases gradually with increasing distance from the spray center. SMD normalized by the air nozzle diameter is found firstly to decrease with gas-to-liquid mass ratio (GLR) and air-to-liquid momentum ratio (ALMR) and then remain almost constant. Its increasing with aerodynamic Weber number indicates an exponential variation. The study sheds light on the performance of water-air impinging jets atomizers providing useful information for future CFD simulation works. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wind loads and the associated load effects on supertall structures are key factors in structural design. In practice, typhoon-induced quasi-static responses measured from the field mix with temperature-induced responses because temperature varies significantly during a typhoon event. The mixed responses complicate the assessment of the wind loading effects and the separation of the two load effects is difficult in practice. In this study, the wind- and temperature-induced quasi-static responses of the 600 m-tall Canton Tower are investigated using a comprehensive long-term structural monitoring system installed on the structure. The structural responses (stresses and displacement) obtained from the field monitoring system during a strong typhoon are presented. The temperature-induced responses are calculated by applying a temperature loading model to the finite element model of the structure. The purely typhoon-induced quasi-static responses are then separated from the total measured responses by subtracting the temperature-induced ones. It shows that the typhoon-induced quasi-static responses of the supertall structure are slightly smaller than the temperature-induced responses in a typical sunny day. The typhoon-induced quasi-static displacement obtained from the field is also compared with the counterpart from the wind tunnel test on an aeroelastic model of the full tower. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brittleness is a key controlling parameter for rock engineering projects such as hydrocarbon production and other applications. In this paper, commonly used methods based on stress-strain curves of Class I for the calculation of rock brittleness are reviewed. In order to describe the rock brittleness more reasonable, the new index B was proposed based on the stress drop rate obtained from post-peak stress-strain curve and the ratio of elastic energy released during failure to the total energy stored before the peak strength. Then the validity of B is verified with experimental tests conducted on rock specimens drilled from the interlayer and oil layer through a well of Shengli Oilfield. Moreover, numerical simulation is performed to analyze the effects of primary mechanical parameters on the brittleness of rock masses. Based on experimental tests and numerical simulation results, the acoustic emission modes influenced by brittleness index B are summarized. At last, correlation between acoustic emission mechanism and index B is verified by comparing the acoustic emission modes of limestone under different levels of confining pressure and various types of coal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We demonstrate self-bending of elastic waves along convex trajectories by means of geometric and phased arrays. Potential applications include ultrasonic imaging and manipulation, wave focusing, and wireless power transfer around obstacles. The basic concept is illustrated through a geometric array, which is designed to implement a phase delay profile among the array elements that leads to self-bending along a specified circular trajectory. Experimental validation is conducted for the lowest asymmetric Lamb wave mode in a thin plate over a range of frequencies to investigate the bandwidth of the approach. Experiments also illustrate the functionality of the array as a transmitter to deliver elastic wave energy to a receiver/harvester located behind a large obstacle for electrical power extraction. It is shown that the trajectory is not distorted by the presence of the obstacle and circumventing is achieved. A linear phased array counterpart of the geometric array is then constructed to illustrate the concept by imposing proper time delays to the array elements, which allows the generation of different trajectories using the same line source. This capability is demonstrated by tailoring the path diameter in the phased array setting, which offers the flexibility and versatility to induce a variety of convex trajectories for self-bending elastic waves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reproductive biology of Triplophysa stenura, an indigenous cyprinid species from the Qushui County in the middle of the Yarlung Tsangpo River in the Tibetan Plateau, China, was investigated by bimonthly sampling from May 2014 to April 2015 using electrofishing. The gonadosomatic index ( GSI) of T. stenura differed significantly between males and females over the seasonal trend, indicating that spawning extends from March (shortly after the ice melts) to May, as observed for indigenous species in response to environmental conditions on the cold plateau. Average oocyte diameter was 0.66 ± 0.13 mm, whereby the oocyte diameter distribution exhibited a clear seasonal pattern as the temporal pattern of GSI. Absolute fecundity of T. stenura was 3999 eggs/individual, which increased significantly with the increase in fish size and gonad weight, demonstrating the relationship of an exponential equation between them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the increasing number of heart-kidney transplants being performed in recent years, renal failure after heart transplantation remains a pervasive recipient complication. The purpose of this study was to determine the predictors and outcomes of renal failure after heart transplantation in a contemporary cohort. This was a retrospective cohort study of all adults undergoing isolated heart transplantation in the 2018-2022 United Network for Organ Sharing database. Heart recipients were stratified into those experiencing postoperative renal failure requiring dialysis prior to discharge and those without renal failure. We used multivariable logistic regression to determine factors associated with postoperative renal failure and compared postoperative outcomes between groups. Of 10,545 patients undergoing heart transplantation, 1,485 (14%) experienced postoperative renal failure. Factors associated with increased odds of renal failure included: increasing creatinine (odds ratio, OR 2.09/mg/dL 95% CI 1.85-2.35), pretransplant dialysis (OR 4.83, 95% CI 3.46-6.74), ventilation (OR 1.86, 95% CI 1.28-2.69) or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (OR 1.78, 95% CI 1.38-2.29) prior to transplant, and prior cardiac surgery (OR 1.41, 95% CI 1.25-1.59). Patients with renal failure following heart transplantation experienced markedly higher rates of primary graft dysfunction (5% vs 1%, P<0.001) and 30-day mortality as well as lower 1- and 3-year survival compared to those without renal failure (Figure). Renal failure occurred frequently in a contemporary cohort of isolated heart transplant patients, with limited modifiable risk factors for its development. Renal-sparing strategies need to be considered in the care of heart transplant recipients with these known risk factors. Despite the increasing number of heart-kidney transplants being performed, these data suggest that additional patients may benefit from dual organ transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ex-vivo lung perfusion(EVLP) may allow for evaluation and rehabilitation of marginal donor lungs, including those from donation after circulatory death(DCD) donors, with outcomes understudied. We evaluated the short-term and mid-term outcomes of DCD lungs managed with or without EVLP. We conducted retrospective review of the United Network for Organ Sharing(UNOS) registry of all primary adult DCD lung transplants performed from February 18, 2018 onwards, dichotomizing them as those managed with or without EVLP. Baseline characteristics and short-term outcomes were compared. Two-year survival was examined with Kaplan Meier curves and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression. Of 757 DCD lung transplants, 189(25%) were managed with EVLP with no significant differences in donor characteristics. Recipients of EVLP-managed lungs had longer wait-list duration(40 vs 32 days, p=0.01), longer organ preservation times(12.6±3.8 vs 6.6±2.2 hours, p<0.01), and longer distance traveled[268 (98-490 vs 132(49-305) nautical miles, p<0.01]. Recipients of EVLP-managed DCD lungs were more likely to remain intubated (51% vs 43%, p=0.04), be on ECMO (22% vs 14%, p<0.01), and have grade 3 primary graft dysfunction (31% vs 23%, p=0.04) at 72 hours. One(86% vs 77%) and two-year(74% vs 65%, log-rank p=0.02) survival were significantly worse with EVLP-managed lungs. On multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression, EVLP was significantly associated with worse two-year survival(adjusted HR 1.45, 95% CI 1.01-2.08) when preservation time was not used as an adjuster(EVLP aHR 1.28, 95% CI 0.74-2.21). A quarter of DCD lung transplants are managed with EVLP in the United States, with inferior short-term and mid-term outcomes compared to those not managed with EVLP, possibly related to the obligate increase in preservation times. Further studies are needed to define the role of EVLP in the preservation of DCD lungs prior to transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the outcomes of ECMO as a bridge to lung transplantation have been extensively studied, little is known regarding the use of post-operative ECMO in a contemporary cohort. The purpose of the study was the determine predictors and outcomes of post-operative ECMO in a national cohort. This was a retrospective cohort study of all adult lung transplantation recipients using the 2015 to 2022 United Network for Organ Sharing database. We used multivariable logistic regression to determine covariates associated with ECMO use at 72 hours following operation. Additionally, several outcomes including post-operative stroke, acute rejection and early (30-day and in-hospital) mortality as well as 1- and 5-year survival were compared between those requiring post-operative ECMO and all other lung recipients. Of 18,014 lung transplant recipients included in analysis, 1,430 (8%) required ECMO support following transplantation. Several recipient factors were associated with increased odds of post-operative ECMO use, including female gender (adjusted odds ratio, AOR 1.28, 95% CI 1.13-1.45), high BMI (AOR 1.05/kg/m2, 95% CI 1.04-1.06), preoperative ventilation (AOR 1.61, 95% CI 1.30-2.01) or dialysis (AOR 3.89, 95% CI 2.20-6.88), elevated serum bilirubin (AOR 1.08/mg/dL, 95% CI 1.04-1.12) and donor organ ischemic time > 4 hours (AOR 1.69, 95% CI 1.39-2.06). Those requiring post-operative ECMO experienced significantly higher rates of stroke (6% vs 2%, P<0.001), acute rejection (13% vs 7%, P<0.001) and early mortality along with decreased 1- and 5-year survival (Figure), compared to others. Patients requiring ECMO at 72 hours following lung transplantation experience markedly worse early outcomes and 5-year survival compared to all other lung recipients. Identification and management of pre-, intra-, and post-operative risk factors for severe PGD requiring post-operative ECMO may improve lung transplantation outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of modern antiviral therapy for HCV has allowed for the transplantation of HCV NAT+ donor lungs with good short-term outcomes. We sought to evaluate trends and mid-term outcomes of lung transplant recipients of HCV NAT+ donor allografts. All adults undergoing single-organ lung transplantation in the United Network for Organ Sharing database from January 2016 to June 2022 were included in the study. Lung transplant recipients were stratified based on donor HCV NAT status (HCV NAT + vs NAT-). Baseline characteristics and outcomes, including postoperative complications, early (30-day and in-hospital) mortality and both 1- and 3-year survival were compared between groups. A total of 15,414 patients underwent lung transplantation during the study period, with 422 (3%) receiving HCV NAT+ donor lungs. Regions 1 (17%), and 6/8 (both 0%) had the highest and lowest proportions, respectively, of HCV NAT+ donor transplants. Utilization of HCV NAT+ donors steadily increased throughout the study period from 2 (0.1%) in 2016 to a peak of 117 (5%) in 2019. Donors who were HCV NAT+ were older (34 vs 36 years, P<0.001), more often male (55% vs 45%, P<0.01) and categorized as CDC high risk (83% vs 17%, P<0.001). Recipients of HCV NAT+ donor lungs were similar in age (61 vs 62 years, P=0.99) and male gender (57% vs 61%, P=0.15) but had lower lung allocation scores (38 vs 41, P<0.001) compared to others. Rates of postoperative ECMO (7% vs 8%, P=0.34), dialysis (7% vs 8%, P=0.40), reintubation (16% vs 19%, P=0.17) and acute rejection (14% vs 15%, P=0.49) were similar between groups. Additionally, early mortality (both 30-day and in-hospital) as well as 1- and 3-year survival (Figure) were not significantly different between groups. Lung transplant recipients of HCV NAT+ donor allografts experience similar rates of acute rejection, early mortality and 3-year survival compared to all other lung recipients. Increased use of HCV NAT+ donor allografts may help to expand the donor pool and alleviate donor shortages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Normothermic regional perfusion is increasingly used in donation after circulatory death heart procurement, but its impact when the lung is also procured is unknown. The goal of this study was to examine utilization and outcomes of lung transplants in the setting of DCD heart procurement with or without NRP. We examined the United Network for Organ Sharing of all DCD heart donors from December 1, 2019 to June 23, 2022 with recorded brain death and cross clamp times, with a difference of greater than 30 minutes considered NRP procurements. Baseline characteristics, in-hospital outcomes, and one-year survival of lung transplant recipients were compared between those whose donors were managed with NRP versus no NRP. Of 447 DCD heart procurements with adequate data, 157(35%) were conducted with NRP. There were 62 DCD lung transplant recipients where the heart was also procured, of which 22(35%) came from NRP-managed donors and 40 (65%) from non-NRP managed donors. Lung utilization rates were not significantly different between NRP and non-NRP managed DCD heart donors (14% vs 14%, p=0.95). Donors in the NRP group were more frequently male (100% vs 70%, p<0.01) while recipients had significantly lower lung allocation scores [37 (34-41) vs 40 (36-57), p=0.02]. There were no other differences in other baseline characteristics, including EVLP use(18% vs 14%, p=0.73). Rates of ECMO (14% vs 15%, p=0.92), grade 3 PGD (18% vs 23%, p=0.70), intubation (36% vs 48%, p=0.40), and inhaled nitric use (14% vs 15%, p=0.88) 72 hours post-transplant were not significantly different. One-year survival was comparable between the two groups (86% vs 86%, p=0.94). A small number of DCD lung transplants are performed when the heart was also procured, with approximately one-third of these donors managed with NRP. While sample size was limited, NRP did not have a detrimental impact on short-term outcomes or one-year survival in lung transplant recipients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a nonradioactive surrogate for Pu, Ce is selected to study the solubility and radiation tolerance in pyrochlore matrixes. In this paper, we synthesized a series of Lu 2− x Ce x Ti 2 O 7 ( x = 0–0.7) samples. X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy were used to study the structure of Lu 2− x Ce x Ti 2 O 7 ( x = 0–0.7) with different Ce 3+ content x. The results show that the maximum solubility of Ce 3+ in Lu 2 Ti 2 O 7 is 32 mol%. In order to study the radiation tolerance of these compounds, 400 keV Ne 2+ was used to perform the irradiation experiments. The grazing incident X-ray diffraction patterns revealed that the radiation tolerance of the Lu 2− x Ce x Ti 2 O 7 decreases with increasing Ce-content. This correlation between radiation tolerance and Ce-content was interpreted in terms of the antisite defect formation energies of Lu 2− x Ce x Ti 2 O 7 ( x = 0, 0.5, 1) based on the density functional theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ex-vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) can be used to assess and rehabilitate donor lungs to expand the donor pool. However, the frequency of EVLP utilization and its outcomes are not well-studied. The goal of this study was to describe the characteristics and outcomes of lungs transplants performed with EVLP in the US. We conducted retrospective review of the UNOS registry of all primary adult lung transplant recipients from Feb 28, 2018 to June 30, 2021, excluding recipients with prior transplants, multiorgan transplants, and those waitlisted for other organs. Lung transplants were dichotomized as those that were performed with EVLP versus no EVLP. Baseline characteristics and short-term outcomes were compared. One-year survival was assessed by the Kaplan Meier method and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression. Of 8,204 lung transplants performed during our study period, 426(5.2%) were performed with EVLP. Perfusion was performed by the OPO in 29(7%), transplant center in 291(68%), and external perfusion center in 106(25%) of cases. EVLP donors were older (39±13 vs 36±14 yrs, p<0.01), more likely DCD (31% vs 5%, p<0.01), and had lower P:F ratio(415±124 vs 442±130, p<0.01). Recipients had lower LAS scores[39(35-53) vs 41 (35-57), p<0.01)]. EVLP lungs traveled further[232(122-489) vs 169 (71-270) nautical miles, p<0.01], had longer ischemic times(11.5±4.1 vs 5.5±1.6 hrs, p<0.01), and were more likely double lung transplants(85% vs 76%, p<0.01). At 72 hours, recipients of EVLP lungs were more likely to remain intubated(47% vs 30%, p<0.01), be on ECMO(16% vs 8%, p<0.01), and experience PGD grade III (24% vs 17%, p<0.01). They also had higher total length of stay[21(13-39) vs 18(13-30) days, p<0.01). EVLP was associated with worse one-year survival on univariable(84% vs 88%, HR 1.41, 95% CI 1.07-1.85, p=0.02) but not multivariable analysis(aHR 1.18, 95% CI 0.88-1.59, p=0.26), particularly after adjusting for DCD donation(aHR 1.46, 95% CI 1.11-1.91) EVLP technology is used in a minority of donor lungs in the United States. A majority of the EVLP procedures are performed by the transplant centers with a higher proportion of DCD donors. The short-term outcomes and one-year survival of recipients of EVLP lungs appear worse than those not managed with EVLP. The role of this technology in the broad filed of lung transplantation remains to be defined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common childhood illness that is caused by enteroviruses, and the prevalence of HFMD in China and around the world has resulted in a huge disease burden. Since 2010, the HFMD incidence has been the highest among infectious diseases in Suzhou, China. To investigate the epidemical, features, etiological characteristics, and clinical characteristics of HFMD in Suzhou City, East China, from 2011 to 2014. We retrospectively analyzed HFMD epidemiological data in Suzhou from 2011 to 2014. A total of 80,723 outpatients in the city of Suzhou were diagnosed with HFMD, including 1,846 severe cases. There were 2,387 (3.0 %) laboratory-confirmed cases, 807 of which exhibited severe symptoms. All analyses were stratified by age, disease severity, laboratory confirmation status, and enterovirus subtype. From 2011 to 2014, HFMD mainly affected children aged 1-3, and boys were more affected than girls. The highest peak incidences of HFMD occurred in May or June from 2011 to 2014, and lower peak incidences were observed from November to December and in districts with higher humidity. Enterovirus 71 and coxsackievirus A16 were the predominant viral genotypes in Suzhou in 2011 to 2012 and 2014, and the severe cases mainly correlated with EV71 subtypes. In 2013, other EVs were dominant. The proportion of patients with severe disease decreased significantly, and the VP1 capsid proteins of EV71 and CA16 from severe and mild cases were nearly identical. This study shows that it is time to start monitoring EVs in China and that we should accelerate vaccine research and develop public-health interventions for the control and prevention of HFMD, all of which will play an important role in the prevention of HFMD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to formulate a closed-form solution to a viscoelastically supported Timoshenko beam under a harmonic line load. The differential governing equations of motion are converted into algebraic equations by assuming the deflection and rotation of the beam in harmonic forms with respect to time and space. The characteristic equation is biquadratic and thus contains 14 explicit roots. These roots are then substituted into Cauchy’s residue theorem; consequently, five forms of the closed-form solution are generated. The present solution is consistent with that of an Euler–Bernoulli beam on a Winkler foundation, which is a special case of the present problem. The current solution is also verified through numerical examples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nickel (Ni) improves the room temperature ductility, hot workability and sinterability of γ-TiAl based alloys. This study investigates the microstructure of a powder metallurgy nickel-doped Ti–45Al–5Nb–0.2C–0.2B–1.25Ni alloy based on detailed transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies. The alloy was sintered at 1375 °C for 120 min, followed by cooling to 900 °C for a subsequent ageing treatment of 360 min. Micrometric τ 3 -Al 3 NiTi 2 particles formed as a result of the solidification of a Ni-containing sintering liquid during subsequent cooling. Ageing of the as-sintered Ti–45Al–5Nb–0.2C–0.2B–1.25Ni alloy at 900 °C resulted in the precipitation of both plate-shaped and lath-shaped nanometric τ 3 phase in the α 2 lamellae. The constrained coincidence site lattice (CCSL) theory was used to understand the morphology and crystallography of the nanoscale τ 3 -Al 3 NiTi 2 precipitates. The compression yield strength of the Ti–45Al–5Nb–0.2C–0.2B–1.25Ni alloy increased from 750 ± 20 MPa to 850 ± 20 MPa after ageing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims To investigate whether serum complement C3 is related to the prevalence and incidence of prediabetes in an adult population. Methods A cross-sectional ( n = 10 206) and prospective cohort study ( n = 3333), with a mean (range; 95% CI) follow-up of 2.63 (1-6; 2.58-2.68) years, was conducted in people recruited from the Health Management Centre of Tianjin Medical University General Hospital in Tianjin, China. Measurement of serum C3 concentration, blood fasting glucose, oral glucose tolerance, HbA1c and other potential confounding factors was performed at baseline and each year during the follow-up. Prediabetes was defined according to the criteria of the American Diabetes Association. Adjusted logistic and Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to assess the relationships between C3 quintiles and prediabetes. Results The prevalence and incidence of prediabetes were 38.5% and 119 per 1000 person-years, respectively. In cross-sectional analysis, after adjustment for potential confounders, the odds ratios of prediabetes for increasing quintiles of C3 were 1.00 (reference), 1.32 (95% CI 1.14-1.53), 1.37 (95% CI 1.18-1.59), 1.75 (95% CI 1.51-2.03), 2.25 (95% CI 1.93-2.62; P for trend < 0.0001). In the cohort analysis, the multiple-adjusted hazard ratio of prediabetes in the highest quintile of baseline C3 was 1.43 (95% CI 1.15, 1.78; P for trend < 0.001), when compared with the lowest quintile. Conclusions These findings indicate that elevated serum C3 levels are significantly related to an increased risk of developing prediabetes in an adult population, suggesting that C3 can be used as a biomarker in high-risk individuals to improve primary prevention of prediabetes and diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anti-DNA antibodies play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of lupus nephritis by cross-reacting with renal antigens. Previously, we demonstrated that the binding affinity of anti-DNA antibodies to self-antigens is isotype-dependent. Furthermore, significant variability in renal pathogenicity was seen among a panel of anti-DNA isotypes [derived from a single murine immunoglobulin (Ig)G3 monoclonal antibody, PL9-11] that share identical variable regions. In this study, we sought to select peptide mimics that effectively inhibit the binding of all murine and human anti-DNA IgG isotypes to glomerular antigens. The PL9-11 panel of IgG anti-DNA antibodies (IgG1, IgG2a, IgG2b and IgG3) was used for screening a 12-mer phage display library. Binding affinity was determined by surface plasmon resonance. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), flow cytometry and glomerular binding assays were used for the assessment of peptide inhibition of antibody binding to nuclear and kidney antigens. We identified a 12 amino acid peptide (ALWPPNLHAWVP, or 'ALW') which binds to all PL9-11 IgG isotypes. Preincubation with the ALW peptide reduced the binding of the PL9-11 anti-DNA antibodies to DNA, laminin, mesangial cells and isolated glomeruli significantly. Furthermore, we confirmed the specificity of the amino acid sequence in the binding of ALW to anti-DNA antibodies by alanine scanning. Finally, ALW inhibited the binding of murine and human lupus sera to dsDNA and glomeruli significantly. In conclusion, by inhibiting the binding of polyclonal anti-DNA antibodies to autoantigens in vivo, the ALW peptide (or its derivatives) may potentially be a useful approach to block anti-DNA antibody binding to renal tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The maximum undercooling Δ T m and thermophysical parameters of Ni–Al alloys were calculated using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations with embedded-atom method (EAM). In the simulations, the solid–liquid interfacial energy γ SL was determined using the critical nucleus method (CNM), and a new formula was suggested to predict it. It was found that Δ T m correlates with thermophysical parameters. Based on the correlations, a dimensionless parameter τ , which only depends on the properties of materials, was developed to predict Δ T m . By replacing the γ SL in the expression of τ with the empirical expression found in this work, a new predicting formula of Δ T m without γ SL was further proposed. The consistence between the prediction and experimental data indicates that the predicting formula for Δ T m has good reasonability and universality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Al fiber-reinforced cordierite was prepared by solid state reaction of clay, talc and alumina sintered at 1370 °C in carbon embedded condition. The microstructures were observed via scanning electron microscope (SEM), three-point flexural strength was examined on a universal testing machine. The SEM microphotograph shows a weak-bonded interfacial phase AlN, which was attributed to the reaction between Al and N 2 at high temperature in carbon protection condition, was formed between cordierite matrix and Al fiber. It facilitates fiber debonding and fiber pullout during fracture test. Three-point flexural test indicates both fracture displacement and flexural strength of Al-reinforced cordierite are bigger than that of the monolithic cordierite. With increasing Al-fiber addition, the higher strength and longer displacement were found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

EP17.05: The value of slow-flow HD tracing of outflow tract " " blood flow in the diagnosis of congenital heart disease during the first trimester To investigate the application value of low-flow HD tracing of outflow tract " " shaped blood flow in the diagnosis of fetal congenital heart disease (CHD) in the first trimester. It can show that the fetal heart " " shaped blood flow group is the " " shaped blood flow group, and the abnormal or abnormal display is not the " " shaped blood flow group. [Extracted from the article]

Surveillance data provide a vital source of information for assessing the spread of a health problem or disease of interest and for planning for future health-care needs. However, the use of surveillance data requires proper adjustments of the reported caseload due to underreporting caused by reporting delays within a limited observation period. Although methods are available to address this classic statistical problem, they are largely focused on inference for the reporting delay distribution, with inference about caseload of disease incidence based on estimates for the delay distribution. This approach limits the complexity of models for disease incidence to provide reliable estimates and projections of incidence. Also, many of the available methods lack robustness since they require parametric distribution assumptions. We propose a new approach to overcome such limitations by allowing for separate models for the incidence and the reporting delay in a distribution-free fashion, but with joint inference for both modeling components, based on functional response models. In addition, we discuss inference about projections of future disease incidence to help identify significant shifts in temporal trends modeled based on the observed data. This latter issue on detecting ‘change points’ is not sufficiently addressed in the literature, despite the fact that such warning signs of potential outbreak are critically important for prevention purposes. We illustrate the approach with both simulated and real data, with the latter involving data for suicide attempts from the Veteran Healthcare Administration. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]