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The diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is mainly based on some diagnostic scales and evaluations by professional doctors, which may have limitations such as subjectivity, time, and cost. This research introduces a novel assessment and auto-identification approach for autistic children based on the appearance of children, which is a relatively objective, fast, and cost-effective approach. Initially, a custom social interaction scenario was developed, followed by a facial data set (ACFD) that contained 187 children, including 92 ASD and 95 children typically developing (TD). Using computer vision techniques, some appearance features of children including facial appearing time, eye concentration analysis, response time to name calls, and emotional expression ability were extracted. Subsequently, these features were combined and machine learning methods were used for the classification of children. Notably, the Bayes classifier achieved a remarkable accuracy of 94.1%. The experimental results show that the extracted visual appearance features can reflect the typical symptoms of children, and the automatic recognition method can provide an auxiliary diagnosis or data support for doctors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: 46,XX complete gonadal dysgenesis (46,XX-CGD) is a rare disorder of sexual development (DSD) characterized by primary amenorrhea and a lack of spontaneous pubertal development in individuals with a 46,XX karyotype despite the presence of female internal and external genitalia due to failure of bilateral ovarian development. The condition is genetically heterogeneous, and in most cases, its etiology is unknown. Determining the genetic cause would provide insights into potential targets for genetic diagnosis and counseling. Methods: To clarify the molecular mechanisms of 46,XX complete gonadal dysgenesis in the population of China, whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed on DNA samples from patients with 46,XX-CGD. In silico analysis was conducted to predict the pathogenicity of the variants. Results: We recruited 20 patients with 46,XX-CGD and identified 8 variants in 6 genes, including three homozygous variants in MCM9, POF1B, and PSMC3IP; compound heterozygous variants in TWNK; and three heterozygous variants in TP63 and INSRR, from 7 patients. These variants included 3 recurrent variants and 5 novel variants. Conclusions: This study identified several novel variants, broadening the variant spectrum of 46,XX-CGD. 46,XX-CGD is a genetically heterogeneous condition, and WES is a powerful tool for determining its genetic etiology. The results of this study will aid researchers and clinicians in genetic counseling and suggest that WES is valuable for detecting 46,XX-CGD, which may lead to early interventions for patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cryopreservation of Anthurium andraeanum germplasm resources is extremely important for the production and selection of new varieties. At present, the cryopreservation procedure for the callus of A. andraeanum has not been established. In this study, the leaves of A. andraeanum were used as explants to culture the callus. The cryopreservation procedure of the callus by vitrification was initially established by using the orthogonal experimental method of four factors and three levels in the preculture, loading, and dehydration steps. Furthermore, the vitrification-based cryopreservation was optimized by changing the preculture temperature and loading solution and adding exogenous substances to the plant vitrification solution (PVS2). In this procedure, the callus was precultured at 25 °C for 2 d, and loaded in 50% PVS2 at 25 °C for 60 min. The callus was dehydrated with PVS2 containing 0.08 mM reduced glutathione (GSH) at 0 °C for 60 min. After rapid-cooling in liquid nitrogen for 1 h, it was rapid-warming in a water bath at 40 °C for 90 s and unloaded for 30 min. After 1 d of recovery, the cell relative survival rate of the cryopreserved callus was 64.60%. The results provide a valuable basic and effective method for the long-term conservation of A. andraeanum germplasm resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the excess mortality and life-years lost associated with diabetes and prediabetes in China. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: This national cohort study enrolled 135,405 participants aged 18 years or older from the general population in China. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to estimate adjusted mortality rate ratio (RR). The life table method was used to estimate life expectancy. RESULTS: Among the 135,405 participants, 10.5% had diabetes and 36.2% had prediabetes in 2013. During a median follow-up of 6 years, 5517 deaths were recorded, including 1428 and 2300 deaths among people with diabetes and prediabetes, respectively. Diabetes and prediabetes were significantly associated with increased risk of all-cause (diabetes: RR, 1.61 [95% CI 1.49, 1.73]; prediabetes: RR, 1.08 [95% CI 1.01, 1.15]), and cardiovascular disease (diabetes: RR, 1.59 [95% CI 1.41, 1.78]; prediabetes: RR, 1.10 [95% CI 1.00, 1.21]) mortality. Additionally, diabetes was significantly associated with increased risks of death resulting from cancer, respiratory disease, liver disease, and diabetic ketoacidosis or coma. Compared with participants with normoglycemia, life expectancy of those with diabetes and prediabetes was shorter, on average, by 4.2 and 0.7 years at age 40 years, respectively. The magnitude of the associations of diabetes and prediabetes with all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality varied by age and residence. CONCLUSIONS: In this national study, diabetes and prediabetes were significantly associated with reduced life expectancy and increased all-cause and cause-specific mortality risks. The disparities in excess mortality associated with diabetes and prediabetes between different ages and residences have implications for diabetes and prediabetes prevention and treatment programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanical properties of bolts are important factors affecting the shear behavior of bolted joints. In this study, tensile and pure shear tests were conducted on five kinds of bolts made from different materials to measure their tensile and shear parameters. Direct shear tests were conducted to analyze the effects of tensile and shear strength parameters on the shear behavior of bolted joints. The test results showed that the mechanical properties of bolts made from different materials were clearly different and that these differences mainly affected the plastic deformation stage of the bolted joints. The larger the bolt elongation was, the larger the joint shear displacement at bolt failure. The tensile and shear strengths of the bolts were positively correlated with the shear strength of the bolted joints. According to the standard regression analysis, the bolt shear strength had a greater influence than the bolt tensile strength on the bolt contributions when the bolts were perpendicular to the joint surface. Based on the empirical equation for the bolt contribution proposed by Spang, the maximum shear loads in the pure shear test were introduced, and a new equation was established to predict the contributions of bolts. The prediction results obtained using the modified equation were in good agreement with the experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The wave motions of the initial discontinuities in the inviscid shallow water wave model governed by the bad Jaulent-Miodek system are explored by the Whitham modulation theory and dynamical analysis. The $ N $-phase algebro-geometric solutions along with the related genus-$ N $ Whitham equations are derived by algebro-geometric method and Flaschka-Forest-McLaughlin approach, respectively. The complete classification of solutions to the bad Jaulent-Miodek system is carried out by solving the Whitham equations both theoretically and numerically. Some exotic phenomena of nonlinear wave motions such as rarefaction waves and dispersive shock waves are found in the inviscid shallow water. Particularly, the nonlinear wave motions including the two-phase algebro-geometric solutions are found in the inviscid shallow water wave. It is shown that the results from Whitham modulation theory agree very well with the numerical calculations and dynamical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canine parvoviral (CPV) enteritis is a contagious infection, which particularly affects young dogs, and is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates in the canine population. This study sought to determine whether including the Chinese herbal medicine formula, Zhi Li Tang (ZLT, Red Back Door), in conjunction with conventional therapy can decrease mortality of shelter dogs with CPV enteritis. Nineteen canine subjects from a shelter population diagnosed with CPV enteritis were randomly assigned to a Control Group which received conventional supportive treatment, or an Integrative Treatment Group which received ZLT along with conventional supportive treatment. Study duration was 14 days unless the subject died, or all clinical signs associated with CPV enteritis had resolved. The outcome measurement was a binary response of mortality within the 14-day trial. In the Control Group, there was a 43% (3/7) mortality rate compared to 0% mortality in the Integrative Treatment Group (12/12, all dogs recovered) within the 14-day study period. All subjects that survived in both study groups had resolution of CPV clinical signs by the end of the study. Despite the small sample size in this pilot study, there was a statistically significant (p=0.036) improvement in survival for the dogs receiving Zhi Li Tang in addition to conventional therapy when compared to the dogs receiving conventional therapy only. The results from this study suggest integrating ZLT with conventional treatment of CPV enteritis could reduce mortality from CPV infections in shelter dogs. Further investigation of these findings with larger studies is needed to confirm study results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canine osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by degenerative changes in the joints resulting in pain and lameness. The study objective was to compare treatment of OA with a novel peri-articular injection (aqua-acupuncture/aqua-AP) technique using platelet-rich plasma (PRP), with standard intra-articular (IA) injection. Sixteen dogs diagnosed with OA in appendicular skeletal joints were enrolled and assigned to Test (n=8) or Control (n=8) treatment groups. Each subject received an injection at Week 0 and again at Week 4. Treatment outcomes assessed included goniometry (flexion and extension), infrared thermal imaging (IRTI), lameness grading scores and Canine Brief Pain Inventory (CBPI) questionnaire. The flexion and extension assessments had no statistically significant changes at 4 or 8-week assessment. Significant score reductions (improvement) were observed in both groups (p<0.001) for pain severity (2, 4, 8 weeks) and activity interference (2, 4, 8 weeks) for CBPI data with no significant difference between study groups concluded (p>0.05). Infrared thermal imaging demonstrated statistically significant (p<0.001), decreased temperature in the inflamed joints for both injection techniques, however, aqua-AP treatment was statistically significant at both 4 and 8 weeks while IA technique didn't reach significance until 8 weeks post-treatment. Lameness scores had significant improvements at 4 and 8 weeks with no significant difference between groups. The findings suggest that PurePRP® treatment delivered with either the proposed aqua-AP or the standard IA injection may improve pain and thermal outcomes (decrease joint inflammation) with more rapid thermal improvement for aqua-AP. There were no clear effects on goniometry measurements. Further investigations with larger scale trials are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sampling technique is commonly used in research investigations to more accurately estimate data with greater precision, at a lower cost and in less time. In plant DUS (distinctness, uniformity, and stability) testing, many quantitative characteristic data usually need to be obtained through individual measurements. However, there is currently no scientific method for determining the appropriate sampling size. The minimum number of testing samples for DUS testing was calculated based on the theory of sample size in descriptive studies and was validated through simple random sampling. The results show that the quantitative characteristics for the edible mushroom Shiitake (Lentinula edodes) in DUS testing were uniform. The calculated results show that 10 fruiting bodies for a single measurement were sufficient. Furthermore, the outcomes of the random sampling revealed that the mean of 10 samples did not significantly differ from the mean of all data. When the sample size exceeded 10, Cohen's kappa statistic suggested that the conclusion of distinctness was very close to the near-perfect agreement. Reducing the number of samples did not affect the uniform assessment. This study suggests that the theory of sample size in descriptive studies could be applied to calculate the minimum sample size in DUS testing, and for Shiitake DUS testing, measuring 10 fruiting bodies was sufficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Danggui Sini decoction (DSD), a traditional Chinese medicine formula, has the function of nourishing blood, warming meridians, and unblocking collaterals. Our clinical and animal studies had shown that DSD can effectively protect against oxaliplatin (OXA)-induced peripheral neuropathy (OIPN), but the detailed mechanisms remain uncertain. Multiple studies have confirmed that gut microbiota plays a crucial role in the development of OIPN. In this study, the potential mechanism of protective effect of DSD against OIPN by regulating gut microbiota was investigated. Methods: The neuroprotective effects of DSD against OIPN were examined on a rat model of OIPN by determining mechanical allodynia, biological features of dorsal root ganglia (DRG) as well as proinflammatory indicators. Gut microbiota dysbiosis was characterized using 16S rDNA gene sequencing and metabolism disorders were evaluated using untargeted and targeted metabolomics. Moreover the gut microbiota mediated mechanisms were validated by antibiotic intervention and fecal microbiota transplantation. Results: DSD treatment significantly alleviated OIPN symptoms by relieving mechanical allodynia, preserving DRG integrity and reducing proinflammatory indicators lipopolysaccharide (LPS), IL-6 and TNF-α. Besides, DSD restored OXA induced intestinal barrier disruption, gut microbiota dysbiosis as well as systemic metabolic disorders. Correlation analysis revealed that DSD increased bacterial genera such as Faecalibaculum, Allobaculum, Dubosiella and Rhodospirillales_unclassified were closely associated with neuroinflammation related metabolites, including positively with short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and sphingomyelin (d18:1/16:0), and negatively with pi-methylimidazoleacetic acid, l-glutamine and homovanillic acid. Meanwhile, antibiotic intervention apparently relieved OIPN symptoms. Furthermore, fecal microbiota transplantation further confirmed the mediated effects of gut microbiota. Conclusion: DSD alleviates OIPN by regulating gut microbiota and potentially relieving neuroinflammation related metabolic disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper first presents a high-efficient and accurate coupled meshless algorithm for solving the multi-dimensional Gross–Pitaevskii equation (GPE) in unbounded domain, which is implemented on CUDA-program-based two-GPUs cards. The proposed novel high-performance scheme (RDFPM-PML-GPU) is mainly motived by the items below: (a) a reduced-dimensional finite pointset method (RDFPM) is first presented to solve the 2D/3D spatial derivatives in GPE, which has lower calculated amount than the traditional FPM (TFPM) for the derivatives; (b) the perfectly matched layer (PML) technique is adopted to treat the absorbing boundary conditions (ABCs) which is used for the infinite exterior region, and the time-splitting technique is resorted to reduce the computing complexity in PML; (c) a fast parallel algorithm based on CUDA-program is proposed to accelerate the computation in the proposed meshless scheme with local matrix on two GPUs. The numerical convergent rate and advantages of the proposed meshless scheme are demonstrated by solving two examples, which include the comparisons between the proposed RDFPM and TFPM, the merit of easily implemented local refinement point distribution in meshless method, and the merit of PML-ABCs over the zero Dirichlet boundary treatment for unbounded domain. Meanwhile, the high efficiency of the proposed GPU-based parallelization algorithm is tested and discussed by simulating 3D examples, which shows that the speed-up rate is about 500-times of using two-GPUs over a single CPU. Finally, the proposed RDFPM-PML-GPU method is used to predict the long-time evolution of quantum vortex in 2D/3D GPEs describing Bose–Einstein condensates. All the numerical tests show the high-performance and flexible application of the proposed parallel meshless algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Channel avulsion is a natural phenomenon that occurs abruptly on alluvial river deltas, which can affect the channel stability. The causes for avulsion could be generally categorized as topography- and flood-driven factors. However, previous studies on avulsion thresholds usually focused on topography-driven factors due to the centurial or millennial avulsion timescales of the world's most deltas, but neglected the impacts of flood-driven factors. In the current study, a novel demarcation equation including the two driven factors was proposed, with the decadal timescale of avulsion being considered in the Yellow River Estuary (YRE). In order to quantify the contributions of different factors in each category, an entropy-based methodology was used to calculate the contributing weights of these factors. The factor with the highest weight in each category was then used to construct the demarcation equation, based on avulsion datasets associated with the YRE. An avulsion threshold was deduced according to the demarcation equation. This avulsion threshold was then applied to conduct the risk assessment of avulsion in the YRE. The results show that: two dominant factors cover respectively geomorphic coefficient representing the topography-driven factor and fluvial erosion intensity representing the flood-driven factor, which were thus employed to define a two dimensional mathematical space in which the demarcation equation can be obtained; the avulsion threshold derived from the equation was also applied in the risk assessment of avulsion; and the avulsion threshold proposed in this study is more accurate, as compared with the existing thresholds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to the polynomial recursion formalism, the modified Jaulent–Miodek hierarchy is derived in a standard way. The first two nontrivial members in the modified Jaulent–Miodek hierarchy are listed correspondingly. Based on the squared eigenfunctions, an algebraic curve κ n and a Riemann surface S with arithmetic genus n are introduced, then the Dubrovin-type equations are obtained naturally. With the help of the conservation laws, the Baker–Akhiezer functions are defined. Finally, the asymptotic properties of the Baker–Akhiezer functions are analyzed, from which the algebro-geometric solutions of the modified Jaulent–Miodek hierarchy are constructed in term of the Riemann theta function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to the polynomial recursion formalism, the modified Jaulent–Miodek hierarchy is derived in a standard way. The first two nontrivial members in the modified Jaulent–Miodek hierarchy are listed correspondingly. Based on the squared eigenfunctions, an algebraic curve κ n and a Riemann surface S with arithmetic genus n are introduced, then the Dubrovin-type equations are obtained naturally. With the help of the conservation laws, the Baker–Akhiezer functions are defined. Finally, the asymptotic properties of the Baker–Akhiezer functions are analyzed, from which the algebro-geometric solutions of the modified Jaulent–Miodek hierarchy are constructed in term of the Riemann theta function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maximizing rice yield potential has always been the focus of high-yield rice cultivation research. For high-yield rice cultivation and breeding, more research into the link between yield and yield components is essential. In this experiment, 38 rice varieties with different yield types and 185 rice varieties as materials were chosen. The relationships between yield and yield components were studied. The regulation effects of total nitrogen application rate (TNAR) on yield and yield components were observed. The results showed that (1) the grain yield of high-yield varieties was 189.3−195.6%, 76.1−77.7%, and 27.0−28.7% higher than that of super-low-yield, low-yield, and medium-yield varieties, respectively. Compared with rice varieties with other yield types, rice varieties with high-yield type have a higher total number of spikelets. (2) The spikelet number per panicle and total number of spikelets were significantly positively linked with grain yield, but significantly negatively correlated with filled grains and grain weight. (3) With an increase in TNAR (0−340 kg ha−1), the panicles, spikelet number per panicle, and total spikelets of rice varieties with different yield types increased gradually, and the filled grains and grain weight decreased gradually. The higher the TNAR, the more obvious the decrease in filled grains and grain weight. The grain yield of rice varieties with different yield types was the highest under the TNAR at 250 kg ha−1. The main factor contributing to its high yield was the substantial increase in total spikelets. The above results showed that increasing the spikelet number per panicle and total spikelets played a material role in improving rice yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to determine whether acupuncture point sensitivity to palpation at LI-18 and PC-1 acupoints in horses was correlated with a difference in surface temperature between front hooves measured by highresolution infrared camera. Client-owned horses (n=41) presenting for traditional Chinese veterinary medicine (TCVM) exams for a variety of medical issues were recruited for convenience sampling. After 20 minutes of stall rest, bilateral front hoof thermography was performed in a designated stall. This was followed by bilateral acupoint scan (APS), where the outcome was considered positive (APS+) when an acupoint palpation, performed with an acupuncture needle guide tube (28 gauge, 2 inch), elicited a flinch response, or negative (APS-) when the palpation equaled no reaction. Based on the APS results, horses were grouped into 1) bilateral APS- outcome (bi-APS-) or 2) unilateral APS+ outcome (uni-APS+). Within each of the 2 groups mean temperature difference between front hoof surfaces was compared. The results showed that the bi-APS- group thermographic readings were not significantly different (p=0.551) between front hooves; however, the hoof temperatures were significantly different from each other in the uni-APS+ group (p=0.039). Study findings suggest that a horse's APS sensitivity at LI-18 and/or PC-1 are correlated with thermographic imaging temperature of the front hooves. Further investigation and confirmation of these findings is needed along with further studies associating this temperature difference with hoof disorders for diagnostic investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the electrical characteristics observed in n-channel and p-channel ferroelectric field effect transistor (FeFET) devices fabricated through a similar process flow with 10 nm of ferroelectric hafnium zirconium oxide (HZO) as the gate dielectric. The n-FeFETs demonstrate a faster complete polarization switching compared to the p-channel counterparts. Detailed and systematic investigations using TCAD simulations reveal the role of fixed charges and interface traps at the HZO-interfacial layer (HZO/IL) interface in modulating the subthreshold characteristics of the devices. A characteristic crossover point observed in the transfer characteristics of n-channel devices is attributed with the temporary switching between ferroelectric-based operation to charge-based operation, caused by the pinning effect due to the presence of different traps. This experimental study helps understand the role of charge trapping effects in switching characteristics of n- and p-channel ferroelectric FETs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a type of non-coding RNA that play a crucial role in the development and lactation of mammary glands in mammals. A total of 107 differentially expressed circRNAs (DE circRNAs) were found, of which 52 were up-regulated and 55 were down-regulated. We also found that DE circRNA host genes were mainly involved in GO terms related to the development process of mammary epithelial cells and KEGG pathways were mostly related to mammary epithelial cells, lactation, and gland development. Protein network analysis found that DE circRNAs can competitively bind to miRNAs as key circRNAs by constructing a circRNA–miRNA–mRNA network. CircRNAs competitively bind to miRNAs (miR-10b-3p, miR-671-5p, chi-miR-200c, chi-miR-378-3p, and chi-miR-30e-5p) involved in goat mammary gland development, mammary epithelial cells, and lactation, affecting the expression of core genes (CDH2, MAPK1, ITGB1, CAMSAP2, and MAPKAPK5). Here, we generated CiMECs and systematically explored the differences in the transcription profile for the first time using whole-transcriptome sequencing. We also analyzed the interaction among mRNA, miRNA, and cirRNA and predicted that circRNA plays an important role in the maintenance of mammary epithelial cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An accurate and reliable estimation of photovoltaic models holds immense significance within the realm of energy systems. In pursuit of this objective, a Boosting Flower Pollination Algorithm (BFPA) was introduced to facilitate the robust identification of photovoltaic model parameters and enhance the conversion efficiency of solar energy into electrical energy. The incorporation of a Gaussian distribution within the BFPA serves the dual purpose of conserving computational resources and ensuring solution stability. A population clustering strategy is implemented to steer individuals in the direction of favorable population evolution. Moreover, adaptive boundary handling strategies are deployed to mitigate the adverse effects of multiple individuals clustering near problem boundaries. To demonstrate the reliability and effectiveness of the BFPA, it is initially employed to extract unknown parameters from well-established single-diode, double-diode, and photovoltaic module models. In rigorous benchmarking against eight control methods, statistical tests affirm the substantial superiority of the BFPA over these controls. Furthermore, the BFPA successfully extracts model parameters from three distinct commercial photovoltaic cells operating under varying temperatures and light irradiances. A meticulous statistical analysis of the data underscores a high degree of consistency between simulated data generated by the BFPA and observed data. These successful outcomes underscore the potential of the BFPA as a promising approach in the field of photovoltaic modeling, offering substantial enhancements in both accuracy and reliability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this pilot study was to determine whether acupuncture point sensitivity to palpation at LI-18 and/or PC-1 in horses was associated with changes in hoof surface temperature as measured by high-resolution infrared camera. Clientowned horses (n=18) presented for traditional Chinese veterinary medicine (TCVM) exam for poor performance were recruited. After 20 minutes of stall rest and permission for study participation, bilateral front hoof thermography was performed in a designated stall. This was followed by bilateral acupoint scan, with a positive scan identified when acupoint palpation elicited a flinch response. Study findings suggest acupoint scan results (positive versus negative) were associated with thermographic imaging temperature differences between the right and left front feet. Further investigation and confirmation of these findings is needed along with further studies associating this temperature difference with hoof disorders for diagnostic investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suspended sediment concentrations in the Middle Yangtze River (MYR) reduced greatly after the Three Gorges Project operation, causing the composition of bed material to coarsen continuously. However, little is known about the non-equilibrium transport of graded suspended sediment owing to different bed material compositions (BMCs) along the MYR, and it is necessary to determine the magnitude of recovery factor. Using the Markov stochastic process in conjunction with the hiding-exposure effect of non-uniform bed-material, a new formula is proposed for calculating the recovery factor including the effect of different BMCs, and it is incorporated into the non-equilibrium transport equation to simulate the recovery processes of suspended load in both sand-gravel bed and sand bed reaches of the MYR. The results show that: (i) the recovery rate of graded sediment concentrations at Zhicheng was slower than that at Shashi during the period 2003–2007; (ii) the mean recovery factors of the coarse, medium, and fine sediment fractions in the Zhicheng-Shashi reach were 0.152, 0.0012, and 0.0005, respectively, and the coarse sediment recovered up to the maximum sediment concentration of 0.138 kg/m3 over a distance of 15 km; and (iii) the results of the new formula that can consider the effect of bed material composition are in general agreement with the field observations, and the spatial and temporal delay effects are inversely related to particle size and BMC. Consequently, the BMC effect on the non-equilibrium sediment transport in different reaches of the MYR needs to be considered for higher simulation accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two modified Boussinesq equations along with their Lax pairs are proposed by introducing the Miura transformations. The modified good Boussinesq equation with initial condition is investigated by the Riemann–Hilbert method. Starting with the three-order Lax pair of this equation, the inverse scattering transform is formulated and the Riemann–Hilbert problem is established, and the properties of the reflection coefficients are presented. Then, the formulas of long-time asymptotics to the good Boussinesq equation and its modified version are given based on the Deift–Zhou approach of nonlinear steepest descent analysis. It is demonstrated that the results from the long-time asymptotic analysis are in excellent agreement with the numerical solutions. This is the first result on the long-time asymptotic behaviors of the good Boussinesq equation with qxx-term and its modified version. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coupled modified KdV lattice equation is a discrete version of the coupled modified KdV equation. This paper presents the general formulae for the higher‐order rational, semi‐rational, and mixed soliton solutions in terms of determinants by constructing the generalized perturbation (n,N−n)$$ \left(n,N-n\right) $$‐fold Darboux transformation. Particularly, we exhibit the first‐, second‐, and third‐order rational and semi‐rational soliton solutions. Finally, numerical simulations are carried out to explore the dynamical behaviors and instability of those discrete rational and semi‐rational soliton solutions, respectively. The results would enrich our understanding on the two‐layered fluid waves near ocean shores described by the coupled modified KdV lattice equation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper extends the second-order three-wave flow of Fordy and Kulish to propose a generalized second-order flow of the three-wave hierarchy. Then the Lax pair of the generalized second-order three-wave flow is constructed by the standard prolongation technique, and the infinite conservation laws for this flow are derived. Finally, the Riemann–Hilbert approach is applied to the initial value problem of this flow, and the N-soliton solutions to the second-order three-wave flow are derived explicitly. Collision behaviors of the two and three solitons are demonstrated graphically, which shows that our results have potential applications to the resonant three-wave interactions in nonlinear media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Riemann problem of the high‐order Jaulent–Miodek (JM) equation with initial data of step discontinuity is explored by Whitham modulation theory, which is a modified version of the well‐known finite‐gap integration method. Based on the reparameterization of the solution with the use of algebraic resolvent of the polynomial defining the solution, the periodic wave solutions of the high‐order JM equation are described by the elliptic function along with the Whitham modulation equations. Complete classification of possible wave structures of the high‐order JM equation is given for all possible jump conditions at the discontinuity initial value. The analytic results proposed in this work are confirmed by direct numerical simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Content addressable memory (CAM) is widely used in associative search tasks due to its parallel pattern matching capability. As more complex and data‐intensive tasks emerge, it is becoming increasingly important to enhance CAM density for improved performance and better area efficiency. To reduce the area overheads, various nonvolatile memory (NVM) devices, such as ferroelectric field‐effect transistors (FeFETs), are used in CAM design. Herein, a novel ultracompact 1FeFET CAM design that enables parallel associative search and in‐memory hamming distance calculation is used, as well as a multibit CAM for exact search using the same CAM cell. The proposed CAM design leverages the 1FeFET1R structure, and compact device designs that integrate the series resistor current limiter into the intrinsic FeFET structure are demonstrated to turn the 1FeFET1R structure into an effective 1FeFET cell. A two‐step search operation of the proposed binary and multibit 1FeFET CAM array through both experiments and simulations is proposed, showing a sufficient sensing margin despite unoptimized FeFET device variation. In genome pattern matching applications, using the hyperdimensional computing paradigm, the design results in a 89.9× speedup and 66.5× improvement in energy efficiency over the state‐of‐the‐art alignment tools on GPU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The determination of the grades and interval of quantitative characteristics is an important job while we draft new distinctness, uniformity and stability (DUS) test guidelines. Grading criteria should be adjusted because of the effect of year and site; it is also a key task to establish applicable criteria in the DUS test. Excellent criteria will improve the accuracy of the DUS evaluation. In this study, we analyzed the variability and distribution patterns of nine quantitative characteristics of 251 anthurium varieties. Three methods were used to establish the grade criteria: the two standard deviation methods, the two LSD0.05 methods and the multiple comparison method. The results showed that the coefficient of variation within varieties varied from 6.96% to 10.11%. The quantitative characteristics observed in this study did not follow a normal distribution, except spadix thickness at the middle and spathe size. In most characteristics, the standard deviations and LSD0.05 were similar, except for spathe size. The state interval set by multiple comparison methods for every characteristic was variable, and its mean was about 1.25 times that of the other two methods. The process of establishing grading criteria using the multiple comparison method was simpler, and the criteria were more accurate, with a lower error rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integrability, classification of traveling wave solutions and stability of exact solutions for the generalized Kaup-Boussinesq equation are studied by prolongation structure technique and linear stability analysis. Firstly, it is proved that the generalized Kaup-Boussinesq equation is completely integrable in sense of having Lax pair. Secondly, the complete classification of exact traveling wave solutions of the generalized Kaup-Boussinesq equation are given and a family of exact solutions are proposed. Finally, the stability of these exact solutions are investigated by linear stability analysis and dynamical evolutions, and some stable traveling wave solutions are found. It is shown that the results of linear stability analysis are in excellent agreement with the results from dynamical evolutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A low-permittivity Li5Al5Zn8Ge9O36 microwave dielectric ceramic was prepared via a conventional solid-phase reaction, and its sintering behavior, phase structure, and microwave dielectric properties were investigated. The Li5Al5Zn8Ge9O36 ceramic had a cubic spinel structure, and no other phases were detected. The microstructure of the ceramic was relatively uniform and dense. The Li5Al5Zn8Ge9O36 ceramic sintered at 1150°C exhibited excellent microwave dielectric properties (εr = 6.66, Q × f = 24,600 GHz, and τf = −38 ppm/°C), indicating that it is a good candidate for microwave equipment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims The heart undergoes pathological remodelling, featured by the hypertrophic growth of cardiomyocytes and increased cardiac fibrosis, under biomechanical stress such as haemodynamic overload. Ring Finger Protein 207 (RNF207) is an E3 ubiquitin ligase that is predominantly expressed in the heart, but its function remains elusive. In this study, we aimed to explore the role of RNF207 in the development of pathological cardiac hypertrophy and dysfunction. Methods and results Transverse aortic constriction (TAC) surgery was performed on mice to induce cardiac hypertrophy. Cardiac function and remodelling were evaluated by echocardiography, histological assessment, and molecular analyses. Our data indicated that RNF207 overexpression (OE) exacerbated cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis, and systolic dysfunction. In contrast, TAC-induced cardiac remodelling was profoundly blunted in RNF207 knockdown (KD) hearts. In line with the in vivo findings, RNF207 OE augmented, whereas RNF207 KD alleviated, phenylephrine-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy in vitro. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that RNF207 elicited detrimental effects by promoting K63-linked ubiquitination of TAK1-binding protein 1 (TAB1), which triggered the autophosphorylation of transforming growth factor-β activated kinase 1 (TAK1) and the activation of downstream p38 and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)1/2 signalling pathways. In the TAB1-KD cardiomyocytes, RNF207-OE-induced cell hypertrophy was significantly attenuated, indicating that RNF207-induced hypertrophy is, at least in part, TAB1-dependent. Conclusions This study demonstrates that RNF207 exacerbates pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy and dysfunction via post-translational modification of TAB1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Huangqin is the dried root of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, which has been widely utilized for heat-clearing (Qingre) and dewetting (Zaoshi), heat-killed (Xiehuo) and detoxifying (Jiedu) in the concept of Traditional Chinese Medicine and is used for treating inflammation and cancer in clinical formulas. Neobaicalein (NEO) is of flavonoid isolated from Huangqin and has been reported to possess prominent anti-inflammatory effects in published work. Th17/Treg balance shift to Th17 cells is an essential reason for autoimmune inflammatory diseases. However, the role NEO plays in Th17 and Treg and the underlying mechanism has not been elucidated yet. Network pharmacology-based study revealed that NEO predominantly regulated IL-17 signaling pathway. Moreover, our result shown that NEO (3–30 μmol/L) down-regulated Th17 differentiation and cellular supernatant and intracellular IL-17A level and tumor necrosis factor α production in a concentration-dependent manner. The further mechanism research revealed that NEO also specifically inhibited phosphorylation of STAT3(Tyr725) and STAT4 (Y693) without influence on activation of STAT5 and STAT6 in splenocytes. Immunofluorescence results illuminated that NEO effectively blocked STAT3 translocated into nucleus. Interestingly, NEO at appreciated dose could only inhibit Th17 cell differentiation and have no effect on Treg differentiation. The present study revealed that NEO effectively inhibited Th17 cell differentiation through specifically blocking the activation of STAT3 signaling without inactivation of STAT5 and STAT6. Additional inhibitory effect on activation of STAT4 by NEO also suggested the potential for antagonism against Th1 differentiation. All work suggested that NEO may be a potential candidate for immunoregulation and treating autoimmune inflammatory diseases through inhibiting immune cell viability and T cell differentiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, 0.85 (0.74CaTiO3–0.26SmAlO3)–0.15Ca1.15Sm0.85Al0.85Ti0.15O4 + x wt% of LiF (CSC-xL, x = 6–12) ceramics are prepared using the reaction-sintering method. When LiF is added to ceramics, the temperature at which they became dense drops from 1500 to 1000 °C or even lower. The low-cofiring mechanism of LiF-doped ceramics is also studied. The sintering temperature of the CSC-L ceramics can be reduced to 1000 °C by increasing the LiF content from 6 to 10 wt%. The CSC-L ceramics' sintering temperature is reduced to 925 °C as the LiF content is increased to 12 wt%. Ceramics sintered at 1000 °C with 6 wt% LiF-doped CSC (CSC-6L) exhibit excellent microwave dielectric properties with εr = 32.4, Q × f = 41,319 GHz and τf = 1.7 ppm/°C. Whereas ceramics sintered at 925 °C with 12 wt% LiF-doped CSC (CSC-12L) exhibit good microwave dielectric properties of εr = 24, Q × f = 32,154 GHz, and τf = − 18 ppm/°C. The CSC-12L ceramics exhibit good chemical compatibility with Ag electrodes, thus indicating that they can be applied in low temperature co-fired ceramic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a comprehensive study of charge trapping and de-trapping dynamics is performed on n-channel ferroelectric field-effect transistors (nFeFETs) and pFeFETs. It is discovered that: 1) the degree of charge trapping depends on the substrate that nFeFETs exhibit significant electron trapping but negligible hole trapping during memory write while pFeFETs exhibit much less electron trapping but significant hole trapping when heavily stressed; 2) due to enhanced electric field in the interlayer and semiconductor, the like initial polarization states (i.e., initialized by a pulse of the same polarity as the write pulse) could exacerbate charge trapping induced by the write pulse; 3) electron trapping is fully recoverable while hole trapping shows a semi-permanent component which involves interface trap generation; and 4) less significant charge trapping in pFeFETs allows immediate read-after-write at normal operating conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complete classification of solutions to the defocusing complex modified KdV equation with step-like initial condition is studied by the finite-gap integration approach and Whitham modulation theory. All kinds of combination solutions consisting of genus-0 regions, genus-1 regions, or genus-2 regions are found by classifying the Riemann invariants. The behaviors of wave breaking in Riemann problem of the defocusing complex modified KdV equation are much richer and more complicated than those in the nonlinear Schrödinger equation. It is demonstrated that a large oscillating region can be composed of four basic genus-1 dispersive shock waves, a case of solution may be consisted of up to six regions, and the plateau, vacuum, rarefaction wave, and dispersive shock wave can coexist in the same solution region. Moreover, the genus-2 region, produced from the collision of two dispersive shock waves, is described detailedly by the genus-2 Whitham equations. The direct numerical simulations on the defocusing complex modified KdV equation show remarkable agreement with the results from Whitham modulation theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this systematic review study was to assess the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) or traditional Chinese veterinary medicine (TCVM) in the treatment of cognitive dysfunction. The study considered the similarities in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD). The initial literature search resulted in 573 relevant clinical and nonclinical studies. Three categories of controlled clinical trials in AD patients were selected for review: placebo control (20), conventional medicine control (126), and integrated treatment (183). The studies were reviewed and those that met the inclusion criteria were selected for meta-analysis. The review found that 10 placebo-controlled studies, 38 conventional medicine-controlled studies, and 38 integrated studies were qualified for meta-analysis. In placebo-controlled studies, meta-analyses based on improvements in Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive subscale (ADAS-cog) found statistical significance in the MMSE (p=8.74x10-7), ADAS-cog (p=0.0085), and overall p-value (p=3.66x10-17), suggesting that the TCM treatments were significantly more effective than placebo. In conventional treatment-controlled studies, results from the meta-analyses also suggest that TCM treatments were significantly more effective than conventional treatments based on the overall p-value (p=1.67x10-23) and improvement in MMSE (p=0.0002). In the integrated treatment studies, the meta-analyses findings suggest that TCM-integrated treatments were significantly more effective than conventional treatments alone (overall p-value: p=1.82x10-48 and p=0.0050 in MMSE improvements). Based on this systematic review and considering the similarities in pathology in the human and canine, TCVM may be helpful to lessen suffering and improve the quality of life in patients with canine cognitive dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canine thunderstorm aversion (CTA) is a significant challenge to pets, owners, and veterinarians. The objective of this research was to determine if traditional Chinese veterinary medicine (TCVM) treatment with acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, basic desensitization and counterconditioning (DSCC) with a behavior modification drug, could lessen the severity of CTA in dogs. A total of 23 dogs that exhibited behaviors typical of thunderstorm aversion were enrolled in the study. At study start, all dogs received a TCVM Pattern diagnosis and were treated with Pattern-specific Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture points. In addition, owners received DSCC behavior modification protocols and a conventional drug (alprazolam) to be used as needed during thunderstorms. Dogs were examined once a month for 4 months and Chinese herbal medicine formulations and acupuncture treatment adjusted as TCVM Patterns changed. After 120 days of treatment, the mean±SD improvement in overall thunderstorm aversion behaviors in study participants was 77.2%±27.7% (p < 0.0001). This result was significantly greater than 52% (p = 0.002), a reported mean improvement percentage for conventional treatment only, after 4 months. Six of the 7 individual aversion behaviors (panting, pacing, trembling, hiding, excess salivation, excess vocalization) had a significant reduction (range: p =0.046 to p = 0.008) over the course of treatment. The study results demonstrated that integrative management of CTA with TCVM Pattern-specific treatments combined with a conventional rescue drug and behavior modification improves CTA behaviors and suggests greater efficacy than conventional medical management only. Randomized controlled trials are warranted to validate these preliminary findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is known that both the Sawada--Kotera equation and the Kaup--Kupershmidt equation are related with the same modified equation by different Miura transformations. There is singularity at the origin in the spectral problems of the Sawada--Kotera equation and the Kaup--Kupershmidt equation. Instead, this work investigates the forward and inverse scattering problems of the modified Sawada--Kotera equation by Riemann--Hilbert approach to avoid the singularity at the origin. The Riemann--Hilbert problem along with the reconstructing formula of the modified Sawada--Kotera equation are proposed. Moreover, the properties of the reflection coefficients are analysed rigorously. The results in this paper make an important step toward the long-time asymptotics of the modified Sawada--Kotera equation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A microwave continuous wideband rectifier using dual‐channel structure with high power conversion efficiency for wireless charging system is proposed in this paper. The Schottky diode HSMS‐286 E is adopted to realize the high‐power conversion efficiency. The wide bandwidth is achieved by using the multipath combining circuit, which can be applied to design high‐efficiency rectifier with arbitrary bandwidth and multiple channels. Two single‐channel rectifiers working from 1.5 to 2 GHz and 2 to 2.5 GHz are designed respectively. The simulated power conversion efficiencies of the two circuits are both more than 70%. Based on the single‐channel rectifiers, a dual path rectifier operating from 1.5 to 2.5 GHz is designed, fabricated, and measured. The measured power conversion efficiency within 1 GHz bandwidth is more than 60% with the input power of 15.4 dBm. The measured results of the proposed rectifier agree well with the simulated ones. The presented rectifier has the advantages of wide bandwidth, and high‐power conversion efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recent studies have reported conflicting associations between egg consumption and the risk of all-cause or cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality, including ischemic heart disease (IHD) mortality and stroke mortality. With accumulating evidence, up-to-date evidence about the association should be synthesized.Objectives: We aimed to assess the association of the risk of all-cause and CVD mortality with egg consumption.Methods: We searched the PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases through 3 November, 2021 for observational studies conducted in participants ≥18 y of age and which provided ORs, RRs, or HRs and 95% CIs for ≥3 egg consumption categories or for increased intake of egg addressing the associations of interest. A random-effects model was used to pool the reported risk estimates. Restricted cubic splines were used to examine the dose-response association.Results: Twenty-four articles with 48 reports (25 for all-cause mortality, 11 for CVD mortality, 6 for IHD mortality, and 6 for stroke mortality) involving 11,890,695 participants were included. Intake of each 1-egg/d increment was associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality (RR: 1.06; 95% CI: 1.02, 1.10; P = 0.008), but the association was restricted to women, Americans, and studies with adjustments for hyperlipidemia. Egg consumption was linearly associated with CVD mortality only in participants >60 y of age, Americans, studies with follow-up duration ≥15 y, and studies with adjustments for hyperlipidemia (P ≤ 0.018). No significant association was found between egg consumption and IHD or stroke mortality (P ≥ 0.080).Conclusions: Egg consumption was linearly associated with a modestly increased risk of all-cause mortality and, in older participants, Americans, and studies with longer follow-up or adjustments for hyperlipidemia, CVD mortality. These findings suggest that it may be prudent to avoid high egg consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The overall goal of this clinically focused pilot study was to investigate the preoperative benefit of oral administration of Yunnan Baiyao (YB) to Ehrlichia. canis, Anaplasma platys and/or heartworm seropositive canines. A total of 12 clinically normal dogs undergoing sterilization procedures were randomly subdivided into Control/Placebo Group (n=6) or Treatment Group (n=6). Each patient received three oral doses of YB (0.5g/5kg) or placebo every twelve hours with the last dose given the evening before surgery. Citrated blood measurements for prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), and fibrinogen were obtained before the first YB dose and after the third dose. Intraoperative blood loss was estimated by blood-soaked gauze sponge counts. The study found the Control Group's mean aPTT increased by 3.8% while the Treatment Group's decreased by 0.42%. PT values were slightly decreased in both groups. Fibrinogen decreased in controls (9.7%) but had a modest increase in treated dogs (12.4%). Intraoperative blood loss was increased in controls (3%) compared to the Treatment Group (mean±SD: 6.6±6.8 vs. 6.4±3.6, respectively). Findings from the study which suggest preoperative benefits from YB administration to seropositive dogs include stabilizing aPTT and fibrinogen values along with reduced intraoperative blood loss in YB treated dogs. Although these modest findings were not statistically significant in this small study, the biological trends suggest potential benefits of preoperative administration of YB before routine elective surgeries in seropositive patients and support a clinical trial with larger sample size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sr1 + xNd2Al2O7 + x (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.04) ceramics were prepared using a more concise reaction-sintering method. The reaction-sintering (RS) method could reduce the number of ceramic preparation steps, which in turn reduces the factors that cause degradation of the microwave dielectric properties due to the sophisticated process fluctuations in the sintering process. X-ray diffraction patterns show that the sample is composed of a pure SrNd2Al2O7 single phase, whereas scanning electron microscope images display that the microscopic morphology of the sample is almost the same as that of solid-phase sintering. As x = 0.03, Sr1 + xNd2Al2O7 + x ceramic sintered at 1600 °C exhibited good microwave dielectric performances with εr = 18.53, Q × f = 68,600 GHz, τf = − 3.49 ppm/°C, and ρ = 6.03 g/cm3, which were better than those of the solid-state reaction method, indicating that the RS method has a lower cost and is simpler for preparing microwave dielectric ceramics with good performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MNdTiNbO7 (M = Ca, Sr) ceramics were prepared by a conventional solid-state reaction method. Single-phase dense CaNdTiNbO7 (CNTN) ceramic was obtained at 1400 °C and displayed outstanding microwave dielectric properties of Q × f = 6710 GHz, τf = 205 ppm/°C, and εr = 65.1. While the excellent microwave dielectric properties of Q × f = 8088 GHz, τf = 305 ppm/°C, and εr = 56.5 were obtained for the SrNdTiNbO7 (SNTN) ceramic at 1375 °C. The GSAS analysis software was used to investigate the ion occupancy of the ceramic samples and the changes in their phase structure. When the sintering temperature was 1400 °C, the lattice energy and packing fraction of the CNTN ceramic reached the maximum values of 41,779.7 kJ/mol and 65.35%. The CNTN ceramic resistance is mainly influenced by the grain boundaries. The substitution of Ta for Nb could adjust the τf value of CNTN ceramic. As x = 0.8, the τf values of CaNdTi(Nb1−xTax)O7 ceramics sintered at 1400 °C would be decreased from + 205.18 to + 20.27 ppm/°C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Postaxial polydactyly (PAP) is a common abnormality characterized by extra digits on hands and/or feet. To date, sequence variants in seven genes have been identified in non-syndromic PAP. In the present study, a fetus manifesting non-syndromic postaxial polydactyly type A (PAPA) was found by fetal ultrasonography. To better evaluate fetal prognosis, SNP array analysis and trio whole-exome sequencing (trio-WES) were performed to identify the underlying etiology. Although SNP array analysis revealed no abnormality, trio-WES identified compound heterozygous splice site variants in KIAA0825, c.-1-2A>T and c.2247-2A>G in intron 2 and intron 12, respectively. These two splice site variants were absent in control databases and were predicted to influence splicing by in silico analysis. To confirm the potential pathogenicity of the variants, in vitro splicing assays using minigene and RNA from peripheral leukocytes of the heterozygous parents were conducted. Minigene and RT-PCR assays demonstrated that the c.-1-2A>T variant led to the loss of the initiation codon, and the c.2247-2A>G variant mainly resulted in exon 13 skipping. Prenatal WES and subsequent functional studies are important approaches for defining the genetic etiology of fetuses with PAPA and are also essential for accurate genetic counseling and decision making. Taken together, this study expands the spectrum of KIAA0825 variations in PAPA patients and increases the knowledge of the molecular consequences of KIAA0825 splice site variants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anticancer effects of taxanes are attributed to the induction of mitotic arrest through activation of the spindle assembly checkpoint. Cell death following extended mitotic arrest is mediated by the intrinsic apoptosis pathway. Accordingly, factors that influence the robustness of mitotic arrest or disrupt the apoptotic machinery confer drug resistance. Survivin is an inhibitor of apoptosis protein. Its overexpression is associated with chemoresistance, and its targeting leads to drug sensitization. However, Survivin also acts specifically in the spindle assembly checkpoint response to taxanes. Hence, the failure of Survivin-depleted cells to arrest in mitosis may lead to taxane resistance. Here we show that Survivin depletion protects HeLa cells against docetaxel-induced apoptosis by facilitating mitotic slippage. However, Survivin depletion does not promote clonogenic survival of tumor cells but increases the level of cellular senescence induced by docetaxel. Moreover, lentiviral overexpression of Survivin does not provide protection against docetaxel or cisplatin treatment, in contrast to the anti-apoptotic Bcl-xL or Bcl-2. Our findings suggest that targeting Survivin may influence the cell response to docetaxel by driving the cells through aberrant mitotic progression, rather than directly sensitizing cells to apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Existing circuit camouflaging techniques to prevent reverse engineering increase circuit-complexity with significant area, energy, and delay penalty. In this paper, we propose an efficient hardware encryption technique with minimal complexity and overheads based on ferroelectric field-effect transistor (FeFET) active interconnects. By utilizing the threshold voltage programmability of the FeFETs, run-time reconfigurable inverter-buffer logic, utilizing two FeFETs and an inverter, is enabled. Judicious placement of the proposed logic makes it act as a hardware encryption key and enable encoding and decoding of the functional output without affecting the critical path timing delay. Additionally, a peripheral programming scheme for reconfigurable logic by reusing the existing scan chain logic is proposed, obviating the need for specialized programming logic and circuitry for keybit distribution. Our analysis shows an average encryption probability of 97.43% with an increase of 2.24%/ 3.67% delay for the most critical path/ sum of 100 critical paths delay for ISCAS85 benchmarks. Hardware security is importance with outsourcing of integrated circuit fabrication to various foundries. Here, the authors propose a compact encryption logic based on the active interconnects constructed with ferroelectric field-effect transistors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]